The 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev ji, the founder of Sikhism, is being celebrated across India with great pomp and joy. Guru Nanak was born at Rai Boi di Talwandi, also known as Nankana Sahib, which is currently in Sheikhpura district of Pakistan. Several religious events are being held by the followers to celebrate the festive occasion.
On this occasion, President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended their greetings.
“The life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji inspires us to build a society based on his teachings of equality, compassion and social amity,” the President tweeted.
On the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, greetings to all fellow citizens, especially to our Sikh brothers and sisters in India and abroad.
The life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji inspires us to build a society based on his teachings of equality, compassion and social amity.
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) November 12, 2019
“This is a day to rededicate ourselves to fulfilling Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s dream of a just, inclusive and harmonious society,” PM Modi posted on Twitter.
Today, on the very special occasion of the 550th Prakash Parv of Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, my greetings to everyone. This is a day to rededicate ourselves to fulfilling Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s dream of a just, inclusive and harmonious society. pic.twitter.com/8LLUU0a3Jg
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 12, 2019
Here’s a sneak peek into Guru Nanak Jayanti, which is celebrated with great fervour in memory of the first Sikh guru.
Who was Guru Nanak Dev ji?
Guru Nanak, the first of the ten Sikh gurus, was born on April 15, 1469 in Rao Boi di Talwandi in Sheikhpura district which now lies in Pakistan. His birthday is celebrated on Kartik Poornima, or full moon day of Kartik. His teachings are found in Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of the Sikhs, written in Gurumukhi script.
A Sikh boy performs ‘Gatka’ during Nagarkirtan near Golden Temple in Amritsar. (Photo: PTI)
How is it celebrated?
The celebrations usually commence with morning processions, also known as Prabhat Pheris. They begin at gurudwaras and proceed to various places. Two days before the birthday, the gurudwaras conduct 48-hour-long readings of Guru Granth Sahib, also known as Akhand Path.
The day before the birthday marks Nagarkirtan, led by Panj Pyaaras (the Beloved). They lead the procession carrying the religious flags known as Nishan Sahib, and also the palanquin of Guru Granth Sahib. A team of singers chant hymns while the devotees sing the chorus. Several martial arts experts also perform on this occasion.
The Golden Temple is illuminated for Guru Nanak Jayanti. (Photo: PTI)
On the birthday of the guru, celebrations begin at the dawn. The time known as Amrit Vela is marked with the singing of hymns and prayers in the memory of Guru Nanak. A langar, or community lunch, is also organised at the gurudwaras for the devotees.
Guru Purab or Guru Nanak is celebrated by the Sikhs all over the world.
