Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025, also known as Gurpurab or Prakash Utsav, will be celebrated on Wednesday, 5 November 2025. It marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. This sacred festival is observed with devotion, seva (selfless service), kirtan, and community harmony across the world.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings continue to inspire humanity with messages of equality, compassion, humility, and devotion to one universal Creator.
Why Guru Nanak Jayanti is Celebrated
Guru Nanak Jayanti honors the spiritual wisdom and contributions of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The celebration is a reminder to follow his principles in everyday life.
Key Reasons for Celebration:
- Spiritual Enlightenment — Recitation of Gurbani helps devotees connect with God
- Equality & Brotherhood — Traditions like langar promote caste-less unity
- Seva (Selfless Service) — Charity and helping the needy reflect core Sikh values
- Truth & Moral Living — Following the path of honesty and righteousness
Guru Nanak Dev Ji emphasised: “Naam Japna, Kirat Karni, Vand Chakna”
(Meditation on God, Honest Living, Sharing with Others)
When is Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025?
| Festival Name | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 (Gurpurab) | 5 November 2025 | Wednesday |
The festival is based on the Kartik Purnima of the lunar calendar, so the date changes every year but usually falls in November.
How Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 is Celebrated
Celebrations may vary by region, but key practices remain the same:
| Celebration Activity | Description | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Prabhat Pheris | Early morning street processions | Spreading Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings |
| Akhand Path | Continuous reading of Guru Granth Sahib (48 hours) | Spiritual purification |
| Kirtan | Singing hymns from Gurbani | Devotion and inner peace |
| Langar | Free community meals | Promotes equality and service |
| Nagar Kirtan | Processions with decorated floats carrying Sikh symbols | Public celebration of Sikh culture |
Additional common practices:
- Lighting lamps and illuminating homes & Gurudwaras
- Charity initiatives supporting vulnerable communities
- Community gathering and prayer at Gurudwaras worldwide
History of Guru Nanak Jayanti
Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 in Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan).
The tradition of celebrating Gurpurab began under Guru Amar Das Ji, the third Sikh Guru, who encouraged the sangat to recite Gurbani and practice seva.
The historical celebration continues to honor:
- Guru Nanak’s stand against social discrimination
- His travels (Udasis) promoting unity and peace
- His foundational message of One God (Ik Onkar)
How to Celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 at Home
Here are simple ways to observe this holy day spiritually:
- Set up a small prayer space with flowers and scriptures
- Listen to kirtans and shabads throughout the day
- Prepare simple langar meals and share with family, neighbors, or the needy
- Teach children about Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s life and moral values
- Practice seva: donate food, clothing, or volunteer locally
Guru Nanak Jayanti Traditions Across India
| State / Region | Popular Celebration | Unique Tradition |
|---|---|---|
| Punjab | Nagar Kirtan | Panj Pyare lead processions with Gatka display |
| Delhi | Prabhat Pheris | Early morning hymns on streets |
| Maharashtra | Gurudwara programs | Special langar & community prayers |
| Haryana | Seva initiatives | Donation and charity programs |
Top Activities for Schools & Communities
- Essay, quiz & art competitions on Sikh history
- Cultural programs showcasing Sikh heritage
- Storytelling sessions about Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings
- Charity campaigns encouraging seva and equality
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why does the date of Guru Nanak Jayanti vary?
It follows the lunar calendar (Kartik Purnima), which differs from the solar calendar.
Q2: Why is Nagar Kirtan important?
It spreads the message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji publicly while promoting community unity.
Q3: How can children understand the significance?
Through stories, creative activities, and participation in seva and Gurudwara events.
Q4: Is Guru Nanak Jayanti a public holiday in India?
Yes, it is a national public holiday in many Indian states.
Conclusion
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 reminds us to live by Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s timeless teachings of love, equality, truth, and service. Observing prayers, volunteering for community service, and spreading kindness help us follow his spiritual path in our daily lives.
May this Gurpurab bring peace, harmony, and happiness to all.
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!
