Why is Guru Nanak Jayanti Celebrated? Discover the True Meaning of This Sacred Day
Every year, on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Kartik month, millions of devotees around the world celebrate the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. This day, known as Guru Nanak Jayanti or Guru Nanak Gurpurab, is one of the most sacred festivals in India and among Sikh communities worldwide. In 2025, Guru Nanak Jayanti will be celebrated on Thursday, November 13. But beyond the rituals and festivities, what is the real meaning of this day? Let’s explore its history, significance, and message for humanity.
Birth and Life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 in a small village called Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib in Pakistan). His father’s name was Mehta Kalu and his mother’s name was Tripta Devi. From childhood, Guru Nanak showed deep wisdom and compassion, questioning social inequalities and religious divisions around him.
He believed that all humans are equal and that God exists in every heart. Throughout his life, Guru Nanak traveled across India, Tibet, and the Middle East, spreading the message of peace, love, and unity under one divine power — Ek Onkar, meaning “There is One God.”
Why is Guru Nanak Jayanti Celebrated?
Guru Nanak Jayanti is not just a celebration of a birth; it is a remembrance of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s divine teachings and his vision for a just and compassionate society.
He gave humanity three simple but powerful principles that form the foundation of Sikh life:
Naam Japo – Meditate on God’s name with sincerity.
Kirat Karo – Earn an honest living through hard work.
Vand Chhako – Share your earnings and resources with those in need.
These principles inspire selflessness, truthfulness, and equality. Celebrating Guru Nanak Jayanti means remembering and living by these ideals every day.
Spiritual and Social Importance of Gurpurab
Guru Nanak Jayanti is one of the most joyous and meaningful occasions in Sikhism. Two days before the festival, the continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib — called Akhand Path — begins in gurdwaras.
On the day of the Jayanti, a Nagar Kirtan (religious procession) is carried out. It is led by the Panj Pyare (the five beloved Sikhs) who carry the holy scripture with great reverence. Devotees sing hymns, perform Gatka (a Sikh martial art), and spread messages of peace and harmony through the streets.
Every gurdwara also organizes Langar — a free community meal — where everyone, regardless of religion, caste, or background, sits together to eat. This tradition symbolizes equality and unity, which were central to Guru Nanak’s vision.
Guru Nanak’s Message for the Modern World
The teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji are more relevant today than ever before. He taught that real worship lies not in rituals, but in truth, compassion, and good deeds.
In a world divided by religion, politics, and inequality, Guru Nanak’s words —
“There is no Hindu, there is no Muslim — all are children of one God,”
— remind us of the universal bond of humanity.
His life encourages us to rise above materialism and ego, and instead focus on serving others with love and humility.
Guru Nanak and Environmental Harmony
Few people know that Guru Nanak Dev Ji was one of the earliest spiritual leaders to speak about environmental balance. He viewed nature as sacred, saying —
“Air is the Guru, Water the Father, and Earth the Great Mother.”
This profound view teaches that protecting nature is a spiritual duty. In today’s age of environmental crisis, his words serve as a reminder that spirituality and sustainability go hand in hand.
The True Meaning of Guru Nanak Jayanti
Guru Nanak Jayanti is not just a day of celebration — it is a day of reflection, gratitude, and commitment to living a righteous life. Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings remind us that true faith lies in truth, service, and humility, not in divisions or rituals.
The real essence of this day is to follow his path — to see God in everyone, to live honestly, and to help those in need.
As Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 approaches, let us honor his legacy not only with prayers and lights but through actions that spread peace, equality, and compassion.
That is the true meaning of celebrating Guru Nanak Jayanti — a festival of light, truth, and universal love.
~Religion World Bureau
