Date, history, significance and how Gurpurab is celebrated across India

Guru Nanak Jayanti aka Guru Nanak Jayanti Gurpurab or Prakash Utsav will be celebrated this year on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. The day celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. The festival is one of the most important and holy days for Sikhs around the world, celebrated with devotion, prayer and service.

History and importance

Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in Rai in 1469. Bhoi di Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan). He preached equality, peace, humility and devotion to one God and rejected social distinctions based on caste or creed. His teachings laid the foundation of Sikhism and continue to inspire millions even today.

The day is called Prakash Utsav, meaning ‘Festival of Light’, as it celebrates the divine light that Guru Nanak Dev Ji brought to the world. The festival falls on the full moon day (Purnima) of the month of Kartik according to the Hindu lunar calendar.

Rituals and celebrations

Celebrations start two days in advance Gurpurab with akhand Path, 48 hours of continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib is the holy book of Sikhism. On the eve of the festival devotees participate in Nagar Kirtans, colourfulyouLarge processions led by Panj Pyare (Five Beloveds), chants and spreads Guru Nanak’s message of love and harmony.

On the main day, special prayers and kirtans are held in gurudwaras beautifully decorated with lights and flowers. The highlight of the day is the Langar, a community feast where people from all walks of life sit together and share meals, reflecting Guru Nanak’s teachings of equality and selfless service.

The day is not just a holiday, it is a reminder to live with kindness and compassion. and unity, Values ​​represented by Guru Nanak Dev Ji.