Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024 History, Significance: Guru Nanak Jayanti, celebrated annually on the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, is one of the most significant festivals in the Sikh community and is observed globally. Sikhs around the world honor Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who was born in 1469 at Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi, now known as Nankana Sahib in Lahore, Pakistan.
Also called Guru Purab or Guru Nanak Prakash Utsav, this year’s celebration will mark the 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The festival typically falls on the full moon day of Kartik, according to the Hindu lunar calendar, which generally lands in October or November.
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024: Date and Auspicious Timings
This year, Guru Nanak Jayanti will be celebrated on Friday, November 15, 2024, with the auspicious timings as follows:
- Purnima Tithi Begins: November 15, 2024, at 6:19 AM
- Purnima Tithi Ends: November 16, 2024, at 2:58 AM
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024: History and Significance
Guru Nanak Dev Ji, born to Mehta Kalu and Mata Tripta on April 15, 1469, in Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan), displayed spiritual depth from an early age, often speaking out against social injustices, discrimination, and ritualistic practices. At the age of 30, he began sharing his profound teachings on the unity of humanity, asserting that beyond religious divisions, everyone is equal.
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024: Celebrations and Rituals
The celebrations begin with Prabhat Pheris, early morning processions at Gurdwaras, followed by the Akhand Path, a continuous 48-hour recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib. The day includes a grand procession called Nagarkirtan, led by the Panj Pyaras (five beloved ones), where devotees sing hymns and engage in katha (religious discourse).
On Guru Nanak Jayanti, langar, a special community meal, is organized at Gurdwaras by volunteers, symbolizing selfless service and equality. Night prayer sessions are also held, starting around sunset and continuing until late, deepening the sense of devotion on this sacred day.
