Guru Nanak Gurpurab

Guru Nanak Gurupurab is also called Guru Nanak Jayanti or Guru Nanak Prakash Utsav. The day celebrates the birth of first guru of Sikhism, Guru Nanak. Gurupurab is the most sacred festivals of the Sikhs. Guru Nanak is the most celebrated Sikh Gurus.

How is Guru Nanak Gurupurab celebrated?

Generally, the festivals of the Sikhs revolve around the anniversaries of the ten gurus of Sikhism. These Gurus shaped the Sikhism. The birthdays of Sikh Gurus are called Gurupurab. On Gurupurab, the celebrations commence with Prabhat Pheris. The Prabha Pheris is early morning procession that begin at the Gurudwara and proceed around the town. Hymns are sung during the procession. Two days before Gurupurab, Akhand Path is held in the Gurudwaras. Akhand path is 48 hours of non – stop reading of Guru Granth Sahib. The Panj Pyaras (Five beloved ones) lead the procession. The hold the Sikh flag called Nishan Sahib. Also, they carry a Palanquin (Palki) of Guru Nanak.

What are the controversies around Guru Nanak Gurupurab?

Guru Nanak was born in Puranmashi of Kattak according to the Bikrami calendar. He was born in Talwandi, now in Pakistan. He was born in 1469. However, the Bhai Bala Janamsakhi claims that Guru Nanak was born on the full moon of Karthi (a lunar month). For this reason, some of the Sikhs celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti in November month. Some other Sikhs celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti on April 14 according to Nanakshahi calendar. However, the celebrations for all Sikhs are the same.