Guru Nanak Jayanti: Celebrating the Birth Anniversary of the First Sikh Guru

Are you ready to hear the rhythmic chants as devotees say Waheguru, Waheguru on this sacred day? Guru Nanak Jayanti is a beautiful day, as it commemorates his birth anniversary. He is the founder of Sikhism and a spiritual reformer; hence, this day is celebrated by millions of community members worldwide. Imagine a world where kindness knows no boundaries and humanity rises above divisions. Guru Nanak Dev Ji was all about truth and compassion which shapes Sikhs.

On this divine occasion, the air fills with soulful echoes of Kirtan and the warmth of community langars. It is an opportunity for communities to come together and celebrate the day with love. You can visit multiple gurdwaras, enjoy the soothing chants and seek blessings from the Almighty. It is also a great day to indulge in selfless service by serving food at langars or engaging in charitable activities. Let’s explore the true essence of Guru Nanak Jayanti and its significance.

Why is Guru Nank Jayanti Celebrated?

Guru Nanak Jayanti is one of the important festivals for the Sikh community across the world. It marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Millions of people come together to offer prayers on this auspicious day. It is important to know that he was the very first of the 10 Sikh Gurus.

Did you know Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born on 15th April 1469? He was born in Rai Bhoi di Talwandi, which is now known as Nankana Sahib, Pakistan. However, the Sikh community does not follow the Gregorian calendar, and the birthday is not celebrated in the month of April. The community follows the lunar calendar. Instead, it is observed in the month of November. It varies every year depending on the full moon day of the Kartik month. For the year 2025, the day is to be celebrated on the 5th of November, Wednesday.

From an early age, Guru Nanak displayed a deep sense of spirituality. He often questioned social inequalities and blind rituals. Interestingly, he even travelled extensively across India and the Middle East. He wished to change the societies that discriminated against certain people and castes for absolutely no reason. During his travel journey, he spread the message of oneness of God, equality, love and selfless service.

Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated with decorations and devotion, especially to honour his divine teachings. His message, Ik Onkar which is One God, One Humanity, is now known to the world. The day is also a reminder to oppose caste discrimination and religious divisions. Devotees get an excellent opportunity to indulge in spiritual reflection. The day also strengthens community bonding as people meet, celebrate and try to incorporate the Guru’s principles into everyday living.

How Is Guru Nanak Jayanti Celebrated?

1. Nagar Kirtan

Celebrations begin well before the day of Guru Nanak Jayanti. A Nagar Kirtan is a religious procession led by the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones). These are dressed in traditional attire symbolising Guru Nanak’s first five disciples. You can witness the singing of Shabad Kirtan during the procession. 

Some devotees also perform Sikh martial arts, showcasing sword-fighting techniques. You can definitely see a beautifully decorated palki (palanquin). It carries the Guru Granth Sahib, thereby elevating the environment with devotional energy. What’s more? Devotees even clean the roads and distribute prasad on this day.

2. The Big Day of Guru Nanak Jayanti

As it is a one-day festival for the Sikh community, a lot of processions happen on this day. The day of Guru Nanak Jayanti begins with Prabhat feries; these are early morning processions where devotees walk across the streets while chanting the name of God. Hundreds of devotees participate in this as they pay respect to the Lord.

You can then witness the fusion of kirtan and Katha, which means devotional singing combined with spiritual discourses. This is an opportunity to learn about the significance of Sikhism and its different principles or later the procession continues with shabad kirtan, which is more of a musical singing glorifying teachings. Of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, certain Gurdwaras also organise Katha, which means storytelling. This is where you get to learn about the life and philosophy of Guru Nanak.

The Hukamnama (daily order from Guru Granth Sahib) is also read, which provides spiritual guidance to the devotees. The process ends with a community prayer known as Ardaas. The Gurdwaras then distribute Karah Prasad, which is considered extremely holy.

3. Celebrations Beyond Gurdwaras

The gurdwaras are the epicentre of celebrations on the day of Guru Nanak Jayanti. However, you can still witness different traditions and rituals beyond the places of worship. Various schools hold special assembly to pay respect to Guru Nanak Dev Ji. 

Students are generally a part of various storytelling programmes and cultural events. Even the households light candles and lamps to embrace the auspicious day. Many community members come together for social service initiatives. There can be medical camps, blood donation drives and charity programmes on this day to showcase the spirit of Seva.

Which Are the Best Places To Visit on Guru Nanak Jayanti?

1. Amritsar, Punjab

On the auspicious day of Guru Nanak Jayanti, you cannot miss visiting the Golden Temple (Sri Harmandir Sahib). That’s exactly why booking affordable hotels in Amritsar is a great idea for this occasion. It is known as the spiritual capital of Sikhism. As it is home to the Golden Temple, it attracts thousands of devotees from all around the world. 

Being the most revered Sikh shrine, you get to see magnificent celebrations throughout the day. Be a part of special prayers and Kirtans along with the locals. What’s more? You also get to see amazing lighting and fireworks at night. You can also be a part of holy dips in the sacred lake. Interestingly, the gurdwara also hosts Akhand Path (48-hour continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib). 

The city is also home to Akal Takht Sahib. It is the highest seat of Sikh authority and was established by Guru Hargobind. Gurdwara Baba Atal Rai Sahib is a nine-storey gurdwara where massive celebrations take place. The city also has multiple places of worship for Sikhs and other travellers from other castes or creeds. Most of these have langar seva (community kitchen serving free meals to thousands). 

After seeking blessings from the almighty, you can try the best street foods in Amritsar for delicious varieties of cuisine.

2. Delhi

Delhi is the capital of India, where gurdwara celebrations are worth witnessing! The destination is home to several historically significant Gurdwaras. Such places hold deep religious and cultural importance in Sikhism. The day here is celebrated with grand nagar kirtans (processions), kirtan darbars and langars.

You can visit the famous Gurdwara Bangla Sahib, where Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated with love and joy. It is a famous pilgrimage site dedicated to Guru Har Krishan Ji, the 8th Sikh Guru. He stayed at this place and even healed people during the smallpox epidemic. You can easily find affordable hotels near Bangla Sahib Gurdwara, Delhi for a comfortable stay. 

Next is the Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib, where Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was martyred in 1675. This place of worship hosts large Nagar Kirtan processions passing through Chandni Chowk. You can also visit Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib and Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Greater Kailash, for a soothing praying experience on Guru Nanak Jayanti. If you wish to see Gatka (Sikh martial arts) performances, then head to Gurdwara Moti Bagh Sahib. It is best to reserve budget-friendly hotels in Delhi for a great time.

3. Patna, Bihar

The capital city of Bihar is the perfect destination to celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti with your loved ones. It holds immense historical and religious significance in Sikhism. Do you know it is the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh Ji? He is the 10th Sikh Guru, which is why thousands of devotees visit this place. The city is home to Takht Sri Patna Sahib, one of the five Takhts (seats of Sikh authority).

Along with nagar kirtan processions and the akhand path, the gurdwara also organises special Ardas (prayers) for world peace and unity. It is best to book budget-friendly hotels near Takht Sri Patna Sahib for a pleasant time. Gurdwara Guru Ka Bagh is another place where Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and his family stayed before moving to Anandpur Sahib. You get to be a part of religious discourses and beautiful floral decorations. 

When in this city, you must seek blessings from Gurdwara Bal Leela Sahib. It marks the childhood play area of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Another interesting place is Gurdwara Handi Sahib. The unique name relates to its story, too. It is the place where Mata Gujri Ji, the mother of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, cooked food in a clay pot (handi) for devotees. You can easily reserve pocket-friendly hotels in Patna for a wonderful time.

4. Mumbai, Maharashtra

Mumbai is home to diverse communities; hence, celebrations in the city are massively beautiful. You get an excellent opportunity to witness spiritual gatherings, community service initiatives and spectacular processions. The very first place to visit is the Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha in Dadar. It serves as a central place for Sikh religious activities. It is best to book budget-friendly hotels in Dadar for a convenient stay.

You can head to Gurdwara Khalsa Sabha in Matunga. It is one of the oldest in Mumbai for Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrations. You can witness Grand Kirtan Darbars with Sikh scholars and musicians. If you are near the western line, visit Gurdwara Sri Guru Nanak Darbar in Andheri East. Being one of the largest Sikh places of worship, it remains crowded on auspicious occasions. It is best to use the Mumbai Metro for ease of travelling within the city. You can also book affordable hotels in Mumbai for a pleasant time.

5. Kolkata, West Bengal

Known for its cultural and heritage touch, Kolkata has a strong community of Sikhs. The community in Kolkata celebrates Guru Nanak Jayanti with grand Nagar Kirtans and Langars. You can also see all the Gurdwaras illuminated after sunset. The city comes to life as devotees chant the name of god.

You must visit Gurdwara Bara Sikh Sangat (Bara Gurdwara) in Burrabazar. Being one of the oldest Sikh places of worship, it was established by early Sikh settlers and traders in the city. Next is the Gurdwara Sant Kutiya, Raja Ram Mohan Sarani. It is the perfect place to seek blessings, engage in prayers and meditate in the calm surroundings. You can use the Kolkata Metro to commute with ease.

If you are somewhere in South Kolkata, head to Gurdwara Behala (Singh Sabha Gurdwara). It is a great place to understand various religious practices and the essence of Sikhism. One of the most active Gurdwaras in the city is Gurdwara Jagat Sudhar in Bhawanipur. It is best known for daily Kirtan and social work. You can easily book budget-friendly hotels in Kolkata for a good time.

Paying Respect on Guru Nanak Jayanti

Guru Nanak Jayanti is more than just a day of celebration. It stands as a reminder of the eternal wisdom and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The availability of Treebo Club’s hotels across different cities makes it easy for you to visit Gurdwaras and soak in the essence of this day. Let’s try to live with honesty, truth and commitment to service, as it’s the best way to follow his principles.