Harshvardhan Mishra
Introduction
The 556th Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the revered founder of Sikhism, will be celebrated with immense devotion and grandeur on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. Also known as Guru Nanak Jayanti or Gurpurab, this sacred festival holds immense significance for Sikhs and devotees across the world. It commemorates the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who enlightened the world with the message of equality, unity, humility, and devotion to one God.
In 2025, Guru Nanak Jayanti will be observed on the Purnima (Full Moon) day of the Kartik month as per the Hindu lunar calendar.
- Purnima Tithi Begins: 10:36 PM on November 04, 2025
- Purnima Tithi Ends: 06:48 PM on November 05, 2025
Who Was Guru Nanak Dev Ji?
Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469–1539) was born in Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi (present-day Nankana Sahib, Pakistan). He was the first of the ten Sikh Gurus and the founder of Sikhism. Guru Nanak’s teachings transcended religious boundaries and emphasized that “There is only one God, and all human beings can have direct access to Him without rituals or priests.”
He rejected caste discrimination, promoted the idea of “Naam Japna” (reciting God’s name), “Kirat Karni” (honest living), and “Vand Chakna” (sharing with others) — principles that form the foundation of Sikhism today.
Read this: 80+ Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 Wishes, Quotes, and Captions
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 Date and Timings
| Event | Date and Time |
|---|---|
| Festival Name | Guru Nanak Jayanti (Gurpurab) |
| Occasion | 556th Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji |
| Day & Date | Wednesday, November 5, 2025 |
| Purnima Tithi Begins | 10:36 PM, November 4, 2025 |
| Purnima Tithi Ends | 06:48 PM, November 5, 2025 |
This day coincides with Kartik Purnima, a highly auspicious full-moon day also observed by Hindus for the Tripurari Purnima and Dev Deepawali.
Significance of Guru Nanak Jayanti
Guru Nanak Jayanti, or Gurpurab, is not just a religious festival — it’s a spiritual celebration of truth, humility, and selfless service. It serves as a reminder of Guru Nanak’s divine teachings and his mission to establish peace and equality in society.
His core teachings include:
- “Ik Onkar” – There is one Supreme Reality.
- Equality of all humans – No one is high or low.
- Rejection of superstitions and blind rituals.
- Promotion of compassion, honesty, and selfless service.
Guru Nanak’s message is universal, inspiring millions across religions, castes, and regions to live in peace and harmony.
History and Early Life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Born on April 15, 1469, to Mehta Kalu and Mata Tripta, young Nanak showed deep spiritual inclination from childhood. He questioned the rigid social structures and religious orthodoxy of his time.
At the age of 30, he is said to have disappeared into the waters of the Vei River for three days. Upon returning, he proclaimed,
“Na koi Hindu, na Musalman” — There is neither Hindu nor Muslim; all are children of one God.
After this divine experience, Guru Nanak traveled extensively across India, Tibet, Afghanistan, Persia, and Arabia to spread the message of oneness of God and equality. These journeys, known as Udasis, helped in establishing Sikhism’s foundational principles.
How Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 Will Be Celebrated
Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrations span three days and are marked by devotion, kirtan, langar, and community service.
1. Akhand Path (Continuous Reading of Guru Granth Sahib)
Two days before the Jayanti, devotees begin an Akhand Path, a 48-hour uninterrupted recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib — the holy scripture of Sikhs.
2. Nagar Kirtan (Religious Procession)
On the eve of Guru Nanak Jayanti, Nagar Kirtan processions are carried out. The Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones) lead the procession holding the Nishan Sahib (Sikh Flag), followed by devotees singing hymns and performing Gatka (Sikh martial arts).
3. Gurpurab Day (Main Celebration on November 5, 2025)
On the day of the festival, devotees gather in Gurudwaras before dawn for Asa di Var (morning prayers), Kirtan (devotional singing), and Katha (spiritual discourse). The Guru Granth Sahib is beautifully decorated, and Langar (community kitchen) is organized, serving free meals to everyone irrespective of caste or religion — symbolizing the Sikh value of equality.
4. Night Prayers and Bhog Ceremony
Special night prayers continue till late evening or midnight, marking the birth moment of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Hymns and shabad kirtans fill the air, creating an atmosphere of divine serenity.
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 Celebrations in India and Worldwide
In India
Major celebrations take place in Punjab, especially at Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) in Amritsar, and Gurdwara Nankana Sahib (Pakistan) — Guru Nanak’s birthplace. Other key locations include:
- Gurdwara Bangla Sahib and Sis Ganj Sahib in Delhi
- Takht Sri Patna Sahib in Bihar
- Takht Sri Hazur Sahib in Nanded, Maharashtra
Around the World
The festival is celebrated globally across countries with significant Sikh communities — including Canada, the UK, the USA, Australia, and Malaysia — where Gurudwaras organize community prayers, food drives, and cultural events.
Guru Nanak’s Teachings for Modern Times
Guru Nanak’s messages hold timeless relevance in today’s world of divisions and material pursuits. His teachings urge humanity to:
- Embrace equality and compassion over prejudice.
- Live truthfully and work honestly.
- Engage in community service (Seva).
- Seek spiritual awakening through meditation (Simran).
As Guru Nanak said:
“He who regards all men as equals is religious.”
Inspirational Quotes by Guru Nanak Dev Ji
- “There is but One God. His name is Truth; He is the Creator.”
- “Speak only that which will bring you honor.”
- “He who has no faith in himself can never have faith in God.”
- “Before becoming a Muslim, a Sikh, a Hindu, or a Christian, learn to be a human being.”
- “Truth is the highest virtue, but higher still is truthful living.”
Conclusion
The 556th Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in 2025 is not just a commemoration but a call to follow the path of truth, equality, and selfless service. As devotees celebrate this sacred Gurpurab, the message of Guru Nanak continues to guide humanity toward peace and spiritual enlightenment.
Let us celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 by spreading love, compassion, and unity — the eternal teachings of the great Guru.
