Guru Nanak Gurpurab, also known as Guru Nanak Jayanti, is a sacred occasion marking the birth of Guru Nanak, the first Sikh Guru and the visionary founder of Sikhism.
Celebrated as Guru Nanak's Prakash Utsav, this day is an opportunity for devotees to reflect on his profound teachings and dedicate themselves to selfless service.
The term Gurpurab, a fusion of "Gur" meaning 'Guru' or master, and "Purab," derived from the Hindi word 'parv,' signifying day, encapsulates the essence of this celebration as the day associated with the Guru. This year, the Sikh community joyfully observes the 554th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak.
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2023: Date and Timings
- Guru Nanak Jayanti on Monday, November 27, 2023.
- Purnima Tithi Starts - 03:53 PM on November 26, 2023.
- Purnima Tithi Ends - 02:45 PM on November 27, 2023.
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2023: Significance and Celebrations
Guru Nanak Gurpurab holds immense significance as a day to honour the holy Guru and embody his teachings, which advocate the battle against the five vices: lust, greed, attachment, anger, and pride.
His teachings are enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred scripture of Sikhs. Devotees engage in the Akhand Path, a continuous 48-hour reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, preceding the festival.
On Guru Nanak Jayanti, celebrations kick off at 3 am during Amrit Vela, considered ideal for hymn recitation and meditation. Gurdwaras across the globe serve a special community lunch called Guru ka Langar, inviting everyone to partake in the joyous festivities. Simultaneously, at home, devotees prepare traditional meals to celebrate the auspicious occasion.
Gurpurab 2023: Traditional Recipes to Prepare for Festive Feast
- Kadha Prasad
This esteemed dish, a staple at every Langar, is a special halwa crafted from atta, ghee, and sugar. Its texture is not only silky and smooth but also a delightful melt-in-the-mouth experience.
- Langarwali Dal
A flavoursome dal, boasting minimal ingredients, achieves a luscious and velvety consistency. It stands as a delightful addition to the menu for Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrations.
- Lassi
The quintessential Punjabi beverage, a glass of creamy lassi, serves as the perfect complement to the festive meal.
- Aloo Gobhi ki Sabzi
A classic vegetable dish commonly found in Indian households, this simple yet delectable sabzi, when paired with roti and dal, graces the menu of the Langar.
- Kheer
Concluding the meal on a sweet note, kheer is a rice pudding made by simmering milk, sugar or jaggery, rice, and optionally, dry fruits.
Thus, Guru Nanak Jayanti is a time for spiritual reflection, community bonding, and the joyous sharing of traditional meals that embody the spirit of Sikhism.
