Guru Nanak Jayanti – Celebrating the Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji with Devotion and Light
About Guru Nanak Jayanti
The Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurupurab or Prakash Utsav, is one of the most sacred festivals in Sikhism, celebrating the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Guru and founder of the Sikh faith. Born in 1469 in Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan), Guru Nanak Dev Ji preached the message of unity, equality, and devotion to one God. His teachings, enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib, continue to inspire millions worldwide. The festival holds deep spiritual significance as it marks the dawn of Sikhism and the spreading of universal values like compassion, humility, and service to humanity.
The celebrations of Guru Nanak Jayanti in Chandigarh begin days before the main event with Prabhat Pheris—early morning processions where devotees sing hymns and spread the message of peace. On the day before Gurupurab, Nagarkirtans are organized, featuring beautifully decorated floats, traditional music, and devotees chanting Gurbani. The entire city resonates with the spiritual energy of these processions, reflecting the deep devotion and cultural unity of the Sikh community.
On the day of Gurupurab, people visit Gurudwaras across Chandigarh to offer prayers and listen to Kirtan (devotional songs). The sacred text, Guru Granth Sahib, is recited continuously in a 48-hour reading known as Akhand Path. Community kitchens or Langars are organized, where free meals are served to everyone, regardless of religion, caste, or status—symbolizing the Sikh principle of equality and selfless service.
As the evening approaches, the city of Chandigarh transforms into a spectacle of light and devotion. Homes and Gurudwaras are adorned with beautiful lamps, candles, and diyas, while fireworks brighten the sky. Families come together to celebrate, exchange sweets, and reflect on Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s eternal teachings of truth, love, and humanity. Guru Nanak Jayanti is not just a religious occasion but a reminder of living a life rooted in faith, kindness, and service to others.
Festivals
Guru Nanak Jayanti Dates for Upcoming Years 2026-2030
| No. | Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | 2026 | Tuesday, November 24, 2026 | Tuesday |
| 2. | 2027 | Sunday, November 14, 2027 | Sunday |
| 3. | 2028 | Thursday, November 2, 2028 | Thursday |
| 4. | 2029 | Monday, November 19, 2029 | Monday |
| 5. | 2030 | Saturday, November 9, 2030 | Saturday |
Spiritual Preparations
Devotional Celebrations
Evening Festivities
Top Attractions & Activities
Top Attractions
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**Gurudwara Nada Sahib**: Visit the sacred Gurudwara located near the Ghaggar River, where devotees gather to pray, sing hymns, and participate in community langars on Guru Nanak Jayanti.
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**Sector 34 Gurudwara**: Witness one of Chandigarh’s most vibrant Gurudwaras, adorned with lights, floral decorations, and soulful kirtans celebrating the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
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**Nagarkirtan Procession**: Experience the lively Nagarkirtan with decorated floats, traditional music, and Gatka (Sikh martial arts) performances that fill the streets with devotion.
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**Langar Seva**: Take part in the community Langar, where volunteers serve free vegetarian meals to all visitors as a symbol of equality and service.
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**Prabhat Pheris**: Join early morning processions where devotees chant Gurbani hymns, spreading peace and spirituality throughout the city.
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**Evening Illumination**: Admire the dazzling lights and diyas that illuminate Gurudwaras and homes across Chandigarh, creating a divine and festive atmosphere.
Activities to Engage With
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**Participate in Langar Seva**: Join the selfless service of preparing and distributing free meals, embracing the Sikh values of equality and community service.
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**Attend Kirtan and Prayers**: Spend time listening to melodious Gurbani hymns and participating in spiritual prayers held at Gurudwaras throughout Chandigarh.
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**Join the Nagarkirtan**: Walk with the grand religious procession featuring devotees, decorated floats, and traditional Gatka performances symbolizing faith and unity.
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**Decorate Homes and Gurudwaras**: Contribute to the festive spirit by lighting diyas, candles, and colorful lights at your home or community Gurudwara.
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**Volunteer in Community Work**: Offer your time and efforts in cleanliness drives, crowd management, or helping visitors at Gurudwaras during the celebrations.
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**Capture Festive Moments**: Photograph the glowing Gurudwaras, lively processions, and joyous community gatherings to cherish the beauty of Guru Nanak Jayanti in Chandigarh.
How Chandigarh Celebrates Guru Nanak Jayanti
Chandigarh celebrates Guru Nanak Jayanti with grandeur and devotion. Major Gurudwaras like Nada Sahib, Sector 34, and Sector 46 are beautifully decorated with lights and flowers. Langars are organized across sectors, and devotees participate in Kirtan, Seva, and Nagar Kirtan with great enthusiasm. The whole city glows with unity, reflecting the spiritual essence of Sikhism.
Visitor Tips
| No. | Tip | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dress Modestly | Cover your head and wear decent clothing when visiting Gurudwaras during Gurupurab celebrations. |
| 2 | Participate in Langar | Join the community kitchen experience — it’s open to all and a key part of Sikh culture. |
| 3 | Avoid Firecrackers | Opt for eco-friendly celebrations to honor the spiritual essence of the festival. |
| 4 | Plan Early | Gurudwaras and roads are busy on this day — reach early for a peaceful visit. |
Festival Highlights
| No. | Event | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Prabhat Pheris | Early morning devotional processions held in neighborhoods with hymn singing and spiritual chants. |
| 2 | Nagarkirtan | A grand religious procession on the eve of Gurupurab featuring decorated floats and the Panj Pyare. |
| 3 | Akhand Path | A 48-hour continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib held in Gurudwaras before the festival day. |
| 4 | Langar | Free community meal served to everyone as a symbol of equality and compassion. |
| 5 | Lighting & Fireworks | Homes, Gurudwaras, and streets are illuminated with diyas, candles, and festive lights. |
FAQ
Conclusion:
Guru Nanak Jayanti is more than just a festival—it is a day of spiritual reflection, community harmony, and service to humanity. The celebrations in Chandigarh beautifully capture the essence of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings—equality, humility, and devotion. From illuminated Gurudwaras to the aroma of Langar and the echoes of Gurbani, the entire city comes alive in divine energy. Visiting during this time offers a heartwarming glimpse into Sikh culture and the timeless message of peace and unity that continues to inspire people across the world.




