Hari
OM
Story-day is for cultural exploration, puraanas and
parables and finding out about leading lights in spiritual philosophy.
Guru Nanak Jayanti - or Gurpurab
- is one of the most revered days observed by the Sikh community. Guru Nanak
Jayanti commemorates the birth of Guru Nanak, the first Sikh Guru. Both in the
literal sense and In essence, Gurpurab means ‘festival of the gurus’. Owing to
the fact that Guru Nanak enlightened the world with his profound teachings, the
day is also known as ‘Prakash Utsav’ - festival of illumination. It is worth
noting that this 'birthday of the Guru' is not about the physical birth of
Nanak-ji, who was actually born in April, but is about the day he began
mission. To read more autobiography, click here.
Gurupurab rituals and ceremonies
A series of ceremonial rituals begin ahead of the actual day
celebrations of Guru Nanak Jayanti. The first day activities involve Akhand
Paath, which refers to a 48-hour uninterrupted reading of the Sikh scripture
Guru Granth Sahib two days before Guru Nanak Jayanti, both at Gurdwaras and at
homes. To mark the occasion, Gurudwaras are also decorated with flowers and
lights.
On the second day, Prabhat Pheris, (prabhat meaning ‘early morning’
and pheris meaning rounds) are conducted. Sikhs visit early morning at the
Gurdwara and start chanting hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib. A huge procession
is organized which is also called ‘Nagar kirtan’ with five armed guards called
‘Panj Pyaras’ fronting it. There is a march with decorated palanquin carrying
the holy scripture of the Sikhs Guru Granth Sahib. As the procession heads
towards the streets, people pay obeisance to the pious Guru Granth Sahib. A
team of Sikh people attired in traditional clothes, brandish traditional
weapons and play ‘Gatka’ as they display their skills in sword fighting and
martial arts.
On the third day, that is, the actual day of Guru Nanak Jayanti, the
festivities begin with the recital of Asa-di-Var (morning hymns), then poems,
and quotes are read out that uphold Guru Nanak’s exemplary life. This is
followed by the ‘katha’ or exposition of the Guru Granth Sahib, along with
discourses and insightful lectures. Kirtan-Darbars or special assemblies are
also conducted. After this, a ‘langar’ or community kitchen is organized
wherein volunteers serve food with full devotion to people of the Sikh
community as well as other communities also. A sweet ‘Karah Prasad’ is served.
Some Gurdwaras also hold night prayers or rehras.
Celebrations
Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak, becomes the hub of
activity much before the auspicious day arrives. Special arrangements are made
with the support of the managing committee and the state government, as Sikh
pilgrims arrive in huge numbers from all over the globe to participate in the
activities of the holy day and seek blessings. During Guru Nanak Jayanti, the
Golden Temple in Amritsar, India also sees a constant stream of devotees from
everywhere. It is lit up beautifully and offers a most awe-inspiring sight.
Gurudwaras in the Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh especially come alive with air
of festivity and spirit of inner joy that emanates from the congregation.
Elaborate arrangements are made for ‘langar’ as thousands of devotees are served
food by volunteers and people who wish to immerse themselves in ‘seva’ or
service to humanity. The distribution of ‘Karah Prasad’ is also looked forward
to by the people. Special programs are organized and religious music and
kirtans keep a mystical and blessed atmosphere. After the langar, a prayer
session takes place. Since Guru Nanak’s birth was after midnight, the
celebrations also go on past midnight.
Those in countries distant from India, but who are devoted to Guru
Nanak and Sikh philosophy will arrange celebrations in their local Gurdwara and
introduce concepts to all in their country of residence. Sikhs are people of
strong heart; if you are lucky enough to receive an invitation to join this
festival, do not miss it!