Punjab • Sikh Communities Worldwide · October–November
Guru Nanak Gurpurab
Celebrating the Birth of the Founder of Sikhism
Tags: Guru Nanak Jayanti · Gurpurab · Sikh Festivals · Golden Temple · Amritsar · Nagar Kirtan · Langar · Punjab
**Guru Nanak Gurpurab** commemorates the birth of **Guru Nanak**, founder of Sikhism.
Gurdwaras are illuminated. Devotional singing known as **kirtan** takes place. Processions may move through communities. And **langar**, the community meal open to people regardless of background, becomes a powerful expression of equality and service.
How Gurpurab Is Observed
**Nagar Kirtan** processions — Led by the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones), carrying the Guru Granth Sahib on a decorated palanquin, with hymns and community participation.
**Akhand Path** — A continuous 48-hour reading of the entire Guru Granth Sahib in the days leading up to Gurpurab.
**Langar** — Community kitchens serve free meals to all visitors regardless of religion, caste or economic status.
**Illumination** — Gurdwaras are decorated with lights.
The Golden Temple
**Amritsar** is especially significant during major Sikh observances. The **Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib)** becomes spectacularly illuminated.
Reflections of the lights across the sacred pool create one of India's most breathtaking nighttime scenes.
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Related
- Amritsar — The Golden Temple.
- Punjab — Explore Sikh heritage.