Why is Guru Nanak Jayanti Celebrated on Kartik Purnima? Significance, Rituals Explained

Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024: Today, November 15, 2024, marks the celebration of Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024. This day honors the birth anniversary of Shri Guru Nanak Dev, the first Sikh Guru and the founder of Sikhism. Observed each year on Kartik Purnima, Guru Nanak Jayanti holds deep significance in Sikhism. However, many wonder why Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated on Kartik Purnima. What is the connection between the two? Let’s explore the relationship between Guru Nanak Jayanti and Kartik Purnima, along with the significance and rituals that make this festival so important.

Why Do We Celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti on Kartik Purnima?

Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, is observed each year on Kartik Purnima. According to religious beliefs, Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born on Kartik Purnima (full moon) in 1469. As the founder of Sikhism and the first Guru of the Sikh community, Guru Nanak Dev Ji's contributions are remembered with reverence on this day. His birth anniversary is a time for followers to reflect on his teachings of unity, compassion, and equality. These values lie at the heart of Sikh beliefs and inspire people worldwide to pursue harmony, brotherhood, and selfless service.

Key Rituals and Celebrations for Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024

Celebrations for Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024 start days before Kartik Purnima, and each ritual holds unique meaning. Here are the most significant ones:

1. Prabhat Pheris: Early morning processions, or Prabhat Pheris, fill neighborhoods with devotees singing hymns and sharing Guru Nanak’s teachings. These processions foster a sense of community and spiritual togetherness.
2. Nagar Kirtan: On the evening before Guru Nanak Jayanti, devotees organize a Nagar Kirtan, a special procession carrying the Guru Granth Sahib in a decorated palanquin. Alongside the palanquin, devotees sing Kirtan, demonstrate martial arts, and celebrate with community involvement.
3. Langar: Guru Nanak pioneered the concept of Langar, a free community kitchen where people from all backgrounds share a meal. This tradition, central to Guru Nanak Jayanti, promotes unity and equality among all attendees.
4. Kirtan and Hymns: Hymn singing, or Kirtan, is a key part of the day. Devotees recite verses from the Guru Granth Sahib, emphasizing values like humility, kindness, and devotion—echoing Guru Nanak’s timeless teachings.
5. Reflection and Seva: Throughout the day, followers spend time in reflection, meditation, and Seva, or selfless service, as a tribute to the Guru’s ideals. This practice strengthens a sense of purpose and commitment to the community.

Banks and Stock Markets Closed for Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024

In honor of Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024, majority banks across several India states remain closed today, November 15. Additionally, the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) also observe a holiday today, halting all trading activities. This nationwide observance allows people to participate in the celebrations and reflect on the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

Kartik Purnima 2024: Religious Beliefs and Spiritual Significance

Kartik Purnima 2024, which is celebrated today with Guru Nanak Jayanti, is also very important in Hindu culture. Many people believe that taking a holy dip in the Ganges and lighting diyas on this day brings benefits and cleanses sins. According to religious beliefs, on Kartik Purnima, Lord Vishnu took the appearance of a fish (Matsya) to defend the precious writings, the Vedas.

Celebrated on Kartik Purnima, Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024 stands as a day of divine grace and spiritual reflection. This festival brings people together, honoring both Sikh values and the rich traditions of Hinduism.

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