The Sikh community across India and the world is preparing to celebrate one of its most significant festivals, Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti, with immense devotion in January 2025. This auspicious day, also known as Prakash Purab, marks the birth anniversary of the tenth and final living Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji. His life and teachings continue to be a guiding light for millions, emphasizing courage, justice, and equality.
When is Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti 2025?
The celebration date for Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is determined by the Nanakshahi calendar, which is a solar calendar used in Sikhism. According to this calendar, Guru Gobind Singh Ji was born on the Saptami (seventh day) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the month of Poh. In the Gregorian calendar for the year 2025, this sacred day falls on Thursday, January 9, 2025.
It is important to note that the celebrations will begin a day prior, on January 8, 2025, with the commencement of the Prabhat Pheris (early morning processions) and the Akhand Path, which is a continuous, unbroken reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism.
The Profound Significance of Prakash Purab
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is not merely a birthday celebration; it is a commemoration of a transformative spiritual leader who shaped the core identity of the Sikh faith. Born as Gobind Rai in Patna, Bihar, in 1666, he became the Guru at the tender age of nine after the martyrdom of his father, Guru Tegh Bahadur.
His contributions are monumental and form the bedrock of modern Sikh practice. The most pivotal event was the establishment of the Khalsa Panth in 1699 during the Vaisakhi festival. On this day, he administered Amrit (sacred nectar) to the Panj Pyare (the Five Beloved Ones) and gave all Sikh men the surname Singh (lion) and women the surname Kaur (princess), erasing caste distinctions and forging a community of saint-soldiers dedicated to righteousness.
He also declared the Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru for Sikhs, thereby concluding the line of human Gurus. His life was a testament to the principle of standing against tyranny and protecting the oppressed, a legacy that resonates powerfully to this day.
How is Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti Celebrated?
The celebrations for Prakash Purab are marked by deep religious fervor, community service, and vibrant processions. Gurdwaras, especially the Takht Sri Patna Sahib (his birthplace) and Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib (where Khalsa was founded), are decorated magnificently.
The key observances include:
- Akhand Path: A non-stop 48-hour reading of the Guru Granth Sahib concludes on the main day.
- Nagar Kirtan: Large, colorful processions are taken out through cities and towns. These feature the Panj Pyare, Gatka (martial arts) performances, hymn singing (Kirtan), and the revered Guru Granth Sahib placed on a beautifully decorated float.
- Langar Seva: The community kitchen serves free meals (Langar) to all visitors regardless of religion, caste, or creed, embodying the Sikh principles of equality and service.
- Divine Discourse: Religious lectures (Kathas) and hymns recount the life, battles, and teachings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, inspiring the congregation.
Devotees engage in prayers, volunteer for service, and reflect on the Guru's timeless compositions, which are part of the Dasam Granth. His writings, such as the Jaap Sahib, emphasize the formless nature of God and the duty to fight for justice.
The Enduring Legacy of the Tenth Guru
The celebration of Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti in 2025 offers a moment for profound reflection on his teachings. He championed the idea that true spirituality must be coupled with social responsibility and the readiness to defend the weak. His establishment of the Khalsa created a distinct identity focused on discipline, courage, and unwavering faith.
In today's world, his messages of equality, justice, and fearlessness remain incredibly relevant. The festival transcends religious boundaries, inviting people from all walks of life to understand a legacy built on sacrifice and the relentless pursuit of truth. As January 9, 2025, approaches, Sikhs and admirers worldwide will unite to honor the Prakash Purab of a Guru whose light continues to illuminate the path of righteousness.
