Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Gurup-urab, also known as Prakash Utsav, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion by Sikhs around the world. It marks the birth an-niversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, who was born on the full moon day of Kartik in 1469. The day is observed with prayers, hymns (Shabads), processions (Nagar Kirtans), and community service (Seva) at Gurdwaras.
The celebrations focus on remembering Guru Nanak’s teachings of equality, humility, selfless service, and devotion to one God. The community comes together to sing hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib, partake in langar (free communal meal), and engage in spiritual reflection. The Prakash Utsav is a significant occasion that unites people across regions, reinforcing the core values of love, peace, and harmony.
The celebrations for Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Gurupurab indeed begin well in advance, with great reverence and devotion. In this case, the Prabhat Pheri is a significant part of the lead-up to the Prakash Utsav. The Prabhat Pheri typically begins early in the morning from the Gurdwara Sahib in Sector 136. The procession moves through different sectors each day, with the sangat (congregation) enthusiastically participating.
The Prabhat Pheri is accompanied by the sweet sound of sacred hymns (Shabads) that resonate through the streets, and the procession is welcomed with showers of flower petals. This creates an atmosphere of spiritual joy and devotion. These daily processions are a form of community prayer and a chance for the sangat to reflect on the teachings of Guru Nanak, with the divine Shabads.
The Nagar Kirtan marks the grand culmination of the Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurupurab celebrations, bringing together the entire community in a vibrant and spiritual procession. It begins early in the morning at the Gurdwara Sahib, with the sacred Guru Granth Sahib, the Living Guru, placed on a beautifully decorated vehicle, adorned with marigold flowers and fragrant scents. The atmosphere is filled with devotion as the sangat follows the procession, singing Shabads (sacred hymns) in praise of Guru Nanak and reflecting on his teachings.
Throughout the procession, the sangat is led by the sounds of divine music, with people of all ages joining in. The presence of family and friends, along with the warmth of community participation, adds to the joy and spirituality of the event.
One of the highlights of the Nagar Kirtan is the distribution of Langar. In every sector along the route, food stalls are set up, where free Langar is served to all without any discrimination. This symbolizes the Sikh principles of selfless service and equality, as everyone, regardless of background or status, shares in the meal, fostering a sense of unity and togetherness.
Another special feature of the event is the sight of small children and adolescent boys and girls dressed as the Panj Pyare (the five beloved ones of Guru Gobind Singh Ji). Their attire and participation bring a sense of pride and continuity of the Sikh tradition, reminding all of the valor and dedication of the Panj Pyare.
The display of martial arts skills by the Jatha (a group of warrior students) is another highlight, showcasing the discipline and courage that Sikhs hold dear. These young boys and girls demonstrate their sword skills throughout the procession, embodying the Sikh spirit of courage and devotion to Guru’s teachings. Their participation is not only a display of physical ability but also a symbol of the Sikh community’s commitment to defending justice, equality, and faith.
The entire event is a beautiful blend of spirituality, community spirit, and cultural pride, honoring Guru Nanak Devji’s teachings of love, equality, service, and devotion to one God. It serves as both a joyous celebration and a powerful reminder of the values that guide the Sikh way of life.
