Guru Govind Singh Jayanti 2025 in India

Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti marks the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru and a spiritual warrior. Known for founding the Khalsa in 1699, he stood for justice, equality, and devotion. The day is celebrated with prayers, hymns, and community service, honoring his teachings and legacy.

Guru Govind Singh Jayanti: A Public Holiday?

Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is a public holiday in Punjab and some northern states of India, where offices, schools, and businesses remain closed to mark the celebrations. In other parts of the country, it is observed as an optional holiday, allowing individuals to take the day off if it is listed under their optional holiday choices.

Guru Govind Singh Jayanti

Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti, also known as Prakash Parv or Guru Gobind Singh Gurpurab, marks the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, born on January 5, 1666, in Patna, Bihar. He was a visionary leader, poet, and warrior who played a pivotal role in shaping Sikhism. Guru Gobind Singh Ji founded the Khalsa in 1699, a community of initiated Sikhs committed to equality, bravery, and spiritual devotion. He also declared the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, as the eternal Guru of the Sikhs. His life was dedicated to upholding justice and fighting oppression, making him an enduring symbol of courage and faith.

Observance on Guru Govind Singh Jayanti in India

Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is celebrated with great reverence, particularly in Punjab, Haryana, and cities like Patna, where he was born. The day begins with prayers and hymns in Gurdwaras, where devotees gather to pay homage to the Guru. Akhand Path, a continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, is organized to mark the occasion. Nagar Kirtans, or processions, are held in many places, with devotees singing hymns and showcasing martial arts, reflecting Guru Gobind Singh Ji's legacy as a warrior saint.

Langars, or community kitchens, are set up in Gurdwaras to serve free meals to people from all walks of life, symbolizing the Guru's teachings of equality and service. Many devotees also engage in acts of charity and participate in religious discussions to remember the Guru's teachings. In Patna Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the celebrations are particularly grand, with thousands of devotees visiting the Takht Sri Patna Sahib.

Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is a day to honor the Guru's contributions to Sikhism and his teachings of courage, humility, and equality. His life serves as an inspiration for people to stand against injustice and live with integrity. The festival emphasizes selfless service, unity, and spiritual devotion, which are core principles of Sikhism. Beyond the Sikh community, the day is a reminder of the values of justice, bravery, and compassion that transcend all boundaries. The festival brings people together in a spirit of harmony and collective reflection on the Guru's enduring legacy.

Guru Govind Singh Jayanti Observances