This year, Nov. 25, marks one of Sikhism’s most sacred holidays, Guru Nanak Jayanti, the namesake festival of the religion’s founder. Though the man was born April 15, 1469, his birthday celebration changes every year based on Kartik Poornima, the full moon during the month of Kartik.
The holiday is celebrated all over India, but the most colorful festival will take place in Amritsar, home to Harmandir Sahib, commonly known as the Golden Temple. The city is considered the holiest place in the world for Sikhs, with the Harmandir Sahib housing the Guru Granth Sahib, the religion’s most sacred text.
Mumbai, India © Jsingh1699 | Dreamstime
Many of the gurudwara’s architectural features symbolize Sikhism’s commitment to openness. Four doorways on all sides of the building welcome people of all races, creeds and sex. Unlike most temples built on high ground, people are required to walk down steps to enter the low-lying temple. Harmandir Sahib also operates one of the busiest free kitchens in the world, serving flat bread and lentil soup to an average 100,000 people per day.
Just like their temple, Sikhs welcome visitors of all background to celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti. Preparations start weeks ahead of the holiday, with morning processions called prabhat pheris commencing from the gurudwaras and singing hymns through the towns.
© Florian Blümm | Dreamstime
Two days prior marks Arkhand Path, a 48-hour reading of Guru Granth Sahib, followed by a public procession called Nagakirtan one day before the festival. On the morning of Guru Nanak’s birthday, Sikhs get up at amrit vela (4 a.m.) to recite hymns and eat Karah prasad, a blessed sweet. A large community lunch called langar is served by volunteers at the temple, free for people of all religions.
At night, people congregate at their local gurudwara to recite hymns as fireworks fill the sky. Harmandir Sahib’s celebration is especially impressive, with the temple decorated with flowers, flags and lights, illuminated by the full moon and fireworks. The festivities last until 1:20 a.m., the exact birth time of Guru Nanak.
Read This Next
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDining/Entertainment
Mar 7, 2025Tickets Now Available to One of World’s Highest-Altitude Wine Festivals
One of the world’s highest-altitude wine festivals, Breckenridge Wine Classic in Colorado, returns for its 11th year this year, bringing a mix of adventure, curated culinary experiences and world-class wines to the Rocky Mountains.
Sponsored Content
Unveiling Europe’s Treasures with AmaWaterways River Cruises
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with AmaWaterways, recognized as Best River Cruise Line by Cruise Critic. What sets AmaWaterways apart is its commitment to offering you the luxury of more. With up to eight daily included excursion options, you have the freedom to tailor your journey to your interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, there's something for everyone on the meticulously crafted itineraries. You will also be treated to a range of exquisitely prepared meals in the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine and beer during lunch and dinner, an array of complimentary host-led fitness classes, and so much more.
Cruises
Mar 6, 2025Celebrity Cruises Launches New Xcel Dream Makers Program
Been on plenty of cruises? Think you have a pretty good idea of the changes cruise lines need to make in order to roll out a better cruising experience? Then you may need to join the new, open, global community launched by Celebrity Cruises: Xcel Dream Makers.
Hotel
Mar 6, 2025Seattle’s Hotel Westland Debuts Interiors Ahead of Spring Debut
Hotel Westland is slated to debut in Seattle, Washington, this spring. Located at RailSpur, in Seattle’s Pioneer Square, the property will feature 120 guestrooms. From Aparium Hotel Group with interior design by Curioso, Hotel Westland draws design inspiration from the Pacific Northwest as well as Seattle’s history.
Sponsored Content
AmaWaterways’ Specialty River Cruises
When you embark on a river cruise with award-winning AmaWaterways, unpack once and step aboard a world of unparalleled experiences. With enriching excursions, exquisite locally sourced food and wine, nightly entertainment and more included in the fare, you will learn why AmaWaterways has the most returning guests out of any river cruise line.
Destinations
Mar 6, 2025Where to Experience New Travel Trend of Puddling
Ever heard of puddling? Not many have, but this unique travel trend involves visiting destinations teeming with small lakes and large ponds for outdoor adventures galore. And the best place to experience this new travel trend? None other than New Hampshire, a state home to more than 1,000 lakes and ponds under 500 acres.
ShareThis