Guru Nanak Gurpurab 15 Kartik

The celebration is generally similar for all Sikhs; only the hymns are different. The celebrations usually begin with Prabhat Pheris. Prabhat Pheris are morning processions that begin at the Gurudwaras and proceed around the localities singing hymns. Usually, two days before the anniversary, Akhand Path (a forty-eight-hour non-stop reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, the book sacred to the Sikhs) takes place in the Gurdwaras.

On the eve of the anniversary, a procession, called Nagarkirtan, is held. This procession is led by the Panj Pyaras (Five Beloved Ones). They lead the procession carrying the Sikh flag, known as Nishan Sahib and the Palki (Palanquin) of Guru Granth Sahib. They are followed by teams of singers singing hymns and the devotees sing the refrain.

There are marching bands playing different tunes and the "Gatka" teams show off their sword skills through various martial arts and in the form of simulated battles using traditional weapons. The procession pours into the streets of the city. The passage is covered with banners and the gates are decorated with flags and flowers for this special occasion. Leaders spreading the message of Guru Nanak.

On the day of Gurpurab, the celebrations start early in the morning around 4 to 5 am. This time of the day is called Amrit Vela. The day begins with the singing of Asaa-Ki-Vaar (morning hymns). This is followed by any combination of Katha (scripture exposition) and Kirtan (scripture hymns

Next comes the Langar, a special community lunch, which is organized at the Gurudwaras by volunteers. The idea behind the free community lunch is that everyone, irrespective of gender, caste, class or creed, should be offered food in the spirit of seva (service) and bhakti (devotion ).

Night prayer sessions are also held in some Gurudwaras, which begin at sunset when Rehras (evening prayer) is recited, followed by Kirtan until late night. The congregation starts singing Gurbani around 1:20 am, which is the actual time of birth of Guru Nanak. The festivities peak around 2 a.m.

Guru Nanak Gurpurab is celebrated by the Sikh community all over the world and is one of the most important festivals in the Sikh calendar. The celebrations are particularly colourful in Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh and many other places like parts of Pakistan and England. Even some Sindhis celebrate this festival.