Sikh Community in Nepal Celebrates 556th Guru Nanak Jayanti with Prayers and Festivities

IN NEWS:

Sikh Community in Nepal Celebrates 556th Guru Nanak Jayanti with Prayers and Festivities

Analysis:

1. Celebration in Nepal:
   • The Sikh community in Nepal observed the 556th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism.
   • Major celebrations took place at the Gurudwara in Lalitpur, which was beautifully decorated for the occasion.
2. Participation and Devotion:
   • Thousands of Sikhs and devotees from other faiths visited the Gurudwara to offer prayers and listen to religious sermons.
   • Prayers (Ardas) and Kirtan were held throughout the day, spreading messages of peace, unity, and devotion.
3. Cultural and Spiritual Significance:
   • The festival coincides with Kartik Purnima, a spiritually auspicious full moon day in the Hindu and Sikh calendars.
   • Devotees lit lamps in their homes across Nepal, symbolizing light, knowledge, and the victory of goodness.
4. Teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji:
   • Guru Nanak Dev Ji preached values of tolerance, compassion, equality, and universal brotherhood.
   • His teachings emphasized “Naam Japna” (remembering God’s name), “Kirat Karni” (honest living), and “Vand Chakna” (sharing with others).
   • The celebration reinforces these ideals and promotes interfaith harmony.

Static / Background Information:

• Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469–1539):
  • Born in Rai Bhoi di Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan).
  • Regarded as the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus.
  • His teachings are enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism.
• Guru Nanak Jayanti (Gurpurab):
  • Celebrated on the full moon day of Kartik month (Kartik Purnima).
  • Marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and is one of the most significant festivals in Sikhism.
  • Celebrations include Prabhat Pheris (morning processions), Kirtans, Langars (community meals), and Akhand Path (continuous recitation of Guru Granth Sahib).
• Sikh Community in Nepal:
  • A small yet vibrant community maintaining religious and cultural traditions.
  • Gurudwaras in Kathmandu and Lalitpur serve as important centers of faith and community gatherings.

Updated – 5 Nov 2025 ; 8:54 PM | NewsOnAir