Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti – Significance, History, Date & Celebrations
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti, also known as Guru Gobind Singh Gurpurab, is one of the most sacred festivals in Sikhism. It commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth and last living Sikh Guru, who played a pivotal role in shaping Sikh identity, faith, and courage. The festival symbolizes truth, sacrifice, equality, and fearlessness.
Observed with immense devotion by Sikhs worldwide, this day honors the Guru’s spiritual wisdom, military leadership, and literary contributions.
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti Dates – 2025 & 2026
2025 Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti
- Main Gregorian Date: Monday, 6 January 2025 (as per Nanakshahi calendar and mainstream Sikh observance)
- Alternate observed date (regional variation): Saturday, 27 December 2025 in some states and calendar references
- Summary: Depending on calendar interpretation, the birth anniversary (Prakash Parv) is widely observed on 6 January 2025, with some regional celebrations also noting 27 December 2025.
2026 Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti
- Observed Date: Monday, 5 January 2026 as per holiday calendars and festival listings.(CalendarLabs)
- Summary: Most Sikh holiday calendars list Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti on 5 January 2026. This date may slightly vary in different regions based on local tithi/sunset calculations.
Quick Reference Table
| Year | Gregorian Date | Day | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 6 January 2025 | Monday | Main festival date (Prakash Parv) |
| 2025 (regional) | 27 December 2025 | Saturday | Alternative observed date in some regions |
| 2026 | 5 January 2026 | Monday | Listed by Sikh festival calendars |
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti 2025 is mainly observed on 6 January 2025 (Monday) as per the Nanakshahi calendar. In some regions it is also celebrated on 27 December 2025. Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti 2026 falls on 5 January 2026.
Why Dates Vary
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is determined by the Nanakshahi calendar, which sometimes results in differences between the solar calendar date and the regional or tithi-based observance date. This can cause the celebration to appear in December or January in the Gregorian calendar.
When Is Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti Celebrated?
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | 22 December 1666 |
| Birthplace | Patna Sahib, Bihar, India |
| Calendar Followed | Nanakshahi Calendar |
| Gregorian Dates | December or January |
| Festival Name | Prakash Parv / Prakash Utsav |
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti does not fall on a fixed Gregorian date every year, as it is calculated according to the Nanakshahi calendar, making it shift between late December and January.
Who Was Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
Guru Gobind Singh Ji was not only a spiritual master but also a warrior, poet, philosopher, and reformer. He was the son of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, who attained martyrdom while defending religious freedom.
Key Facts About Guru Gobind Singh Ji
| Topic | Information |
|---|---|
| Born | 1666, Patna Sahib |
| Became Guru | At age 9 |
| Father | Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji |
| Sons | Sahibzada Ajit Singh, Jujhar Singh, Zorawar Singh, Fateh Singh |
| Martyrdom | All four sons sacrificed their lives |
| Year of Jyoti Jot | 1708 |
| Eternal Guru | Guru Granth Sahib Ji |
Before leaving his mortal body, Guru Gobind Singh Ji declared the Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru of the Sikhs, ending the lineage of human Gurus forever.
Why Is Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti Celebrated?
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is celebrated to remember his unparalleled contribution to humanity and Sikhism, especially:
- Standing firmly against Mughal oppression
- Defending righteousness and justice
- Promoting equality beyond caste and creed
- Establishing the Khalsa Panth in 1699
Formation of the Khalsa
In 1699, Guru Gobind Singh Ji baptized the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones), who came from different castes and regions, breaking social barriers. This act laid the foundation of the Khalsa, a disciplined order of saint-soldiers devoted to truth, bravery, and service.
Spiritual and Literary Contributions
Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a profound scholar and poet. His compositions are preserved in:
- Dasam Granth
- Zafarnama (letter to Aurangzeb)
- Several hymns praising divine power and courage
He emphasized both spiritual discipline and moral conduct, inspiring Sikhs to live fearlessly while remaining spiritually grounded.
How Is Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti Celebrated?
Major Celebrations and Rituals
| Ritual | Description |
|---|---|
| Akhand Path | Continuous recitation of Guru Granth Sahib for 48 hours |
| Nagar Kirtan | Grand procession led by Panj Pyare |
| Asa Di Var | Morning hymns |
| Langar | Free community meal |
| Kirtan | Devotional singing |
| Katha | Religious discourses |
Celebrations usually last three days, starting two days before the main Gurpurab.
Nagar Kirtan Highlights
- Sikh martial art Gatka
- Devotional music and hymns
- Distribution of sharbat and sweets
- Participation of devotees from all communities
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti Wishes
May Guru Gobind Singh Ji bless you with courage, wisdom, and eternal peace.
May his teachings inspire us to stand for truth and justice always.
Wish you and your family a very Happy Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti.
Hindi Section – गुरु गोबिंद सिंह जयंती
गुरु गोबिंद सिंह जयंती का महत्व
गुरु गोबिंद सिंह जी सिख धर्म के दसवें गुरु थे। उन्होंने खालसा पंथ की स्थापना की और अन्याय के खिलाफ आवाज उठाई। उनका जीवन साहस, बलिदान और भक्ति का प्रतीक है।
गुरु गोबिंद सिंह जयंती कैसे मनाई जाती है
- गुरुद्वारों में अखंड पाठ
- नगर कीर्तन
- लंगर सेवा
- कीर्तन और कथा
- गुरु ग्रंथ साहिब का पाठ
यह पर्व मानवता, समानता और धर्म की रक्षा का संदेश देता है।
FAQs on Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti
What is Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti and why is it important?
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru. It is important because he founded the Khalsa Panth, upheld religious freedom, and declared Guru Granth Sahib Ji as the eternal Guru of Sikhs.
When is Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti celebrated?
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is celebrated in December or January according to the Nanakshahi calendar. The exact date varies every year in the Gregorian calendar.
Where was Guru Gobind Singh Ji born?
Guru Gobind Singh Ji was born in Patna Sahib, Bihar, India, on 22 December 1666. Patna Sahib is now one of the five major Sikh Takhts.
Why is Guru Gobind Singh Ji called the last Sikh Guru?
Guru Gobind Singh Ji is called the last Sikh Guru because before his death in 1708, he declared Guru Granth Sahib Ji as the permanent and eternal Guru, ending the lineage of human Gurus.
What is the significance of the Khalsa in Sikhism?
The Khalsa, established by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699, represents purity, courage, equality, and devotion. It transformed Sikhs into saint-soldiers committed to justice and righteousness.
Who are the Panj Pyare?
The Panj Pyare are the five beloved disciples initiated by Guru Gobind Singh Ji during the formation of the Khalsa. They came from different castes, symbolizing equality and unity in Sikhism.
How is Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti celebrated?
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is celebrated through:
- Akhand Path of Guru Granth Sahib
- Nagar Kirtan processions
- Langar (free community meal)
- Kirtan and Katha
- Religious discourses and prayers at Gurudwaras
What is Akhand Path and why is it performed?
Akhand Path is the continuous, uninterrupted recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib over 48 hours. It is performed to seek spiritual blessings and is an essential ritual during Gurpurabs.
What is Nagar Kirtan?
Nagar Kirtan is a religious procession led by the Panj Pyare, accompanied by devotional singing, Gatka performances, and community participation to spread Guru’s teachings.
What teachings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji are most relevant today?
Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s teachings on fearlessness, equality, justice, self-discipline, and devotion to God remain highly relevant in modern society.
What scriptures did Guru Gobind Singh Ji write?
Guru Gobind Singh Ji authored several spiritual and poetic works, including compositions in the Dasam Granth and the Zafarnama, a letter addressing injustice.
Is Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti a public holiday in India?
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is observed as a public holiday in several Indian states, especially where Sikh communities are prominent.
What food is served during Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti?
During the celebrations, Langar is served at Gurudwaras, offering free vegetarian meals to everyone regardless of religion, caste, or background.
How can devotees participate in Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti?
Devotees can participate by:
- Visiting Gurudwaras
- Listening to Kirtan
- Volunteering in Langar Seva
- Reading Guru Granth Sahib
- Practicing Guru Ji’s teachings in daily life
What is the spiritual message of Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti?
The spiritual message emphasizes living truthfully, standing against injustice, serving humanity, and surrendering to the divine will.
Useful External References
- Sikh History: https://www.sikhiwiki.org
- Britannica on Guru Gobind Singh: https://www.britannica.com
- Cultural India: https://www.culturalindia.net
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Conclusion
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is not just a festival but a reminder of courage, sacrifice, faith, and equality. The life and teachings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji continue to guide humanity toward righteousness and fearlessness. Celebrating this sacred day strengthens spiritual values and unity among people across the world.