- Kartik Purnima
- Born in 1469
- Akhand Path, Nagar Kirtan and langar
Where it began
Guru Nanak was born in 1469 at Talwandi, now Nankana Sahib in Pakistan. He taught that there is one God, that all people are equal, and that one should remember God, work honestly and share with others.
He travelled widely to share his message and later settled at Kartarpur, where a community grew around shared work, prayer and a free kitchen. His hymns are in the Guru Granth Sahib.
How it grew over time
1469
Guru Nanak is born at Talwandi in Punjab.
Early 1500s
He makes long journeys, called udasis, sharing his teachings.
1604
His hymns are placed in the Adi Granth, compiled under Guru Arjan.
Today
His birth anniversary is kept on the full moon of Kartik in gurdwaras around the world.
How it is celebrated in different places
Punjab
The Golden Temple in Amritsar and gurdwaras in every town are lit with lamps and fireworks.
Nankana Sahib, Pakistan
Pilgrims gather at the Guru's birthplace for the anniversary.
UK, Canada and US
Large Nagar Kirtan processions and langar draw people of every background.
Guru Nanak Jayanti moments
Guru Nanak Jayanti today
A two day reading of the Guru Granth Sahib ends on the morning of the day. Processions with the Panj Pyare lead the way, hymns fill the gurdwara, and langar is served to all, sitting together as equals.
