Guru Nanak Jayanti 2026, also known as Guru Nanak Gurpurab and Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Parkash Purab, will be observed on Tuesday, 24 November 2026. This sacred occasion commemorates the Parkash of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the Sikh faith and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus.
The occasion is observed with devotion at Gurdwaras across India and around the world. The celebrations include Gurbani Kirtan, Akhand Path Sahib, Ardas, Nagar Kirtan and Langar. It is also an opportunity to reflect on Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings of Ik Onkar, equality, truthful living, compassion and selfless service.
In this article, learn about the date of Guru Nanak Jayanti 2026, the life and teachings of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the significance of Gurpurab, traditional celebrations, the Punjab Government holiday and meaningful wishes in English and Punjabi.
When Is Guru Nanak Jayanti 2026?
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2026 will be observed on Tuesday, 24 November 2026, on the occasion of Kartik Purnima.
The date of Gurpurab is associated with the full moon day of the month of Kartik in the traditional calendar. Its corresponding date in the Gregorian calendar changes every year.
The Punjab Government has also included 24 November 2026 as a gazetted holiday for the birthday of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2026: Important Details
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Occasion | Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Parkash Purab |
| Common name | Guru Nanak Jayanti / Guru Nanak Gurpurab |
| Date in 2026 | 24 November 2026 |
| Day | Tuesday |
| Traditional observance | Kartik Purnima |
| Birth year | 1469 |
| Birthplace | Rai Bhoi di Talwandi, now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan |
| Religious significance | Commemorates the Parkash of the first Sikh Guru |
| Main observances | Akhand Path Sahib, Kirtan, Ardas, Nagar Kirtan and Langar |
| Punjab Government holiday | Gazetted holiday |
Who Was Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji?
Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 at Rai Bhoi di Talwandi, a place now known as Nankana Sahib in present-day Pakistan. He was the founder of the Sikh faith and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus.
His parents were Mehta Kalyan Das Ji, popularly known as Mehta Kalu Ji, and Mata Tripta Ji. His elder sister was Bebe Nanaki Ji.
From an early age, Guru Nanak Dev Ji showed a deep interest in spirituality and the search for truth. His teachings challenged social discrimination, inequality and practices that placed outward rituals above sincere devotion and good conduct.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji travelled to different places to share his message of one Universal Creator and the importance of living with truth, humility and compassion. These journeys are traditionally remembered as the Udasis.
Later, he settled at Kartarpur, where he established a community centred on devotion, honest work and sharing with others. Before leaving his earthly form in 1539, he appointed Guru Angad Dev Ji as his spiritual successor.
His revealed hymns form an important part of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the eternal Guru of the Sikhs.
History and Observance of Guru Nanak Jayanti
Guru Nanak Jayanti commemorates the Parkash of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The observance is traditionally held on Kartik Purnima, the full moon day of the month of Kartik.
Historical accounts differ regarding the precise Gregorian date of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birth. The SGPC biography records 15 April 1469, while its Gurpurab information explains that the Parkash Purab is celebrated on Kartik Purnima. For this reason, it is more accurate to describe 24 November 2026 as the date of the 2026 Gurpurab observance rather than as a verified Gregorian birth anniversary.
Gurpurab is one of the most important occasions in the Sikh religious calendar. Devotees gather at Gurdwaras to listen to Gurbani, participate in prayers, remember the Guru’s teachings and perform Seva.
In Punjab, the celebrations are especially meaningful, with large gatherings at historic Sikh religious sites, including Sri Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar and Gurdwaras in other towns and cities.
The purpose of the occasion is to remember Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s spiritual message and make its values part of everyday life.
How Is Guru Nanak Jayanti Celebrated?
Guru Nanak Gurpurab is observed with devotion and community participation. The exact programme and timing may differ between Gurdwaras and locations.
1. Prabhat Pheris
Prabhat Pheris are early-morning devotional processions organised in the days leading up to Gurpurab. Members of the Sangat gather to sing Shabads and remember the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
2. Akhand Path Sahib
Akhand Path Sahib is the continuous and uninterrupted recitation of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. It is traditionally completed over approximately 48 hours. Many Gurdwaras organise an Akhand Path before Gurpurab, followed by its Bhog.
3. Nagar Kirtan
Nagar Kirtan is a Sikh religious procession organised in many towns and cities, often before the main Gurpurab day. It is traditionally led by the Panj Pyare. Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is carried respectfully in a decorated Palki Sahib, while the Sangat participates in devotional singing and Seva.
4. Gurbani Kirtan, Katha and Ardas
Special religious programmes are organised at Gurdwaras. Devotees gather to listen to Gurbani Kirtan, Katha and Sikh historical discourses. Ardas is also performed as part of the religious observance.
5. Langar and Seva
Langar is a central expression of equality, sharing and selfless service in Sikh tradition. Free meals are served to everyone, without discrimination based on religion, caste, background or financial status.
Volunteers participate in preparing food, serving meals, cleaning and helping visitors. This community service reflects the values of humility and Seva.
6. Decoration and Illumination of Gurdwaras
Gurdwaras are often decorated with lights and flowers. Devotees visit to offer prayers, listen to Gurbani and participate in the celebrations. Sri Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar is among the prominent places where large numbers of devotees gather for Gurpurab.
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2026 Holiday in Punjab
The Punjab Government’s official holiday calendar for 2026 lists Tuesday, 24 November 2026, as a gazetted holiday for the birthday of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Government employees covered by the notification may observe the holiday in accordance with the applicable government instructions.
Schools, colleges, banks and other institutions may follow their respective holiday schedules. Readers should confirm closures with the relevant institution.
For the complete annual schedule, read our guide: Punjab Govt Holidays 2026 – Complete List and Calendar.
Guru Nanak Jayanti Wishes 2026 in English
Gurpurab is a meaningful occasion to share messages of peace, kindness, equality and service with family and friends.
Here are some respectful Guru Nanak Jayanti wishes for 2026:
- Wishing you and your family a blessed Guru Nanak Jayanti 2026. May the teachings of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji inspire us to follow the path of truth, humility and compassion.
- On the sacred occasion of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Parkash Purab, may your life be filled with peace, wisdom and happiness. Happy Gurpurab!
- May the divine message of Ik Onkar guide us towards unity, equality and love for all. Warm wishes on Guru Nanak Jayanti 2026.
- Let us remember the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and make honest living, sharing and selfless service a part of our daily lives. Happy Guru Nanak Jayanti!
- May this Gurpurab inspire us to help those in need, respect every individual and spread kindness wherever we go.
- On the auspicious occasion of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Parkash Purab, let us follow the path of truth, humility and Seva. Wishing everyone a peaceful and blessed Gurpurab.
Guru Nanak Jayanti Wishes 2026 in Punjabi
ਇੱਥੇ ਗੁਰੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਪ੍ਰਕਾਸ਼ ਪੁਰਬ ਮੌਕੇ ਸਾਂਝੀਆਂ ਕਰਨ ਲਈ ਕੁਝ ਸਤਿਕਾਰ ਭਰੇ ਪੰਜਾਬੀ ਸੁਨੇਹੇ ਦਿੱਤੇ ਗਏ ਹਨ।
1. ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਪਾਵਨ ਪ੍ਰਕਾਸ਼ ਪੁਰਬ ਦੀਆਂ ਸਮੂਹ ਸੰਗਤਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਲੱਖ-ਲੱਖ ਵਧਾਈਆਂ। ਗੁਰੂ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੀਆਂ ਸਿੱਖਿਆਵਾਂ ਸਾਨੂੰ ਸੱਚ, ਸੇਵਾ ਅਤੇ ਨਿਮਰਤਾ ਦੇ ਮਾਰਗ ‘ਤੇ ਚੱਲਣ ਦੀ ਪ੍ਰੇਰਨਾ ਦੇਣ।
2. ਧੰਨ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਪ੍ਰਕਾਸ਼ ਪੁਰਬ ਦੀਆਂ ਆਪ ਜੀ ਅਤੇ ਆਪ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਪਰਿਵਾਰ ਨੂੰ ਹਾਰਦਿਕ ਵਧਾਈਆਂ। ਸਰਬੱਤ ਦਾ ਭਲਾ ਹੋਵੇ।
3. ਆਓ, ਗੁਰੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਉਪਦੇਸ਼ਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਆਪਣੇ ਜੀਵਨ ਵਿੱਚ ਅਪਣਾਈਏ ਅਤੇ ਸਭ ਨਾਲ ਪਿਆਰ, ਸਤਿਕਾਰ ਤੇ ਬਰਾਬਰੀ ਦਾ ਭਾਵ ਰੱਖੀਏ। ਗੁਰਪੁਰਬ ਦੀਆਂ ਲੱਖ-ਲੱਖ ਵਧਾਈਆਂ।
4. ਨਾਮ ਜਪੋ, ਕਿਰਤ ਕਰੋ ਅਤੇ ਵੰਡ ਛਕੋ ਦੇ ਸੰਦੇਸ਼ ਨੂੰ ਆਪਣੇ ਜੀਵਨ ਦਾ ਹਿੱਸਾ ਬਣਾਈਏ। ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਪ੍ਰਕਾਸ਼ ਪੁਰਬ ਦੀਆਂ ਵਧਾਈਆਂ।
5. ਗੁਰੂ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੀ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਸਦਕਾ ਹਰ ਘਰ ਵਿੱਚ ਸੁੱਖ-ਸ਼ਾਂਤੀ, ਪਿਆਰ ਅਤੇ ਸਰਬੱਤ ਦੇ ਭਲੇ ਦੀ ਭਾਵਨਾ ਬਣੀ ਰਹੇ। ਗੁਰਪੁਰਬ ਦੀਆਂ ਹਾਰਦਿਕ ਵਧਾਈਆਂ।
6. ਆਓ, ਇਸ ਪਵਿੱਤਰ ਦਿਹਾੜੇ ‘ਤੇ ਮਨੁੱਖਤਾ ਦੀ ਸੇਵਾ, ਸੱਚੀ ਕਿਰਤ ਅਤੇ ਆਪਸੀ ਭਾਈਚਾਰੇ ਦਾ ਸੰਕਲਪ ਕਰੀਏ। ਧੰਨ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਪ੍ਰਕਾਸ਼ ਪੁਰਬ ਦੀਆਂ ਵਧਾਈਆਂ।
Frequently Asked Questions About Guru Nanak Jayanti 2026
1. When is Guru Nanak Jayanti in 2026?
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2026 will be observed on Tuesday, 24 November 2026.
2. What is the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in 2026?
The 2026 observance marks the 557th birth anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who was born in 1469.
3. Is Guru Nanak Jayanti a government holiday in Punjab in 2026?
Yes. The Punjab Government’s official 2026 holiday calendar lists 24 November, Tuesday, as a gazetted holiday for the birthday of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
4. What is another name for Guru Nanak Jayanti?
Guru Nanak Jayanti is also known as Guru Nanak Gurpurab, Guru Nanak Prakash Purab and Parkash Utsav.
5. Where was Guru Nanak Dev Ji born?
Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born at Rai Bhoi di Talwandi in 1469. The place is now known as Nankana Sahib and is located in present-day Pakistan.
6. What are the three main teachings associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji?
Three important principles associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings are Naam Japna (remembering the Divine), Kirat Karni (earning honestly) and Vand Chakna (sharing with others).
7. What is Akhand Path Sahib?
Akhand Path Sahib is the continuous and uninterrupted recitation of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, traditionally completed over approximately 48 hours.
8. What is Nagar Kirtan?
Nagar Kirtan is a Sikh religious procession featuring devotional singing and community participation. It is traditionally led by the Panj Pyare, with Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji carried respectfully in a decorated Palki Sahib.
9. Why is Langar served on Guru Nanak Jayanti?
Langar reflects the Sikh principles of equality, sharing and selfless service. It provides free meals to everyone without discrimination.
10. How can we wish someone on Guru Nanak Jayanti in Punjabi?
You can say: “ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਪ੍ਰਕਾਸ਼ ਪੁਰਬ ਦੀਆਂ ਲੱਖ-ਲੱਖ ਵਧਾਈਆਂ। ਸਰਬੱਤ ਦਾ ਭਲਾ ਹੋਵੇ।”
10. How can i Check Punjab Govt Gazetted holidays 2027?
Punjab Govt Gazetted holidays 2027 list Click Here
Conclusion
Guru Nanak Jayanti is a sacred occasion that reminds us of the life, teachings and universal message of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
As the Sikh community celebrates the Parkash Purab on 24 November 2026, the occasion provides an opportunity to reflect on the values of Ik Onkar, Naam Japna, Kirat Karni, Vand Chakna, equality and Seva.
The true way to honour Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings is to bring these principles into our daily lives through honest work, kindness, humility and service to humanity.
PRPunjab.in wishes everyone a peaceful and blessed Guru Nanak Jayanti 2026.
