Guru Nanak Jayanti, also called Gurpurab or Prakash Utsav, marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. It falls on the full moon of the month of Kartik, and is one of the most important days of the Sikh calendar. Gurdwaras around the world hold prayers, processions and community meals. This guide explains the 2026 date, the three-day programme, Guru Nanak’s life and teachings, and how visitors can take part respectfully.
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2026 date
In 2026, Guru Nanak Jayanti falls on Tuesday, 24 November. According to the calendars we checked, the Kartik Purnima (full moon) tithi starts late on 23 November (about 11:42 PM IST) and ends on the evening of 24 November (about 8:23 PM IST). Guru Nanak is traditionally said to have been born in 1469, which makes 2026 his 557th birth anniversary by that count. Please also check with your local gurdwara, as dates and timings are provisional.
The three days of the celebration
- Akhand Path: two days before Gurpurab (around 22 November this year), a continuous 48-hour reading of the Guru Granth Sahib begins in gurdwaras.
- Nagar Kirtan: the day before (around 23 November), a procession carries the Guru Granth Sahib on a decorated palanquin, led by the Panj Pyare (the five beloved ones), with hymns, martial-arts displays (gatka) and free food stalls.
- Gurpurab: the main day, with early-morning prayers (Prabhat Pheri), hymns, discourses, community prayer and langar.
Who was Guru Nanak?
Guru Nanak was born in 1469 at Talwandi, now Nankana Sahib in Pakistan. He is remembered as a thoughtful child who questioned empty ritual and social divisions. He travelled widely on journeys known as Udasis, and in his later years settled at Kartarpur, where he farmed and taught. According to Sikh tradition he passed away in 1539. His hymns are part of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of the Sikhs.
Key teachings
- Ik Onkar: there is one God.
- Naam Japna: remember the Divine.
- Kirat Karni: earn an honest living through your own effort.
- Vand Chakna: share what you have with others.
- All human beings are equal, whatever their caste, religion or gender.
Langar: the community kitchen
Langar is a free meal served in the gurdwara to everyone, with all sitting together on the floor in a row (pangat). It reflects the ideas of equality and service, and on Gurpurab it is served on a very large scale by volunteers.
Visiting a gurdwara respectfully
- Cover your head with a scarf or bandana and remove your shoes before entering.
- Avoid bringing tobacco, alcohol or meat into the gurdwara.
- Sit on the floor, show respect to the Guru Granth Sahib, and follow what the volunteers tell you.
- Accept the langar, and consider helping with serving or cleaning.
- Photography rules differ, so ask before taking pictures.
Celebrating abroad
Sikh communities in Canada, the UK, the US, Australia and the Gulf hold Nagar Kirtans and gurdwara events around Gurpurab. Check your local gurdwara’s website or notice board for the schedule.
Frequently asked questions
When is Guru Nanak Jayanti in 2026?
Tuesday, 24 November 2026, on the full moon of Kartik.
Is Guru Nanak Jayanti a public holiday in India?
It is a public holiday in most states. Check your state’s holiday list.
Is it the same as Kartik Purnima?
It falls on Kartik Purnima. Hindus also observe Dev Deepawali the same evening, so the day is festive for many communities.
Is there a Hindi page?
Yes, see our Hindi guide to गुरु नानक जयंती.
Related reading: Diwali, the festival of lights and Chhath Puja explained.
Religious beliefs and customs described here are traditional. Dates and timings are provisional.
