Guru Nanak Jayanti, or Gurupurab, was celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm across the city on November 15, marking the 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji, the founder of Sikhism. The occasion was observed with deep reverence at all nine Gurudwaras in Navi Mumbai, where people from Sindh and Punjab communities gathered to honour the revered Guru.

Guru Nanak Devji was born on the full moon day of Kartik Purnima in 1469 in Nankana Sahib, now in Pakistan. His birth anniversary is celebrated annually as Gurpurab of Guru Prakash Parav, a day dedicated to reflecting on His teachings of equality, peace, and devotion to humanity.

The celebrations began early in the morning with a grand nagar kirtan, a procession led by the five Panj Pyare (the five beloved ones) from Koparkhairane Gurudwara. The procession was followed by enthusiastic devotees, who chanted hymns and carried the Guru Granth Sahib on a beautifully decorated float. The nagar kirtan was a vibrant expression of faith, with devotees walking through the streets, singing hymns and prayers in unison.

Throughout the day, devotees visited their respective Gurudwaras to participate in kirtan, katha (religious discourses), and path (recitation of Guru Granth Sahib). At Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha in CBD Belapur, Iqbal Singh Randhawa, a member of the Gurudwara, shared that a congregation was held from 10 am onwards, with over 2,500 people attending. The devotees were treated to kirtans, katha, and the path of Guru Granth Sahib, filling the atmosphere with spiritual energy and devotion.

In keeping with the spirit of service and community, the Gurudwara also organized a free eye camp and blood tests for the public. Langar, the community meal, was served at all Gurudwaras, where volunteers, including women, prepared food in large quantities to feed the attendees. The act of selfless service is a core tenet of Sikhism, and many devotees took part in cooking and serving the Langar.

The celebrations also included the recitation of Akhand Path (continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib) and the lighting of candles and diyas at various Gurudwaras, symbolizing the light of wisdom and truth. The highlight of the day for many devotees was the act of Ardas (prayers), where they sought blessings for peace, prosperity, and the well-being of all.

For many, the observance of Guru Nanak Jayanti is more than a religious ritual; it is an opportunity to reflect on the teachings of Guru Nanak, which emphasize hard work (Kirat Karo), sharing with others (Vand Chako), and selfless service for the welfare of humanity (Sarbat Da Bhala). One devotee shared, “It’s not just about the rituals. It’s about revisiting the teachings of Guru Nanak and incorporating them into our everyday lives.”