Gurpurab
Pronunciation: grr – purr – rub
Guru Nanak Sahib (the First Nanak, the founder of Sikhism) was born on 15th April, 1469 at Rai-Bhoi-di Talwandi now it is in Pakistan and the present district is Shekhupura. The Birthday of Guru Nanak Sahib falls on Kartik Puranmashi on this day the Birthday is celebrated every year. The Shrine (Gurdwara) repsesenting the home of Baba Kalu (Father) and Mata Tripta (Mother) is called Gurdwara Janam Asthan, situated at Rai-Bhoi-di-Talwandi in the present district of Shekhupura. Sikhs from all over the world gather here and celebrate the Gurupurab every year with great devotion and enthusiasm.
Gurpurab is a celebration; its commemoration is based on the lives of one of the Sikh gurus. In history, the Sikhs have to sacrifice even their lives in order to celebrate the Gurpurbs. Gurpurb is celebrated with great fervor & enthusiasm by the Sikhs throughout the world. The birth-day celebrations & Gurpurbs of Guru Sahibs usually last for three days. In General, before the birthday-date Akhand Path is held in the Gurdwara. A large procession is organised one day before the birthday. This is led by the Five beloved ones (Panj Piyaras) and the Palanquin (Palki) of Shri Guru Granth Sahib and followed by groups of kirtani Jatha, Various School bands and students, emenent Citizans, Gatka Parties (displaying mock-battle with the traditional weapons), and devotees singing hymns from Guru Granth Sahib in chorus.
In that occasion, the passage of the nagarkirtan is decorated with flags, flowers, religious posters decorated gates and banners depicting various aspects of Sikhism. Earlier about 4 or 5 am the Divan begins early in morning. with the singing of Asa-di-var and hymns from Guru Granth Sahib. Sometimes it is followed by discourse (katha), religious and Sikh Historical lectures and recitation of poems in praise of the Guru. Kirtan-Darbars and Amrit Sanchar ceremonies are also held in the Gurdwara hall. After Ardas and distribution of Karah Parshad (sweet pudding) the Langar (food) is served to one and all and there is kirtan till late in the night, the distribution of langar continues to the end of the programme.
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