An independent guide to the Nanakshahi calendar, Gurpurab and Sikh heritage
Topic
The life, journeys and teachings of the first Sikh Guru.
3 articles
Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469–1539) is revered by Sikhs as the first of the ten Gurus and the founder of the Sikh tradition. Born in Rai Bhoi di Talwandi, today's Nankana Sahib in Pakistan, he travelled widely, composed hymns that are preserved in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, and in his later years settled at Kartarpur on the banks of the Ravi.
Our articles set out what is known from the Guru's own compositions, what comes from the later janamsakhi traditions, and where historians and traditions differ. We do not attribute words to the Guru unless they are established, and we point readers towards reliable ways of reading Gurbani for themselves.
Why is Guru Nanak Dev Ji's birth celebrated in Katak when some early sources point to Vaisakh? This guide looks at the date question, the places at the heart of the Gurpurab, and how the day unfolds in a gurdwara.
By NanakShahi Editorial Team6 min read
From other sections
Guru Nanak Jayanti marks the birth of the first Sikh Guru. Learn why it falls on the full moon of Katak, what happens during Akhand Path and Nagar Kirtan, and how anyone can take part respectfully.
7 min read
Keep exploring