Guru Nanak Gurpurab 2026

Guru Nanak Gurpurab, also known as Guru Nanak Jayanti, will be observed on Tuesday, November 24, 2026. The festival commemorates the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, and is one of the major celebrations in the Sikh tradition. Activities take place primarily at gurdwaras and within Sikh communities across India and include prayers, readings from the Guru Granth Sahib, kirtan, processions known as Nagar Kirtan and community meals known as langar. Although the celebration shares a common date, specific schedules and activities can vary between individual gurdwaras and locations.

Date and meaning

Incredible India confirms November 24, 2026 as the date of Guru Nanak Jayanti. The celebration honors the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and reflects on his teachings about equality, compassion, service and spiritual life. The day brings Sikh communities and visitors together for religious and community activities.

Gurdwara celebrations

Gurdwaras are the main places for the celebration. Prayers, readings from the Guru Granth Sahib and kirtan sessions take place throughout the observance. Some celebrations begin in the early hours of the day and continue into the evening, although exact schedules depend on each gurdwara and community.

Nagar Kirtan and community

Many communities organize public processions known as Nagar Kirtan. These may travel through streets around gurdwaras and bring families and community members together in an open celebration. Processions commonly feature devotional singing, music and traditional Sikh symbols.

Langar and service

Langar, the free community meal, is one of the most recognizable elements of the celebration. Gurdwaras serve food to attendees as an expression of service, equality and fellowship. Preparing and distributing these meals also gives many community members an opportunity to participate through voluntary service.