From November 1 to November 5, 2025, the Sikh community in Telangana will enthusiastically commemorate the 556th Guru Nanak Jayanti, the founder of Sikhism and an apostle of peace.
The events, which are co-organized by the Prabhandak committees of Gurudwara Saheb in Secunderabad and Gurudwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha in Afzalgunj, are meant to disseminate messages of devotion and harmony.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the Sikh faith, was born in 1469 CE, and this year marks his 556th birthday. His teachings on equality, service, and devotion are still relevant today.
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Guru Nanak Jayanti Significance: Why It Matters
Three tenets of Guru Nanak’s teachings hold true today just as they did centuries ago:
1. Nam Japo: contemplate or recall the divine name.
2. Kirat Karo: make a decent living by working hard.
3. Vand Chhakko: assist others, share your resources, and work for the common good.
The anniversary is a living reminder of these principles—unity beyond religion, social justice, humility, and selfless service—rather than merely a ceremonial celebration.
The 5-Day Event Schedule (Nov 1-5, 2025)
Here’s a breakdown of the five-day celebrations of Guru Nanak Jayanti in Hyderabad as reported:
| Date | Key Activities |
| Nov 1 | At 4:00 pm, a nagar keertan (holy procession) begins from the Gurudwara Saheb, Secunderabad. The route passes Clock Tower, Patny Circle, Monda Market, and Alpha Hotel. |
| Nov 3 | A procession from the Gurudwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Afzalgunj (4:00 pm) via Siddiambar Bazar, Jambagh, and Gowliguda. |
| Nov 4 | Evening programs: ‘Keertan Darbar’ at Secunderabad from 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm; Afzalgunj location from 9:00 pm until past midnight. |
| Nov 5 | The main ‘Prakash Utsav’ event (the birth anniversary itself) is at the Nampally Exhibition Grounds from ~10:30 am to ~4:30 pm. Over 25,000 devotees are expected. Processions, hymns, langar, and more. |
Gurdwaras were decorated, kirtan (hymns) was sung, langar (communal meals) was prepared, and community service was practiced. (Overarching pattern)
This multi-day format promotes community involvement, fosters a spiritual atmosphere, and provides time for celebration, service, and devotion.
What Happens: Rituals & Highlights
- The Holy Procession, or Nagar Keertan: vibrant street processions, where the sacred text of Sikhism is carried, along with flags, musical hymns, and martial arts demonstrations (gatka) in numerous locations. The processions on November 1 and November 3 represent significant turning points in Hyderabad.
- Keertan Darbar (Hymn Sessions): Kirtan (spiritual singing), talks about the life and teachings of Guru Nanak, and group introspection are all part of the evening sessions. These create a sense of inner space and anticipation for the big day.
- Prakash Utsav: The Principal Event The actual anniversary is celebrated on November 5 at Hyderabad’s Nampally Exhibition Grounds with a sizable crowd. Remembrance of Guru Nanak’s teachings, communal meals, and music.
- Langar: Complimentary Community Lunch One of the most lovely aspects is that everyone is welcome to sit and eat the same food in equality, regardless of background. the spirit of unity, humility, and service.
- Nightly and Early Morning Devotions: Many gurdwaras hold devotional sessions that last all night, continuous scripture readings (Akhand Path), and early pre-dawn hymns (Prabhat Pheri).
Why is Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrated for five days?
Many Gurpurab celebrations usually last two to three days of Guru Nanak Jayanti. For the 556th anniversary in Hyderabad, the community has expanded it to five days—this allows:
- More participants without overcrowding on any one day
- More elaborate programming (evening sessions, processions, large gatherings)
- More extensive service projects and community involvement
- A suitable build-up that ends on the main day
The desire to honor Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s legacy in more inclusive ways and the expanding scope of observance are both reflected in it.
Conclusion
The five-day festivities honoring Guru Nanak’s 556th birthday are more than just a custom; they are a lively demonstration of empathy, equality, community, and mindful living. You can connect with a legacy that encourages humanity to be kinder, fairer, and more inclusive whether you take part in a procession, share a langar meal, assist others, or consider your own journey.
