Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, is one of the most significant festivals celebrated by Sikhs around the world. It commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru of Sikhism, who was born on January 5, 1666, according to the Gregorian calendar.
**History:**
- Guru Gobind Singh Ji was born in Patna, Bihar, to Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Guru of Sikhism, and Mata Gujri.
- He succeeded his father as the tenth Sikh Guru at the age of nine after Guru Tegh Bahadur was executed by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb for defending the rights of Hindus to practice their religion freely.
**Facts:**
- Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a spiritual leader, philosopher, warrior, and poet who played a significant role in shaping Sikhism and Sikh identity.
- He established the Khalsa, a community of initiated Sikhs who follow a code of conduct and uphold the principles of equality, courage, and service.
**Celebrations:**
- Gurpurab celebrations typically include early morning processions (Nagar Kirtan) with devotees singing hymns and carrying the Sikh flag (Nishan Sahib).
- Gurdwaras (Sikh temples) are decorated with lights and flowers, and special prayers (Akhand Path) are held, followed by community meals (langar) that are open to all, regardless of caste, creed, or religion.
- Sikhs also participate in kirtan (devotional singing), Katha (scriptural discourse), and Ardas (prayer) to honor Guru Gobind Singh Ji's teachings and legacy.
**Significance:**
- Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti holds immense significance for Sikhs as it celebrates the life, teachings, and contributions of Guru Gobind Singh Ji to Sikhism and humanity.
- It inspires Sikhs to uphold the values of courage, righteousness, and selflessness in their lives and to work towards the betterment of society.
- The festival promotes unity, brotherhood, and the spirit of service, emphasizing the importance of living according to Guru Gobind Singh Ji's teachings of love, compassion, and equality.
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is a time for Sikhs to reflect on the teachings and sacrifices of their Guru and to reaffirm their commitment to living a life of righteousness and service. It is a celebration of faith, courage, and the enduring spirit of Sikhism.
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