Guru Nanak Jayanti, universally known as Gurpurab, is the profoundly sacred celebration of the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the illustrious founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. Celebrated energetically on the luminous full moon day of the Kartik month, this day illuminates Gurdwaras across the globe. In Kolkata, the historic Gurdwaras in Bhowanipore and MG Road resonate with continuous prayer, immense Langar feasts, and a powerful spirit of selfless community service.

History: Born in 1469 in Talwandi (modern-day Nankana Sahib, Pakistan), Guru Nanak revolutionized the socio-religious landscape of the subcontinent. He actively traveled thousands of miles across Asia, aggressively opposing caste discrimination, empty rituals, and idol worship, preaching a beautifully simple message: 'Ek Onkar' (There is but One God). His unparalleled legacy of honest labor and sharing with the needy remains the rock-solid foundation of the Sikh faith.

Significance: The festival is a brilliant reminder to practice universal brotherhood, truthfulness, and absolute equality. The concept of 'Langar' (a free community kitchen) demonstrates his teachings that all humans, regardless of their social standing or religion, should sit on the floor and eat together.