by Krissa Stewart, Library Intern, Summer 2017
Guru Nanak Jayanti is one of the most sacred festivals in Sikhism, celebrating the birth of the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak. Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated with a parade where Sikhs sing, dance, and perform martial arts the day before Guru Nanak Jayanti. On the day itself, Sikhs sing devotional hymns, participate in early morning prayers, the reading of scripture, and community lunch, made and served by volunteers. The day continues with hymns and prayers, a final prayer lasting until 1:20am. The celebration continues with songs of praise until it finally comes to the end at 2am.
