Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is being celerbated on January 17 this year to commemorate the 357th birth anniversary of the 10th Sikh Guru. The day is spent with joy and fervour where people visit different Gurdwaras and hold grand processions known as 'Nagar Kirtans' accompanied by the harmonious rendition of devotional songs. In addition, Sikh families participate in acts of donation and carry out distribution of food to the needy.
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti: History
Born in Patna, Guru Gobind Singh was the son of ninth sikh leader- Guru Teg Bahadur Singh, who was beheaded for resisting conversion to Islam. As a result, Guru Gobind Singh became the leader of the Sikhs at the age of nine. Tragically, he met his demise at the age of 41 in the year 1708. Guru Gobind Singh was a brilliant poet and writer. Before his death, he declared the Guru Granth Sahib to be the permanent Sikh Guru.
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti: Significance
Guru Gobind Singh played a pivotal role in establishing the Khalsa Panth which adhered diligently to spiritual discipline, guided and supervised by Guru Gobind Singh himself. His legacy includes the introduction of the five K's, symbolic of Sikh identity, which encompass Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha (a wooden comb), Kara (an iron or steel bracelet worn on the wrist), Kirpan (a sword), and Kacchera (short breeches). The wisdom and counsel imparted by Guru Gobind Singh have served as a profound source of inspiration, leaving a lasting impact on individuals worldwide.
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti: Quotes
- "Recognize the entire human race as one."
- "He who has no faith in himself can never have faith in God."
- "Let the love of the Lord ever be radiant in your mind."
- "In ego, there is no peace; in humility, there is no conflict."
- "He alone is a man who keeps his word: Not that he has one thing in the heart and another on the tongue."