Celebrating Guru Nanak Jayanti: A National Holiday on November 5, 2025

Guru Nanak Jayanti, a significant religious observance, will be celebrated on November 5, 2025, across India. Various states, including Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi, have declared public holidays for schools and government offices. While some regions will close for the occasion, others like Maharashtra and Karnataka will maintain regular school schedules. The day is marked by special events at gurdwaras, including kirtans and community meals, inviting participation from all faiths. Discover the traditions and importance of this auspicious day in the full article.

By Ambika Singh Nov 4, 2025, 22:48 IST

Guru Nanak Jayanti Observance

New Delhi: The nation will celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti on November 5, 2025, with great reverence and devotion. In honor of this sacred occasion, several states have declared a public holiday for schools and government offices.

However, some states will keep schools open as usual. As in previous years, special events, kirtans, and langars will be organized at gurdwaras, welcoming participation from individuals of all faiths.

Schools Closed in Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi

Public holidays have been announced for November 5 in Punjab, Haryana, and the Union Territory of Chandigarh. These regions celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti with immense respect and grandeur. In Punjab, regarded as the birthplace of Sikhism, all educational institutions and government offices will remain closed. Similarly, schools and colleges in Haryana and Delhi will also observe a holiday.

Holidays Declared in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh

The governments of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh have also declared a holiday for schools on November 5. These hilly states have a significant Sikh population, and the celebration of Guru Nanak Jayanti is marked with enthusiasm. Expect to see religious processions, decorated gurdwaras, and the tradition of community langar in these areas.

Schools Open in Other States

In contrast, states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and West Bengal will not close schools for Guru Nanak Jayanti. Nevertheless, many private institutions may hold special prayer sessions or cultural programs to educate students about the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

Local Administration Decides in Uttar Pradesh

The Uttar Pradesh government has left the decision regarding school closures for Guru Nanak Jayanti to local district administrations. In districts with a higher Sikh population, such as Lucknow, Kanpur, and Saharanpur, schools are likely to be closed, while other areas will continue with regular operations.

Significance and Traditions of Guru Nanak Jayanti

Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as 'Gurpurab', is celebrated on the day of Kartik Purnima. Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 in Nankana Sahib (now in Pakistan). His teachings emphasize equality, compassion, and faith in one God. On this day, devotees participate in morning processions, hold continuous readings at gurdwaras, and organize grand langars, inviting people from all religions and backgrounds to join.