The birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev - the first or the founder guru of the Sikhs, is celebrated with great fervour on the full moon day of Kartika. Guru Purab, also known as Jyototsava is one of the most sacred festivals of the Sikhs.At Nankana Sahib (the birth place of Guru Nanak now in Lahore), there is a beautiful Gurudwara, and a holy tank or 'sarovar.' On Guru Purab, a grand fair and festival is held here, with thronging of Sikhs in thousands from India and abroad.
Guru Granth Sahib, the Holy Scripture, is continuously read and recited in the Gurudwaras as Akhand Path all over the country, lamps are lighted, processions are taken out, free langars, mass feasts are arranged and prasad (holy food) is distributed. Guru Purab celebrations at the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab is impressive.
Also known as 'Guru Nanak Jayanti', it is the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak who founded the Sikh faith. For two days and nights preceding the festival, the 'Granth Sahib' (Holy Book) is read, and on the day of the festival, taken out in a grand procession. Guru Nanak Dev, was born in the month of Kartik (October / November) and his birthday is known as Guru Nanak Jayanti.He was born in 1469 A.D. at Tolevandi, some 30 miles from Lahore.