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In 1699, Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa Panth on Baisakhi, which is one of the most important events in Sikh history.
Guru Gobind Singh was not just a spiritual leader, but also a warrior, poet and philosopher. (Image: Shutterstock)
Guru Gobind Singh Birth Anniversary 2024: Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti is an important festival celebrated annually, especially in Punjab, to honour the birth of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth and final Sikh Guru. Born as Gobind Rai, he became the leader when he was just 9 after the death of his father, Guru Tegh Bahadur.
Despite his young age, Guru Gobind Singh had great leadership qualities and helped his community during challenging times. On this special day, people come together to celebrate his life, teachings and contributions. Check out the history, significance and celebrations of Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti, along with some of his quotes and key facts about his life.
Why is Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti celebrated twice a year?
Guru Gobind Singh Ji was born on December 22, 1666, in Patna, Bihar. His birthday typically falls in December or January, and sometimes twice a year, as it is calculated according to the Hindu Bikrami calendar, which follows the lunar cycle. This year, earlier it was celebrated on January 17.
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti: History
Guru Gobind Singh’s father, Guru Tegh Bahadur, was the ninth guru, who was executed by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb for refusing to convert to Islam.
When he was just 9-years-old, Guru Gobind Singh was declared as the tenth Guru of the Sikhs on Baisakhi, just a month after the ninth guru’s demise.
He led the Sikh community through tough times and is remembered for his bravery. He passed away at the age of 41 in 1708, after being stabbed by Afghani assassins. Before his death, he declared the Guru Granth Sahib as the forever Guru of Sikhs.
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti Significance
Other than being a poet, philosopher and brave leader, Guru Gobind Singh also played a key role in founding the Khalsa Panth.
One of his major contributions was introducing the five K’s, which are symbols of Sikh identity.
These include Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha (a wooden comb), Kara (a steel bracelet worn on the wrist), Kirpan (a sword) and Kacchera (short breeches).
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti 2024 Celebrations
On the special occasion of Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti, Sikhs around the globe decorate Gurdwaras with flowers and lights. Special prayers are recited to remember the Guru.
One of the highlights of the celebration is the Nagar Kirtan, a procession where people walk together while singing devotional songs. The community also takes part in service activities, helping those in need.
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti Wishes To Share
- On this auspicious occasion, I wish that all the principles of Khalsa introduced by Guru Gobind Singh Ji – fearlessness, compassion, and honesty become your guiding force in life.
- Happy Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti! The day is a reminder to always stand up for justice.
- Happy Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti! May Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s teachings inspire you to overcome all the challenges in your life.
- I wish that this day brings happiness, good health, and spiritual growth in your life. Happy Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti!
- This Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti, I hope you get the inspiration to lead a life of courage and selfless service.
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti Quotes
- “Recognise the Light within all, and do not consider social class or status; there are no strangers in the home of God.” – Guru Govind Singh
- “If you are strong, torture not the weak, And thus lay not the axe to thy empire.” – Guru Govind Singh
- “Shed not recklessly the blood of another with thy sword, Lest the Sword on High fall upon thy neck.” – Guru Govind Singh
- “Be a true king, and in your heart, let the Divine Light shine; by doing so, you will become a true king of kings.” – Guru Govind Singh
- “I am neither a child, a young man, nor an ancient; nor am I of any caste.” – Guru Nanak
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti: Key Facts
- Guru Gobind Singh became the leader of the Sikh community at the age of nine, after his father Guru Tegh Bahadur was executed by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1675.
- In 1699, Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa Panth on Baisakhi, which is one of the most important events in Sikh history. The Khalsa, meaning, the pure, is a community of dedicated individuals devoted to God and humanity.
- As a child, Guru Gobind Singh learned several languages, including Sanskrit, Urdu, Hindi, Braj, Gurmukhi and Persian.
- Guru Gobind Singh was not just a spiritual leader, but also a warrior, poet and philosopher. His works include Jaap Sahib, Tav-Prasad Savaiye and Benti Chaupai.
- Guru Gobind Singh is said to have fought as many as 21 battles against the Mughal Empire.
- Location :
Amritsar, India
