🪯 Significant Events and Festivals in the Sikh Calendar
The Sikh calendar, known as the Nanakshahi Calendar, follows solar months and celebrates key moments in Sikh history and the lives of the Gurus.
Key Sikh Festivals and Observances
1. Gurpurabs (Birth Anniversaries of the Sikh Gurus)
The most significant celebrations in Sikhism. These include:
Guru Nanak Gurpurab (November) – Celebrates the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, founder of Sikhism. Marked with prayers, kirtan (hymns), processions, and langar (community meals).
Guru Gobind Singh Gurpurab (December/January) – Birth of the tenth Guru, known for founding the Khalsa.
Guru Arjan Dev Gurpurab (May/June) – Commemorates the fifth Guru, known for compiling the Guru Granth Sahib.
Guru Hargobind and Guru Har Rai Gurpurabs – Celebrated for their contributions to Sikh faith and service.
2. Baisakhi (April)
One of the biggest Sikh festivals. Marks the formation of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699. Also celebrated as a harvest festival in Punjab.
3. Maghi (January)
Honours the forty Sikh martyrs (Chali Mukte) who fought for Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Sikhs attend special prayers at gurdwaras.
4. Hola Mohalla (March)
A vibrant Sikh festival established by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. It features martial arts displays, poetry, and community gatherings.
5. Bandi Chhor Divas (October/November)
Coincides with Diwali. Celebrates Guru Hargobind Ji’s release from imprisonment and the freedom of others. The Golden Temple is lit beautifully with lamps and fireworks.
6. Shaheedi Gurpurabs (Martyrdom Days)
Days of remembrance for the sacrifices of Sikh Gurus and martyrs, such as:
Guru Arjan Dev Ji (June)
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji (November)
The Sahibzade (sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji) (December)
7. Parkash Utsav of Guru Granth Sahib (September)
Marks the day when the Guru Granth Sahib was installed as the eternal Guru of Sikhism.
In the UK and Around the World
Sikh festivals are celebrated widely in the UK, especially in cities like London, Leicester, Birmingham, and Glasgow, where communities come together for processions, fireworks, music, and langar meals. Public Diwali lights in Leicester and Bandi Chhor Divas celebrations in Southall are among the largest outside India.
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