Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanthi is celebrated by the Sīkhs which marks the birth occasion of tenth and last Guru, Guru Gobindh Singh. He was born at Pāṭna Sāhib on December 22, 1666, (Poh Sudi Sapthmi). His birthday generally falls in December or January or sometimes twice within a year as it is calculated according to Hindu Bikrami Calendar, which is based on the lunar calendar. According to the Nānakśhāhi Calendar, the birthday of Guru Gobindh Singh Sahib falls annually on January 5.Gurupūrabs holds great importance in Sīkhism. In history, it can be seen that the Sīkhs had even sacrificed their lives for celebrating Gurupūrabs. Sīkhs gather and remember their Gurus & pay homage to the great Martyrs whatever the occasion may be. The passage of the procession is decorated with the birth-day celebrations & Gurpūrabs of Guru Sāhibs usually last for three days. Before the birth date of the Guru, Akhaṇḍ Pāṭh (continuous reading of Guru Granthh Sāhib) is held in the Gurudhwāra. Large processions (Nagarkīrthan) are conducted the day before the birthday. This is led by the Panj Pyāras (Five beloved ones) and the Pālki (Palanquin) of Śhrī Guru Granthh Sāhib and followed by groups of Kīrthani Jātha, various School bands and students, Gaṭka Parties (displaying mock-battle with the traditional weapons), and devotees singing hymns from Guru Granth Sahib in chorus. The passage of the procession is decorated with flags, flowers, religious posters, decorated gates and banners depicting various aspects of Sīkhism.
On the occasion of birthday, the Dhivān begins early in morning at about 4 or 5 a.m. with the singing of Asa-di-var and hymns from Guru Granthh Sāhib. At times it is also followed by Kathhā (discourse), religious and Sīkh Historical lectures and recitation of poems in praise of the Guru. Kīrthan-Dharbārs and Amruth Sanchār ceremonies are also performed in the Gurudhwāra hall. Kara Prasādh (sweet pudding) is distributed to the devotees which is followed by the community lunch (Lāngar) to all.