The birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Ji, the first Sikh Guru, is celebrated by Sikhs all over the world on the Full Moon Day in the month of Karthik every year. This year, Guru Nanak Jayanti falls on November 30th —and we bring you sparkling ideas to deck up your home, just in time for the festivities!
How is Guru Nanak Jayanti Celebrated?
Guru Nanak Ji, the spiritual leader and founder of Sikhism, is said to have written 974 hymns that make up the first part of Guru Granth Sahib, the Holy Book of the Sikhs. While his successors have added many more chapters and Shabads down the ages, the essence of the teaching is what was laid down by Guru Nanak in the 15th century. The foundation of Sikhism lies in the virtues of selflessness, compassion, and kindness, service to humanity, sharing with the less privileged, and social justice for all. These values are upheld and fiercely protected by every Sikh even today.
Two days before the Guru’s birthday, there is a continuous reading (called Akhand Path) of the hymns of the Guru Granth Sahib in all gurudwaras. A ceremonial procession called the Nagakirtan is held on the day before the birthday and is led by five leaders called the Panj Pyaras. They sing hymns, carry the sacred palanquin and flag, and spread the message of Guru Nanak on the streets of the city.
The morning of Guru Nanak Jayanti starts bright and early, with early morning hymns, and the exposition of the scriptures and religious stories by elders in the community. The free communal lunch, called Langar, is the highlight of the day and brings to fore the concept of social quality and sharing which is the underlying philosophy of the Sikh religion. The festivities often go on late into the night, prayers and songs and dances, and everyone joins in the fun and camaraderie.
Significance of Lights
On this special day, the Golden Temple glows with the light of thousands of earthen lamps and tiny candles, and the glittering reflection of the temple falls on the waters of the surrounding sacred pond. These decorations are undertaken as part of the divine seva by the throngs of devotees and the shimmering temple is, indeed a sight to behold.
Lighting Décor Tips for Guru Nanak Jayanti
The Gurpurab tradition of decorative lighting is followed in the homes of families celebrating this religious day. Your home can glitter, too, with living spaces embellished with bright colours and lights! Here are some ideas put together by our top designers at HomeLane.
- A string of twinkling fairy lights can turn your garden into an enchanting fairyland! Wrap them around the trees and plants in front of your home to nail the festive vibe.
- Next, you can take the string light theme indoors as well. This homeowner has used Edison bulbs on the living room wall to create magic with lights. You can string up some lights across the room, or wrap them around potted plants.
- Turn a forgotten corner into a pretty vignette with coloured glass votives and scented candles. The filigree work on the burnished lanterns creates arresting patterns of shadows on the wall. Pair them with vibrant flower arrangements to tie in the festive feel.
- When there are festivities, floral decorations can’t be forgotten! From floral patterns on the ground to festoons of flowers hung in decorative swathes, flowers hold centre stage for any celebrations at home. Recycled paper flowers or upcycled garlands made of bits of cloth can add a unique spin to the traditional toran.
- A simple and charming way to light up your home is by placing tea light candles in perforated terracotta pots. Terracotta lends an ethnic touch, and the interplay of light through the holes in the pot makes for a delightful picture.
- A silver platter with floating tealight candles and rose petals never fail to make the right first impression on guests! Use a lovely, ornate floral candle as the centrepiece for the arrangement.
- All along the walkway leading to your home, you can hang up a collection of coloured glass lanterns and pendant lights at various heights. Add some paper lamps and light fittings made of sustainable materials for an elegant aesthetic.
- Old bottles come in handy for this lighting effect. Soft rice lights can be bunched up in clear glass bottles or used mason jars; place them on a table or string them up for a lovely warm glow. Use LED lights so that the power bills don’t burn a hole right through your pocket!
- Who wouldn’t be mesmerized by the gorgeous stained glass globe, patterned with pretty coloured flowers in jewel hues! Make this lamp the focus of your party room and let the festivities begin.
- No Indian festival is ever complete with a sumptuous feast. Set the table with traditional silverware or copper tableware, or pick an exquisite porcelain dinner set to show off the sweets and delicacies that you will be serving to family and friends. And don’t forget to enhance the dining experience with mood lighting, created using the warm glow of candles!
Decorating your home for the festive season can set the mood for joyful celebrations. You don’t need to have a big budget for this, all you need is some innovative ideas! We hope our suggestions have got your creative juices flowing. Do share some pictures of your festive home décor with us, and share your thoughts in the comments below!
The HomeLane team wishes you and your loved ones a Very Happy Gurpurab!
