Guru Nanak Gurpurab, also famous as Guru Nanak Birthday, is the birthday of the foremost Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak and one of the most sanctified festivals in Sikhism.

Other than the Sikhs, the Nanakpanthi Hindus and other devotees of Guru Nanak's beliefs also commemorate this festival.

The festival is commonly allied for all Gurpurabs, only the hymns are diverse.

The birthday celebration typically lasts three days. Normally two days before the birthday, The reading of the Guru Granth which is the holy book of Sikhs is held at the Gurdwaras .

The day preceding the birthday, a demonstration is organised  led by the Panj Pyaras (Five Beloved Ones) where they carry the Sikh flag called the Nishan Sahib and the Palki of Guru Granth Sahib.

They head the procession carrying the Sikh flag, known as the Nishan Sahib and the Palki of  Sri Guru Granth Sahib, followed by teams of singers reciting hymns, brass bands playing special tunes, 'Gatka' teams  present their swordsmanship, and devotees resonate the chorus.

The parade runs into the streets of the town which are roofed with confetti and decorated gates for this extraordinary event. - Photos by Humayun Memon | 18 % grey