On 24th August 2025, Sikhs around the world will celebrate the sacred occasion of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Parkash Purab (First Parkash Utsav). This day marks the historic moment when the Adi Granth, the holy scripture compiled by Guru Arjan Dev Ji, was ceremoniously installed for the first time at Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), Amritsar, in the year 1604 CE. The scripture, later recognized as the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, is revered as the eternal Guru of the Sikh community. This Gurpurab is not just a religious festival but also a reminder of the Sikh values of devotion, equality, humility, and spiritual wisdom.
Historical Background
The origins of this event date back to the early 17th century. Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Sikh Guru, undertook the monumental task of compiling the hymns (Bani) of the Sikh Gurus as well as spiritual compositions from Hindu and Muslim saints. His vision was to create a universal scripture that promoted divine truth, unity, and equality, free from sectarian boundaries. This compilation, called the Adi Granth, was completed in 1604 CE.
On Bhadon Sudi 1, Samvat 1661 (1604), the scripture was placed at Sri Harmandir Sahib, Amritsar, and Baba Buddha Ji, a respected Sikh elder, was appointed as the first Granthi (caretaker and reader of the scripture). This historic installation is remembered as the First Parkash Utsav of Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
Recognition as the Eternal Guru
After the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the Sikh faith continued under Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and subsequent human Gurus. However, in 1708 CE, before leaving for his heavenly abode, the tenth Guru, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, declared that there would be no human Guru after him. Instead, he bestowed Guruship upon the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, making it the eternal, living Guru of the Sikhs. Since then, the scripture has been the supreme spiritual guide, revered with the same devotion as the ten human Gurus.
Spiritual Significance of Guru Granth Sahib Ji
The Guru Granth Sahib Ji is not just a holy book but the embodiment of divine wisdom. It contains 5,894 hymns composed by Sikh Gurus and saints from different backgrounds—Hindu, Muslim, and Bhakti traditions—such as Bhagat Kabir, Bhagat Ravidas, Sheikh Farid, and many others. Written in Gurmukhi script, the scripture emphasizes:
- Oneness of God (Ik Onkar)
- Equality of all human beings regardless of caste, creed, or gender
- Service (Seva) and sharing with others (Vand Chakna)
- Meditation on God’s Name (Naam Simran)
The Parkash Purab reminds devotees that the true Guru is the Word (Shabad), which guides humanity on the path of truth, humility, and spiritual liberation.
Guru Granth Sahib Ji – The Eternal Truth Revealed
The Parkash Purab of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is not only the commemoration of a historic installation but also the revelation of eternal truth to humanity. Gurbani declares, “Sachhu orai sabh ko, upar sach aachaar” — Truth is higher than everything, but higher still is truthful living. This profound teaching captures the very essence of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The scripture is a living embodiment of divine truth (Sach), guiding humankind beyond ritualism into a life of integrity, compassion, and righteousness. The first Parkash in 1604 at Sri Harmandir Sahib symbolized the unveiling of this eternal light, a moment when truth itself was enthroned as Guru. Today, as Sikhs across the world bow before Guru Granth Sahib Ji on Parkash Purab, they are reminded that true devotion lies not merely in reading or reciting the Word but in practicing it—living a life of truth, humility, equality, and service.
Celebrations in 2025
In 2025, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Parkash Purab will be celebrated on Sunday, 24th August, with great devotion across the world. Gurdwaras will host Akhand Path Sahib, a continuous 48-hour recitation of the scripture. Devotees will gather for Kirtan Darbars (hymn singing), where ragis (singers) perform shabads from Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
Nagar Kirtans (religious processions), led by the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones), will be carried out in many cities, accompanied by the singing of Gurbani, displays of Gatka (Sikh martial arts), and the distribution of prasad (sacred food).
The tradition of Langar (community kitchen) will also be a central feature, where free meals are served to all, irrespective of religion, caste, or background—upholding Sikh principles of equality and service. Prominent Gurdwaras like Sri Harmandir Sahib (Amritsar), Takht Sri Patna Sahib, Takht Sri Hazur Sahib, and those abroad in the UK, Canada, and the US, will witness massive gatherings.
Global Relevance
While the Parkash Purab is primarily a Sikh festival, its message is universal. The Guru Granth Sahib Ji contains hymns that transcend boundaries of religion and culture, emphasizing unity, compassion, and peace. In a world often divided by differences, this celebration is a reminder that divine truth is one and humanity is interconnected.
The Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Parkash Purab 2025 is more than a commemoration of a historic event; it is a celebration of the eternal light of wisdom that continues to guide humanity. By bowing before the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Sikhs reaffirm their commitment to living by its teachings—truth, humility, equality, and devotion to the Divine. On 24th August 2025, millions of Sikhs and admirers worldwide will unite in prayer, service, and joy, honoring the timeless message of the eternal Guru.
