Parkash Gurpurab of Sri Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji

The Parkash Gurpurab of Sri Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji, the seventh Nanak and seventh Guru of the Sikhs, is celebrated with immense reverence, love, and enthusiasm throughout the Sikh world. This sacred occasion commemorates the divine birth of Guru Sahib, who was born to Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and Mata Nanaki Ji at Kiratpur Sahib, a town near Sri Anandpur Sahib in present-day Punjab. The exact date of his birth is traditionally observed on the 13th day of the bright half of the month of Magh (January–February), though some sources place it in Harh (June–July); the Sikh community widely observes the Magh date. Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji was born into the house of Guru Nanak, and his arrival brought great joy to the Sikh Sangat.

From a young age, Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji exhibited profound spiritual qualities, compassion, and a deep love for all creation. He was raised under the loving care of his grandfather, Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, who personally oversaw his education in Gurbani, martial arts, and statecraft. Guru Sahib was known for his gentle nature and his commitment to the Sikh principles of Naam Japna, Kirat Karni, and Vand Chhakna. He established a herbal garden and dispensary at Kiratpur Sahib, where he prepared and freely distributed medicines to the sick and needy, reflecting the Sikh ideal of selfless service (Seva).

Upon the passing of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji in 1644, Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji assumed the Guruship and continued to guide the Sikh community with wisdom and compassion. He maintained a standing army of 2,200 horsemen, not for aggression but to protect the weak and uphold righteousness. Guru Sahib also established a new preaching center and sent Sikh missionaries to spread the message of Guru Nanak across the subcontinent. His tenure was marked by peace, spiritual upliftment, and charitable works.

The Parkash Gurpurab is celebrated with great devotion at Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, and gurdwaras worldwide. The day begins with an Akhand Path (continuous reading of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji) or Sahaj Path, followed by Asa Di Var Kirtan at dawn. Sikhs gather to listen to katha (discourses) on the life and teachings of Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji, and ragis perform soul-stirring kirtan. In the afternoon, a special Diwan is held where scholars and raagis recount the Guru's life, emphasizing his compassion, humility, and dedication to service. Ardas (prayer) is offered for the well-being of all humanity, and Karah Parshad is distributed. Many Sikhs also organize langar (community kitchen) and undertake acts of charity in honor of Guru Sahib's legacy of selfless service.

The celebration of this Gurpurab serves as a reminder to Sikhs to embody the virtues of kindness, humility, and devotion that Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji exemplified. It is a time for the community to renew its commitment to the teachings of the Gurus and to strive for spiritual and social upliftment. The occasion strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and reinforces the core Sikh values of equality, service, and remembrance of the Divine Name.