Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Jyoti Jyota Samai Tithi

Jyoti Jyota Samai (literally 'when the light merged into the light') commemorates the physical departure of Guru Nanak Dev Ji from this world in 1539 at Kartarpur (now in Pakistan). In Sikh tradition, the passing of a Guru is not a day of mourning but a celebration — it is understood that the Guru's light has merged with the divine light, continuing to shine eternally upon the world.

According to Sikh tradition, when Guru Nanak Dev Ji left his physical body, Hindus and Muslims both claimed the right to perform his last rites. Guru Nanak instructed them to place flowers — marigolds on one side and jasmine on the other — and that the religion of the side whose flowers remained fresh the next morning would have the honour. When they checked the next morning, no flowers remained — both had faded — and in their place lay the Guru Granth Sahib, signifying that Guru Nanak's spiritual legacy transcended all religious boundaries.

The Jyoti Jyota Samai is observed with deep reverence and devotion. Gurdwaras hold special prayers, kirtan, and readings from the Guru Granth Sahib. Devotees reflect on Guru Nanak's eternal teachings and the continuity of the Guruship through the succession of ten Gurus. The day is a reminder that while the physical form may depart, the spiritual light of a true Guru never extinguishes — it continues to guide and inspire for all time.