Birth of Guru Nanak - This Day in History | Testbook.com

April 15, 1469

The day Guru Nanak was born

What happened on this day?

Guru Nanak

The founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak, was born on this day in the year 1469 in Rai Bhoi Ki Talvandi (now known as Nankana Sahib, Punjab, Pakistan).

A Glimpse into the Life of Guru Nanak

Born to Mehta Kalu and Mata Tripta in Nankana Sahib near Lahore in 1469, Guru Nanak was raised in a Hindu family. His father was an accountant for crop revenue in the village.
His life took a significant turn in 1475 when he moved to Sultanpur with his older sister after her marriage.
From a young age, Guru Nanak showed signs of his divine calling, as told by Sikh traditions.
Unlike prophets or incarnations, Guru Nanak is revered as an enlightened soul in Sikhism.
He was an avid reader and showed interest in the scriptures of all faiths.
His teachings are preserved in the holy book of Sikhism, the Guru Granth Sahib.
Guru Nanak emphasized faith in the divine, unity of mankind, selfless service, social justice, honesty, and ethical livelihood.
He contributed 974 hymns to the Guru Granth Sahib, which Sikhs revere as the 11th Guru.
His teachings also emphasized Bhakti (devotion to God) and the integration of spiritual and domestic life.
Guru Nanak urged his followers to live a truthful, disciplined, and pure life.
His teachings can be summarized as follows:
- Vand Chakko – Share with others
- Kirat Karo – Earn an honest living
- Naam Japna – Meditate on the name of God
Guru Nanak traveled extensively, visiting places like Mecca, Multan, Baghdad, and even Tibet. His life stories are preserved in the Janamsakhis.
He appointed Bhai Lehna (later renamed Guru Angad) as his successor before his death on September 22nd, 1539. After Guru Angad, there were eight more Gurus, with Guru Gobind Singh being the tenth.
Guru Nanak is one of the most influential religious figures in Indian history, alongside Buddha and Mahavira. Today, Sikhism is followed by about 25 million people globally, making it one of the newest and ninth-largest major religions in the world.

Discover more about Guru Nanak and Sikhism here.

Explore previous 'This Day in History' entries here .

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Frequently Asked Questions

When was Guru Nanak born?

Guru Nanak was born on 15 April 1469.

What are the key teachings of Guru Nanak?

Guru Nanak's teachings include having faith and meditating on the one god, unity of mankind, selfless service, social justice, honest conduct and scrupulous livelihood.