Advocate Kishan Sanmukhdas Bhawnani
From October 23 to November 5, 2025, the world will immerse itself in the sacred Kartik Prabhat Pheri, a fifteen-day spiritual journey culminating in Guru Nanak Jayanti. More than a religious observance, this festival is a global celebration of soulful awakening, illuminating society with the eternal light of unity, service, equality, and love. As Advocate Kishan Sanmukhdas Bhawnani from Gondia, Maharashtra, notes, it is a vibrant tradition that guides humanity on a path of truth.
The Prabhat Pheri begins in the profound silence of dawn, around 3:30 AM. Devotees gather at gurdwaras, bow before the Guru Granth Sahib, and embark on a procession through towns and villages. The air resonates with the chants of “Dhan Guru Nanak, Sara Jag Tareeya” and “Jo Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal.” Streets come alive as households light lamps and welcome the procession with flowers. This journey concludes with a shared Prasad Seva at the gurdwara, where people of all faiths sit together, embodying the Guru’s message that true devotion lies in service and community.
This tradition has transcended its origins in Punjab to become a global phenomenon. From the Southall Gurdwara in London to communities in Vancouver, Singapore, Dubai, and Nairobi, Prabhat Pheris are now held in over 150 countries. They have evolved into a powerful medium for global cultural and interfaith dialogue, attracting not only the Indian diaspora but also local citizens, united by the universal message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
The historical roots of the Prabhat Pheri lie in the 15th century, when Guru Nanak would sing devotional songs with his disciples at dawn. This practice was established to combat the social darkness of casteism, superstition, and discrimination. Today, it continues to revive his core principles, asserting that a person is defined by their actions and integrity, not their birth.
In a modern adaptation, many gurdwaras are championing the “Green Prabhat Pheri.” Inspired by Guru Nanak’s teaching, “Pavan Guru, Pani Pita, Mata Dharti Mahat” (Air is the Guru, Water the Father, and Earth the great Mother), initiatives like tree planting, plastic-free events, and bicycle Pheris are being organized. This harmonizes environmental consciousness with deep devotion, making the festival a beacon for sustainable living.
For the youth, the Prabhat Pheri offers a crucial perspective in an age of materialism. It teaches that success is not merely wealth, but self-satisfaction and a spirit of service. Through study weeks and participation, the younger generation learns the timeless values of “Naam Japo, Kirat Karo, Vand Chhako”—remember God, work honestly, and share with all.
The festival reaches its zenith on November 5, 2025, Kartik Purnima, celebrated as Guru Nanak Jayanti. The atmosphere becomes electric with devotion through Akhand Path, Nagar Kirtan, and Langar Seva. From the Golden Temple in Amritsar to gurdwaras worldwide, millions will unite in chanting “Wahe Guru,” creating a spectacle of humanity’s oneness.
In essence, the Kartik Prabhat Pheri of 2025 is not just a procession on roads, but a journey within the soul. It is a world journey of humanity, spirituality, and unity, dispelling inner darkness just as the dawn dispels the night. It reaffirms Guru Nanak’s eternal truth: “There is only one light in all; the light of God is the same in all.”
