Babe Da Viah, Batala - 2024 - Dates, History & Practices

Babe Da Viah’ is a significant event in Sikhism, commemorating the wedding anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, and his wife Mata Sulakhni. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the event to know all about 'Babe Da Viah - 2024'

1. Date of Celebration

The event is observed according to the traditional Nanakshahi calendar.
In 2024, the event is scheduled for September 10, 2024
In 2023, the event was scheduled for September 22

2. Historical Significance

Guru Nanak Dev Ji married Mata Sulakhni in 1487.
The marriage took place in Batala, in the Gurdaspur district of Punjab, which is Mata Sulakhni’s hometown1.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji opted for a simple wedding ceremony, contrary to the elaborate one desired by the bride’s father.

3. Celebrations

The tradition of celebrating ‘Babe Da Viah’ began in 1917 when a priest named Kesra Singh organized the ‘Akhand Path’ at Gurdwara Kandh Sahib.
The event is marked by Nagar Kirtan, Langar Sewa (community kitchen), Gatka (Sikh martial art), and Shabad Kirtan (singing of sacred hymns).
Langars are set up everywhere, offering traditional food and sweets to commemorate the occasion.

4. Cultural and Religious Practices

Guru Nanak Dev Ji married by taking four rounds around the sacred fire, which is less than the traditional seven rounds.

A unique aspect of the wedding site is a mud wall that Guru Nanak Dev Ji predicted would stand despite being damaged. This wall still stands today and is part of the Gurdwara Kandh Sahib.

5. Location and Accessibility
The nearest airport to Batala is in Pathankot, which is 73 km away.
The nearest convenient railway station is in Batala, just 2 km away from the celebration site.

Babe Da Viah, Batala - 2024 - Dates, History & Practices

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What are the traditional wedding customs during 'Babe Da Viah'?

The traditional wedding customs during ‘Babe Da Viah’, which is the celebration of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s marriage to Mata Sulakhni, are deeply rooted in Sikh traditions and include several unique practices:

1. Pre-Wedding Rituals

Nagar Kirtan: A religious procession that starts from Gurudwara Ber Sahib in Sultanpur Lodhi and reaches Gurudwara Kandh Sahib by the evening before the wedding anniversary.
Akhand Path: A series of 101 continuous readings of the Guru Granth Sahib, which are started across the town leading up to the event.

2. Wedding Day Rituals

Four Rounds Around the Sacred Fire: Unlike the traditional seven rounds (pheras) in Hindu weddings, Guru Nanak Dev Ji married by taking four rounds around the sacred fire.
Singing of Marriage Songs: Women traditionally sing marriage songs to welcome the marriage party.
Decorations: The entire city is decorated with lights and flowers to celebrate the occasion.
Bhog Ceremony: The conclusion of the Akhand Paths with a special ceremony.

3. Post-Wedding Rituals

Langar: Community kitchens are set up to offer food and sweets to everyone, reflecting the Sikh principle of equality and community service.
Gatka: Displays of Sikh martial arts may be performed as part of the celebrations.

4. Unique Aspects

Mud Wall (Kachi Kandh): Guru Nanak Dev Ji sat beside a damaged mud wall while discussing marriage plans. Despite warnings that it might fall, he predicted it would stand for centuries. This wall is still preserved within the Gurudwara Shri Kandh Sahib.
Gurudwara Dera Sahib: Also known as the house of Mata Sulakhni Ji, this place is referred to as the Viah Asthan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and holds significant importance in the celebrations

Are there any specific dress codes or colors associated with this celebration?

There is no specific dress codes or colors traditionally associated with the celebration of ‘Babe Da Viah’. However, given the significance of the event in Sikhism, attendees often dress in traditional and modest attire to honor the sanctity of the occasion.

Men may wear kurta pajamas or other formal ethnic wear, while women may choose to wear salwar kameez or sarees. It’s common for attendees to choose vibrant colors and rich fabrics, reflecting the joyous and festive nature of the event.

When attending religious ceremonies, especially in a Gurudwara, it is customary for both men and women to cover their heads as a sign of respect. This can be done with a turban for men and a scarf or dupatta for women.

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