Guru Nanak Dev Ji – Founder of Sikhism
The Beginning of a Spiritual Path Based on Truth and Equality
Learn more about Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Udasis (spiritual journeys) and explore an interactive map of the routes he travelled across different regions by visiting
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Udasis page.
The Sikh Gurus and their spiritual legacy
The Four Udasis of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Spiritual Journeys to Spread Truth
What Does “Udasi” Mean?
The word “Udasi” means a spiritual journey or mission taken to spread divine knowledge. Guru Nanak Dev Ji travelled across many regions to share the message of one God, equality, and truth.
These journeys were not ordinary travels. They were spiritual missions where Guru Ji connected with people of different cultures, religions, and beliefs, guiding them toward a simple and truthful life.
The Four Major Udasis Explained
Reaching Different Parts of the World
A Journey Without Boundaries
First Udasi (East) – approx. 1499 to 1506: Guru Nanak Dev Ji travelled towards eastern regions including Bengal, Assam, and nearby areas. During this journey, he guided people away from blind rituals and toward devotion to one God.
Second Udasi (South) – approx. 1506 to 1513: Guru Ji travelled towards South India and possibly Sri Lanka. He shared that true spirituality comes from inner purity, not external appearance or practices.
Third Udasi (North) – approx. 1514 to 1518: This journey included the Himalayan regions and Tibet. Guru Nanak Dev Ji engaged with spiritual seekers and emphasized meditation, truth, and simplicity.
Fourth Udasi (West) – approx. 1519 to 1521: Guru Ji travelled towards the Middle East, including Mecca and Baghdad. He spread the message that God is everywhere and not limited to any direction or place.
Teachings That Changed the World
Simple Principles for Life
Teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Core Values
Guru Nanak taught three main principles: remember God, earn honestly, and share with others.
The concept of Langar">Langar reflects these teachings, where everyone eats together as equals.
Why Guru Nanak’s Message Matters Today
Timeless Wisdom for Modern Life
A Universal Message
Guru Nanak’s teachings are still relevant today. They guide people toward peace, equality, and understanding.
If you are planning a Visit Golden Temple">visit to the Golden Temple, understanding Guru Nanak’s message will make your experience deeper.
You can also explore more through the Amritsar Guide">Amritsar guide.
His message is simple but powerful — live truthfully, serve others, and remember God.
Discover the Spiritual Side of Your Visit
Go Beyond Travel – Understand Sikhism
While visiting Sri Darbar Sahib (The Golden Temple) Amritsar
you are not just exploring a place
but a way of life based on equality, service, and devotion.
"We welcome your suggestions and comments"
This information has been compiled with sincere devotion and presented in good faith for the benefit of the Sangat. Historical records may vary across sources. We humbly request forgiveness for any unintentional errors and welcome your guidance for corrections.
| Name |
Guru Nanak Dev Ji |
| Title |
Founder of Sikhism, First Sikh Guru |
| Date of Birth |
15 April 1469 |
| Joti Jot Date |
22 September 1539 |
| Age |
70 Years |
| Birth Place |
Nankana Sahib (Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi) |
| Birth City |
Nankana Sahib |
| Birth State |
Punjab |
| Birth Country |
Pakistan |
| Birth Lat / Lng |
31.4500000, 73.7100000 |
| Joti Jot Place |
Kartarpur Sahib |
| Joti Jot City |
Kartarpur |
| Joti Jot State |
Punjab |
| Joti Jot Country |
Pakistan |
| Joti Jot Lat / Lng |
32.2600000, 74.9700000 |
| Father |
Mehta Kalu Ji (Kalyan Das) |
| Mother |
Mata Tripta Ji |
| Siblings |
Bibi Nanaki Ji (elder sister) |
| Spouse |
Mata Sulakhni Ji |
| Children |
Sri Chand Ji, Lakhmi Das Ji |
| Formative Years |
Born at Talwandi, showed spiritual inclination from childhood. Studied under Pandit Gopal Das and Maulvi Qutb-ud-Din. At age 16 worked as accountant for Nawab Daulat Khan Lodi. At age 30 received divine revelation at River Bein, Sultanpur Lodi, and began his Udasis (missionary journeys) across South Asia, Middle East and Central Asia. |
| Short Intro |
Guru Nanak Dev Ji is the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. His teachings of Ik Onkar (One God), Kirat Karo, Vand Chhako, and Naam Japo form the foundation of Sikh philosophy. He composed 974 hymns which are enshrined in the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Guru Nanak Dev Ji?
Guru Nanak Dev Ji is the founder of Sikhism and the first Sikh Guru who spread the message of one God and equality.
What are the main teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji?
Guru Sahib taught Naam Japna, Kirat Karni, and Vand Chakna, guiding people to live truthful and balanced lives.
Where was Guru Nanak Dev Ji born?
Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 at Talwandi, now known as Nankana Sahib in Pakistan.
What are Udasis?
Udasis were long spiritual journeys undertaken by Guru Nanak Dev Ji to spread the message of truth and unity across different regions.
