Introduction
Vyah Purab, often referred to as the marriage anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, is observed on 23 January by many in the Sikh community. It marks the wedding of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, to his beloved Mata Jito Ji. According to the Sikh historical calendar, this day falls on 10 Maagh of the Nanakshahi calendar and is remembered as a significant occasion in Sikh history.
This day is celebrated to honor the personal and spiritual life of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, reflecting the values of love, devotion, and family that were central to his life.
Who Was Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
Guru Gobind Singh Ji was the tenth and final human Guru in Sikhism, a spiritual master, warrior, philosopher, and leader who transformed Sikh identity and culture. He was born as Gobind Rai on http://www.sgpc22 December 1666 in Patna Sahib, Bihar to Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and Mata Gujri Ji.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s life was marked by courage and devotion. After his father’s martyrdom at the hands of Mughal rulers, he became the Guru at a very young age and later founded the Khalsa Panth in 1699—an order dedicated to defending righteousness, truth, and equality.http://www.truthfrontier.com
Understanding Vyah Purab (Marriage Anniversary)
Historic Record of the Marriage
According to Sikh historical sources, Guru Gobind Singh Ji married Mata Jito Ji (also known as Ajeet Kaur) at a place called Guru Ka Lahore near Anandpur Sahib. She was the mother of three of his sons: Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh, and Sahibzada Fateh Singh.
The 23 January observance appears in Gurpurab calendars as a commemorative date associated with this marriage, although historical texts specifically mention 21 June 1677 as the original marriage date according to the lunar calendar.
Key points about the marriage:
Guru Gobind Singh Ji was married to Mata Jito Ji at Guru Ka Lahore.
She was his first wife and played an important role in his personal and spiritual life.
The full welcoming (muklawa) happened later, after she had reached maturity.
Historical Nuances & Interpretations
Calendar and Commemoration
The Sikh calendar used by many organizations—the Nanakshahi calendar—assigns 23 January as a date linked to the historical memory of Guru Ji’s marriage to Mata Jito. This does not always exactly match the original 17th-century date due to differences between lunar and solar calendars.
Sikh historical sources note that Guru Gobind Singh Ji had multiple marriages:
Mata Jito Ji — first wife, married 1677.
Mata Sundari Ji — second wife, married 1684.
Mata Sahib Devan Ji — married in 1700, honored as Mother of the Khalsa.
These nuances highlight the richness of Sikh history and show why Vyah Purab is remembered as a traditional commemoration rather than an exact historical anniversary.
Importance of Vyah Purab
Spiritual Significance
For those who observe it, Vyah Purab is more than a remembrance of marriage—it is a celebration of divine companionship and partnership in spiritual endeavors. Guru Gobind Singh Ji and Mata Jito Ji supported the Guru’s mission to uphold justice, truth, and equality
While the main Sikh celebrations focus on events like the creation of the Khalsa or Guru birth anniversaries, Vyah Purab provides insight into the family life and personal values of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Cultural Respect
Sikh communities honor the qualities of loyalty, humility, and devotion reflected in Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s personal life. Observing Vyah Purab reminds followers of the importance of family support in spiritual and social missions.
Common Questions About Vyah Purab
Is Vyah Purab an Official Gurpurab?
Not all Gurpurab calendars list Vyah Purab as a major festival, but many historical Sikh calendars mark 23 January as the marriage anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and Mata Jito Ji.
Local Gurdwaras, Sikh institutions, and devotees often commemorate this day through prayers, historical discussions, and reflection on the Guru’s personal life.
Summary
Vyah Purab (23 January) commemorates the marriage of Guru Gobind Singh Ji with Mata Jito Ji, honoring a key personal event in Sikh history.
Key points:
The historical marriage took place on 21 June 1677 at Guru Ka Lahore.
The 23 January date is observed in Sikh Gurpurab calendars as a remembrance of the event.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji had multiple marriages, reflecting the supportive partnerships in his life.
Vyah Purab celebrates devotion, love, and the family values that shaped Sikh history.
By observing Vyah Purab, Sikh followers honor not only a historical event but also the spiritual and personal values of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, inspiring devotion, courage, and respect for family in everyday life.
