The month of Maghar (ਮੱਘਰ) in the Punjabi calendar typically falls between mid-November and mid-December in the Gregorian calendar. This is a significant month for many cultural and religious observances in Punjab. As the weather cools, this month transitions people from the post-harvest celebrations of autumn into the preparation for winter. Many religious events take place during this time, and it holds special meaning for the Sikh community due to key historical moments.
Let’s explore some of the most important events during the month of Maghar and why they are so deeply rooted in Punjabi tradition.
1. Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Departure to Sachkhand (November 24, 1539)
The month of Maghar is highly significant to Sikhs because it marks the passing of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Guru and founder of Sikhism. According to historical records, Guru Nanak Dev Ji left this world for Sachkhand (the realm of truth and eternity) on 22 November 1539 in the Gregorian calendar. This is a deeply revered time when Sikhs around the world pay tribute to his teachings of love, equality, and humility.
2. Shaheedi of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji (November 24, 1675)
Another pivotal event in Maghar is the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the ninth Sikh Guru. On 24 November 1675, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was executed in Delhi under the orders of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb for defending the religious rights of Hindus and Sikhs. His sacrifice is commemorated every year during this month, and special prayers and gatherings are held to remember his valor and commitment to religious freedom.
3. Prayers for the Winter Season
With Maghar marking the beginning of colder weather, it is traditionally a time for communities in Punjab to come together for prayers for a safe and healthy winter. The change in season also affects agriculture, as farmers complete their last harvests and prepare the land for the coming winter. Traditional ceremonies include thanking the gods for a good harvest and seeking blessings for protection against the harsh winter months.
4. Sugarcane Harvest Celebrations
Maghar is also the month when sugarcane is harvested in Punjab. Sugarcane, a major crop in the region, is celebrated with local festivities as the crop is harvested. This is an important time for farmers, who often offer thanks through prayers and small festivals for the bounty they have received. This agricultural connection underscores how deeply intertwined the Punjabi month name Maghar is with farming cycles.
5. Maghi Preparation
Although the festival of Maghi is celebrated in the month of Magh, which follows Maghar, many preparations begin during this month. This involves family gatherings, cleaning homes, and preparing traditional sweets for the coming festival. Maghi, which honors the martyrdom of the 40 Mukte (Sikh warriors), is an important event for the Sikh community, and the planning often begins as early as Maghar.
FAQs About the Month of Maghar (ਮੱਘਰ)
- What is the month of Maghar in the Punjabi calendar?
Maghar (ਮੱਘਰ) is the ninth month in the Punjabi calendar, usually corresponding to mid-November through mid-December in the Gregorian calendar. - Why is Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s passing commemorated in Maghar?
Guru Nanak Dev Ji passed away during this month, specifically on November 24, 1539. Sikhs around the world remember his teachings and pay tribute to his legacy. - What is the significance of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom?
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom, which occurred on November 24, 1675, is remembered for his defense of religious freedom and his sacrifice in protecting oppressed communities. - What agricultural activities take place in Maghar?
During Maghar, the sugarcane harvest is an important agricultural activity. Farmers celebrate the successful harvest with prayers and festivals. - What cultural preparations begin in Maghar?
Preparations for the Maghi festival often begin in Maghar, as families start planning gatherings, cleaning their homes, and making sweets for the festival in the following month.