A sikh’s nitnem consists of a specific set of prayers that they are instructed to do daily. These Banis are from the Sri Guru Granth Sahib and Sri Dasam Granth Sahib.

The primary Nitnem Banis include:

Morning Nitnem

• Japji Sahib: Written by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Japji Sahib is a profound composition that forms the opening part of the Guru Granth Sahib. It explores the nature of God, the purpose of life, and the importance of devotion.
• Jaap Sahib: Composed by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Jaap Sahib is a hymn praising the greatness of Waheguru. It is a powerful and poetic composition expressing devotion and reverence.
• Tav-Prasad Savaiye: Also written by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Tav-Prasad Savaiye is a composition that emphasizes the qualities of God and the spiritual path.
• Chaupai Sahib: It is a prayer composed by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Chaupai Sahib is a hymn expressing faith and seeking divine protection. It is commonly recited for strength and courage.
• Anand Sahib: Authored by Guru Amar Das Ji, Anand Sahib is a composition that expresses the bliss and joy of connecting with the divine. It is often recited during ceremonies and celebrations.

Evening Nitnem

• Rehras Sahib: A compilation of hymns from various Gurus, Rehras Sahib is recited in the evening. It includes prayers of gratitude, seeking divine protection, and reflecting on the day’s events.

Night Nitnem

• Sohila Sahib: Sohila Sahib is recited before bedtime. It includes hymns expressing gratitude for the day and seeking a peaceful night’s rest.

Note: A Sikh concludes their morning and evening Nitnem with a complete Ardaas while standing. At night, after Sohila Sahib, they may recite a short Ardaas before sleeping.

In addition to the core seven Banis of Nitnem, Many Sikhs include other Banis in their Nitnem. 

Additional Banis:

• • Sukhmani Sahib: Composed by Guru Arjan Dev Ji, Sukhmani Sahib is a lengthy composition that reflects on the qualities of God and provides a source of comfort and peace. It is often recited for mental tranquility.
  • Asa Ki Vaar: This composition, primarily authored by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Angad Dev Ji, is a poetic expression that discusses the spiritual journey, the nature of life, and the importance of devotion. It is sung in the early morning.
  • Sidh Gosht: Authored by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Sidh Gosht is a dialogue between Guru Nanak and a group of Siddhas, addressing philosophical and spiritual topics.

• Sikhs also include Bavan Akhri, Dakhni Oankaar, Ramkali ki Vaar, and many more.

Apart from these Banis, a Sikh is supposed to do Gurmat Naam Abhiyaas at Amritvela.

Guru ji says – “ਜੋ ਸਾਸਿ ਗਿਰਾਸਿ ਧਿਆਏ ਮੇਰਾ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਸੋ ਗੁਰਸਿਖੁ ਗੁਰੂ ਮਨਿ ਭਾਵੈ॥“

Such Gursikh who does Naam Abhyaas all the time through every breath is very dear to Guru Sahib.

The breath is seen as a constant and essential aspect of human existence, and by aligning the repetition of the divine name with each inhale and exhale, Sikhs aim to maintain a continuous connection with Waheguru.

There are several compelling reasons to engage in Nitnem:

1. Staying Connected with Waheguru: By doing Nitnem regularly, Sikhs keep a strong connection with God. It’s like having a special time every day to talk to Waheguru, pray, and feel peaceful inside.

2. Learning about Sikh Beliefs: Nitnem teaches Sikhs a lot about what they believe in and the wisdom of their religion. It’s like a guide that helps them understand Sikhi.

3. Being Friends with Waheguru: Nitnem is a way for Sikhs to be friends with God. It’s like spending time together and talking to God, asking for help, and getting guidance for life.

4. Becoming Stronger Together: When many Sikhs do Nitnem together in Sangati Roop, it makes them feel stronger and closer as a group. It’s like a team spirit that helps everyone feel connected.

5. Mastering Accurate Ucharan of Gurbani: Nitnem provides an opportunity for Sikhs to master the accurate pronunciation and recitation of Gurbani