Baisakhi is one of the most vibrant and important festivals of Punjab and North India. It marks the beginning of the new harvest season when farmers reap their rabi crops like wheat and celebrate the rewards of their hard work. Historically, Baisakhi also holds great religious value for Sikhs — it was on this day in 1699 that Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, founded the Khalsa Panth at Anandpur Sahib. This event united the Sikh community and gave them a new identity based on courage, discipline, and equality.
Thus, Baisakhi is not only an agricultural celebration but also a spiritual reminder of unity, bravery, and devotion.
Baisakhi is celebrated as both a harvest festival and a religious occasion. For farmers, it’s a day of joy and gratitude to God for a successful crop. For Sikhs, it is a sacred reminder of the birth of the Khalsa and the values of faith and service.
It also marks the Punjabi New Year, a time for new beginnings, community gatherings, and prayers for prosperity and peace.
On Baisakhi morning, people take a holy dip in rivers or lakes and visit Gurdwaras to pray. At famous places like Golden Temple (Amritsar) and Anandpur Sahib, thousands gather for special prayers and langars (community meals).
Colorful nagar kirtans (religious processions) are carried through streets, where devotees sing hymns and display martial arts known as Gatka. Villages celebrate with folk dances like bhangra and giddha, wearing bright clothes and enjoying traditional Punjabi dishes like sarson da saag, makki di roti, lassi, and kheer. The spirit of joy and togetherness fills the air everywhere.
