Baisakhi is a harvest festival, a Punjabi new year festival, and a commemoration of the founding of the Khalsa (Sikh religion brotherhood) all rolled into one occasion.
In 1699, Guru Gobind Singh (the 10th Sikh Guru) decided to discontinue the tradition of Gurus in Sikhism. He proclaimed the Granth Sahib (holy scripture) to be the eternal Sikh Guru. He then formed the order of the Khalsa by selecting five fearless leaders of his followers, who were prepared to lay down their lives to save others.
How is Baisakhi Celebrated?
Baisakhi is celebrated with a great deal of feasting, bhangra dancing, folk music, and fairs. The area surrounding the Golden Temple in Amritsar becomes carnival-like.
The Baisakhi fairs (melas) are organized all over Punjab and are a festival highlight for many people. Locals dress up in their finest clothes, and sing and dance. There are races, wrestling bouts, acrobatics, and folk music. Numerous stalls selling trinkets, handicrafts, and food add to the colour.
What Rituals are Performed During Baisakhi:
In the morning, Sikhs visit the gurudwara (temple) to attend special payers. Most Sikhs strive to visit the revered Golden Temple in Amritsar or Anandpur Sahib, where the Khalsa was pronounced.
The Granth Sahib is bathed with milk and water, placed on a throne, and read. Karah prasad (sacred pudding made from butter, sugar, and flour) is distributed.
In the afternoon, the Granth Sahib is taken out in a procession, accompanied by music, singing, chanting, and performances.
Sikhs also offer also car service by helping with the daily chores of the gurudwaras. This is a traditional symbol of humanity for all Sikhs.
