 There are quite a number of important festivals in Northern India. One of the significant festivals is Baisakhi or Vaisakhi. It is even more so important in the state of Punjab. One can witness vivid celebrations during the festival and can go back collecting the best memories of the joyous occasion. This festival is associated with the harvest of Rabi crop. Considered as very important in the rural India, this festival has one more significant factor attached to it. Yes, we are referring to the birth anniversary of Khalsa Panth (Sect). Held on the first day of the Vaisakh month, this festival heralds atmosphere of enjoyment, lots of jubilance and fun. Vaisakh Month is usually referred as month of April and May. This festival is important for both Sikh and Hindus but for the former one, it is even more special.
The origin of Baisakhi is said to first take place in 1567 when Guru Amar Das had first institutionalized this occasion. On this day, all the Sikhs would gather together to receive the blessings of Gurus at Goindwal. On the same day in 1699, tenth Guru of Sikhs Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa Panth, near Anandpur Sahib, Punjab. On the same day, Muslim rulers killed him ruthlessly.
Sikhs perform Kar Sewa in Gurudwaras. Kar Sewa refers to physical labour to help in the daily chores of Sikh temple. Kirtans and recitations are also organized during the day. Kada Prasad is distributed and colourful processions, led by the Panj Piaras, are taken out. Bhangra dances are organized across the state and many entertaining performances are held. Musical bands and dramas are other common scenes during Baisakhi. Devotees from different religions visit Golden Temple and offer their prayers. People also take dip in holy rivers. Various fairs are also organized.
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