Baisakhi, also known as Vaisakhi, is a significant harvest festival observed in Punjab and other regions of north India. While Baisakhi is a large-scale celebration in Punjab, it also marks the start of the Sikh calendar year. It is an important celebration for both Hindus and Sikhs in Punjab. It occurs every year on April 13 or 14, symbolising the start of the harvest season for Punjabi farmers as well as the New Year in the traditional Bikram calendar.
People celebrate this special day by dressing in traditional costumes, performing folk dances, and singing songs. Baisakhi celebrations are incomplete without spectacular feasts and a diverse range of traditional cuisine.
Baisakhi 2024: Date
As per Drik Panchang, this year’s celebration will be on Saturday, April 13. Meanwhile, the Vaishakhi Sankranti Moment will occur at 09:15 PM.
Baisakhi 2024: History
Baisakhi is significant both historically and religiously. On this day in 1699, Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth guru of the Sikhs, is said to have formed the Khalsa Panth (the society of the pure) in Anandpur Sahib, Punjab. He selected Baisakhi to establish the Khalsa, a community of soldiers dedicated to fighting tyranny and injustice. He abolished the distinction between upper and lower castes and stated that all humans are equal.
The Guru tradition in Sikhism was eventually abolished with Guru Granth Sahib being deemed the eternal guide for Sikhism.
Vaisakhi is a historic harvest festival celebrated in the Punjab region by all Punjabis, regardless of faith. Vaisakhi is an important day for Punjabis, particularly Sikhs.