Baisakhi: Celebrating Sikh New Year and the rich harvest of cultures
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India is a country of festivals and rich cultures. We celebrate several festivals in this country. Today, we will focus on Baisakhi, a festival celebrated by the Sikh community.
What is Baisakhi?
Baisakhi is celebrated for various reasons and has historical significance. Baisakhi is celebrated as the Sikh New Year’s Day. It commemorates the creation of the Khalsa Panth of warriors under Guru Gobind Singh in 1699; it is also a Spring harvest festival. On this day, we pay homage to all the lives lost in the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. This festival is celebrated on the 13th April each year, and after every 36 years, it is celebrated on the 14th April.
The word Baisakhi is derived from Vaishakh, the second month in the Hindu calendar. Farmers in northern India harvest the previous season’s crops and prepare for the next season’s sowing.
Where is it celebrated?
Baisakhi is primarily observed by the Sikh community, with a majority of the festivities occurring in Punjab, Haryana, and parts of western Uttar Pradesh. These are primarily agricultural states, and many members of the Sikh community live in these areas.
This festival is also observed by other communities to celebrate a successful harvest or the beginning of a new year. The 1st day of Baisakh month, like Pohela Boishakh, is celebrated to mark the beginning of the Bengali New Year.
In Assam, Bohag Bihu is celebrated to commemorate the Assamese New Year, while in Tamil Nadu, ‘Puthandu’ marks the beginning of the Tamil New Year. Thus, Baisakhi holds a special place in several Indian states. Various delicacies are prepared during this festival and gifts are exchanged among relatives and friends.
How is it celebrated?
People visit gurdwaras during Baisakhi celebrations to offer prayers and distribute donations to the poor. On this day, people execute various functions, including bhangra, one of the most popular Indian dance forms. Farmers bless the earth by dancing and singing songs.
Conclusion
Festivals like Baisakhi hold an important place in our heart as families rejoice together and enjoy the festivities.
FAQs
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Which crop is harvested for Baisakhi?
The Rabi crop is harvested for Baisakhi.
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What do you eat on Baisakhi?
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Kadhi
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Kesar Phirni
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Mango Lassi
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Are Vaisakhi and Baisakhi the same?
Yes, they are the same.
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Which historical event occurred on Baisakhi?
The Jallianwala Bagh massacre occurred on this day; hence, people pay their respects to the martyrs on Baisakhi day.
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