Baisakhi, also known as Vaisakhi, is a festival that is celebrated by the Sikh community around the world. It marks the beginning of the Sikh New Year and commemorates the formation of the Khalsa, which is the collective body of baptized Sikhs. The festival is celebrated on April 13 every year, and it holds great significance in the Sikh religion and culture.
History and Significance of Baisakhi:
Baisakhi has its roots in the Punjabi harvest festival that was celebrated by farmers to mark the beginning of the harvesting season. However, the festival gained greater significance in 1699 when the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, established the Khalsa at Anandpur Sahib. On this day, Guru Gobind Singh asked for volunteers who were willing to sacrifice their lives for the sake of the Sikh faith, and five Sikhs came forward. The Guru baptized these five Sikhs and called them the Panj Pyare (the Five Beloved Ones), and then he himself was baptized by them. This event marked the birth of the Khalsa and is considered a major turning point in Sikh history.
Celebrations of Baisakhi:
On the day of Baisakhi, Sikhs wake up early in the morning and visit gurdwaras (Sikh places of worship) to offer prayers and participate in kirtan (devotional singing). They also take part in a special prayer called the Ardas, which is recited to seek blessings from the Almighty. After the prayer, a sweetened drink called kada prasad is distributed to all the worshippers.
One of the main highlights of the Baisakhi festival is the Nagar Kirtan, which is a procession that takes place in the streets. The procession is led by five Sikhs who are dressed in traditional attire and carry the Sikh flag, known as the Nishan Sahib. They are followed by a group of devotees who sing hymns and carry the Guru Granth Sahib, which is the Sikh holy book. The procession stops at various points, and the devotees offer prayers and distribute sweets and snacks.
Another important aspect of the Baisakhi festival is the langar, which is a community meal that is served in gurdwaras and other public places. The langar is open to all, regardless of caste, religion, or gender, and it is prepared and served by volunteers.
Conclusion:
Baisakhi is a festival that celebrates the spirit of community, sacrifice, and devotion. It is a time when Sikhs come together to offer prayers, seek blessings, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of their faith. The festival is not only significant for the Sikh community, but it also serves as a reminder of the importance of unity, equality, and selflessness in our lives.