India is a diverse cultured country with many religions and their respective rituals/festivals. Punjab, land of the five rivers, namely the Indus, Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi and Beas, is one of the most colourful states of Northern India. It is the native land of Sikhs and Punjabi’s. Every Indian community has their New Year according to the Hindu calendar. It signifies the establishment of the Khalsa in the Sikhs. Punjabi’s New Year begins from Baisakhi, celebrated all over India and abroad on 13th or 14th April. Baisakhi is a festival of colours and delicious food.
The 10th Guru of the Sikhs, Guru Govind Singh laid the foundation of the Panth Khalsa in 1699 on this day. Farmers thank Gods for an abundant harvest (in a year) and pray for their future prosperity on this day. All religions (Hindus, Sikhs and Buddhists) celebrate this auspicious day with full fervour and joy.
North Indian Hindus celebrate the day marking the descent of Goddess Ganga on earth. People from far of places go to sacred Ganges River and take a holy bath. In Kerala it is celebrated as ‘Vishu’. People buy new clothes, fruits, tasty food, and jewellery and display them marking their individual prosperity. They also do fireworks as a mark of celebration. Similarly, different states in India welcome Baisakhi in their own happy and blissful style.
Punjab, the centre of Sikhs is adorned with colour and beauty on Vaisakhi. People visit Gurudwara’s and pray for them and their families. They thank God for all his blessings and gifts. ‘Langar’s are organised in Gurudwara’s everywhere to serve people with the blessed food of the Lord. People from all walks of life offer their service on this divine day.
Today, countries like USA, Canada, United Kingdom, and Malaysia see lavish celebrations on Baisakhi by Indians. Indians and even foreigners based there leave no stone unturned to mark this special day of their Guru. Living abroad does not deprive Indians of their celebration spirit. Eating, partying, dancing, praying, singing is done in a peaceful and sincere manner by devotees all across the world.
