Baisakhi 2024 - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Baisakhi, also known as Vaisakhi, is a traditional harvest festival celebrated in the Punjab region of India and Pakistan. It is also considered a religious festival for Sikhs, as it marks the formation of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699.
- 2. Baisakhi is celebrated on April 13 or 14 every year, depending on the traditional solar calendar. In 2024, Baisakhi will be celebrated on April 13.
- 3. The festival is marked by various rituals and celebrations, including visiting gurdwaras (Sikh temples), offering prayers, participating in processions, and enjoying traditional music and dance performances.
- 4. One of the main attractions of Baisakhi celebrations is the Nagar Kirtan, a religious procession that moves through the streets, led by the Panj Pyare (the Five Beloved Ones) carrying the Sikh flag, known as the Nishan Sahib.
- 5. Another important aspect of Baisakhi is the practice of Kar Seva, which involves voluntary community service to clean and beautify gurdwaras and surrounding areas.
- 6. Baisakhi is also a time for feasting and enjoying traditional Punjabi cuisine, such as makki di roti (cornbread) and sarson da saag (mustard greens).
- 7. Many people choose to wear traditional Punjabi attire, such as colorful salwar kameez for women and kurta pajama for men, during Baisakhi celebrations.
- 8. In addition to its religious significance, Baisakhi is also a time for farmers to celebrate the harvest season and thank the gods for a successful crop.
- 9. Baisakhi is celebrated not only in India and Pakistan but also in other parts of the world where there is a significant Sikh population, such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
- 10. Overall, Baisakhi is a joyous and vibrant festival that brings together communities to celebrate the harvest season, religious traditions, and cultural heritage of the Punjab region.