Baisakhi

Baisakhi, also spelled Vaisakhi, is celebrated on April 13 or 14 each year. It is an important holiday in the Punjab region of India. Farmers celebrate the harvest of wheat and other crops. It is also a very special day for Sikh people around the world.

Why It Is Important to Sikhs

In 1699, the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, founded the Khalsa on Baisakhi. The Khalsa is a community of Sikhs who follow special rules and wear the five articles of faith. This event is one of the most important moments in Sikh history. Sikhs visit gurdwaras, their places of worship, to pray and celebrate. Many gurdwaras serve free meals to everyone on this day.

How People Celebrate

Baisakhi is a day full of joy and energy. People perform the bhangra dance, a lively Punjabi folk dance with lots of jumping and clapping. Farmers are happy because the wheat harvest is in. Colorful fairs with rides, games, and food are held in many towns. People wear new clothes and visit family and friends. It is one of the happiest days of the year in Punjab.

Fun Facts

• Bhangra dance was originally performed by farmers to celebrate the harvest season.
• Gurdwaras serve free meals called langar to everyone, regardless of their background.
• Baisakhi also marks the start of the new year in the Sikh calendar.

Did You Know?

The Golden Temple in Amritsar, India, is the holiest place for Sikhs and attracts millions of visitors during Baisakhi.