Baisakhi

Baisakhi is a major festival in Punjab where people celebrate with great level of enthusiasm and faith. Gurudwaras are beautifully decorated and thousands of followers visit them to offer prayers. There is a parade where Sikh perform breathtaking stunts and Mela as well. Baisakhi is considered to be the best time to visit the state of Punjab and witness the culture there.

How do the People in India Celebrate Baisakhi

Baisakhi is mostly celebrated in the state of Punjab and few other North Indian states by the Sikh community with full joy and faith. On this day, people visit their nearest Gurudwara (Sikh temple) or visit the famous Golden Temple or Anandpur Sahib, where the Khalsa was pronounced.

On this day, the holy book of Sikhism is taken out and is given a symbolical bath with water and milk. The book is then read out to the public gathered in Gurudwara. Till today, the same custom of amrita prepared in an iron vessel is distributed in the same way as Guru Gobind Singh Ji did in 1699. Followers till today sip amrita five times and take a vow to work for the brotherhood. At noon, after the prayers (Ardas), the Karah prasad or sweetened semolina is offered to the guru for his blessings.

Later in the day, the sacred book of Guru Granth Sahib is taken out in possession. At the head of the possession is the Panj Piaras. The possession moves from several towns and villages which is welcomed by the citizens. Colorful bhangra and gidda dance apart from mock duels are performed during Baisakhi processions.

Another fascinating part of the Baisakhi celebration is the accompaniment of drummers, bands playing religious times, devotees singing religious songs and men swinging swords. In their discourse at the end of the ceremony, Sikh religious leaders strive to promote the feeling of charity amongst people, especially children in honor of Guru Gobind Singh.

Advise from Locals

Punjab is the place where Sikhism was established and is the best place to visit during the time of Baisakhi. Baisakhi Mela is held all around Punjab cities, towns and villages where people wear traditional Punjabi clothes and witness famous Gidda dance and Bhangra. There are numerous Baisakhi stalls decorated with lights and colors that sell bracelets, handicrafts and other attractive goods. Food stalls are the major crowd puller offering some delicious Punjabi food and sweets. An individual from any religion or cast is welcome in Baisakhi mela as well as Gurudwara for prayers.

Amritsar is considered the best place to visit during Baisakhi as it is the home of the famous Golden temple. Thousands of people visit the golden temple on this day to offer prayers. The area around Gurudwara is also decorated with lights and colors and has plenty of stalls selling various attractive goods and food.

Some of the most beautiful and amazing places to visit during Baisakhi are Delhi, Jalandhar, Chandigarh, Hoshiarpur, Pinjore, etc. which offers parade, prayers and Baisakhi fairs.

Tips from Locals

Amritsar has an International Airport which is a great way to reach Punjab. There are several local tours and travel packages available by the Government and private organizations which is a great way to experience the celebrations. Famous Gurudwara is overcrowded on this day as thousands of people travel to offer prayers here. Therefore book local transportation such as buses, trains, cab days before Baisakhi.

Another best way to experience the festival is to visit a major town or village where several villages unite with each other and celebrate the festival of courage.