Why in News?
Baisakhi was celebrated on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, with millions of devotees visiting the Golden Temple in Amritsar and other major Gurudwaras.
About
- 327th Khalsa Panth Anniversary: This year marked the 327th anniversary of the creation of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699.
- Cultural Diplomacy: The Indian government and global leaders extended greetings, highlighting Baisakhi as a symbol of India's agrarian strength and communal harmony.
- Pilgrimage to Pakistan: A special "Jatha" (group) of nearly 3,000 Indian pilgrims traveled to Pakistan in April 2026 to celebrate the festival at Gurdwara Panja Sahib under a bilateral protocol.
Religious & Historical Significance
- Birth of the Khalsa: In 1699, at Anandpur Sahib, Guru Gobind Singh (the 10th Sikh Guru) abolished the caste system and established the Khalsa Panth, giving Sikhs a distinct identity.
- Solar New Year: It marks the first day of the month of Vaisakh, signifying the beginning of the Hindu solar calendar.
- Harvest Festival: For farmers in Punjab and Haryana, it marks the time to harvest Rabi (winter) crops, particularly wheat. It is a day of thanksgiving for a bountiful season.
- Buddhism: It is also significant for Buddhists, as it is believed that Gautama Buddha attained Enlightenment on this day.
Traditions & Observances
- Nagar Kirtan: Large colourful processions led by the Panj Pyaras (Five Beloved Ones) featuring devotional singing and martial arts (Gatka) displays.
- Amrit Sanchar: Many Sikhs choose this auspicious day to undergo initiation into the Khalsa Panth.
- Bhangra and Gidda: Vibrant folk dances performed by men and women in traditional attire to celebrate the harvest.
- Kar Sewa: Devotees perform voluntary service, such as cleaning the Gurudwara premises and participating in Langar (community kitchen).
Festive Foods
- Kada Prasad: A sacred sweet flour-based offering served to all visitors.
- Wheat Delicacies: Since it's a wheat harvest festival, various breads and Meethe Chawal (sweet yellow rice) are common.
Jallianwala Bagh Connection
- Historical Remembrance: Baisakhi is also a day to remember the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre of April 13, 1919.
- On Baisakhi day, thousands of people had gathered peacefully at the park in Amritsar for the festival and to protest the Rowlatt Act before General Dyer ordered troops to fire upon them.
Download Pdf
