Tens of thousands of devotees gathered at gurdwaras across Punjab and Haryana on Sunday to celebrate Baisakhi, a major Sikh festival commemorating the foundation of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699.
The day also marks the beginning of the harvest season, adding to its cultural and agricultural significance.
The Golden Temple in Amritsar, one of Sikhism’s holiest sites, stood at the heart of the celebrations as devotees beautifully decorated it to welcome throngs of pilgrims.
Devotees flooded the shrine throughout the day, offering prayers and participating in religious rituals.
A large number of worshippers chose to take a holy dip in the Golden Temple’s sarovar (sacred pool), a tradition considered highly auspicious on Baisakhi.
Many spent the night on the temple premises to take the ritual bath in the early morning hours.
In addition to the spiritual observances, day-long langars (community kitchens) served free meals to all visitors, in keeping with Sikhism’s spirit of seva (selfless service) and equality.
Celebrations were not limited to Amritsar. Devotees also thronged historic gurdwaras across Punjab, with notable gatherings at Takht Kesgarh Sahib in Anandpur Sahib—the birthplace of the Khalsa Panth.
A sea of worshippers filled the holy city, participating in prayers, hymns, and community service.
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Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria and Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann extended their warm wishes to the people on the occasion of Baisakhi and Sajna Diwas of the Khalsa Panth.
In his message, Governor Kataria emphasized the festival’s multi-faceted significance, noting that it not only marks a joyous occasion for farmers but also serves as a reminder of India’s struggle for freedom.
He recalled the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919, where many lost their lives on Baisakhi, describing it as a pivotal moment in the independence movement.
Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatraya also greeted citizens of Haryana, Punjab, and the global Punjabi diaspora.
He highlighted the festival’s role in showcasing India’s vibrant cultural heritage and expressed hope that Baisakhi would further foster peace, harmony, and brotherhood among communities.
As the sun set on the vibrant festivities, the day stood as a powerful testament to Sikhism’s values of unity, devotion, and service.
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