Baisakhi: The New Year Festival of Punjab

Baisakhi is celebrated on the first day of the month of Vaisakha, which typically falls on April 13th or 14th.

Baisakhi is particularly significant for Sikhs as it marks the day in 1699 when Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa, the Sikh warrior community.

Baisakhi is celebrated with a combination of religious ceremonies, fairs and festivals, and the preparation of special dishes.

Puran Poli, a sweet flatbread filled with lentils and jaggery, is a popular dish prepared during Baisakhi.

The Baisakhi Mela is a combination of religious gathering, trade fair, and cultural festival, where people come together to celebrate, trade, and enjoy various cultural performances.

Bhangra, a lively and energetic dance, is traditionally performed by men during Baisakhi celebrations.

The dhol, a large cylindrical drum, is the traditional instrument played during Baisakhi celebrations.

Amritsar, the holy city of the Sikhs, is known as the 'City of Baisakhi' due to its grand celebrations and religious significance.

The Nishan Sahib, the Sikh flag, is a symbol of Sikh sovereignty, unity, and faith, and it is prominently displayed during Baisakhi celebrations.

The Baisakhi parade is a colorful and vibrant event that showcases Sikh culture and heritage, promotes unity and brotherhood, and celebrates the harvest season.

Gatka, a traditional Sikh martial art involving the use of wooden sticks, is often showcased during Baisakhi celebrations.

Tug-of-war, kite flying, and ring toss are among the traditional games played during Baisakhi celebrations.

The Baisakhi bonfire symbolizes the burning of evil, the start of the new year, and the harvest season.

Baisakhi diyan vadhaiyan!, Happy Baisakhi!, and Vaisakhi Mubarak! are all traditional greetings used during Baisakhi.

Chole Bhature, a popular North Indian dish, is not traditionally associated with Baisakhi celebrations.