Baisakhi (also Vaisakhi, Vaishakhi) Festival is mainly celebrated in North India as the “Punjabi New Year”. The day of Baisakhi is considered one of the most important days among the Punjabi community. The Sikh people start the celebration by visiting the Gurdwara. It is also celebrated by other people.
It is celebrated on the first day of Vaisakh, which generally falls on the 13th or 14th April every year.
New Year: Punjabis celebrate this festival as Punjabi New Year. One the same day, the Bengali New Year (Poila Baisakh) and Bhogali Bihu is celebrated.
Harvest Festival: Baisakhi is a harvest festival. This auspicious day is very important for the farmers. They offer thanks to god and pray for the good crops in the future.
Baisakhi is a time for re-union of friends and families. Elders bless the younger generation. People also distribute food and clothes to the poor people.
Dance: People of all ages wear new clothes and gather together to perform dance. This form of dance is popularly known as Bhangra.
Besides India, the festival is celebrated by Punjabis across Nepal, Pakistan, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and Srilanka.