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Baisakhi is an important Indian festival celebrated on 13th or 14th of April to mark springtime. Crops that are a source of energy for humanity, hold a sense of sanctity to them, hence, to honor the marvel of the harvest season, Baisakhi is celebrated with great ardor. It garners an atmosphere that is vibrant, colorful and joyous. The festival is observed in many parts of the world, especially Punjab, India, where it holds spiritual significance in Sikhism. Special celebrations are arranged for, at the Holiest Sikh shrine, Golden Temple situated in Amritsar, for an uplifting, spiritual experience, book cheapest airline tickets from Canada to India. It is celebrated with grandeur in many states of India including Kerala, Karnataka, Assam, Bihar, and Himachal Pradesh.
Due to the diversity of cultures in India, Baisakhi, known by a variety of names, is celebrated in various fashions depending on which part of the nation you are in. Reserve your tickets to India from Canada at reasonable prices.
It holds special significance in Sikhism. 9th Guru of Sikhs, Guru Tegh Bahadur attained martyrdom by the hands of Aurangzeb who publically executed the Guru for fighting against forceful conversion of the masses to Islam. As a result, on the historical day of Baisakhi in 1699, the 10th Guru, Guru Gobind Singh baptized 5 devotees, all from different castes, hence, founding the Khalsa Panth, or ‘the pure ones’, an order of religious Sikh warriors initiated to fight for the religious freedom of the general public against the oppressive Mughal leadership. It is celebrated by the Sikh community with pomp and show, all across the globe. However, the festival of Baisakhi predates Sikhism.
Mid-April or springtime is considered as a New Year in many religions. In Hinduism, for example, it is commemorated as the Solar New Year, hence, holds spiritual importance. Paying visits to places of worship is common. According to some ancient Hindu scriptures, Baisakhi was the day that the holy river of Ganga descended to earth from heavens. Therefore, bathing in the river Ganges is customary. In Northern states, offerings are given to the Sun God. In the east, it is celebrated as a festival of colors, which symbolizes the landscape during spring.
Punjab: Baisakhi, being a religious occasion, processions called ‘Nagar Kirtan’ are carried out through the town where devotees perform ‘Kirtan.’ It is reciting of hymns from the Sikh scriptures, like the holy book of Guru Granth Sahib. Visiting ‘Gurdwaras’ (Sikh place of worship) to offer prayers is a tradition. Activities and events of recreation are also hosted. ‘Melas’ or local fairs are organized. The city of Amritsar is frequented by pilgrims and tourists, from all over the world. Book Toronto to Amritsar cheap flights, now.
Punjab is known as the breadbasket of India, the main occupation in Punjab is agriculture. Since the festival marks the harvesting season, it is of special importance to farmers. ‘Aawat Pauni’, a custom of harvesting wheat together while singing and dancing. Traditional dances like ‘Bhangra’ and ‘Giddha’ are performed on folk songs to the catchy rhythm of ‘Dhol.’ People hold gatherings and feasts with friends and families. Gifts are exchanged and sweets are distributed.
South India: Religious parades and processions are carried out to honor Lord Vishnu, an important Hindu deity, also a part of the holy trinity of Hinduism. In the state of Kerala and some parts of Karnataka, it is observed as the Malayalam New Year. ‘Vishukkaineetam’, gifting money as the first gift of the year is common. Another common tradition, called ‘Puthukodi’, which is the buying of new clothes, is also carried out.
Assam: Celebrated on 15th April, known as ‘Rongali Bihu’ in the Assamese culture, represents one of the three cycles of farming. Preparation of feasts, performing of traditional dances, singing, etc are popular.
West Bengal: Visiting temples and making Rangolis, which is a traditional form of decorating homes, is common among the people of Bengal
Himachal Pradesh: It is celebrated to honor goddess ‘Durga’ also known as ‘Jwalamukhi.’
Bihar: Celebrations are held in honor of the Sun God, also called ‘Surya.’
Other nations: Sikhs all over the world hold Baisakhi celebrations, especially in nations like Pakistan, Canada, United States of America, United Kingdom and Malaysia.
India is an agricultural state, a country that produces a wide variety of crops, hence, it comes as no surprise that many festivals are celebrated to honor the harvest season. Baisakhi holds different meanings for different cultures. The multi-ethnicity of India has made the festival, a remarkable occasion. Even though there are many names and many kinds of customs associated with the festival, one thing remains constant, the enthusiasm. So, book cheapest airline tickets from Canada, and since, the celebrations vary, you can customize the itinerary that best suits you.
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