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Baisakhi is the joyful traditional festival of Punjab. It is celebrated with great gusto. Performances of the religious rituals along with the traditional performances are the parts of Baisakhi traditions. As Baisakhi is considered the major festival of the Sikhs, most of the religious rituals are based on Gurdwaras. The day of Baisakhi is celebrated as the birthday of the tenth Sikh Guru – Guru Gobind Singh and also the day of Khalsa Panth. Since Baisakhi is basically a harvest festival, it is celebrated in open fields. Performance of Baisakhi traditions with traditional bhangra and gidda dance fill the air with mirth and gaiety.
The performances of the Baisakhi rituals in the gurdwaras are worthy to mention. The Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of the Sikhs, is given a customary and symbolical bath with water and milk. The book is then laid on its throne and read out in the Gurdwara. Following the tradition of Guru Gobind Singh, the Panch Pyaras recited those verses which were chanted by the five original Panch Pyaras during the time of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Again holy nectar is prepared in an iron vessel to bless the panch pyare. This is distributed, after the chanting of the verses in front of the gathered people. Following Baisakhi traditions people take 5 sips of the amrita or holy nectar. They also take the resolution to do something for Khalsa Panth and brotherhood. Finally, religious songs or kirtans are sung for the spiritual realization of the people. Kada Prasad is distributed which is followed by the community lunch known as guru-ka-langar.
There are also Baiaskhi processions which are spectacular and colorful with the vibrant dancing dresses. The processions are led by the five priests whose minds are full of faith. Different types of mock gestures of sowing and harvesting make the Baisakhi traditions really enjoyable. Competitions between drummers and bands players also take place during this festival. The chanting of religious songs like Sat Nam, Wahe Guru, Bole so nihal and Deg teg fateh, in the procession create a joyful atmosphere.
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