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**Baisakhi: Celebrating Happiness and Prosperity**

Baisakhi, also known as Vaisakhi, is a vibrant agricultural festival celebrated by the Sikh community. It holds great significance as it symbolizes happiness, prosperity, and the start of the Sikh New Year. This year, Baisakhi will be celebrated on April 14.

**The History of Baisakhi**

Baisakhi has an intriguing history rooted in the creation of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh. In the year 1699, Guru Gobind Singh chose Baisakhi as the perfect occasion to establish the Khalsa, a community of Sikhs united in faith and courage. He addressed a large gathering of people and baptized five Sikhs, known as the Panj Pyare, who became the nucleus of the Khalsa Panth. This marked a turning point in Sikh history, empowering the community against injustice and oppression.

**Celebrating Baisakhi**

Baisakhi is not only a religious observance but also a time for cultural celebrations. People visit Gurudwaras, engage in prayer ceremonies, and participate in colorful processions called Nagar Kirtan. The atmosphere is filled with joy and excitement as people adorn themselves in colorful traditional attire. Various cultural activities like music and dance performances, fairs, and feasts are enjoyed by all.

**Delicious Food of Baisakhi**

No festival is complete without delicious food, and Baisakhi is no exception. Punjabis prepare a variety of delectable dishes to celebrate the occasion. Some must-try traditional foods include:

1. **Makki ki Roti and Sarson Ka Saag**: This classic Punjabi dish is made from mustard greens, spinach, and other green leafy vegetables. It is usually cooked with ginger, garlic, and green chilies and enjoyed with Makki Ki Roti, a bread made with maize flour.

2. **Meethe Chawal**: Baisakhi is incomplete without Meethe Chawal, a sweet rice dish prepared with fragrant basmati rice, saffron, dry fruits, and jaggery.

3. **Sweet Lassi**: Sweet Lassi, a refreshing yogurt-based drink sweetened with sugar, is a must-have during Baisakhi. It can be enhanced by adding fruits like mango, further enhancing the flavor.

4. **Kesar Phirni**: Kesar Phirni is a delightful dessert often made and enjoyed during Baisakhi. It is a creamy rice pudding flavored with saffron and garnished with nuts and raisins.

5. **Chole Bhature**: Punjabis love to indulge in Chole Bhature, a popular dish made with spicy white chickpeas and leavened all-purpose flour or maida. It is a favorite choice during Baisakhi festivities.

**Pakistan and Baisakhi**

In Pakistan, Baisakhi holds significance for Sikh pilgrims who visit Hassanabdal to perform their religious rituals. This year, over 3,000 Indian Sikh pilgrims are expected to arrive at Wagah border on April 13 and then proceed to Hassanabdal through special trains. The main event of the festival, featuring rituals like Akhand, Paath Sahib, Bhog, Ardas, and Hukamnama, will take place on April 14. It is estimated that more than 10,000 Sikh pilgrims from around the world will participate in the festivities.

**Conclusion**

Baisakhi is a joyous festival that celebrates the Sikh community’s rich heritage, traditions, and values. It is a time to rejoice in the harvest season, offer prayers for a fruitful crop, and embrace the spirit of courage and selflessness. As we celebrate Baisakhi, let’s cherish the significance of this festival while enjoying the delectable food and cultural festivities it brings.

**Source**: [MM News](https://mmnews.tv){:target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”}