Baisakhi, also known as Vaisakhi, is celebrated annually on April 13 and occasionally on April 14. In 2025 it falls on a Sunday, April 13. The deep roots of this celebration lie in Hindu and Sikh customs. It honors the creation of the Khalsa Panth, the start of the Sikh new year, and Punjab’s spring harvest.
Historical Significance of Vaisakhi
Vaisakhi in Sikhism
Vaisakhi is immensely significant for Sikhs around the globe as it marks the creation of Khalsa Panth, established by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699. His Holiness was facing political challenges and encountering persecution from the Mughals; Guru Gobind Singh underwent intense persecution. At Anandpur Sahib, he summoned Sikhs and athletes to join him and fight alongside him to protect their faith.
To his surprise, five men came forth to volunteer and were the very first Amrat Parshad. This marked the creation of the unit of Mir Mann ka Dastaar, and the five Kakars became symbols of Sikh faith as well as the Sikh warrior saint tradition.
Vaisakhi in Hinduism
Hindus in some parts of India commemorate Vaisakhi as the start of the New Year. It is also associated with harvest celebrations and the veneration of Goddess Durga and Lord Vishnu. In other areas such as Tamil Nadu, Assam, and Bengal, the celebration is known by different names.
- Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year)
- Rongali Bihu (Assamese New Year)
- Puthandu (Tamil New Year)
- Vishu (Kerala New Year)
How Vaisakhi is Celebrated in India
Sikh Celebrations
Sikh people celebrate Vaisakhi by first visiting gurdwaras for prayer services like those held in the famous Golden Temple in Amritsar. The day is adorned with Nagar Kirtans, during which the streets are animated by the Panj Pyare, who accompany them with powerful streaming devotional songs and chanting. Sewa, or selfless service, is openly given by distributing langar (community meals) and Kada Prasad, a selfless service symbol created for the community. Amrit Sanchar is another ceremony where many Sikhs renew their Khalsa pledge.
Hindu Celebrations
Vaisakhi observance among Hindus is characterized by a combination of temple visits, river holy baths like the Ganges, and revels that welcome the New Year. During the fasting period, families prepare traditional meals and dress up while visiting loved ones and friends to give sweets. People in North India celebrate the holiday with Vaisakhi melas, which are fairs full of folk songs and dances as well as cultural shows and activities.

Vaisakhi Celebrations in Different Indian States
- Punjab: The largest celebrations happen here with big Nagar Kirtans, Bhangra Dance, and community dinners.
- Haryana: Hosts special Vaisakhi melas with spectacular cultural shows, markets, and competitive games.
- Delhi: Bangla Sahib and Sis Ganj Sahib Gurdwaras are packed with devotees.
- West Bengal: Marked as Pochola Boishakh, it integrates with the celebration of the Bengali New Year.
- South India: Puthandu, a celebration in Tamil Nadu, involves more Kalidass and Saman worshippers, temple rituals, and a banquet table where life is celebrated.
Vaisakhi Outside India
The United Kingdom
London and Birmingham hold gargantuan Nagar Kirtans witnessed by thousands of people. Southall is filled with street parties and active volunteers offering food and shelter.
Canada
Over 100,000 visitors attend the grand Vaisakhi parades in Vancouver and Toronto. Free food services are provided at Sikh temples all over the nation.
The United States of America
Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and Washington DC have their Sikh parades and programs. On many occasions, the White House gives a Vaisakhi message thanking Sikhs.
Traditional Food Eaten During Vaisakhi
Vaisakhi is an exuberant Sikh celebration that often includes festive dishes; Sarson da Saag and Makki di Roti are staple foods in Punjab, and Pindi Chole, Kada Prasad, and Lassi help integrate some extra flavors. Sweet delicacies like Jalebi and Gajar ka Halwa are also widely enjoyed. The food served during “langar in the Gurudwaras is simple vegetarian food, indicative of simple living and community service as one.
What to Wear on Vaisakhi?
Vaisakhi attire consists of vivid colors: orange, red, yellow, and even blue. These colors represent joy, prosperity and the occasion itself. Abu Nashah is a time when traditional Punjabi clothing is widely worn. Women often use salwar kameez embellished with embroidery, while men use kurta pajamas accompanied by colorful turbans, which deeply showcases their culture and the festivities.

Best Places to Celebrate Vaisakhi in India
- Amritsar: Golden Temple hosts grand celebrations.
- Punjab: Experience authentic Baisakhi fairs & bhangra performances.
- Delhi: Major processions and Vaisakhi parties.
- Haryana: Famous for Vaisakhi melas and cultural events.
- Chandigarh & Jalandhar: Music, dance, and festive meals.
Vaisakhi can be marked in any region and location of India; however, some more renowned include Amritsar at the Golden Temple, where they celebrate rich culture and customs through plays. To also mark Punjab, you are able to experience the “authentic spirit of Baisakhi” (fair and bhangra).
Vaisakhi Rituals & Symbols
The Sikhs commemorate the Five Ks of Khalsa: kesh (hair), kangha (comb), kara (steel bracelet), kirpan (sword), and katchera (special underwear). To pledge loyalty, numerous followers participate in Amrit Sanchar (baptism ceremony) rituals that are meant to reaffirm their belief and dedication to the Khalsa. In a display of love, the Guru Granth Sahib is bathed in milk, decked with flowers, and paraded in wondrous dances (Nagar Kirtan) where praises are chanted to proclaim oneness together with spirituality.
Vaisakhi is commemorated in public holidays in the region of Punjab, Haryana, and J&K. Most skeptical institutions, like schools and colleges as well as stores owned by Sikhs, go on holiday. While public transport continues to function normally, some routes begin celebrations quite early, which may result in delays around these joyous holidays.
Vaisakhi is not a Paleo feast but an integral part of our culture, encapsulating oneness amongst us and being able to harvest further riches. Whenever you’re in the region, be it Punjab, Amritsar or Delhi, the feeling and strength of wonderful Vaisakhi 2025 will never leave your memory!
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