ਵਿਸਾਖੀ

Vaisakhi is at once a harvest thanksgiving for the ripened rabi crop and, for Sikhs, the most significant collective anniversary: in 1699 Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa at Anandpur Sahib, initiating the Panj Pyare (the Five Beloved). For Punjabi Hindus it also marks the solar new year. The dual meaning makes it the clearest example of a shared Punjabi festival read through two religious lenses.

Observances

1. Nagar Kirtan

   Processions led by the Panj Pyare with the Guru Granth Sahib, hymn-singing, and gatka (martial arts) displays.

2. Amrit Sanchar

   Many take Amrit (Khalsa initiation) on this day.

3. Harvest folk dance

   Bhangra and gidda celebrating the harvest.

In the US

Major Nagar Kirtans take place in Yuba City, NYC, and Los Angeles, often with city permits and tens of thousands of attendees. Gurdwaras host langar and community melas; Punjabi Hindu families may mark the solar new year at home.