Baisakhi
is a New Year Festival in the Sikh calendar. Khalsa
was created by Guru Gobind Singh Ji on this day
by performing the Amrit ceremony in 1699. Traditionally,
on this day which usually falls on 13th April, 'Nishan
Sahib', the Sikh Flag, is replaced by a new one.
A service in the open compound is held, led by 'Panj
Pyara'. The Flag post is taken down and 'Chola',
the flag cloth, is removed and the flag post is
cleaned and washed. It is covered with a new 'Chola'
and re-hoisted. The ceremony is completed by an
Ardas. The whole scene is very inspiring.
In common with other festivals, 'Akhand Path' (continuous
reading of Guru Granth Sahib for 48 hours) is arranged
to 2 days earlier and 'Bhog' (completion ceremony)
takes place on the morning of Baisakhi. This is
followed by the singing of divine hymns. Later,
learned preachers give talks on the importance of
Baisakhi. Amrit ceremony is performed at most places
for those ready to take Amrit. Competitions are
held in sports, martial arts, poetry and essay writing
on the festival theme. In addition the Sikh men,
women and children take part in 'Sewa' in Langar
which stays open throughout the three days for the
worshipers.
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