On this day, people wake up early in the morning and take a dip in rivers or lakes to purify themselves. They then visit gurudwaras, which are Sikh places of worship, to offer prayers and seek blessings from God. The Granth Sahib, the holy book of the Sikhs, is read aloud, and people sing hymns and perform kirtans.
One of the main highlights of Baisakhi is the colourful and vibrant Baisakhi fairs, which are held in many parts of Punjab. People dress up in traditional Punjabi attire and participate in cultural activities such as folk dances, bhangra performances, and gidda. Delicious Punjabi cuisine, including Pakode wali Punjabi kadhi with chawal, Gur da halwa, Amritsari meethi pede wali lassi, Langarwali day and more, are prepared and served during the festivities. Baisakhi also holds great historical significance for the Sikh community. In 1699, the tenth guru of the Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh, established the Khalsa Panth, which is the collective body of baptised Sikhs. He initiated the five beloved ones, also known as Panj Pyare, who are considered the first members of the Khalsa Panth. The festival thus serves as a reminder of the values of courage, equality, and selflessness that the Khalsa Panth represents.