FESTIVALS
Sikh festivals are not only a time of joy but they also serve as a reminder to holy days in Sikh history and they help to bring the Sikh community together
VAISAKHI
The story begins in 1699 when Guru Gobind Singh Ji said something to the effect of, 'who here would give their life for their Guru'. Eventually five men volunteered for Guru-Ji's wish, and they were led into a tent.
Vaisakhi falls on the 13th April, to commemorate the day the Khalsa was created.
After a while, Guru Ji emerged with a blood stained kirpan. Following him was five men dressed in decorated robes. Guru Ji announced that these men are now the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones).
Guru Gobind Singh Ji then took Amrit (holy water) from the Panj Pyare and he became the first member of the Khalsa. Guru Ji then blessed the Panj Pyare and makes them the first Amritdhari's.
Nowadays, Vaisakhi is celebrated globally in every Gurdwara. On this day the Nishaan Sahib (Sikh flag) is replaced and cleaned. A Nagar Kirtan (local prayer) will also take place which is a large Sikh procession through the city streets.
BANDI CHOR (FESTIVAL OF LIGHT)
Bandi Chor (also known as Diwali) is celebrated on October 30th to commemorate the liberation of 52 kings in the Punjab region, by Guru Hargobind Singh Ji.
In 1610, Guru ji and the 52 kings were imprisoned by the mughal emperor (Jahangir). But in 1611, Jahangir's father (Akbar) saw Guru Ji as innocent and kind so he ordered his release. Guru Ji also asked for the liberation of the kings. Cunningly Akbar made a deal with Guru Ji that every king that could hold onto the Guru's robes will be freed. Despite the impossible task, Guru Ji ordered for a special robe to be made with 52 hems. As a result he was able to leave with the 52 kings. Guru Ji and the kings were welcomed home by candles and celebrations.
Today Bandi Chor is celebrated by ligting 53 candles and putting on a fireworks display. This is a very joyous occasion and is celebrated by non-sikhs living in India as well.
OTHER FESTIVALS
Hola Mohalla:
Is celebrated on the second day of the lunar month (early March). Founded by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, in 1701, with the idea of having a day full of mock battles and poetry contests. This is still continued today.
Shaheedi:
Shaheedi, athough not a festival, is a day of commemoration for the passing of a Guru. This is a solemn day which involves people going to the Gurdwara and performing prayers. The passing of a Guru is usually linked to a heroic act for the saviour of other people and faiths
Gurpurabs:
Every time a Guru is given Guruship it is celebrated annually. People will pay their respects at the Gurdwara for that particular Guru. The most important Gurpurab is the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.