April 13 is celebrated as the festival of Baisakhi by followers of Sikhism and Hinduism all over the world. The festival commemorates the formation of Khalsa Panth of warriors under Guru Gobind Singh in 1699.
For the North Indians, it marks the festival of the spring harvest. However, it holds more value for Sikh followers as it observes major events in the history of Sikhism. The Baisakhi day has seen the coronation of the tenth Guru of Sikhism and the historic formation of Khalsa, both happening after Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb ordered the execution of Guru Tegh Bahadur for his refusal to convert to Islam.
Gurudwaras on this occasion are lighted up and decorated and kirtans are held inside. Followers of the religion visit Gurudwaras to socialize and share festive foods.
Even Indian cricketers took to social media to wish their followers on the happy occasion of Baisakhi, especially in the grim time of Coronavirus pandemic.
Shikhar Dhawan posted,” Baisakhi diyaan lakh lakh vadhayiaan sabnu. Tey rabb sabnu chardiyaan kala ch rakhey, tey Changi sehat bakshey. ????????????”
Harbhajan Singh tweeted,” On this very special occasion of Baisakhi, I request all my fellow brothers &sisters from Punjab 2 please stay at home with ur loved ones..at 11am on 13th April let’s do a prayer to the Almighty for everyone’s well being..together we stand...Waheguru Meher kari”
Former India cricketer Yuvraj Singh also wishes his followers on this festive and holy occasion and tweeted,” Wishing everyone a very #HappyBaisakhi Let’s pray that this festive season of harvest and new beginnings shower us with health, peace and joy in all lives. May waheguru bless us all #stayhomestaysafe.”
