From Punjab to the Deccan, Baisakhi blooms in the city of Marathwada

Lokmat News Network

Aditi Sharma

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Gurudwaras echo with prayers, kirtan, and the sacred word of the Guru Granth Sahib, setting a deeply spiritual tone for the festivities.

Baisakhi marks the harvest season in North India and widely observed by many North Indian communities. The day also marks Khalsa Sajna Diwas, when Guru Gobind Singh Ji established the Khalsa in 1699, promoting the values of unity, equality and courage. In Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Baisakhi is celebrated with enthusiasm, reflecting the city’s cultural diversity. Despite being away from the northern states, the essence of Baisakhi remains intact in the city, turning it into a celebration of cultural pride, and community bonding. Local gurudwaras become the center of celebrations, where the day begins with prayers, kirtan and the recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib. Ragis (devotional Sikh musicians who sing hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib) are invited from different places to perform kirtan, enriching the spiritual atmosphere. The spirit of seva is prominently seen as volunteers come together to organize langar, serving food to people from all walks of life. The celebrations witness active participation from local Sikh families who ensure that traditions are preserved with dedication. Many residents, regardless of their background, visit to experience the celebrations and partake in langar. This growing participation highlights how Baisakhi in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar has evolved into a shared cultural experience beyond community boundaries.

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Women leading seva, preserving faith and community traditions

"We are a group of around 50 women in the city engaged in seva at gurudwaras. We assist in organising the langar. Akhand Path, the continuous and uninterrupted recitation of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib, is observed. Kirtan is held with invited ragis. We also conduct competitions for children, especially in kirtan, to help them stay connected with culture and traditions, and understand the importance of community bonding."

– Jasmeet Kaur Bhatia, Social Worker