Vaisakhi is celebrated in April every year. Vaisakhi is celebrated in different parts of India and all around the world.
For Sikhs, Vaisakhi celebrates the birth of the Panth Khalsa order (the Order of the Pure Ones) established by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. It is at this time that Guru Gobind Singh gave the Khalsa order the five distinct symbols of purity and courage which would make Sikhs identifiable: the Kesh (unshorn hair); Kangha (the wooden comb); Karra (the iron bracelet); Kirpan (the sword) and Kachera (underclothing). By abolishing the caste system and promoting gender equality within the Khalsa, Guru Gobind Singh challenged prevailing social norms, fostering a community based on principles of egalitarianism and fairness, in a historical context where caste and gender discrimination were prevalent. Establishing the Khalsa not only symbolized the commitment to the ideal of equality, it also inspired Sikhs to champion the cause of human rights, instilling a sense of duty to stand against oppression and promote justice for all.
Some of the ways that this day is traditionally honoured include visiting a place of worship (Gurdwaras), and partaking in vegetarian meals in the langar (the community kitchen), listening to kirtan (hymns and prayers sung using instruments) and receiving the sacred karah parshad (a sweet pudding-like food). Sikhs also mark this occasion by participating in nagar kirtans (religious processions) and gatka demonstrations (Sikh form of martial arts) throughout the month, where participants are encouraged to adorn themselves in traditional clothing and dastaars (turbans) of navy blue, black, white and saffron. We extend good wishes to all staff, students and members of the Sikh and Indian communities who will be celebrating Vaisakhi.