The festivals in Punjab have always been
celebrated with much exuberance and fanfare. For the masses these festivals
are popular occasions for social interaction and enjoyment.
Punjab being a predominantly agricultural state that prides itself on its
food grain production, it is little wonder that its most significant festival
is Baisakhi, which marks the arrival of the harvesting season. For the Sikhs,
Baisakhi has a special significance because on this day in 1699, their tenth
guru, Guru Gobind Singh organized the Order of the Khalsa.
The Gurpurab festival is celebrated by the Sikhs to express their reverence
for their gurus. Two major Gurpurabs are celebrated during the year. The first
in the month of Kartik (Oct-Nov) to celebrate the teachings of the founder
of Sikhism, Guru Nanak, and the second in the month of Pausa (December-January)
to celebrate the birth anniversary of Guru Govind Singh. On all Gurpurabs,
non-stop recital of the granth sahib and religious discourses are held. Langars
(free meals) are served to all without distinction of caste or creed.
A day after Holi, the Sikh community in Punjab observes Holla Mohalla with thousands
of devout Sikhs gathering at Anandpur Sahib-where Guru Gobind Singh was baptized-to
participate in the grand fair of Holla Mohalla. The whole place wears a festive
look and processions are taken out and the people participate in the festivities
with gaiety and fervor.
Tika is celebrated in the month of Kartik (Oct-Nov.) one day after Diwali. Women
put a tika of saffron and rice grains on the foreheads of their brothers, to
protect them from evil.
Like most other festivals of Punjab, Lohri too is a festival related to the
seasons. Celebrated in the month of Pausa (December-January), it marks the end
of the winter season. A huge bonfire is made in every house and the fire god
is worshipped.
Teej heralds the onset of Sawan (monsoon), which is essential for the agricultural
prosperity of the state. Dressed in all their finery, with menndi on their hands,
the womenfolk converge to welcome the rains and pray for the long life of their
husbands.
Interested
? Book Tour through our Members
