Baisakhi 2026 Date & Timings
Baisakhi Date
Monday, April 13, 2026
Vaisakh 1, 2083 (Nanakshahi)
Khalsa Day
328th Anniversary
Khalsa Panth founding
Sun Enters Mesha
April 13-14, 2026
Solar New Year
Harvest Season
Rabi Crop
Wheat harvest celebration
Historical Significance
Founding of Khalsa - 1699
On Baisakhi day in 1699 (April 13), Guru Gobind Singh Ji founded the Khalsa Panth at Anandpur Sahib. He baptized the first five Sikhs, known as the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones), who volunteered to sacrifice their lives.
The Guru administered Amrit (baptism) and established the Khalsa identity with the Five Ks: Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha (comb), Kara (steel bracelet), Kachera (cotton undergarments), and Kirpan (ceremonial sword).
The Panj Pyare were:
- Bhai Daya Singh (from Lahore)
- Bhai Dharam Singh (from Hastinapur)
- Bhai Himmat Singh (from Jagannath Puri)
- Bhai Mohkam Singh (from Dwarka)
- Bhai Sahib Singh (from Bidar)
Punjab Baisakhi Traditions
Nagar Kirtan Celebrations
What is Nagar Kirtan?
Nagar Kirtan is a religious procession where the Sikh holy scripture, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, is carried on a decorated float through the streets. The procession includes:
- Panj Pyare: Five baptized Sikhs leading the procession
- Nishan Sahib: The Sikh flag carried at the front
- Gatka: Display of Sikh martial arts
- Kirtan: Devotional singing throughout
- Langar: Free food distributed along the route
Major Nagar Kirtans: The largest processions are in Amritsar, Delhi, and major cities worldwide.
Bhangra & Gidda - Folk Dances
Bhangra
Traditional Punjabi folk dance performed by men to celebrate harvest. Energetic movements with dhol beats. Dancers wear colorful kurta-tehmat.
Gidda
Traditional women's folk dance. Features clapping, singing bolis (couplets), and circular formations. Dancers wear colorful salwar-kameez.
Baisakhi Melas (Fairs): Traditional fairs are organized across Punjab with folk performances, wrestling matches, food stalls, and cultural programs. Major melas are held at Talwandi Sabo and other historical sites.
Famous Gurdwaras for Baisakhi
Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple)
Location: Amritsar, Punjab
The holiest Gurdwara with grandest Baisakhi celebrations. Lakhs gather for darshan, Nagar Kirtan, and langar. The Akal Takht sees special ceremonies.
Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib
Location: Anandpur Sahib, Punjab
The birthplace of Khalsa. Major Baisakhi celebrations commemorate the 1699 founding. Hola Mohalla festival also held here.
Gurdwara Bangla Sahib
Location: New Delhi
Major Gurdwara in Delhi with large Baisakhi gatherings and Nagar Kirtan through Connaught Place.
Takht Sri Damdama Sahib
Location: Talwandi Sabo, Bathinda
One of five Takhts. Grand Baisakhi mela with religious and cultural programs.
Traditional Baisakhi Foods
Makki di Roti & Sarson da Saag
Iconic Punjabi combination of cornmeal flatbread with mustard greens, served with white butter.
Kadhi Chawal
Yogurt-based curry with pakoras, served with rice. Comfort food for celebrations.
Kheer
Rice pudding made with milk, sugar, and cardamom. Essential festive dessert.
Lassi
Sweet or salted yogurt drink. Large quantities served during community celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Baisakhi 2026 in Punjab?
Baisakhi 2026 falls on Monday, April 13, 2026. It marks the Punjabi New Year (Vaisakh 1) and the 328th anniversary of the Khalsa founding.
Is Baisakhi only a Sikh festival?
No, Baisakhi is celebrated by all communities in Punjab. For farmers, it's a harvest festival. For Sikhs, it has added religious significance as Khalsa founding day. Hindus also celebrate it as the solar new year.
What is Amrit Sanchar on Baisakhi?
Amrit Sanchar is the Sikh baptism ceremony conducted by Panj Pyare. Many Sikhs choose Baisakhi day to receive Amrit and join the Khalsa, following the tradition established by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699.