Baisakhi celebrated with zeal across Kashmir

Suhail Bhat

SRINAGAR, Apr 13: The Sikh community across Kashmir today celebrated the festival of Baisakhi with traditional enthusiasm and religious fervor as devotees thronged gurudwaras in large numbers to offer prayers.

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Gurudwaras across the Valley, including the historic Chatti Padshahi at Kathi Darwaza in Srinagar’s old city, were decked with vibrant lights and flowers. The sound of bhajan-kirtans echoed from early morning as worshippers gathered to mark the festival, which also commemorates the creation of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699.
Dressed in bright traditional attire, men, women and children offered special prayers for the peace and prosperity of Jammu and Kashmir. At many gurudwaras, the celebrations culminated in langar-community meals served to all visitors, prepared and distributed by volunteers.
“This is one of the most important days for us. We prayed for the well-being of everyone in Kashmir. We have always lived peacefully with our Muslim brothers, and we hope this bond of brotherhood continues,” Satinder Kaur, a devotee at Chatti Padshahi, said.
Narendra Singh, another devotee, emphasized the spirit of unity the festival brings. “Today marks the birth of the Khalsa. My message to all is to remain united. We must not let politics divide us. We all celebrate this day together as part of our shared Kashmiriyat,” he said.
Baisakhi, which also marks the spring harvest, drew large crowds to gurudwaras in north Kashmir’s Baramulla, Khawaja Bagh, and Uri, as well as in south Kashmir’s Mattan, Singhpora, Hutbora, Kchenbal and Palmpora.
The local administration had made arrangements to ensure smooth conduct of the festival.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah greeted the people on the occasion of Baisakhi. In his message, the LG said: “On the auspicious occasion of Baisakhi, I convey my heartiest greetings and best wishes to all. It is a pious occasion to express our deep gratitude to ‘Annadata’ farmers and honour their invaluable contribution to the progress of the nation. Baisakhi holds profound historical and spiritual significance, marking the foundation of the Khalsa Panth by the 10th Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Sahib. On this sacred day, let us resolve to uphold the principles of selfless service, righteousness, courage, unity, equality and devotion exemplified by Guru Gobind Singh. May Baisakhi this year usher in peace, prosperity and happiness for all.”
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also extended warm greetings to the people of J&K on the occasion of the Baisakhi festival.

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