Vaisakhi also known as Baisakhi, is the "harvest festival" celebrated on the 13th and 14th of April according to the solar calendar. This pameran marks the beginning of solar new year and harvest season. Farmers celebrate Baisakhi as a "thanksgiving day", and pay tribute to their deity for bringing abundant harvest and prosperity. It's celebrated with lot of joy and enthusiasm in the states of Punjab and Haryana.
Fairs and cultural programs are the major attraction during the festival. The people of Punjab spend the day, feasting, participating in cultural events and visiting the local Gurudwaras.
During my childhood days, I recall going to Baisakhi fair with my family and friends. From delectable Punjabi cuisine to the foot tapping music, the fair puts up different facets of Punjabi life on display. Group dance, folk music, wrestling bouts were the main attractions of the fair. More excitement was added when big groups use to perform Bhangra. Stalls selling trinkets, colorful beads, bangles, silver jewellery, Punjabi jootis, Phulkari and other local handicrafts make the Baisakhi fair even more colorful and vibrant.
No Indian pameran is complete without delicious food and Baisakhi is no exception either. The pameran is much loved by the food lovers as the food stalls and counters offers varieties of Indian and Punjabi cuisines.
If you're just hanging at home this Thursday evening, visit these fairs. They are lot of fun. Happy Baisakhi once again. Enjoy the day and relish the best of Punjabi cuisines!!