Vaisakhi - GCSE Religious Studies Definition

Vaisakhi, also known as Baisakhi, is a significant festival in Sikhism, marking the Sikh New Year and celebrating the foundation of the Khalsa in 1699 by Guru Gobind Singh. It occurs on 13th or 14th April each year and is a time of joy and community gathering for Sikhs worldwide. For GCSE Religious Studies students, it is important to understand that Vaisakhi is not only a harvest festival in Punjab but also a pivotal day in Sikh history, when Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa, a collective body of initiated Sikhs dedicated to upholding the Sikh faith and upholding high moral standards. Celebrations often include Nagar Kirtan processions, the singing of hymns, and visits to Gurdwaras, where communal meals known as Langar are shared to promote equality and service to others.