Punjab, a region known for its vibrant culture and rich traditions. Punjab celebrates a variety of festivals throughout the year, reflecting its religious and cultural diversity. This cultural diversification of different religions, colors and brotherhood upgrade the standard of Happiness and lively rich nature of Punjabiyat.
Here are some of the major festivals celebrated in Punjab:
Lohri
Celebrated on January 13, Lohri marks the end of winter and the arrival of longer days. It is particularly popular in Punjab and among Punjabi communities worldwide. Bonfires are lit, and people gather around to sing traditional songs, dance the bhangra, and enjoy festive foods like gur, gajak, rewri, and popcorn.
Vaisakhi
This is one of the most significant festivals in Punjab, celebrated on April 13 or 14 each year. It marks the Punjabi New Year and commemorates the formation of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh ji in 1699. People visit gurdwaras, participate in processions (Nagar Kirtan), and enjoy traditional music and dance. Apart from its religious significance, Baisakhi also holds cultural importance in Punjab. It marks the harvest festival when farmers celebrate the successful harvest of Rabi crops. People dress in colorful attire, participate in traditional folk dances like the Bhangra and Gidda, and enjoy festive foods.
Gurpurab
These are celebrations commemorating the birthdays of the Sikh Gurus. The most important Gurpurab is Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birthday, known as Sri Guru Nanak Gurpurab. It usually falls in November or December according to the Gregorian calendar.
Diwali
While Diwali is celebrated across India, it holds special significance in Punjab. People light oil lamps (diyas) and candles, decorate their homes, exchange sweets, and participate in fireworks. For Sikhs, Diwali also holds spiritual significance as it marks the release of Sri Guru Hargobind Ji from imprisonment with 52 kings from Gwalior fort.
Hola Mohalla
This is a Sikh festival celebrated a day after Holi, usually in March. It was started by Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji as a day for Sikhs to demonstrate their military skills in mock battles. Today, it’s celebrated with martial arts demonstrations, processions, and various competitions.
Eid
Eid in Punjab, like in many other regions, is a vibrant and joyous occasion celebrated by Muslims with great enthusiasm and fervor. During Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, families gather to offer special prayers at mosques. A significant aspect of Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations is the giving of Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity, which ensures that even the less fortunate can enjoy the festivities. Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. In Punjab, families sacrifice animals, usually goats, sheep, or cows, following the tradition of Prophet Ibrahim. The meat is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the less fortunate.
Shaheedi Jor Mela
‘Shaheedi Jor Mela’ is a significant event held annually in Punjab, particularly at Fatehgarh Sahib and Chamkaur Sahib, to commemorate the martyrdom of the Sahibzadas (sons) of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, and other Sikh warriors. The term ‘Shaheedi Jor Mela’ translates to ‘Martyrdom Day Fair’. The Shaheedi Jor Mela typically takes place around December 25th to 27th, coinciding with the martyrdom anniversary of the Sahibzadas. It attracts thousands of devotees and tourists from across the globe, especially Sikhs, who come to pay homage to the martyrs.
Festivals in Punjab are a nexus of Love, brotherhood, sacrifice and honor. It gives a feel of prestige to the people participating in it. The conceptualization of these fairs are the diamond in the crown of Punjab.