Srinagar, Apr 14: The Sikh community of Jammu and Kashmir celebrated Baisakhi with joy and religious fervor on Wednesday to observe the 311th year of the foundation of Khalsa Panth by 10th Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh.
 The day was marked by Bajan Keertans at all Gurudwaras across Kashmir. The biggest functions were held at Chatti Pathshahi in Rainawari. Although Baisakhi festival is celebrated in various other northern states for a good harvest of Rabi crop, the Sikh community here attaches religious connotations to the festival.
 “It is only because of chauvinism of some religious groups that the festival is associated with harvest. We celebrate Baisakhi for it was on this day in 1699 that Guru Gobind Singh baptized Panj Pyare with Amrit and foundation of Khalsa Panth was laid and wearing of Panj kakars became significant,” coordinator All Parties Sikh Coordination Committee Kashmir, Jagdesh Raina told Greater Kashmir.
 Apart from paying obeisance at Gurudwaras, Sikhs pay visit to their friends and relatives for greetings. The Sikh dominated areas like Rainwari, Jawahar Nagar wore a festive look.
 “We wear different dresses on Baisakhi and children come together to play. We prepare different dishes to celebrate the occasion. Families go to gardens and markets to celebrate the occasion. It is something unseen in other states where Baisakhi is celebrated, not even in Jammu,” Raina said. 
 Since Mughal Gardens situated on the banks of Dal Lake had been already opened to public due to early bloom, people from all faiths thronged the gardens. Heavy rush was seen at Nishat, Shalimar and other gardens where, cutting across religious lines, people could be seen dancing, singing and beating drums.
 “Since it is a holiday so we are just having a day out,” said dancing Irshad Ahmad at Nishat.
 Meanwhile, former Chief Minister Mufti Muhammad Sayed and President of Peoples Democratic Party, Mehbooba Mufti, have greeted people of the State on the occasion.

Lastupdate on : Wed, 14 Apr 2010 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Wed, 14 Apr 2010 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Thu, 15 Apr 2010 00:00:00 IST