Festivals & Gurpurabs
Sikh festivals mark the key moments and people in Sikh history. A Gurpurab is a holy day commemorating an event in the lives of the Gurus.
Vaisakhi
Baisakhi (Vaisakhi) is the most important Sikh festival, celebrating the founding of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699.
Bandi Chhor Divas
Celebrated alongside Diwali, Bandi Chhor Divas marks the day Guru Hargobind Ji was released from Gwalior Fort in 1619.
Hola Mohalla
Established by Guru Gobind Singh Ji and held the day after Holi, Hola Mohalla is a gathering for martial arts, poetry, and music. Sikh dates follow the Nanakshahi calendar, introduced in 2003 and named after Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Key terms
- Gurpurab
- A holy day commemorating an event in the lives of the Gurus.
- Vaisakhi
- The festival marking the founding of the Khalsa in 1699.
- Bandi Chhor Divas
- Marks Guru Hargobind Ji's release from Gwalior Fort; celebrated with Diwali.
These are short introductions to help you get started. For deeper study, please refer to the Guru Granth Sahib Ji and speak with your local Gurdwara.