Baisakhi is an extremely important and joyous festival in India, celebrated with great enthusiasm, especially by Punjabis. This festival occurs every year in the month of April and is observed to celebrate the arrival of the new harvest. On this day, Guru Gobind Singh Ji also founded the Khalsa Panth, giving it immense religious significance. Punjab Kesari and the Senior Citizens Kesari Club respect all religions and celebrate every festival with grandeur.
Baisakhi is not just a festival; it is a symbol of happiness, hard work, and gratitude. Farmers thank God for the fruits of their labor. People wear new clothes, perform Bhangra and Giddha, and visit Gurudwaras to offer prayers. April 13 is also considered an auspicious day for starting new ventures. This year, every branch of the Senior Citizens Kesari Club is celebrating Baisakhi.
The celebrations began with the Kiran Garden branch. The enthusiasm there was remarkable—most of the attendees were educated senior citizens and retirees, led by retired bank manager Tyagi Ji along with his colleagues Chaturath, co-heads Sushma Chaudhary and Renu Tyagi. They performed Giddha and Bhangra, sang patriotic songs, and showcased tremendous energy and dedication. It was especially heartwarming to see Tyagi Ji performing alongside his daughters-in-law, children, and even his grandson.
Next was the G.K.2 branch, headed by Anju Kashyap with co-head Virendra Mehta Ji and several dedicated colleagues, including prominent social worker Rajneesh Goenka and the Chawla couple. The branch arrived beautifully decorated, and Anju Ji had personally called to ensure everyone was prepared for Baisakhi. The scene upon arrival was like a glimpse of Punjab itself. Every member had worked hard, with even Anju Ji’s driver bringing sugarcane from his village. Members wore Phulkari dupattas, and most men dressed in the style of Gurdas Maan. Ninety-six-year-old Prabha Ji, who jokingly calls herself nine years old, sang beautifully. Virendra Mehta Ji’s stage management was flawless, with his smiling wife supporting him. Rajneesh Goenka Ji’s wife was playfully upset that she hadn’t been informed to dress up for the celebration. As always, Kiran and her husband ensured everyone was served. Several other Kirans were present, including Kiran Luthra, who looked elegant and composed. Veena Sharma, despite mobility issues, joined the dance, leaving her walking stick aside. Anju Ji’s husband, Rajiv Kashyap Ji, watched with pride as his wife led the celebrations. Among the highlights was a Punjabi brother, equivalent in rank to a DCP, who performed an outstanding Bhangra.
The Model Town branch followed, led by the diligent Beenu Chauhan along with Rekha Grover, Kapila, Laxman, and many others who work hard under her leadership. Every member contributed significantly. The celebrations were further elevated by the presence of Model Town MLA Ashok Goyal, Suryaprakash Khatri Ji from Timarpur, and everyone’s favorite, Vikesh Sethi. Brother Ji, the local perfumer, also attended with his wife. The program began with performances by girls trained and educated under their guidance, followed by Bhangra, Giddha, and various dance acts involving all participants. Ashok Goyal Ji, Khatri Ji, and Vikesh Sethi delivered inspiring speeches and also sang bhajans and songs.
Today, the Punjabi Bagh program is scheduled, followed by Rohini, Faridabad, and West Vihar, with remaining branches getting their chance after the holidays. Everyone is busy, cheerful, and healthy, coming together to celebrate happiness—Happy Baisakhi!
