Baisakhi fervour hits the region and celebs go down memory lane to recall their favourite song related to the festival

Mona   

Celebrations had sure lost their sheen in the world of social distancing. With restrictions lifted, here’s to Baisakhi fervour, with Punjabi singers reminiscing about their kisani days and songs that celebrate the spirit of the harvest festival. 

Singer Jasbir Jassi’s just released song Story of Punjab talks of rich past of the state and a hopeful tomorrow. A bright future for everyone is on Dil Le Gayi Kudi Gujrat Di hitmaker’s mind. “Baisakhi is always a reminder of Guru Gobind Singh’s teachings—humility, humanity and equality. As the world opens up, we are hoping for better times.” 

Happy at the response that his soulful Story of Punjab is getting, Jassi, who is in Chandigarh for a private performance, shares, “It’s heartening to get such a rousing response.” Recalling Baisakhi of his childhood, he yearns for the old times. “I distinctly recall Pandori mela and those were innocent, pure times; we could eat and have fun.”

Folk song Marda Damame Jatt Mele Aa Gya is singer Hardeep Singh’s favourite Baisakhi number. “I fondly recall how this festival meant harvesting, selling the crop and heading for celebrations. And I am even more grateful that after two years of tough times we can finally be together, for true celebrations are only with your family and loved ones.”    

Good times are here

This Baisakhi is special for people in the music industry, believes singer Shipra Goyal. “Covid times were very tough, especially for the music industry. Finally, after two years we can celebrate Baisakhi together. So, I feel very good and I wish that the good times continue. Happy Baisakhi to everyone celebrating,” she says.

Mohd Rafi’s O Jatta Aai Baisakhi is lyricist-composer Santokh’s all-time favourite. “I am a huge fan of Rafi saab’s voice. Not only has he sung O Jatta Aai Baisakhi in his inimitable voice, but also our culture seeps through it. One feels like dancing just listening to it,” says Santokh, who is getting together with all his Punjabi friends for celebrations in Mumbai.  “I wish all the farmers and my fellow countrymen a happy Baisakhi,” he says.

Jogiya Khali Bali singer Bhupinder Singh Bhupi counts his own song  Mela Ni Baisakhi Wala Aauna Baar Baar Mera Oh Punjab Baliyo Mera Oh Punjab as his favourite Baisakhi number. “I am very happy to see the smiling faces of our country people after long.”