Baba Sheikh Farid Aagman

Baba Farid, a 12th century Sufi saint, is described by many as the first major Punjabi poet. A large number of devotees from far-off places converged here to attend the annual the Baba Farid fair marking the saint’s arrival day with faith and fervour. The recitation of Sukhmani Sahib followed by a prayer at Gurdwara Tilla Baba Farid and a series of celebrations mark the five-day long fair. Devotees from all religious groups have great faith and devotion in this holy place. During the fair, the Baba Farid society organises various sporting and cultural activities to attract youth. Major attractions at the fair are daring stunts performed by the daredenl ‘Baazigars”. The Nagar Kirtan, which is a Sikh custom of processional singing of holy hymns also takes during this fair. The festival was organized for the first time by the Faridkot District Cultural Society in 1986. It has been organized regularly since then. With the Faridkot District Cultural Society, under the patronage of the District Administration, taking on the responsibility of organising Baba Sheikh Farid Aagman Purb, the festival has assumed National and International dimensions. It has virtually become a ‘Kumbh Mela’, with celebrations lasting from September 19 to September 23 every year. The festival was organized for the first time by the Faridkot District Cultural Society in 1986. It has been organized regularly since then. Evolving from its spiritual origin associated with the visit of the Sufi Prophet, the festival embraces cultural, literary, intellectual and sports activities. The days are rich with poetry, music, heritage exhibitions, theatre and concerts. People from India and abroad participate in the festival. In the true Sufi tradition of its founder saint, the festival has inherited the gospel of humanism, communal harmony and National integration.