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World’s Biggest Vaisakhi Nagar Kirtan In Surrey Draws More Than 350,000 People
The 18th annual Vaisakhi parade took place last Saturday, April 23 and according to event organizers this year's attendance is a new record for the event with more than 350,000 people by official estimates. In 2015, 300,000 people attended. "This is not just a Sikh event," said parade organizer Moninder Singh. "The Sikh community may host the event, but it's for everyone."
SURREY – World’s biggest Vaisakhi nagar kirtan in Surrey drew one of the largest crowds ever at more than 350,000, according to Surrey RCMP.
The 18th annual Vaisakhi parade took place last Saturday, April 23 and according to event organizers this year's attendance is a new record for the event
In 2015, 300,000 people attended.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=wIMut1xM6ec
Vaisakhi marks the birth of the Sikh faith, the creation of the Khalsa and pays tribute to the start of Punjabi harvest. It's one of the most significant dates in the year for Sikhs.
"It feels wonderful. It feels like we're celebrating the way we do back home," participant Parmbir Kahlon, who is of Indian descent, told CBC News.
"It's important to celebrate so that everyone recognizes their origin, where they came from, what their culture, what their religion is all about."
Celebrations started at 9 a.m. PT at the Gurdwara Sahib Dasmesh Darbar located on 85th Avenue. The parade route circled back to the temple at around 5 p.m. PT.
At least 20 community groups marched in the parade ranging from the Sikh Motorcycle Club to Har Jus Kirtan, a 100-member team who performed traditional Sikh hymns.
Students from several Khalsa schools in B.C. sang traditional songs and played music throughout the parade. Many also practiced gatka, a martial art that includes spinning colourful chakars.
Tents lined the streets with families and businesses handing out free food in the Sikh spirit of service and generosity. Reflecting the welcoming nature of the event, everything from pizza to curries were offered.
"This is not just a Sikh event," said parade organizer Moninder Singh. "The Sikh community may host the event, but it's for everyone."
PHOTOS: Chandra Bodalia
