What is the #SikhVaisakhi?
#SikhVaisakhi is a festival to celebrate the birth of the Khalsa. Often it is misrepresented as a harvest festival or even the Sikh new year.
In April 1699 the 10th Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji tested the commitment of thousands of Sikhs. The first five to pass his test, were initiated into a new order, called the Khalsa. These five men came to be known as the Panj Pyare (five beloved).
Who are the Khalsa?
Khalsa is the collective body of committed initiated Sikhs. Khalsa means both “Pure” and “King’s Own”. The Khalsa represent the living form of the Guru – and therefore are God’s representatives – on earth.
Sikhs are initiated into the Khalsa through the Amrit Sanchar ceremony, which is why Khalsa Sikhs are referred to as Amritdhari. The Khalsa were created to fight oppression, uphold freedom and basics needs (food, clothing, health and education) for all people. Every Sikh should aim to join the Khalsa one day.
#SikhVaisakhi celebrations
Usually Sikhs celebrate Vaisakhi through a Nagar Kirtan, (Town hymn singing), a procession through their local town led by five initiated Sikhs (Panj Pyare). Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the Sikh scriptural Guru, is on a float as the main focus of the procession. Gurbani (Hymns) is sung, langar (free food) is served and there are often displays of Sikh martial arts too.
#SikhVaisakhi leaflet
This leaflet created by Basics of Sikhi is available in different languages and will be handed out at Nagar Kirtans all over the world. Download it for FREE from our Resources link above.
Resources
In the link below you will find;
- UK Vaisakhi press release
- Regional press release in word format which can be edited for your local Vaisakhi
- #SikhVaisakhi leaflet
- Vaisakhi fact sheet
Images of UK Vaisakhi celebrations
#SikhVaisakhi Videos
Quotes on #SikhVaisakhi
“The revolution which took place in 1699 is timeless! Khalsa ideology is based 100% on humanity without prejudice. Recognise the human race as one.”
Ravi Singh, CEO of Khalsa Aid.
“On the birth of the Khalsa, Sri Guru Singh Sabha Southall will be organising one of the biggest Nagar Kirtan’s outside of India. This year we hope to shift the focus from providing langar to raising money for charity and helping people learn about Sikhi.”
Gurmail Singh Malhi, President of Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara Southall.
“Nagar Kirtans are a great way for people to learn about the essence of Sikhi as a religion and we definitely recommend people of all backgrounds, no matter their faith, to go to their local Nagar Kirtan and see how Sikhs celebrate Vaisakhi.”
Jagraj Singh, Sikh educator for Basics of Sikhi.