I.S. Saluja

RICHMOND HILL, NY (TIP):  An impressive Parade (Nagar Kirtan) was taken out by the Sikh community of the Tri-State of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut on November 13 in celebration of the 552^nd Birth anniversary of Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the First Master of the Sikhs.

Thousands followed the Guru Granth Sahib, the Holy Book considered to be the Living Masteratop a motorized vehicle, with the priests attending and singing hymns (shabad kirtan). All along the 3-mile route of the parade, a number of organizations and individuals served food and beverages, called langar (free food) to each and everyone. Langar (free food) is a unique feature of Sikhism.

Sikhism is the youngest and the fifth most followed religion of the world. The Sikhs, known for their enterprise, are present in every part of the world, and contribute richly to their nations of adoption. The U.S. Canada, UK, account for a larger percentage of the Sikh population. The annual Guru Nanak parade is organized by Gurdwara Baba Makhan Shah Lobana Sikh Center in Richmond Hill in cooperation with the Sikh Gurdwaras and the Sikh organizations in the Tri-State area. The 2021 parade was into its 21^st year.