NEW YORK (TIP): Despite some showers, Sikh men, women and children in thousands thronged New York City to participate in the annual Sikh Day Parade, April 22. It is a day of the birth of Khalsa, the pure Sikhs. It was on the day of Vaisakhi in 1699 that the Tenth Master of the Sikhs, Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji created Khalsa, the pure among the Sikhs. The Master(Guru) enjoined upon his Sikhs to fight for basic human rights and against all kinds of injustice, oppression and tyranny. Which made them a martial community. During the British rule of India, the Sikh soldiers were recognized for their valor and the most Victoria Crosses, the highest gallantry award were won by them. In independent India, Sikhs have proved time and again they were the sword arm of the country.

The Sikhs number more than 25 million and are present in every part of the world. Their adventurous spirit has taken them far and wide in search of greener pastures. They created a great impression of themselves as honest and hardworking people. Many Sikhs have won laurels in various fields in countries across the world. The Sikh religion-Sikhism is one of the five major religions of the world. Sikhs believe in unity of mankind and seek good of all.

On or around the day of Vaisakhi, which usually falls in the middle of April, Sikhs organize parades and prayers to celebrate their birth. In New York, as elsewhere, every year, thousands of Sikhs gather to celebrate the day.

Unconfirmed estimates suggested presence of over 25000 Sikh men, women and children in the parade this year. Over the years, the size of parade has grown, with non-Sikhs also joining in the parade.

The Sikh Day Parade is more a religious affair than a mere social gathering. That is why, the parade is led by the Living Guru of the Sikhs- The Holy Guru Granth Sahib in whose presence a perfect decorum and an atmosphere of spirituality is maintained.

On display at the parade were Sikh history, culture and traditions, as also the Sikhs’holy places. Various forms of Sikh martial art were displayed by the young and not so young.

Many bands, including the NYPD band participated. NYPD Desi officers also were part of a contingent.

A conference was a part of the celebrations where community leaders spoke about their religion and the community. A few politicians and officials also attended the parade and the conference.

A community kitchen (Langar) proved to be a great attraction, with people enjoying many delectable dishes absolutely free. Sikhs are the only community in the world who have the unique tradition of langar. In every Sikh temple, food is provided free to everyone without any discrimination on any basis.The park at 23rd Street was a great place for people to sit in and enjoy the food which was served free to all.