Today, Sikh communities in Canada and around the world celebrate Vaisakhi, the holiest day of the Sikh calendar.

The harvest festival commemorates the creation of the Khalsa Panth—the community of baptized Sikhs—by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699.

Traditionally, Vaisakhi is celebrated by gathering at local Gurdwaras to pray and read from the sacred scripture and with grand parades through the streets. This year, as we ease out of the pandemic, many parades are still cancelled but celebrations will take place in accordance with local public health guidelines.

Fleetwood—Port Kells has a large and vibrant Sikh population. Vaisakhi, celebrated in April during Sikh Heritage Month, is a great opportunity for all Canadians to learn more about Sikhism’s traditions and teachings that help shape a more inclusive Canada.

Let us highlight the richness of Sikh culture and history in Canada along with Sikh Canadians immense contributions to society.