Darpan's special Vaisakhi issue is out now. Read about the Birth of Khalsa, find great recipes, and after a 3 year pandemic hiatus the Vaisakhi parade returns to the City of Surrey.
Vaisakhi is a significant festival in Sikhism and Punjab, commemorating the harvest season and the birth of the Khalsa, the community of baptized Sikhs. The festival has gained prominence in Canada, especially in British Columbia, home to the largest Sikh population outside of India.
The Darpan Magazine team was part of the Vancouver Vaisakhi parade that took place on April 15th and the community was super thrilled to be back for this vibrant and colourful event.
The Sikh Motorcycle club, Vancouver Police, local residents, and high profile politicians were all excited to be part of the parade.
The parade started at the Ross Street Sikh Temple and proceeded along Main Street, drawing thousands of people from diverse background. The parade featureed an impressive mix of traditional and modern elements, such as Gatka, Bhangra, and spirited singing.
It is heartening to see each year how the parade culminates in a free community meal, or langar, where people of all faiths and backgrounds can sit together and share food as equals.
As the communities continue to recover from the pandemic and navigate the post-pandemic world, the Vaisakhi parades are a reminder of the enduring spirit of cultural and community celebration, and of the values of unity, diversity, and resilience that define Canadian society.
The Surrey Vaisakhi parade is taking place on Saturday, Apr 22, 2023. The Vaisakhi parade in Surrey is known to be the largest of its kind outside India, drawing over 500,000 people in previous years.
The parade features colorful floats, music, and food, showcasing the rich and diverse Sikh and Punjabi culture. The parade route starts at the Gurdwara Sahib Dasmesh Darbar, one of the largest Sikh temples in North America, on 128th street and 85th Ave, and winds through the streets of Surrey, attracting participants and spectators from all over the Lower Mainland and beyond.
A number of road closures will be taking place in the City of Surrey this weekend due to the parade. Police ask that members of the public make arrangements to use alternate routes.
Road closures will be in place from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm on the day of the parade. Delays may be expected for travel between 72 Avenue to 88 Avenue, and Scott Road to King George Boulevard.
The Darpan Magazine team wishes everyone a very Happy Vaisakhi.