Cover Story

Darpan Vaisakhi Special 2024

Ish Sharma Darpan, 12 Apr, 2024

Darpan's special Vaisakhi issue is out now. Read more about the month of Vaisakhi, find great recipes, explore activities for kids.

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 at the Vancouver Vaisakhi parade that took place on Saturday, April 13th, 2024.

The parade started at the Ross Street Sikh Temple and proceeded along Main Street, and drew thousands of people from diverse backgrounds. The parade featured an impressive mix of traditional and modern elements, such as Gatka, Bhangra, and spirited singing.

It was 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.

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 20th, 2024. 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 colourful 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.

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