| Vaisakhi 2005 | Date: Sunday 24th April 2005 Location: Handsworth Park, Birmingham Time: 11 - 6pm Admission: Free |
 | | Enjoying Vaisakhi |
In the Sikh religious calendar, Vaisakhi is the happiest and holiest time of the year, signifying the beginning of the Sikh new year. Use the links on the right menu to read more about the Vaisakhi story>>> The day's celebrations begin with members of the Sikh community taking part in a Nagar Kirtan - a religious procession through the streets of Birmingham. About the Nagar Kirtan procession Nagar Kirtan, meaning, ‘town and songs of praise’ describes the street processions which form an important part of the Vaisakhi celebrations.
 | | The Panj Piyare in Nagar Kirtan |
Leading the procession is the Panj Piyare representing the first five members of the Khalsa, they are dressed in traditional Sikh costume. Carried behind on a decorative float is 'The Guru Granth Sahib' (The Sikh holy scriptures) together with priests singing hymns. Following the holy book are Dohl drummers, Gatka performers (a Sikh ancient martial art), floats with women and priest on singing hymns, then vehicles and people walking behind carrying flags, chanting and singing. The route marking the procession is colourfully decorated with flags, khandas (religious Sikh symbols) and bunting.
Join the procession
 | | Dhol Drummers at Vaisakhi |
Two processions will take place, both starting at 9.00am. One leaving from the Gurdwara Akaal Darbar, Park Road, Hockley and the other from Guru Nanak Gurdwara Smethwick High Street.
The procession will march through the streets visiting other local Gurdwaras eventually congregating in Handsworth park to enjoy the rest of the day at Vaisakhi Mela. Mela in the park The Vaisakhi celebrations are open to everyone of all communities and cultures. At the Mela in Handsworth Park the whole family can enjoy everything from Henna tattoos and face painting to delicious food stalls and live music. Admission is free !!! Activities include:
 | | Enjoying Vaisakhi |
- A kid's fun fair
- Mini sports tournaments
- Sikh and Punjabi arts and crafts
- Displays on Sikh and Anglo-Sikh heritage and history
- Henna tattoos and face painting
- Clothes stalls
- Sikh free kitchen (Langar)
- A Prayer marquee
- Exhibitions marquee (Women's health advice, careers advice, talks by leaders from the Sikh community)
- South Birmingham College media bus
- Free chips, snacks and drinks
- Careers advice and demonstrations from the British Army, West Midlands Fire Service, West Midlands Police.
- Music from the Queens Scottish bag-pipe band.
- First aid available from St Johns Ambulance
- Live stage - (UK and international acts)
- and lot's, lots more....
|
 | | At Vaisakhi 2004 |
- Please note: No smoking or alcohol is allowed at the event. Use the links on the right to take a look at pictures from Vaisakhi 2004.>>> Supporters of the event include: Birmingham City Council, Be Birmingham, South Birmingham College and local businesses. The event is funded by generous donations from the local community and businesses. | 
