Jagdev Singh from Sikh Community Forum tells us about Vaisakhi in Birmingham 2007
 | | Celebrating Vaisakhi in Birmingham |
Traditionally Vaisakhi in Punjab had been a time for farmers to reap the fruits of their toil and a time for joy after long awaited harvest. For Sikhs, the month of Vaisakh symbolises a different type of harvest. The first day of the month of Vaisakh, Vaisakhi is the anniversary of the birth of the Khalsa Nation. On 13th April 1699 the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji called a mass gathering of Sikhs and initiated the five beloved ones (Panj Pyare) and established the Khalsa order of Saint Soldiers, bringing to fruition a way of life that had been lived by the 10 Gurus.
 | | Vaisakhi Mela 2006 |
They would be guided by the immortal message conveyed through them and installed as The Word or Shabad Guru in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Thus a code of conduct was established providing for the Sikh nation a distinctive identity that bestowed honour and dignity. Sikhs continue to mark this anniversary throughout the Sikh world and are recognised for their distinctive attire of the 5 Kakkars or 5K's that they wear.
 | | Celebrating Vaisakhi |
A discipline and uniform for all members of the Sikh faith regardless of gender, background or status, it provides a contemporary message to society both current and for the future, that we are all equal in the eyes of God and it is our actions that will be observed not our standing, social class or physical make up. Proud to be Sikh: Proud to be British The Vaisakhi celebrations in Birmingham, organised by the Council of Sikh Gurdwaras in Birmingham, will take place on 22nd April and are unique in that there are two Nagar Kirtan’s (holy street processions) from Smethwick and Lozells which will make their way to an open air celebration in Handsworth Park.
 | | 'Bling Singh' and 'King Singh' |
This year’s moto is ‘Proud to be Sikh: Proud to be British’ to mark over 50 years of Sikh settlement in Birmingham and our pride in working together in shaping the future of our city, region and Britain. The celebrations promise to be a family friendly event with the no-smoking and alcohol-free atmosphere contributing to a safe and harmonious environment.
 | | Worship |
Sangat (congregations) from Gurdwaras, families and businesses from Birmingham and Sandwell will provide communal meals (langar) to help break down the barriers which so often divide us. Langar will be served next to the Guru Darbar (Guru’s Court) where visitors will be able to partake of a spiritual feast of kirtan (hymns sung to ragas) by renowned kirtanis. Football and cricket There will also be an opportunity to watch and participate in an exciting array of sports activities put together with the help of Hamstead Hall Community & Sports Association and Khalsa Football Federation, offering opportunities to showcase dribbling skills with coaching by Birmingham City Football Club. For budding Montys the prospect of fine-tuning cricket skills with Warwickshire County Cricket Club. Young people's zone
 | | Enjoying Vaisakhi |
Wolverhampton’s SaintSOULdiers Youth Forum, 5K the regional Sikh youth and heritage group, and BOSS the national student network, have arranged a gala of informative entertainment, exhibitions, fun activities and music in the young people’s zone with an ambitious stage programme. The bazaar, offering a delight of vegetarian food, custom and specialist arts and crafts are always popular with information from public agencies displaying their services in the information marquees.
 | | Celebrating Vaisakhi in Handsworth Park |
Sewa Singh Mandla, Chairman of The Council of Sikh Gurdwaras in Birmingham said “If you want to see diversity at work come to the Vaisakhi Mela, the largest Asian cultural event in Europe. All the diverse communities in Birmingham join us to celebrate the Sikh festival of Vaisakhi thus promoting social cohesion, awareness and respect. With the Lord's blessing we are sure you will not be disappointed.” JS Boparai
Sikh Community Forum info@sikhforum.org.uk
s_c_forum@yahoo.co.uk | 
