Celebrating Sikh Identity and Contributions in Canada

Sikhs from across the globe, including Canada, are gathering to celebrate the annual Vaisakhi festival, which commemorates the foundation of the Khalsa. While many Canadians may be familiar with the vibrant Khalsa Day Parades that mark the occasion, a deeper understanding of the significance and history of the holiday may be required. These parades showcase the Punj Pyaare, representing the first five Sikhs to join the Khalsa, leading the procession, with a decorated float carrying the revered Sikh scripture Sri Guru Granth Sahib following close behind. The Sikh community joins in, singing hymns, performing martial arts, and offering free food to all, regardless of their religious or cultural affiliation. What began as small-scale events in Canada in the early 1900s has evolved into massive, nationally renowned celebrations, attracting tens of thousands of participants. Vaisakhi parades are now a 25-year-old tradition in the Lower Mainland, organized by the Vancouver and Surrey Gurdwaras. The Surrey procession has grown to become the largest Vaisakhi parade in the world, with over half a million people lining the 1.5-mile parade route that takes more than five hours to complete. In this article, we will delve deeper into the context and significance of this momentous celebration.

Vaisakhi is an age-old harvest festival celebrated in Punjab and throughout South Asia. However, it has a unique and significant meaning for Sikhs. It was on the auspicious day of Vaisakhi in 1699 when Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa order. The Khalsa comprises Sikhs who have embraced the Sikh initiation or "khande kee paahul" and pledged to serve all, uphold equality, and demonstrate compassion. The establishment of the Khalsa marked a turning point in Sikh history, giving the religion its definitive form. After a three-year hiatus due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Surrey Khalsa Day Vaisakhi Parade, recognized as the largest in the world, is set to return to the streets of Surrey on Saturday, April 22nd, generating anticipation and excitement among participants and spectators alike.

During the Vaisakhi of 1699, Guru Gobind Singh Sahib introduced the Nash doctrine, which holds great significance for Sikhs every year as they celebrate the initiation of the Khalsa Panth. The initiation involved a profound five-fold renunciation of one's past life known as "krit nash, kul nash, dharm nash, karam nash, and bharam nash." These renunciations involved relinquishing one's former occupation, family ties, religion, karma, and superstitions, respectively, to devote oneself to working for Akal-Purakh, becoming part of the Guru's family, and embracing the Khalsa and its values, ideals, and practices. This doctrine signifies the importance of complete surrender to the Guru and the adoption of a new way of life characterized by service, equality, and compassion.

Through renouncing the old systems and embracing the Khalsa and its values, Sikhs attained a sovereign identity distinct from traditional society, its pilgrimages, and practices. In addition, Vaisakhi Day in 1699 was a pivotal moment when Guru Gobind Singh called on Sikhs to adopt the Sikh articles of faith. These articles comprise the Kes – uncut hair covered with a turban (Keski or Dastaar), the Kangha – wooden comb, the Kara – an iron bracelet, the Kirpan – resembling a sword in a wooden or metal sheath and wrapped in a fabric holster (gata), and the kacchera – a special type of breeches underwear. By donning these articles of faith, Sikhs publicly identified themselves as part of the Khalsa and committed themselves to upholding its principles and values, demonstrating their devotion to the Guru and their readiness to serve all humanity.

Vaisakhi is not only a time for Sikhs to celebrate their faith but also an occasion to reflect on their community's rich history and immense contributions to Canadian society. From the first Sikh immigrants arriving in Canada in the late 19th century to becoming one of the largest visible minority groups in the country, the Sikh community's impact on Canada's economy, culture, and politics cannot be overstated. During Vaisakhi, Khalsa Day Parades or Nagar Kirtans are held across Canada, providing a colourful and vibrant expression of Sikh culture and faith, and an opportunity for Sikhs to share their traditions and values with the wider Canadian community. These parades not only celebrate Sikh identity and pride but also demonstrate inclusiveness and solidarity, with participants from all backgrounds and faiths welcomed and embraced.

Vaisakhi holds a deep significance for Sikhs beyond the formation of the Khalsa and the adoption of the articles of faith. It is a time for introspection and rekindling of the commitment to the Sikh values of social justice, equality, and selfless service to humanity. Many Sikhs use this occasion to renew their faith and engage in seva within their communities. The vibrant celebrations and parades during Vaisakhi offer a chance for Canadian Sikhs to showcase their rich culture, share their faith with others, and promote interfaith harmony and understanding.

For Sikh Canadians, Vaisakhi is also a time to celebrate their community's contributions to Canadian society and to renew their commitment to the values of social justice, equality, and service to humanity. The Khalsa Day Parades held across Canada during Vaisakhi are a wonderful opportunity to witness the beauty and vibrancy of Sikh culture and faith and to learn more about this welcoming and inclusive community. So, make sure to attend a Khalsa Day Parade in your community and discover the richness and diversity of Sikhism for yourself.