The Asian Star (VAISAKHI EDITION) - April 12, 2025

What is Vaisakhi and how is it celebrated?

Vaisakhi is one of the most important dates in the Sikh calendar.

Vaisakhi is a spring festival which happens on the 13 or 14 April every year. It is a day to celebrate 1699 - the year when Sikhism was born as a collective faith. But why is Vaisakhi so important and where did it come from?

Vaisakhi has been a harvest festival in Punjab - an area of northern India - for a long time, even before it became so important to Sikhs.

In 1699, Guru Gobind Singh chose the festival as the moment to establish the Khalsa - that’s the collective name given to Sikhs who’ve been baptised.

Five men disappeared into the tent, and the Guru came out - alone - with blood on his sword. This worried the crowds.

That is until the five men then came

The story goes that at the festival, he came out of a tent carrying a sword and said that any Sikh prepared to give his life for his faith should come into the tent.

out from the tent unharmed and wearing turbans.

They became known as Panj Piare or the ‘Beloved Five’ - and they were to be the first members of the Khalsa.

They were baptised by the Guru who sprinkled them with Amrit, which is the Sikh word for holy water. He also said prayers.

This ritual became the basis of the Sikh baptism ceremony.

To celebrate Vaisakhi, Sikhs will visit places of worship called Gudwaras. These will also be especially decorated for the occasion.

Many people enjoy parades and special processions through the streets

called nagar kirtans.

‘Nagar’ means town and ‘kirtan’ means the singing of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib, which is the Sikh holy book.

The book is carried in the processions in a place of honour.

Celebrations traditionally include singing and music, as well as reading scriptures out loud and chanting hymns.

Many Sikhs also choose Vaisakhi as the day to be baptised in to the Khalsa brotherhood.

Normally big celebrations take place in the city of Anandpur Sahib in Punjab, which is where Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa. Farmers in the Punjab will also use Vaisakhi as an opportunity to give thanks for a plentiful harvest and pray for a good one in the year to come.

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Vaisakhi in British Columbia

Vaisakhi, also known as Baisakhi, is one of the most significant festivals in the Sikh calendar. While it has deep religious and cultural roots in Punjab, India, it has also become a major celebration in British Columbia, Canada—particularly in cities like Surrey and Vancouver. With one of the largest Sikh populations in North America, BC has embraced Vaisakhi not only as a religious occasion but as a powerful expression of community, culture, and inclusivity. At its core, Vaisakhi commemorates the creation of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699. The Khalsa represents a spiritual brotherhood and commitment to justice, equality, and selfless service. For Sikhs around the world, Vaisakhi is both a time to reflect on these values and to celebrate the rich traditions of their faith.

In British Columbia, Surrey’s Vaisakhi Parade—organized by Gurdwara Sahib Dasmesh Darbar—is one of the largest Vaisakhi celebrations outside of India. The parade typically draws over half a million people from all over Canada and beyond. The event is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, featuring colorful floats, traditional music, Bhangra dancers, and martial arts demonstrations (Gatka). Streets come alive with joyful energy, and the spirit of seva (selfless service) is on full display, as volunteers hand out free food and drinks

to attendees.

One of the most unique aspects of Vaisakhi in BC is the inclusivity of the celebration. Though rooted in Sikh history and spirituality, the festival welcomes people of all backgrounds. Local residents, tourists, schools, and government officials all participate, turning Vaisakhi into a multicultural celebration of unity and harmony. It’s not unusual to see entire families—Sikh and non-Sikh alike—joining in the festivities, enjoying traditional food, and learning about Sikh values.

The Surrey Vaisakhi Parade has grown to become a showcase of community pride and cultural richness. Local businesses, artists, and youth organizations take part in the procession, highlighting the diverse contributions of the Sikh community to Canadian society. Langar (the community kitchen tradition) is extended from the Gurdwaras to the streets, with dozens of tents offering free vegetarian meals prepared and served by volunteers. This act of generosity reflects the Sikh principles of equality, humility, and charity.

also marked by special religious services in Gurdwaras, cultural programs, and community service initiatives. Many families take time to visit temples, participate in kirtan (devotional singing), and reflect on the teachings of the Sikh Gurus. For younger generations,

which are not only central to Sikhism but also deeply resonant with Canadian values. Through events like these, BC continues to strengthen its reputation as a province where multiculturalism isn’t just accepted, but celebrated.

As Vaisakhi continues to grow each

the event serves as an opportunity to connect with their heritage and take pride in their identity.

Beyond the parade, Vaisakhi in BC is

The significance of Vaisakhi in BC goes beyond tradition—it’s a vibrant symbol of how faith and culture can thrive in a diverse society. It highlights the values of unity, resilience, and compassion,

year in British Columbia, it stands as a reminder of the power of community, gratitude, and shared humanity. Whether you’re Sikh or not, taking part in Vaisakhi in BC is a joyful, inspiring experience that brings people together and celebrates the richness of cultural diversity in Canada.