There were an estimated 5,000 visitors to the new Vaisakhi celebration in Memorial Peace Park on Sunday, April 12.
“It was a big-time success,” said organizer Simi Khanna. “This is the first time, and somebody came from Nanaimo, and others from Kelowna and Squamish – people came from all over.”
The air in the downtown park was alive with the smells of Indian food and the sounds of traditional music.
The event featured a parade with prayers, music and singing, thousands dressed in traditional Sikh clothing, and generous portions of curry on naan bread and other foods, all offered free.
Khanna is the organizer of a long-running Diwali celebration in Maple Ridge, and when she expressed interest in organizing a Vaisakhi event, she was happy to get immediate encouragement and even $2,000 in seed money from Maple Ridge City Hall.
Her group of organizers soon found a lot of help, and she thanked the city, the Khalsa School, and the Ross Gurdwara of Vancouver for backing.
“It was the first time in Maple Ridge, and they really wanted to support us,” she said.
With its own Vaisakhi event, Maple Ridge joined a global celebration of Sikhism – the founding of the Khalsa in 1699. It is one of the most sacred days in the Sikh calendar.
People of all cultures and religious affiliations are welcome, and the event in Maple Ridge was free free.
“To bring everyone together is the whole idea,” said Khanna.
And Sunday’s event did that.
“It was beyond my expectations – in the turnout, and I’m receiving such a positive response from the community,” she said.
Khanna definitely intends to bring the celebration back next year.
“People want us to continue now.”
Premier David Eby offered a statement about the annual celebration.
“Throughout British Columbia, streets will fill with colour, music and community spirit as Sikh families and friends gather to celebrate Vaisakhi,” he said.
“British Columbia is home to one of the largest Sikh communities outside India, and our province proudly hosts some of the most vibrant Vaisakhi celebrations in the world. From neighbourhood gatherings at gurdwaras to large-scale parades, these events showcase the strength and generosity of the Sikh community and warmly welcome people of all backgrounds to take part,” he said.
“To everyone celebrating, I extend my warmest wishes for a joyful and meaningful Vaisakhi.”