Federation Square to host Sikh Festival Vaisakhi

[SinghStation]

SOURCE: http://singhstation.net/2017/04/invited-sikh-communitys-vaisakhi-khalsa-day-federation-square/

THE Sikh community will celebrate the first ever celebration of Vaisakhi Khalsa Day with traditional colours and culture at Federation Square on Sunday, 30^th April 2017.

For Victorians, the event will be the first of its kind celebrating Sikh heritage, history and culture.

Celebrated across the northern Indian subcontinent, especially in the Punjab region, the festival marks the founding of Khalsa, or the Sikh community, 318 years ago.

April 14 was the day the Khalsa was born and Sikhs were given a clear identity and code of conduct to live by when the first five Sikhs were baptised in 1699.

Around the world at Vaisakhi time, Sikhs reflect on the values taught to them by their Gurus and celebrate the birth of the Khalsa.

The event is being organised by Victorian Sikh Gurduaras Council (VSGC) & Khalsa Education Society Inc.  in collaboration with more than 25 other Australian organisations. Project Coordinator Gurinder Kaur said the Vaisakhi Mela Festival was one of the biggest in the Sikh calendar.

The day will be marked by live Kirtan (spiritual singing) performances, Gatka displays, Sikh Heritage exhibitions showcasing Sikh culture, Turban tying stalls, Sikh literature stalls, and kids’ activity area.

The event will commence with an entry by panj payre (Five beloveds) followed by an Ardas ceremony. Hon. MP Dee Ryall, Member of Ringwood and Deputy Commissioner of Police, Andrew Crisp will be joining the event along with other dignitaries.

The festivities run from 11am to 6pm on Sunday, April 6 at Federation Square. It’s a completely free non-alcoholic and family event and there will be lots of free food available.