Thousands of Sikhs all over the world will be celebrating Vaisakhi over the next few weeks. Vaisakhi, the first day of the Sikh New Year (this year on Thursday 14 April), marks the birth of the Sikh religion and is also a time to celebrate the annual harvest festival that takes place in the Punjab, India. On this day in 1699 the Khalsa (the ‘five beloved ones’) were formed and the collective Sikh faith was initiated.
The New Art Gallery in Walsall is celebrating with a number of activities taking place on Saturday 9 April from 11am until 3pm, including a vibrant performance from “Gabhru Punjab De” (youngsters from the Punjab) Bhangra team, performing at 1pm. Also on offer will be the opportunity to learn about the significance of Vaisakhi with new children’s books and chance to get your very own Mehndi (henna tattoo) design.
Visitors will also be able to take part in a workshop to make a model of Sri Harmandir Sahib (also known as the Golden Temple). Harmandir Sahib, based in Amritsar, Punjab, is an important focal place for Sikhs and is especially significant as it has four entrances facing all four directions inviting people from all walks of life to visit. This is a visual reminder that Sikhs believe in equality — an important pillar of the faith.
The event at The New Art Gallery is open to all and is free to attend.
Philippa Venables, Director of Regeneration and Economy said, “A very happy Vaisakhi to all that are celebrating in the borough. It is such a colourful and vibrant festival and people from all backgrounds are invited to join events and activities by the Sikh and Punjabi community. I’m delighted that The New Art Gallery is hosting a free annual Vaisakhi celebration event for people in the borough to find out more about Sikhism and why Vaisakhi is celebrated. All are welcome to attend.
“Many of you will see the local Sikh temples or gurdwaras in the borough beautifully decorated in preparation for the events and ceremonies that will be taking place and will see the processions that have been planned in which anyone can watch or be involved.”
A procession known as Nagar Kirtan will take place in the borough on 17 April visiting Gurudwaras on West Bromwich Road, Wellington Street and Rollingmill Street details of whihc can be found at the gurdwaras.
