Slough Observer: The colour and pageantry of the Vaisakhi Nagar Kirtan procession came to Slough on Sunday as the holiest day in the Sikh calendar was celebrated.

The procession set off from the Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabba temple in Sheehy Way at 11am.

Slough Observer:

Thousands of dedicated Sikhs lined the route as the procession made its stately progress along the Frith, Wexham Road, Shaggy Calf Lane and Stoke Poges Lane - before reaching the Ramgharia Gurdwara in Woodland Avenue in the afternoon.

The traditional event celebrates the initiation of the first members of the Khalsa in 1699 by the 10th Guru of the Sikhs Guru Gobind Singh Ji .

The Khalsa is the living embodiment of the Guru and every Sikh is a part of it - wearing the Five Ks; the kesh or turban, kirpan or small sword, Kanga (a wooden comb), a garment called the Kashera and Kara or iron bracelet.

The Sikh scripture Guru Granth Sahib was at the heart of the procession in Slough, carefully guarded in its ornate carriage - as barefoot Sikhs swept the road in front to symbolise purity.

The scripture contains the divine wisdom of saints of different religions and background all presented in poetry.

The role of the Panj Pyare - the first five Khalsa members initiated by the Guru - was portrayed on Sunday by five members of the modern Khalsa leading the procession.

Slough Observer:

Nagar Kirtans happen all over the world from April to May and have been a part of British life for over 40 years, taking place at venues from Southampton to Edinburgh.

The Slough procession followed another tradition, as traditional Indian food was offered to passers-by and bystanders who had stopped to watch regardless of their race or religion.

Pictures by Dawinderpal Singh