THE holiest day in the Sikh calendar was celebrated on Sunday when the Vaisakhi Nagar Kirtan procession procession brought colour and beauty to Slough.
The procession set off from the Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha temple in Sheehy Way at 11am accompanied by an explosion of fireworks.
The thousands of dedicated Sikhs who took part were celebrating Vaisakhi, the initiation of the first five members of the Khalsa in 1699 by the 10th Guru of the Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
The Khalsa is seen as the eternal living embodiment of the Sikh Guru. Every initiated Sikh is a member of the Khalsa – wearing the Five K’s; the Kesh (turban), Kirpan (small sword), Kanga (wooden comb), Kashera (undergarment) and Kara (iron bracelet).
Slough’s procession was one of about 30 Nagar Kirtans held throughout Britain.
The scripture Guru Sahib Ji was at the heart of the procession, carefully guarded in its ornate carriage – as barefoot Sikhs swept the road in front to symbolise purity.
It contains divine wisdom of saints of different religions and backgrounds all contained in poetry.
The role of the Panj Pyare – the first five Khalsa members initiated by the Guru – is portrayed during Nagar Kirtans by five members of the modern Khalsa leading the procession, while prayers are recited and free food offered to all in the vicinity.
The Slough parade also showcased displays of Sikh martial art known as Gatka, performed by agile young Sikhs.
The procession passed though The Frith, Wexham Road, Shaggy Calf Lane and Stoke Poges Lane – before reaching the Ramgharia Gurdwara in Woodland Avenue.
For plenty more pictures, see Friday's Observer
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