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| Leicester's Nagar Kirtan parade |
November 15, 2015: The annual Nagar Kirtan procession between two of the city's biggest Sikh temples took place at the weekend and showcased another important cultural event in Leicester's festive winter calendar.
Leading the 10,000 people was huge drum being rhythmically beaten by a young Sikh boy who was followed closely by the Panj Piare (five beloved of the Guru) - who were carrying swords and banners and chanting loudly.
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| Picture Gallery - Nagar Kirtan Procession |
Behind that were about 20 to 30 men, women and children with brooms who swept the road clean and scattered flower petals before the ornate float carrying the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy Sikh scripture, trundled by.
Scores of curious members of the public gathered to watch and take photos.
But the most striking sight was the remaining horde of 10,000 paraders who followed wearing bright oranges, pinks and purples, blocking out any sign of road or pavement as they made their way to the Holy Bones Gurdwara.
The procession had started at midday at the temple in East Park Road, and followed the familiar route of St Peter's Road, Sparkenhoe Street, Swain Street, St George's Way, Charles Street, Northampton Street, Granby Street, Gallowtree Gate, East Gates, High Street, St Nicholas Place and St Nicholas Circle.
The long-running annual event marks the birth of Nanak Dev Ji, the first Sikh Guru.
One of the organisers Surinderpal Singh Rai, from the East Park Road Gurdwara, said: "We are the first city in England to hold an annual event like this. The first was in 1986 and it's been growing stronger each year.
"It's a chance for people of all ages to come together and pay their respects to Guru Nanak - our religions founder.
"Although he was born in a Hindu family, he had a greater message from God and he wanted people to follow that message."
Spokesman for the Sikh Council UK Kartar Singh said the parade reflected Leicester multiculturalism perfectly.
He said: "It's a beautiful reflection of the diverse faith of the city and an opportunity to share in the celebrations of each other's faiths.
"Today really emphasises the Sikh tradition of Langar - which teaches that any person regardless of their background or religion can come to us and have hospitality.
"You can see that with all the cakes, samosas and warm drinks being handed out for free to anyone who passes."