Sikhs from across the region gathered in Middlesbrough at the weekend as part of the annual Sikh Nagar Kirtan
Jul 20, 2014: Hundreds of people joined in a lively celebration of culture when the annual Sikh Nagar Kirtan parade filled the streets of Middlesbrough today.
The eye-catching procession, which marked the 358th anniversary of the birth of the eighth Guru of Sikh faith, Sri Guru Harkrishan Sahib Ji, filled the streets with vibrant colours and joyous noise.
Crowds lined the streets to see the spectacle which started at the Sikh Temple in Lorne Street, where the formal prayer was read out.
It then moved along Derwent Street, Union Street, Borough Road, Albert Road before finishing in Centre Square.
Leading the procession was a group of men who sprayed the road with water as women followed them sweeping it with brooms.
Next in line was the Five Beloved, walking barefoot and carrying swords. They were followed closely by a float carrying priests and the Sikh holy scriptures, the Guru Granth Sahib.
The annual Sikh Nagar Kirtan aims to spread the message of love, happiness and peace. This year’s event is the sixth since it was first held back in May 2009.
Everyone taking part in the procession wore something orange which is the national Sikh colour. Men wore orange turbans and the women wore long orange scarves known as dupattas.
As well as the procession, there was music, martial arts displays, speeches and free food on offer for everybody to enjoy.
Jasbir Singh, General Secretary of the Sikh Temple said: “Although there is a religious significance it is designed to bring everyone together.
“This is our way of giving something back to the community.”
Crowds gathered along the streets to watch the parade as it moved through the town.
Free food, confectionary and water was handed out to the onlookers along the route.
A free lunch was provided afterwards by the Sikh community in Centre Square for everybody who attended.
Dr Gursharan Singh, who was volunteering his help on the day said: “Today has been quite a good turnout and the weather has kept off for us. The whole event takes a lot of planning, effort and time.
“The parade brings everyone together as one with no distinction between creed. There is no exclusivity.”