Anderson Sikhs honor the birth date of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
 |
| Photo by Tracye Dethero |
| PURIFICATION -- Yoghurt and milk purify the Sikh flagpole, which each year receives a new cloth cover. |
Approximately 200 people turned out Saturday, Nov. 20, at the Sikh Center in Anderson to celebrate Thanksgiving and the birthday of Sikhism founder, Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
At the beginning of the celebration, Sikh priests began reading the Sikh Holy Book continuing non-stop throughout the night, ending Sunday, Nov. 21 at approximately 11 a.m.
On Saturday, Nov. 20, members of the Sikh faith brought down the flag pole at the Sikh Center in preparation of changing the Sikh Flag or "Nishan Sahib."
After the pole is brought down, the old flag is taken off and the pole is washed with yogurt and milk to clean and prepare it for putting on a new flag. Saturday, as the ceremonial cleaning and replacing of the flag took place, three holy musicians that came from the Golden Temple in Armitsar, India, played their instruments and sang prayerfully.
After the cleaning and hanging of the new flag, members of the Sikh faith paraded through Anderson, escorted by a member of the Patriot Guard Riders.
The celebration held at the center and the parade, are to promote multiculturalism and interfaith participation with all people respecting the culture of people around them along with celebrating one of the faith's most religious holidays.
After the parade, a traditional Punjabi meal was served at the Sikh Center on Sikh Centre Drive off of Corner Street in Anderson. This was the fourth annual celebration for the group.
Community members of all different faiths were present at the event.
© 2010 Anderson Valley Post.