Surrey, BC Khalsa Day Parade Offers Inspiration For Freedom From Prejudice

SURREY, Apr. 3, 2009 - Gurdwara Sahib Dasmesh Darbar, Surrey,BC on behalf of the greater Vancouver Sikh community, is organizing the annual Khalsa Day Parade on April 11, 2009. The parade, which is expected to draw over 150,000, is the focal point of local Sikh celebration of birth of the Khalsa. This holiday is one of the most joyous and significant festivals in the Sikh religion.

Khalsa Day commemorates the creation of the Khalsa in 1699 by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The "Khalsa" is the body of baptized Sikhs, who are identified by their dastar (turban) and other trappings which constitute the five "K's" of Sikh religion. Guru Gobind Singh Ji intended Khalsa to proclaim the oneness of humanity and unite everyone regardless of caste, color, race or gender. Khalsa is the culmination of the beginning of the Sikh faith, which was founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

Sudager Singh, President of Dasmesh Darbar, said, “Sikhi teaches both hard work and vast generosity, which is the ideal prescription in these hard economic times. Khalsa is designed to empower individuals to rise above their circumstances and inspire them to treat each other with common grace. We invite everyone to stand together with us as Canadians in our celebration of the universal brotherhood of mankind.”

Throughout its history, the Khalsa has acted as a guardian for people of all different creeds, and the Khalsa continue to fight for the rights of all oppressed peoples. The Vancouver Sikh community hopes to inspire people throughout the world to adopt and propagate the philosophy of freedom and equality. The progressive, enlightened teachings of Sikhi elevate people, freeing them from the chains of prejudice in all its forms.

The Khalsa Day Parade will start at 9:30 A.M. at Gurdwara Sahib Dasmesh Darbar located at 12885-85 Ave,Surrey and move towards 128th Street on 85th Avenue. The official stage will be set up at 128th St and 77th Ave. In the tradition of Sikhi, free food, beverages, and human kindness will be available for everyone along the parade route.