The Vaisakhi celebration in Surrey is one of the largest in the world, with organizers expecting over 700,000 people to attend. The event dates back to 1699 and celebrates the revelation of the Khalsa, a community that follows Sikhism. This year, the community is also reflecting on the assassination of prominent Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was killed outside a gurdwara in 2023. The killing has led to diplomatic tensions, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau mentioning potential links to the government of India.
Despite the somber undertones, the Vaisakhi celebration in Surrey is meant to bring people together in a spirit of joy and understanding. The event is open to individuals from all cultures and communities, promoting unity and goodwill. Attendees can expect a day filled with learning, fun activities for children, and free food. The parade, which started at Gurdwara Sahib Dasmesh Darbar, will end at the gurdwara after a full day of festivities. To accommodate the event, several roads have been closed, and attendees are encouraged to walk, cycle, or use transit.
Volunteer vendors along the parade route are offering free food, music, and festivities for attendees. Due to heavy foot traffic, organizers have advised people to be patient, take their time, and make use of public transportation. Surrey RCMP is also advising attendees to have a safety plan in place, especially in cases of missing children or seniors. Safety measures include taking a family photo before leaving the house, familiarizing family members with their surroundings, and equipping them with identification. In cases of missing individuals, attendees are advised to notify the nearest police officer.
The Surrey RCMP is also working with community partners to ensure the safety of everyone participating in the Vaisakhi Parade. The department has dealt with incidents of missing children and seniors during past parades and is offering advice to minimize such occurrences. It is essential to keep children within eyesight at all times, carry current identification with contact information, and have a pre-planned meeting place in case of separation. Additionally, residents living in closed-off areas are encouraged to have their driver’s license with them to show police at checkpoints to reach their residences.
In conclusion, the Vaisakhi celebration in Surrey is a significant event that not only commemorates the Khalsa but also brings people together in a spirit of unity and goodwill. Despite recent tragic events, the community is coming together to celebrate and reflect on the principles of human rights that individuals like Hardeep Singh Nijjar stood for. By following safety guidelines and taking necessary precautions, attendees can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at the parade. Overall, the Vaisakhi celebration in Surrey remains a vibrant and important cultural event that showcases the diversity and unity of the community.
