Venkat Raman –
venkat@indiannewslink.co.nz
Thousands of men, women and children joined the organisers of ‘Nagar Kirtan’ (Street Parade with Prayers and Hymns) of the Supreme Sikh Society of New Zealand (which manages the Otahuhu Gurdwara Sahib and Sri Kalgidhar Sahib Takanini in Auckland on Saturday, April 9, 2016.
The event marked this year’s ‘Vaisakhi,’ which will be celebrated on April 13, 2016.
Impressive event
The entire route, from the Otahuhu Gurdwara to the Otahuhu Shopping Mall looked like a sea of humanity. This year’s Nagar Kirtan had two major highlights – it marked the 21st Anniversary of the impressive event which evinces the interests of the entire community and there were more women participants than ever before.
Kirtans rendered by preachers were also a highlight.
Women were seen sweeping the streets along the way, emphasising not only the religious aspect of ‘Vaisakhi’ but also civic responsibilities.
Supreme Sikh Society Spokesman Daljit Singh said that scores of volunteers helped conduct the ‘Nagar Kirtan.’
Decorated trailer
“Sri Guru Granth Sahib was placed with respect and piety on a trailer decorated with flowers and other items. Elders and small children were seated on it while others walked the entire route; the return trip took about two-and-half hours,” he said.
‘Five Pyaras,’ (Five Loved Ones’) led the Parade, and along with others, six Martial Arts (Gatka) teams from Auckland and Hastings participated.
Mr Singh said that the Counties Manukau Police, New Transport and others involved in traffic management worked together to make the event a success.
Sri Kalgidhar Sahib Gurdwara
Sri Kalgidhar Sahib Gurdwara, located at 70, Takanini School Road in Takanini will celebrate Vaisakhi from April 15 to April 17, 2016 with tens of thousands of people visiting one of the largest places of Sikh worship in the world.
“Prayers and other religious events will be held inside the Gurdwara throughout the festive season. Three preachers are arriving from India specially for the Festival. A baptising ceremony will be held at 3 pm on April 17, 2016, while a number of games, including Kabaddi, Soccer and Volleyball will be held at the Complex grounds,” Mr Singh said.
