View PW Nagar Kirtan Gallery.
Stockton, CA (KP) - Northern California Sikhs thronged to the one of the oldest Gurdwaras in North America, in Stockton, to celebrate 307th ‘Vaisakhi Divas’, commemorating the foundation of the Khalsa Panth in 1699.
A Nagar Kirtan was led by several groups of ‘Panj Piarays’ young and old alike holding unsheathed Kirpans and Nishan Sahibs, was followed by float having the Parkash of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Bhai Pinderpal Singh Ji, a world renowned Katha-kar, along with Hazoori Ragi Jathas of Bhai Rainder Singh and Bhai Manjit Singh were present in the elaborately decorated float. Marchers recited hymns from Gurbani throughout the procession.
Gatka, the Sikh martial arts, was displayed throughout the procession by several Gatka Akharras. The young Gatka Sikh warriors displayed their skills with maneuvers using swords, shields, spears, and battle-axes.
Marchers filled the downtown Stockton streets, many wearing traditional blue and white garments and orange turbans. The Sikhs follow the teachings of 10 Gurus who developed the religion in the 16th and 17th centuries. The 10th one, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, created the Khalsa, a sacred bond among followers of the religion devoted to purity of thought and action.
View PW Nagar Kirtan Gallery
