Festivals and Gurpurbs
Like other religions, Sikhism has its own festivals and sacred days. The most significant of these are the Gurpurbs, which commemorate key events in the lives of the Sikh Gurus, including their births, martyrdoms, and spiritual departures. Other important festivals include Vaisakhi, Diwali, and Hola Mohalla.
Gurpurbs
Below are some of the main Gurpurbs celebrated by the Sikh community:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 5th | Birth of Guru Gobind Singh Ji |
| May 2nd | Birth of Guru Arjan Dev Ji |
| June 16th | Martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji |
| September 1st | Installation of Guru Granth Sahib Ji |
| November 24th | Martyrdom of Guru Teg Bahadur Ji |
| November 26th | Birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji |
Vaisakhi
Vaisakhi is celebrated on April 14th and marks the formation of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, as well as the beginning of the harvest season in Punjab.
As part of the celebrations, the chola (cloth covering the flagpole) of the Nishan Sahib is changed. A Nagar Kirtan procession is also held, where the Guru Granth Sahib Ji is carried through the streets, visiting the six Gurdwaras of Bradford.
The procession is led by the Panj Pyarey (Five Beloved Ones), followed by members of the Sikh community. Each year, the starting and ending Gurdwaras rotate among the local temples.
Diwali
In the Sikh tradition, Diwali symbolizes freedom and justice. It commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Ji from prison in 1619. Guru Hargobind Ji, the sixth Guru and son of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, was imprisoned due to religious persecution.
He refused to leave prison unless 52 imprisoned Hindu leaders were also freed. To ensure their release, a cloak with 52 tassels was made so that each could hold on and walk out with him. Upon his return to Amritsar, Sikhs illuminated the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) with oil lamps to celebrate his freedom.
Today, Diwali represents the freedom of conscience, the right to follow one’s faith, and the stand against oppression. At Guru Gobind Singh Gurdwara, the celebration includes religious services, langar (community meal), and a fireworks display in the evening.
Hola Mohalla
Guru Gobind Singh Ji initiated the Hola Mohalla festival in 1680 at Anandpur Sahib to coincide with the Hindu festival of Holi. However, Hola Mohalla focuses on military exercises and martial arts demonstrations, promoting courage, discipline, and the protection of faith.