The Squamish Sikh Society invites the community to the annual Sikh parade, also known as the Squamish Nagar Kirtan. The parade, which takes place on Saturday, June 14, 2025, is dedicated to the martyrdom of the Fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
In an interview with the Squamish Reporter, Satnam Singh, the president of the committee, said that he would like to extend an open invitation on behalf of the entire Gurdwara committee to the Squamish and Sea-to-Sky communities. The Nagar Kirtan route will remain the same as in previous years. Led by the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones), the procession will feature a beautifully decorated palki (palanquin) carrying the Guru Granth Sahib, fluttering saffron Nishan Sahibs (Sikh flags), devotees arriving from near and far, and Sikh schoolchildren performing Gatka (martial arts).
To mark Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s martyrdom day, a continuous reading of the Sri Akhand Path Sahib will begin on June 12. After the Bhog (concluding ceremony) on June 14, the Nagar Kirtan will commence from the Gurdwara Sahib at 10 am and pass through the streets of downtown, culminating in the O’Siyam Pavilion Park.
Throughout the Nagar Kirtan route, Guru ka Langar (community kitchen) will be served all day at various stalls. However, the vice-president of the committee, Parmjit Sidhu, said the event isn’t just about free food. “We will be there to remember the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, who spoke about universal human rights and the oneness of humanity,” Sidhu said.
Sidhu is one of the new members of the Sikh committee that has introduced several new changes to connect the local community with their faith. The committee has arranged free Punjabi language classes for local children and organized camps to connect the young kids with their faith. Sidhu said that while the committee takes great pride in their glorious Sikh heritage, they also feel equally proud to be Canadian, a country where they are free to enjoy the freedom of attire, expression, and have the liberty to stay connected to their faith.
“We want to be connected to our roots, but being a true Sikh is recognizing the oneness of humanity, believing that human race is one,” he said.
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