The Squamish Sikh Society is bringing back its annual Squamish Sikh Parade (Nagar Kirtan) this Saturday, June 20, after last year’s event was cancelled due to the Dryden Creek wildfire. The parade marks the martyrdom day of the Fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, and all residents are invited to attend.
The procession will begin at Gurdwara Sahib at approximately 10:30 a.m. and follow the same route as previous years, heading left on 5th Avenue, right on Victoria Street, left on 3rd Avenue, right on Pemberton, right on Cleaveland, and finishing at O’Siyam Pavilion. During the parade, performers will demonstrate Gatka, an ancient Sikh martial art rooted in swordsmanship and military tradition.
Paramjit Sidhu, vice-president of the Sikh Society, said the event carries deep personal meaning.
“For me, this is basically teaching about spirituality, and it’s about human rights,” he said. “Our fifth Guru made us understand that everybody has the right to live on this planet, free.”
Sidhu said the society is expecting more than 8,000 people to attend this year, expecting favourable weather and pent-up enthusiasm after the 2024 cancellation.
Once the parade reaches the pavilion, political and religious leaders will speak, and approximately 26 food stalls will be set up serving both traditional dishes and other fare, including ice cream. Sidhu said the stalls are about more than just food, calling them “an opportunity for everyone to come together in one place” that strengthens the community.
Dignitaries expected to attend include the mayor, representatives from the Squamish Nation, local MLA and MP, RCMP, and the local fire department.
“We will be waiting for you,” said Sidhu. “Don’t forget, Saturday, June 20.”
