The Vaisakhi celebrations in the UK started from the mid 1960s when the Punjabis started moving into this country in large numbers. During that time, the celebrations were a combination of the religious and cultural elements of the Punjabis and Sikhs.
“They were not as aware of the difference between the cultural and the religious sides of Sikhism. But over the years, the religious elements of the Sikh religion started becoming more important in the British society. The nagar kirtan, the langar, making sure that people are aware of the birth of the Khalsa, the celebration of Sikhism – the religious aspects became key to Vaisakhi celebrations,” said Jasvir Singh OBE, Chair of City Sikhs.
The sense of oneness one feels when you go to a Gurudwara and participate in listening to kathas is what the emphasis is now on. The cultural aspects – gurbani, bhangra, music and performances have been pushed down to the second spot in importance.
“The story of Khalsa is now being spoken in English. Kirtans and kathas are available in English for the younger generation to follow and not feel alienated,” said Jasvir.
There is also a greater political awareness among all the major parties in the UK, who make sure Vaisakhi celebrations take place. There were several celebrations in the Houses of Parliament this year and that is a new phenomenon.
Jasvir is optimistic that the Vaisakhi celebrations will go further in the future. Just like Canada, where an 'akhand path' took place recently in the House of Parliament, the UK will also start expanding their Vaisakhi celebrations.