Vaisakhi celebration returns to Trafalgar Square

The Mayor of London's Vaisakhi festival celebrating Sikh culture and heritage will take place in the capital on Saturday (29).

Visitors will be fed langar (a free meal) and will get the chance to listen to Kirtan (Sikh spiritual music), and watch Gatka (martial arts), there will also be folk music, turban tying, children’s activities and an exhibition by artists.

For the past two years the festival has taken place in City Hall and More London Riverside, however Sadiq Khan pledged to bring the celebration back to Trafalgar Square, opening the event to even more people, and giving Londoners from all backgrounds, and visitors to the capital, the opportunity to learn about Sikhism and celebrate Vaisakhi.

The festival which took place earlier this month, commemorates the birth of the Khalsa and the beginning of Sikhism as a collective faith.

Sadiq Khan, said: “We will have an incredible line up of performers, artists and musicians from across the Sikh community, for what will be an amazing showcase of Sikh heritage and culture in the heart of our great city.

“When I think of the Sikh community in London and the contribution they have made to the capital – socially, culturally and economically - I feel proud. I'd like to wish the Sikh community of London and beyond a very happy Vaisakhi. Vaisakhi di lakh lakh vidaiya.”

Manraj Singh Othi, of the Vaisakhi Steering Group, said the celebration would be open to Londoners of all faiths.

“The Sikh community are an integral part of the London landscape, whilst maintaining a very visible and distinctive identity. This year’s event continues to give London the opportunity to celebrate British Sikh talent through spiritual music, art, and martial arts as well as other great community projects,” he added.