Auckland, April 6, 2025 — Thousands of members of the Sikh community gathered in Ōtāhuhu on Sunday to take part in the 30th annual Khalsa Day Parade (Nagar Kirtan), organized by Gurdwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The event commemorates Vaisakhi, marking the historic founding of the Khalsa in 1699 by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, and is a significant occasion of pride, faith, and community for Sikhs around the world.

The procession began at 12:30 PM from the gurdwara and made its way through the heart of Ōtāhuhu. Devotees marched peacefully through the streets, chanting "Satnam Waheguru" and singing sacred hymns, creating an atmosphere of spirituality and unity.

Leading the Nagar Kirtan were the Panj Pyare (the Five Beloved Ones), dressed in traditional attire, symbolizing the original five Sikhs initiated into the Khalsa. They were followed by a beautifully decorated float carrying the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the central scripture of Sikhism, with hundreds of members of the sangat (congregation) walking behind in reverence.

A notable aspect of this year’s parade was a truck prominently featuring large depicting the 1984 Indian Army assault on the Golden Temple, including the destruction of the Akal Takht Sahib, along with images of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. The float drew significant attention and reflection among participants and onlookers alike.

Many in the procession carried Khalistan flags advocating for a sovereign Sikh homeland. Organizers and community members emphasized that these expressions are not separate from the Sikh faith but are deeply rooted in the religious principle of Miri-Piri — the doctrine introduced by Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, which upholds the union of spiritual and temporal authority. In this view, standing against oppression and advocating for justice is an essential aspect of Sikh identity.

While the parade carried strong political messages, it remained peaceful and family-friendly, with community members offering free food (langar). The event was not only a celebration of Sikh history and values but also a call to remember and honor the sacrifices made by Sikhs in their struggle for justice and self-determination.

Local leaders and community figures commended the parade for promoting interfaith understanding, cultural diversity, and social awareness. The 30th Nagar Kirtan in Ōtāhuhu stood as a powerful reminder of the Sikh spirit — grounded in faith, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of truth and freedom.