Sydney, Apr.17 (ANI): Members of the Sikh community celebrated the festival of Baisakhi here on Sunday with gaiety and fervor.
The festival marks the beginning of theSikh New Year and the founding of the 'Khalsa Panth' (Sikh Community) on April 13 1699.
The tenth Sikh Guru Gobind Singh held a huge congregation at Anandpur Sahib in Punjab and created the Khalsa or The Pure. One of the five spiritual seats of Sikhs- Takht of Kesgarh Sahib-is located in Anandpur Sahib.
Over 5000 Sikhs participated in the Sikh parade that started from Opera House and culminated at Martin Place.
Sikhs, including women, young boys and girls, participated in the parade attired in saffron turbans and scarfs. The Sikhs also displayed the traditional martial art of 'Gatka'.
Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard congratulated the Sikh community and hailed their contribution in social arena. Gillard was represented by local MP Tanya Plibersek, who is also the Minister for Human Services.
She conveyed Gillard's greetings to the Sikhs community.
Leader of Opposition in New South Wales, John Robertson and other lawmakers attended the parade. All of them congratulated the Sikh community on foundation day of Sikhs.
Dr.Pritpal Singh Coordinator of the American Gurdwara Parbhandak Committee represented the US Sikhs in the parade. He congratulated community members and appealed them to keep alive the high traditions of Sikhs community.
Representatives from about 20 Sikh gurdwaras, including the Association of Australia, Gurdwara of Rivesby Sydney and Gurdwara of Glenwood, Gurdwara of Penrith, were present on the occasion. By Ravinder Singh Robin (ANI)
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