Thousands join in Sikh parade

Thousands of people took to the streets of Sandwell for a colourful procession.

Around 10,000 joined in the Sikh procession from West Bromwich to Smethwick to mark the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji yesterday.

The procession, called a Nagar Kirtan, started at the Guru Har Rai Gurdwara in West Bromwich High Street and made its way to the Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Smethwick High Street throughout the morning, visiting other gurdwaras along the way.

Rolling road closures were in place as the procession made its way around the streets, with featured drums, music and holy readings along the way, with members of the parade decked out in bright orange, while confetti and fireworks also marked the occasion.

Chairman of the organising committee, Balbinder Singh, from the Tividale Gurdwara, said it one of the most important days in the Sikh calendar as it marked the birth of the first Guru and the founding of the Sikh faith. "It is a big celebration and it grows along the way with more than 10,000 people," he said.

"Luckily the weather has not been too bad. It is very colourful and it is for the whole community to enjoy."

Committee member Jit Singh, from the Guru Har Rai Gurdwara in West Bromwich, said: "We have been preparing for this for a long time.

"A lot of people join in as we go along and it is huge by the time we finish.

"It is not just the about the crowd, but it is a highlight to see everyone celebrating with honesty in their heart and it is about giving a peaceful message."