April 6

It was a very cold and windy day for the Khalsa Day Parade marking the 303rd birthday of the Khalsa. The arrangement was as elaborate as that of the 1999 Tricentenary Vaisakhi. A large covered stage was set up near the reflecting pool at the Lincoln Memorial with a very loud public address system.

The parade was organized by Dr. Paramjit Singh Ajrawat whose “vision for this hallmark event was a gathering of thousands of fellow Americans, where individuals could enjoy the fruits of Spring at the Cherry Blossom parade and become better educated about the unique Sikh identity, culture, heritage, Sikh sovereignty (liberation of Khalistan), determination to combat global and Indian state terrorism, and the unwavering commitment to their country.”

The program began at 8am with Khalsa Divaan by Raagi Sahibs and youth groups from various Gurdwaras around the greater Washington area. Guest speakers such as Prof. Darshan Singh Dhillon of Punjab University, Chandigarh, spoke about Khalistan.

The turnout was less than expected and there was a significant amount of langar left over. By 2:00 PM, however, about 750 Sikhs gathered to march down Constitution Ave. The Sangat was led by Scottish bagpipers, which was vaguely explained as having historical relevance. Following them were the Panj Pyaaray and a Golden Temple float, among other floats. The hour long procession ended across from the U. S. Capital building where cultural programs continued into the evening.

The response from the sangat was mixed in terms of the success of the parade.