Thousands parade in Winnipeg on Sunday for 420th anniversary of Sikh holy book

Members of Manitoba's Sikh community assembled in Winnipeg this weekend for an annual celebration of the religion's holy scripture.

The Nagar Kirtan parade was held Sunday to mark the 420th anniversary since the Guru Granth Sahib — the religion's holy book, which Sikhs believe is the last in a line of gurus — was installed in the Golden Temple of Amritsar, in India's Punjab region.

The procession in Winnipeg, organized by the Sikh Society of Manitoba and led by the Panj Pyare or "five beloved ones," began on Memorial Park shortly after noon on Sunday.

A celebration with free food and traditional dance and music also took place at the park.

Harpreet Maan, whose family has been in Winnipeg since 2015, says Nagar Kirtan is a time for practicing Sikhs to celebrate the birth of their religion.

Maan said she's been waiting for the festivities all year.

"Giving our regards to Guru Granth Sahib, that's the most important thing, and other than [that], spending time with family and friends," she said.

"We're getting a chance to celebrate in Winnipeg. To have a celebration like that — that's really great for us."

Sukhjinder Singh and other members of the Royal Riders Winnipeg motorcycle club have been participating in the procession for years.

Singh said in his home country, they'd be riding horses, but "metal horses" will do.

"We are a growing community in Manitoba," he said.

"Everyone is excited for a Sikh parade.… That's why all the community [has] come."