PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau on Thursday issued the following statement on Vaisakhi:

“Today, Sikhs in Canada and around the world will celebrate Vaisakhi.

“The holiest day of the year in the Sikh faith, Vaisakhi celebrates the creation of the community of baptized Sikhs, known as the Khalsa, by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699.

“To mark this occasion, Sikhs traditionally gather at their local Gurdwaras to pray and read from the sacred texts and organize religious processions, known as Nagar Kirtans, across the country. While these past two years have been challenging, I know people found inspiration in Sikhism’s teachings of equality, unity, and social justice – values which we all strive to embody, now and as we recover from the pandemic and move ahead to better times.

“For all Canadians, Vaisakhi is an opportunity to honour Canada’s Sikh community – one of the largest in the world – and celebrate the many contributions they have made, and continue to make, in shaping the strong, diverse, and inclusive Canada we know today. Since the beginning of the pandemic, Canadians of Sikh faith have shown their commitment to their communities and their country through seva – selfless service. They have supported their local food banks, provided warm clothing to the homeless, and raised money for many other community initiatives.

“On behalf of our family, Sophie and I extend our warmest wishes to the Sikh community and all those celebrating Vaisakhi, here at home and around the world.

“Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.”

B.C. Premier John Horgan issued the following statement in honour of Vaisakhi:

“Today, in B.C. and around the world, people in the Sikh community are celebrating Vaisakhi, one of the holiest holidays in the Sikh faith. Vaisakhi is a celebration of the formation of the Khalsa over 300 years ago.

“Vaisakhi is normally celebrated through Nagar Kirtans, worship in gurdwaras, and gatherings with friends and family.

“While some may choose to continue to participate in online Vaisakhi celebrations, many communities will welcome a return to in-person celebrations and visits to gurdwaras.

“It is also a day to reflect on the teachings of the Sikh gurus who emphasized the values of sharing, ‘sewa’ (service) and living by honest means.

“B.C. is home to one of the largest Sikh populations outside India. Through difficult times in B.C., the Sikh community in our province has always upheld these teachings of compassion and selfless service and provided inspiration.

“To take just one example, during the tragic flooding last year, many in B.C.’s Sikh community cooked meals and even chartered a plane to deliver food to people who found themselves suddenly isolated.

“On behalf of the Government of British Columbia, to everyone who is celebrating, Happy Vaisakhi!

“Vaisakhi Diyan Lakh Lakh Vadhaiyan!”

CANDICE Bergen, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and the Official Opposition, released the following statement on Vaisakhi:

“Today, Sikh communities in Canada and around the world are celebrating Vaisakhi. Vaisakhi is one of the most important celebrations of the Sikh religion, marking the solar New Year, as well as the harvest and spring. It represents the fundamental principles of Sikhism: honesty, justice, courage, equality, and service.

“After two difficult years, you will finally be able to celebrate Vaisakhi with your communities and families.

“In April, we also mark Sikh Heritage Month. Canada is the proud home of one of the largest and most active Sikh communities in the world. Your culture, history, and heritage have enriched our country from coast to coast to coast.

“On behalf of the Conservative Party of Canada, I wish you health and happiness and a happy Vaisakhi!

“Vaisakhi diyan lakh lakh vadhaiyan! ”