Baisakhi Celebration at the Consulate

The Consulate General of India, in association with the Sikh Art and Film Foundation, organized a function to celebrate Baisakhi on April 19, 2012. The event was attended by around 200 persons.

Consul General Ambassador Prabhu Dayal, while welcoming the guests, said that though Baisakhi is celebrated all over India, it is particularly significant for the Sikh community as it was on this day that Guru Gobind Singh had founded the Sikh Khalsa. He thanked the community members for their attendance in such a large number to celebrate the event at the Consulate.

Sir Mota Singh, the United Kingdom's first Sikh and Asian judge to be Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to the administration of justice and community relations, Nassau County Comptroller Mr. Tom Napioli and Dr. Sat Bir Singh Khalsa, Assistant Professor of Medicine & Associate Neuroscientist, Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School, a Canadian who has embraced Sikhism, were the special guests who graced the occasion. Explaining the significance of Baisakhi in the Sikh community, Sir Mota Singh dwelt at length the establishment and rise of Khalsa Panth. While Mr. Tom Napioli highlighted the valuable contribution made by the Sikh community in USA and conveyed his greetings on the auspicious occasion, Dr. Khalsa briefly explained the reasons for becoming a Sikh and the importance and relevance of Sikhism.

Mr. Tejinder Bindra, President of the Sikh Art & Film Foundation, also addressed the gathering and appreciated the efforts of the Consulate in celebrating Baisakhi and inviting such a large gathering, especially members of the Sikh community. The event was followed by a Bhangra performance, which enlivened the celebrations, and dinner.

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