Vaisakhi celebrations continued and we were in Wolverhampton to cover the annual Nagar Kirtan which took place to and from Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara, Sedgley Street, Wolverhampton. Even with less sevadars and policing than normal, the day went incident-free and everyone enjoyed themselves thoroughly. The kirtan went on non-stop during the way with Gianni Manjit Singh and Bhai Harkeval Singh taking it turns to sing on the main float, which was beautifully florally decorated. There were sevadars from Smethwick who came together as a team to sweep the road and pick up dirt infront of the procession.

What did lack this year was the gatka demonstrations going on throughout the Nagar Kirtan. Instead there was an English band infront leading all the way. In addition, there was no special float for the youth towards the back unlike previous years where the youth from the Gurdwaras' Gurmat Sangeet School take it in turn to perform kirtan. I think these were important to the Nagar Kirtan procession because they let youth get involved rather than just walking and holding flags. Maybe next year, the Gurdwara can look at reintroducing the involvement of the youth.

Finally, there will be a Wolverhampton Mela this year which will be organised by the Council of Sikh Gurdwaras (Wolverhampton). It will take place on 2nd May 2010 and will take place at West Park, Wolverhampton. More details coming soon.

Photos from the event