STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER OF CANADA ON VAISAKHI

Prime Minister Stephen Harper  issued the following statement to mark the celebration of Vaisakhi: “Laureen and I would like to extend our warmest wishes to the Sikh community and all those celebrating Vaisakhi, both in Canada and around the world. “Celebrated every year on April 14, Vaisakhi is one of the most important observances in the Sikh religion. It commemorates the founding of the Khalsa Sikh community in 1699 by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. It is also celebrated as a day of thanksgiving, and the beginning of a new year and a new harvest season in Punjab and across India. “In Canada, family and friends gather together, attend prayer gatherings at Gurdwaras, and participate in vibrant parades, known as Nagar Kirtans. “Canada is home to one of the largest Sikh communities outside of India. Vaisakhi provides all Canadians with an opportunity to celebrate both the festival and the invaluable contributions of the Sikh community to building our peaceful, prosperous and pluralistic country. “On behalf of all Canadians, I wish everyone celebrating today a happy Vaisakhi. “Vaisakhi diyian lakh lakh vadhiaan!”