Sikhs celebrate Vaisakhi festival

One of the most important festivals in the Sikh calendar, the holiday is celebrated all over the world.

The annual festival parade, Nagar Keertan, fell on Easter Sunday and set off from Pollokshields, with young Sikhs releasing balloons of peace before walking in procession to places of worship across the city.

But festivities continued up to Vaisakhi on Tuesday (April 14), despite the new central Gurdwara in Finnieston being targeted by racist graffiti.

A wall of the £15 million building was defaced with a swastika and “F**k Islam. NO SHARIAH!”

Charandeep Singh, general secretary of Glasgow Gurdwara, said: “These words represent ignorance at its worst. The perpetrators here are totally ignorant to the values of the Sikh community and the contribution made by Sikhs over nearly 100 years.

“We will continue our dialogue with the police, local and national politicians to create an inclusive society and celebrate the contributions made by Scottish Sikhs to our country.”

But Vaisakhi celebrations weren’t deterred by the incident, and on Tuesday @GlasgowGurdwara tweeted: “Scottish Sikhs in high spirits to celebrate #equality #humanity.”

Southside councillors Stephen Curran and David Meikle tweeted messages of support, with @curranstephen commenting: “Happy #Vaisakhi to the Sikh community in Glasgow and all those celebrating this festival @glasgowgurdwara.”

@cllrdmeikle added: “Happy Vaisahki! I send my very best wishes to everyone celebrating in my ward Pollokshields and in Glasgow.”