Thousands flocked to the streets of Gravesend to take part in the annual Vaisakhi celebrations last weekend.
The centrepiece of the celebrations was the Nagar Kirtan procession with the singing of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib - the Sikh holy book.
Thousands enjoyed the weekend's festivities in Gravesend
Led by religious and community floats, the festival was enjoyed by all.
The President of the Gurdwara, Davinder Singh Bains, aka Shinde A1, said: “I was overwhelmed by how many people came to support the Vaisakhi celebrations.
“The Sikh community has a long and proud history here in Gravesham and we appreciate the support of all our partners and the local community in making Vaisakhi such a colourful spectacle.”
The celebration marks the establishment of the Sikh religion in 1699 by commemorating the Khalsa Panth - the community of committed Sikhs - that established the faith as it is practised today.
The celebrations were launched on Thursday (April 14) with a special service on the Community Square where the Sikh flag was raised
The procession started on the grounds of the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara before going through the Town Centre, much to the delight of onlookers who stopped to watch the incredible spectacle of colour and charity as free donations - seva - of food and drink were handed out.
The celebration marks the establishment of the Sikh religion in 1699
Following a short stop for prayers at the Guru Ravidass Gurdwara, the procession headed back to the temple where thousands joined in with celebrations on the sports field where a fun fair, Sikh martial arts and musical performances lifted the soul.
Gurvinder Sandher, who has been working with the Guru Nanak Darbar Management Committee to organise the festivities, said: “It is so rewarding after months of planning to see that despite the poor weather thousands of people coming out to support the Vaisakhi celebrations.
“The Vaisakhi celebrations in Gravesham are some of the biggest in the UK and it is a great testament for all concerned that they have evolved from just being a Sikh celebration to one involving all communities regardless of faith.”
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