Sikh Parade Brings Culture and Community Spirit to Te Puke

Te Puke will host its annual Sikh parade, known as Nagar Kirtan, on Saturday, September 27, in a vibrant celebration of faith, culture, and community connection. Organized by the Bay of Plenty Sikh Association, the parade will start and finish at the Sikh temple (Gurudwara) on No. 3 Road, showcasing the processional singing of devotional hymns and carrying the Sikh holy scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib, through the community.

Lehmber Singh, secretary of the Bay of Plenty Sikh Association, explains that the parade is an acknowledgement of faith and a demonstration of the Sikh principle of sharing with others. The event includes free food and drink, and welcomes people of all backgrounds to experience Sikh traditions and values of unity, service, and compassion. Singh notes that the temple has become increasingly welcoming to diverse communities, including Hindu and Nepalese visitors, many of whom work in the kiwifruit industry.

The parade will commence at 11am from the Gurudwara and head south onto Atuaroa Avenue, then right onto Jellicoe Street as far as the roundabout at Boucher Avenue. Road closures will be in place, and food stalls will operate along the route. Made in Te Puke Trust has secured Mitre 10 Te Puke as a sponsor providing free ice creams, and Pizza Hut Te Puke is also supporting the event.

Originally published in Te Puke News by Sun Media.