Hundreds gathered in Birmingham to celebrate the first-ever Vaisakhi event organised by West Midlands Police.
The festivities brought together tradition, culture and community at the force’s Tally Ho! training centre on Saturday May 24.
The inaugural “Vaisakhi at Tally Ho!” was led by the West Midlands Police Sikh Association and marked a significant moment for the force and wider community.
Attendees witnessed the raising of the Nishaan Sahib – a sacred Sikh flag – in a ceremonial procession by the Panj Pyare and Panj Nishaanchis, setting a respectful tone for the day’s festivities.
Langar – free community kitchen at the heart of Sikh beliefs
The celebration offered traditional Gatka martial arts demonstrations, cultural displays, and Langar – the free community kitchen at the heart of Sikh practice.
Families enjoyed a children’s area with face painting, mehndi, crafts, and inflatable games, while sports fanatics were drawn to kabaddi, wrestling, hockey, and weightlifting.
Chief Constable Craig Guildford and Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster attended the event alongside a host of community partners, including Sikh Soup Kitchen, Langar Aid, Sikh Helpline, Sikh Women’s Aid, Sikh Recovery Network, Sikh Guard, and Gurdwara Aid.
The principle of Seva – selfless service
Sundeep Kaur Cheema of the Sikh Association said, “At the very core of the Vaisakhi celebration was the Sikh principle of Seva – selfless service. The event truly offered something for everyone and showcased the values of equality, service, justice and unity.”
Visitors had the opportunity to meet Sikh officers, interact with police teams, including firearms and traffic units, and even meet members of the dog section – building stronger ties between communities and the force.
Organisers thanked local Gurdwaras for their contribution to the Langar, which helped feed hundreds of guests throughout the day.
