Leicester's streets were filled with music and colour today (Sun) as 10,000 people joined in a procession to mark the birthday of the founder of the Sikh religion, Guru Nanah Dev Ji.
The Nagar Kirtan event, which has been staged in Leicester for more than 20 years, began at Guru Tegh Bahadar Gurdwara, in East Park Road and ended at the Guru Nanak Gurdwara at Holy Bones, near St Nicholas Circle.
Harjot Kaur, 27, of Evington, said: "It is an important day, it means a lot to us - everyone has really been looking forward to it."
Her sister-in-law, Sarika Kaur, 26, said: "We're known for being colourful, so this day reflects our culture perfectly."
The celebration began with prayers and hymns, before worshippers took to the streets for a three-hour long parade.
Food stalls lined the route, offering a selection of treats, including pizza, samosas and onion bhajis, to the passing crowds.
Peté Singh, 26, of Highfields, said: "It meant a lot of things - getting together with everyone and getting away from everyday life."
Preetam Singh, 18, of Rowley Fields, said: "It is extremely important to carry on these traditions, it makes us feel closer to the Guru."
Indey Singh - Nihang, 37, of Oadby said that the procession enabled the Guru to live on.
"It meant everything to us.
"It's not just about celebrating, it was about bringing people together too."
Rajwant Kaur, 28, of Thurnby Lodge attended the parade with her family.
She said: "The procession makes you feel a sense of belonging.
"It was great to bring the kids along, it is extremely important that they learn about our culture."
Davinder Kaur, 39, of North Evington, agreed that the parade gave parents an opportunity to educate youngsters about their religion.
"The Guru taught that everyone is equal and it is important to keep that alive in today's community.
"It's good that we can teach the children and younger generation and the pass the message on through this procession."
Nirmal Dhesi, 69, of Oadby, said: "The day was very important.
"He was our first Guru, our founder - we have a lot to thank him for.
"It was the biggest day in the Sikh year."
The Nagar Kirtan event is the second of two religious processions by member of the Sikh community in Leicester every year.
The other is Vaisakhi, the Sikh new year, in April.
