The Bradford Hindu Council (BHC) was honoured to join the Sikh community for the vibrant Vaisakhi celebrations in Bradford, marking the birth of the Khalsa and one of the most significant events in the Sikh calendar. The colourful and uplifting Nagar Kirtan brought together thousands of residents, faith leaders, and civic representatives, showcasing the strong spirit of unity and community cohesion that defines Bradford.
Representing the Hindu community, BHC Chairman Mr. Ravinder Dharni and Trustee and Public Relations Officer Mr. Deepak Sharma attended as invited guests at the Guru Gobind Singh Gurdwara, standing alongside a distinguished gathering of faith leaders, dignitaries, and community representatives as the annual procession prepared to set out through the streets of Bradford.
A Celebration of Faith and Community
The atmosphere was one of warmth, joy, and shared celebration, with families, volunteers, and community groups coming together in the spirit of Seva — the Sikh principle of selfless service. The Nagar Kirtan, accompanied by devotional music, community participation, and acts of generosity, highlighted the Sikh community’s longstanding contribution to Bradford’s civic and cultural life.
The BHC delegation joined a distinguished group of attendees reflecting Bradford’s strong cross-community relationships, including:
Lord-Lieutenant Adeeba Malik CBE
The Right Revd Toby Howarth, Bishop of Bradford
Revd Canon Jonathan Triffitt, Bradford Cathedral
Dr. Kuldip Kaur Bharj OBE, DL
Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, Leader of Bradford Council
Imran Hussain MP
Representatives from the Dawoodi Bohra Community
Community leaders including Mr. Nirmal Singh and Mr. Manoj Joshi
Reflections on Shared Values
Speeches delivered during the gathering emphasised the importance of faith, service, and unity. Lord-Lieutenant Adeeba Malik CBE and Bishop Toby Howarth spoke about the shared values that unite communities across Bradford, highlighting the importance of religious freedom, compassion, and service to others.
Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe and Imran Hussain MP praised the Sikh community for their remarkable contributions to Bradford’s social fabric, particularly recognising the spirit of Seva and the positive impact of community-led initiatives throughout the city.
Strengthening Interfaith Bonds
While attending in a supportive capacity, the presence of the Bradford Hindu Council reflected its ongoing commitment to strengthening interfaith relationships and fostering community cohesion.
Chairman Mr. Ravinder Dharni commented:
“Vaisakhi is a powerful reminder of the shared values that bring our communities together — service, compassion, and unity. It was a privilege to stand alongside our Sikh brothers and sisters and celebrate this important occasion together. Bradford’s strength lies in its diversity and the respect we show one another.”
Trustee Mr. Deepak Sharma added:
“Standing with faith leaders, civic representatives, and community members at the Guru Gobind Singh Gurdwara was a proud moment for the Bradford Hindu Council. The warmth, hospitality, and vibrant spirit of the Nagar Kirtan truly reflected the best of Bradford and the unity that defines our city.”
Looking Forward
The Bradford Hindu Council extends its warmest Vaisakhi greetings to the entire Sikh community and expresses sincere thanks to the trustees and volunteers of Guru Gobind Singh Gurdwara for their gracious invitation and exemplary organisation of the event.
The BHC looks forward to continuing to work closely with Sikh and other faith communities across Bradford to strengthen understanding, celebrate shared values, and promote harmony across the city.
