VAISAKHI ON THE SQUARE Sunday 30th April 2006 Time: 11.30am – 5pm Trafalgar Square London SW1

The Mayor of London is backing the fourth annual Vaisakhi festival celebrations in Trafalgar Square. Vaisakhi is the main Sikh festival of the year and the celebrations can be enjoyed by all Londoners. Mayor Ken Livingstone said: “It is with great pleasure that I once again welcome the festival of Vaisakhi to Trafalgar Square. The festival highlights the core Sikh values of equality, diversity and tolerance for all – values that are vital for a great world city like ours.

“The economic, social and cultural life of London is greatly enriched by the Sikh community, and this year I am particularly pleased that the event will highlight the contribution made by some of our city’s most successful Sikh business people. This celebration is now firmly established as a key event in the capital’s cultural calendar, and everyone from every background is welcome to come and enjoy the day.”

The event begins at 11.30am with prayers and messages for peace, followed by an afternoon programme of traditional and modern Asian music entertainment courtesy of Sunrise Radio And Sony Entertainment Television Asia. Free Langar (vegetarian food) will be served between 12.30pm – 3pm.

The message of Vaisakhi has particular relevance to London, as the capital is the most ethnically diverse city in Europe, with 300 languages spoken and over 14 major faiths practised. Vaisakhi promotes friendship and mutual respect .

Vaisakhi programme
11.30am Shabad kirtan (Religious hymns) performed by children from Gurdwaras in London.
1.30pm Classical Music
2pm *Sunrise Radio, with live music, dance, guest artists and DJs.
3pm Speeches and Presentations
3.30pm *Sunrise Radio, with live music, dance, guest artists and DJs.
5pm Event ends
*Artists to include Apna Sangeet, Jessi Sidhu, Manak E and Assli Bahara Panjab