WASHINGTON: A float depicting Sikh tradition of ‘langar sewa’ (community kitchen) will be a part of the upcoming Rose Parade on New Year’s Day in South California.
Formally called the ‘Tournament of Roses’, the parade is a 129-year-old American tradition that attracts up to one million visitors and is broadcast live across the US.
The float will visually transport spectators back to Punjab, the Sikh Coalition said.
Utilising 90,959 flowers and 500 pounds of vegetables, the float will symbolise the meals that can be expected in a langar hall.
The float will also showcase beautiful brick walls, a marbled dome roof and scalloped arches to replicate those found at the Darbar Sahib.
This would be the fourth consecutive year for a Sikh float appearing at the popular Rose Parade in California.
“Growing up in California, it was always a dream to see a Sikh float in the Tournament of Roses Parade,” said Bhajneet Singh, a member of the Sikh committee responsible for the float entry for the fourth consecutive year.
“The theme of langar really speaks the values of Sikhism and the work that we are doing to help our communities every day here in California and across the world,” he said.
The Southern California Sikh community feeds an estimated thousands of people across the greater Los Angeles every month.
“From the Khalsa Food Pantry every Friday evening to the monthly barbeques and visits to Skid Row, we are constantly trying to bring langar to those most in need,” said Singh.
According to Singh, the Rose Parade will be an opportunity for millions of Americans to learn more about langar — an important aspect of Sikhism. (AGENCIES)
The people of Tamil Nadu are always special and performing before them in my 25th year is a privilege. I’d like to say ‘thank you’ to all of them on this occasion.”
The concert, which will take audiences through Rahman’s musical expedition, will feature artistes like singer Neeti Mohan, Carnatic vocalist Haricharan, multi-lingual composer Vijay Prakash and Indo-American music producer Sid Sriram.
Speaking about the concert, Wizcraft International director and Co-Founder Sabbas Joseph said, “We have had the opportunity to work with A R Rahman on several projects including the launch of ‘Vande Mataram’ at the celebrations of 50 years of Indian Independence and then more recently the premiere of his 25-year celebration at the Metlife Stadium in New York.”
“The concert before his home fans is a truly exciting opportunity because they have followed and encouraged him through this entire journey and he is their pride. We are grateful to Rahman for giving us the opportunity to produce and promote this celebration,” Joseph said. (AGENCIES)
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