Sikh Heritage Month started as a way to celebrate the rich Canadian Sikh history that extends over 100 years.
Now in its third year, the month-long celebration is bigger and better than ever. Here are some of the Brampton events taking place this year. Better yet, visitors can enjoy all of the PAMA events for free, courtesy of the Sikh Foundation of Canada.
Sunday, April 1:
Sikh Heritage Month Opening Night at PAMA, 6 – 10 p.m.
Enjoy local performers, vendors, art exhibitions and food from the Sikh Seva Society.
Saturday, April 7:
Kundalini Yoga & Meditation to heal the Mind, Body & Soul at PAMA, 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Learn and practice Kundalini Yoga and Meditation with Harvir Singh for a morning of mindfulness that revitalizes the spirit. This session is open to all: please bring a yoga mat with you.
Guru-Inspired Leadership at PAMA, 12:30 – 2 p.m.
Join us as Kulvir Singh, Board Chair of the Sikh Research Institute of Canada (SikhRI), an organization which connects people of all backgrounds with the teachings of Sikhi, speaks about Sikhi & leadership as demonstrated through Bani (wisdom), Tavarikh (history), and Rahit (lifestyle).
Pagh Tying at PAMA, 1 – 4 p.m.
Gather with Harman and Anoop to learn the art of tying a pagh, a headdress worn by men and women. In this class we will explore the different pagh styles, and how to tie one on yourself.
Autism Awareness in the Sikh Community at PAMA, 3 – 4:30 p.m.
Awareness is the first step in any form of progress. Autism is now more prominent than ever, it’s an important topic to address, not only for acceptance, but for general information. Come join the conversation.
Fireside with Fatah at Brampton City Hall Atrium, 7 – 10 p.m.
Join Fateh as he hosts a conversation on the intersection of Sikhism, identity and art.
Sunday, April 8:
Mapping the Gaps at PAMA, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
An in-depth discussion about the journey of the Sikh Panth (nation) throughout history. We invite you to participate in this mapping exercise as we put pen to paper to portray ideas, historical moments and art, that all tell the Sikh story.
Activism or Extremism: Experiences of Minorities in Mainstream and Social Media at PAMA, 2 – 4 p.m.
Join in on the discussion lead by the World Sikh Organization. Learn how to effectively engage in activism and community-building through mainstream and social media outlets.
Embracing the Divine Femininity: BirKaur Yoga at PAMA, 10:15 – 11:30 a.m.
Experience your own personal relationship with the Divine Feminine through Kundalini Yoga and the mantra Bhand Jamee-ai. Please wear comfortable clothing. A head covering will be provided if needed.
SikhRI: Thank You, Vahiguru Storytelling at PAMA, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Enjoy an afternoon with Inni Kaur as she shares excerpts from “Thank You, Vahiguru,” and other stories for children. Kids of all ages are invited on a journey that gives them a glimpse into Sikh family life & culture and an understanding of the teachings of Guru Nanak Sahib.
SikhRI – Women: Gateway to Freedom at PAMA, 2 – 3 p.m.
Thinker, educator and activist Harinder Singh shares the intricacies of the relationship between women and the concept of Divinity in Sikhi. The discussion will focus on women in Sikhi, discrimination, and gender-equality issues as demonstrated through Sikh teachings.
SikhRI – Mai Bhago & I at PAMA, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Inni Kaur, Author, Poet & Storyteller, shares the life & legacy of Mai Bhago, the first woman in Punjab to fight on a battlefield. She touches on the incredible inspiration Mai Bhago has been for many people’s lives.
31 Minutes of Mool Mantra at PAMA, 1:15 – 2 p.m.
Let us come together as Sangat (a community) and be exalted by the sacred words of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. In this program, we will lovingly chant the Mool Mantra for 31 minutes. This is open to everyone and anyone. Please bring something comfortable to sit on.
Saturday, April 21:
From Sat Naam to Wahe Guru at PAMA, 10:15 – 11:30 a.m.
The Sikh dharma is based on a lifestyle of meditation, inspiration, and a spirit of universal service. Come join Guru Fatha Singh in exploring the concept of “SatNaam” and the practice of invigorating meditation to access an experience of “Chardi Kala” (elevated awareness).
Broadening Horizon: The Power of ONE Project at PAMA, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
The PowerofONE Project is an arts based workshop that discusses the impact of language in discrimination by engaging in an open dialogue using art in a safe environment. The 60 minute workshop will centre on the multiple forms of discrimination, and creating spaces where community members can share their experiences.
SikhRI – Sikhi & Acceptance: Sikhi On The Job at PAMA, 2 – 3 p.m.
Whether your career is a ‘traditional’ one or an unconventional one, how does your relationship with the Guru influence the decisions you make in your job? Join the the discussion with Dr. Jaspreet Kaur, SikhRI Advisor Board, as she explores how being a Sikh can influence your career choices.
Sunday, April 22:
Harmonize with Anatvir at PAMA, 1:15 – 2:15 p.m.
Come out and jam with Ustaad Anantvir Singh. All levels and instruments are welcome for an open sit-down session.
Mental Health and Hiphop (RSVP required) at PAMA, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Hip Hop artist Noyz will lead a discussion on the struggles of mental health and how they impact his daily life as a Sikh artist.
Thursday, April 26:
Sikh Heritage Month Celebration at City Hall Atrium and Conservatory, 6 – 8 p.m.
Join us in the City Hall Atrium and Conservatory as we celebrate the conclusion of Sikh Heritage Month. Network and mingle, sample traditional cuisine, experience local entertainment and listen to inspiring speakers.
6:00 p.m. Networking and Light Refreshments
6:30 p.m. Presentations
Saturday, April 28:
Closing Night of Sikh Heritage Month Celebration at City Hall, 6 – 10 p.m.
A gathering and celebration to commemorate the closure of another successful Sikh Heritage Month. Join in on the fun at Brampton City Hall with food, activities, performances and more!
