Wright State University Observes Sikh New Year

April 9 :
Sikhs from Dayton, Ohio's Wright State University, as well as the surrounding community, recently celebrated Vaisakhi, the Sikh New Year and Harvest Festival. An exhibit honouring the Sikh faith and its members' storied past, present, and future was on display at the gathering.
On display were artefacts pertaining to the Sikh faith and its history, the ten Gurus' teachings, Sikh warriors, and women's roles within the faith. In addition to musical instruments like the tabla, harp, dilruba, and rabaab, there were also books, posters, and pictures depicting Sikh history and culture.

There were also classes on how to tie a turban, or dastaar, which taught participants its history and ritual importance. Dr. Kuldip Singh Rattan, who is both an electrical engineering professor emeritus and an advisor to the Sikh Student Association, welcomed everyone with open arms and thanked the group for their hard work in planning the event.

Speaking on the importance of Vaisakhi, Dr. Valerie Stoker, a religion professor at the institution, offered a lecture on Sikh beliefs and rituals.
Sameep Singh Gumtala, a graduate of Wright State University, stated that the purpose of the gathering was to bring attention to Sikhs and their unique culture, particularly in the wake of the tragic events of September 11. A cultural performance, Gidha, a traditional folk dance of Punjab, was the last act of the event.