04-05-2025
Thousands attend Dublin's annual Sikh Parade
Over 2,000 people have gathered in Dublin for an annual Sikh Parade to mark Vaisakhi - one of the holiest days in the Sikh calendar.
The parade, known as a Nagar Kirtan, made its way through Sandymount and Ballsbridge, and features traditional Sikh music, martial arts, and free vegetarian meals, reflecting the Sikh value of seva or "selfless service".
First held in 2018, the event is organised by Gurdwara Guru Nanak Darbar, Ireland's only Sikh temple in Sandymount.
Gardaí were in attendance this afternoon to direct traffic during the parade, which spans over four kilometers and typically lasts around two and half hours.
Among those on duty was Ravinder Singh Oberoi, the first Sikh to become a member of the Garda Reserves.
Mr Oberoi has lived in Ireland since 1997, and joined the reserves in 2021.
He almost completed garda reserve training in 2007, until he discovered he would not be allowed to wear his turban as part of the garda uniform.
He brought the matter before an Equality Tribunal and the High Court in 2013, which ultimately ruled that An Garda Síochána was not guilty of employee discrimination.
However, in 2019, alterations to the garda uniform code were announced, allowing members to wear clothing relating to religious groups, prompting Mr Oberoi to try again.
Now over four years in the role, Mr Oberoi believes the Irish and Sikh communities are more cohesive than ever, and he is proud to have played a role in that integration.
"It's quite a proud moment for me to be able to police these kinds of events now as part of the community. I'm kind of the linkage between the community and An Garda Síochána."
"When I came here first back nearly 28 years ago now, the Sikh community was very small, but since then it has grown quite big. Like today, you will see around 2,000 people congregating together for this parade.
"And when I'm out and about on the beat as well, I get that positive vibe back again.
