Illinois proclaims April 14, 2018 ‘Sikh American Heritage Day’

April 16, 2018

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Indian-American and Indians of the Sikh faith, celebrated Vaisakhi April 14, around the state of Illinois, including at the Palatine Gurdwara, where the proclamation of Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner, declaring the day “Sikh American Day” was presented by Lt. Gov. Evelyn Sanguetti, to the Sikh Religious Society trustees. Seen in photo are children greeting Sanguetti with bouquets. (Photos courtesy Rajinder Singh Mago)

In the month of April when Sikhs around the world celebrate Vaisakhi, the Governor of Illinois, Bruce Rauner, proclaimed April 14, as “Sikh American Heritage Day” in the state to honor Indian-Americans and Indian immigrants who are followers of that faith, living in his state.

His proclamation was announced at an event hosted by the Sikh Religious Society, Palatine Gurdwara, by Illinois Lieutenant Governor Evelyn Sanguetti, when she addressed the congregation, on Vaisakhi.

Illinois Lt. Gov. Evelyn Sanguetti, center, with Laddi Singh, left, and Rajinder Singh Mago, presenting the “Sikh American Heritage Day” proclamation declared by Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner on April 14, at the Palatine Gurdwara. (Photos courtesy Rajinder Singh Mago)

Sanguetti, who was welcomed by the Sikh Sunday School children with bouquets, presented the proclamation document to the trustees of the Sikh Religious Society. She also toured the langar hall and kitchen and watched rotis being freshly baked. Dr. Pardeep Singh Gill, president of SRS, thanked Sanguetti. The event was coordinated by Rajinder Singh Mago, according to the press release.

Vaisakhi day was celebrated at Gurdwaras in Palatine, Wheaton, and Chicago, Illinois and hundreds of people participated, the press release said. At the Palatine gurdwara alone, more than 1,000 devotees attended the keertan and prayers, and enjoyed the community meal at the langar. Newly initiated Khalsas walked in a ceremonial procession, bowed to the Guru and were presented to the congregation amidst cheerful chants of “Jo Bole So Nihaal, Sat Siri Akaal,” the press release said.