Cincinnati, Ohio: For the first time ever, Ohioans came together to celebrate twelve major World religions at Xavier University. It was a most inclusive gathering of faith communities ever assembled in city's history with an upwards of 80 faith-based organizations gathered to educate the community about various religions, civic and social matters.
Sikhs from Cincinnati & neighboring areas including Dayton participated in the event. They organized turban tying sessions for the visitors to experience a turban and learn about its significance. For many, this was their first experience to the local Sikh community in the region. The festival was immersed in the colors and traditions of the Sikh Culture, as members of the Community tied turbans on the visitors. Visitors who got the turbans tied, including children, adults, and disabled were seen excited, taking pictures and proudly walking around the event with the crown on their head.
Festival kicked off its inaugural program with a multi-faith prayer service. Throughout the day, many faith-based groups led sessions on meditation, including Naam-Simran, and led the visitors through musical conversations. Exhibition table included books, brochures, Kakkars, and spinning wheel game to answer questions regarding Sikhs and winning a price.
Member of Cincinnati Sikh Community Jaipal Singh said, “For the first time ever, the Cincinnati community came together to celebrate diversity of faiths & beliefs that make the fabric of the Queen city. The Festival of Faiths brought together people from different backgrounds to explore what it means to practice ‘compassion through action’ with our neighbors. We shared the Guru’s legacy & traditions through Turban tying, exhibition table, Gatka, & Gurmat Sangeet, and various presentations.”
Outside the main hall, Gatka demonstration was performed by Shaheed Baba Deep Singh Gatka Academy from New York who especially came for participation in the event. In addition to the exhibition, the Festival also offered live and diverse musical performances throughout the afternoon, fun activities for children of all ages, small-group dialogues on topics related the Festival's theme of "Compassion through Action.," and an interfaith worship service preceding the exhibition.
Sangat members also organized water, fruit and snacks Langar for visitors.
