Faith, Heritage and Learning: Toronto Celebrates Sikh and Hindu Traditions This Season
Toronto's South Asian community has much to celebrate spiritually and culturally, with institutions across the city marking sacred traditions that connect generations and strengthen community bonds.
🪯 TDSB Marks Sikh Heritage Month with Theme of Community and Service
The Toronto District School Board is observing Sikh Heritage Month throughout April 2026, continuing a tradition it pioneered as the first school board in Canada to do so, beginning in 2016. This year's theme — Sangat atey Seva, meaning Community and Service — reflects two foundational pillars of Sikhism: the sacred gathering of the congregation without discrimination, and the practice of selfless service to all people in need. A volunteer planning committee organized events and learning opportunities across both elementary and secondary classrooms, and all students and staff were invited to participate in a virtual celebration where winning student posters and videos were showcased. Kindergarten to Grade 8 students also have the opportunity to engage in an interactive virtual session with Yukon-based Bhangra artist Gurdeep Pandher, whose outdoor dance videos have reached millions of viewers worldwide. [1]
🪔 BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha Brings Diwali and Annakut Festivities to Toronto
The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha organization held its Diwali and Annakut Celebration 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, bringing together devotees to mark one of the most significant festivals in the Hindu calendar. Diwali, the festival of lights, and Annakut — a tradition involving the offering of a grand array of foods to the divine — are central celebrations within the Swaminarayan tradition. The event reflects BAPS's longstanding commitment to nurturing spiritual life and cultural heritage within diaspora communities across the globe. Toronto's Gujarati and broader Hindu community members gathered to observe these traditions together, reinforcing the organization's role as a cornerstone of South Asian faith life in the city. [4]
Sources: [1] Toronto District School Board · [4] BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha