Thousands gathered in Pomona, California, for the 40th anniversary of Darbar E Khalsa, celebrating faith and unity under unexpectedly clear skies.
POMONA, CA — The annual Darbar E Khalsa event once again united the Sikh community in a powerful display of faith and unity. This year’s gathering was particularly memorable for attendees, as it unfolded against all expectations.
Weather forecasts had predicted a 95 percent chance of rain on December 25, with estimates of two to three inches of precipitation. However, as the day of Darbar E Khalsa arrived, the rain ceased entirely. Many attendees described the clear and radiant day as nothing short of a blessing.
As members of the Sangat arrived at the venue, they shared that they had been praying for clear skies. Their collective ardaas, or prayers, were believed to have been answered by Guru Sahib’s kirpa, or grace. While much of Southern California experienced steady rainfall, Pomona enjoyed sunshine from morning until evening, allowing the Sangat to gather in joy, devotion, and gratitude.
In anticipation of the forecasted weather, event organizers had moved the entire program indoors. Babaji’s hall was arranged with care and reverence, featuring a red carpet to welcome attendees. Along the walkway, artwork and cutouts depicting the Chaar Sahibzaade greeted those entering the venue.
The program commenced promptly at 6:15 a.m. with Asa Di Vaar, performed by the Akhand Kirtaniya Jatha. Over the course of the nine-hour event, several youth groups and kirtan jathas, including the IIGS Jatha, participated in seva, or selfless service, through shabad kirtan.
Dedicated sewadaars worked tirelessly throughout the day to prepare refreshments and langar for the Sangat. Attendees also explored various vendor stalls set up along both sides of the hall. To ensure safety and ease of access, special trams and buses transported Sangat members from parking areas to the venue.
As the weather continued to remain clear later in the day, a Gatka team performed, enhancing the celebratory and spiritual atmosphere of the event.
The program concluded with a Nagar Kirtan, during which thousands of devotees chanted “Satnam Waheguru” and carried Babaji’s Swaari in a special palki to a waiting helicopter. As the helicopter lifted off, the Sangat offered a heartfelt farewell, marking the close of another Darbar E Khalsa filled with devotion and remembrance.
Established in 1986 by the International Institute of Gurmat Studies, Darbar E Khalsa commemorates the life and Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj while honoring the supreme sacrifices of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib Ji, Mata Gujri Ji, and the Chaar Sahibzaade.
This year’s gathering marked the 40th anniversary of Darbar E Khalsa, reinforcing its enduring significance for the Sikh community, according to India West.