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Washington’s State Capitol hosts inaugural Baisakhi celebration
It was the first time Baisakhi was officially commemorated at the seat of state governance
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Staff Reporter
- Tue, 15, Apr 2025
- 15:10 EDT
- 108
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Whatcom County executive Satpal Sidhu being felicitated as part of the Baisakhi celebration / Consulate of India in Seattle
The Consulate General of India in Seattle hosted the inaugural celebration of Baisakhi at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia on April 14.
The event witnessed participation from key state dignitaries including Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson, Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck, and Secretary of State Steve Hobbs.
Also Read: More than a festival: Baisakhi, memory, and meanin
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Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson with the members of the Sikh community at the Baisakhi celebration. / Consulate of India in SeattleState Senators, members of the Washington State Legislature, and prominent members of the Sikh community from across the state also attended the first official commemoration of the Punjabi harvest festival at the seat of state governance.
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Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson addressing the Baisakhi celebration. / Consulate of India in Seattle
Welcoming the gathering, Governor Ferguson acknowledged the contributions of the Indian American Sikh community to the State of Washington. He commended the community’s role in enriching the state’s cultural and economic fabric and appreciated the initiative of celebrating Baisakhi at the Capitol.
To mark the occasion, the Governor also issued a special proclamation recognizing the significance of Baisakhi and its cultural heritage.
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All female Bhangra dance performance at the Baisakhi celebration. / Consulate of India in SeattleIn a broader show of support, King County — encompassing 39 cities within the Greater Seattle area — along with Snohomish County and the cities of Kent, Auburn, and Marysville, also issued special proclamations declaring April 14 as Baisakhi Day across the region.
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Eminent leaders of the Sikh community felicitated at the Baisakhi celebration. / Consulate of India in SeattleEminent leaders from the community were honored during the celebration for their outstanding contributions to public life and community development in the Greater Seattle area. Among those felicitated during the program was Whatcom County executive Satpal Sidhu, recognized for his leadership and service.
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Members of the Sikh community participating in the Baisakhi celebration. / Consulate of India in SeattleThe event featured a traditional Sikh Ardhaas prayer rendered by a Sikh priest, followed by cultural performances including an all-female Bhangra dance that captivated the audience. Dignitaries such as Secretary of State Steve Hobbs also addressed the gathering, underscoring the importance of cultural inclusion and diversity in public life.
The Indian American Sikh community, which forms a vibrant and active segment of Washington’s population, is known for its strong presence in small and medium-sized enterprises and its active participation in public service.
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