Nagar Kirtan is a significant and vibrant Sikh tradition involving a religious procession through the streets, accompanied by the singing of hymns (kirtan). This practice, deeply rooted in Sikh culture, serves as a public expression of faith and community solidarity. In Baramulla, a picturesque town in the Jammu and Kashmir region, Nagar Kirtan holds a unique cultural and spiritual significance, blending the rich traditions of Sikhism with the region’s diverse cultural landscape. The Sikh community in Baramulla, although a minority, has contributed significantly to the town’s cultural mosaic. Nagar Kirtan in Baramulla not only reinforces Sikh religious traditions but also fosters a sense of unity and mutual respect among different communities. The preparation for Nagar Kirtan in Baramulla is an elaborate process, involving extensive community participation. Weeks before the event, community members gather at the local Gurdwara (Sikh temple) to plan the procession. The Gurdwara is decorated with flowers, lights, and banners displaying religious symbols and messages. Volunteers clean and prepare the streets along the procession route, ensuring a welcoming and respectful environment. On the day of Nagar Kirtan, participants assemble at the Gurdwara early in the morning. The event begins with the reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, the central religious scripture of Sikhism, followed by Ardas (a prayer) seeking blessings for a successful and harmonious procession. The holy book is placed on a beautifully decorated palanquin, carried at the front of the procession. Leading the way are the Panj Pyare (the Five Beloved Ones), dressed in traditional attire, symbolizing the original five disciples of Guru Gobind Singh. As the procession moves through the streets of Baramulla, it is accompanied by the soulful rendition of kirtan, played on traditional instruments like the harmonium and tabla. Participants sing along, creating an atmosphere of devotion and joy. The route is lined with residents of all faiths, who come out to witness the procession, receive blessings, and sometimes join in the singing. Langar (community kitchen) stalls are set up along the way, offering free meals to all, embodying the Sikh principles of equality and selfless service. The Nagar Kirtan in Baramulla also includes performances of Gatka, a traditional Sikh martial art, showcasing skills with swords and other weapons. These performances are not just displays of physical prowess but are also symbolic of the Sikh martial tradition and its emphasis on justice and protection of the oppressed. Concluding at the Gurdwara, the participants gather for a final prayer and reflection on the day’s events. The Nagar Kirtan in Baramulla, while deeply rooted in Sikh religious practices, serves as a powerful reminder of the region’s rich cultural tapestry and the enduring values of community, service, and harmony.