[Photograph of individuals carrying nishan sahibs at the Miri Piri Nagar Kirtan in Surrey]

Photograph of a group of unidentified individuals holding a nishan sahib at the Miri Piri Nagar Kirtan which took place in Surrey, British Columbia (B.C.). The Miri Piri Nagar Kirtan is an annual event which takes place in Surrey and is organized by the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara (Temple).

The Nishan Sahib is a Sikh holy triangular flag made of cotton or silk cloth, with a tassel at its end. The word, Nishan means symbol, and the flag is hoisted on a tall flagpole, outside most Gurdwaras (temples). The flagpole itself is covered with fabric, and ends with a two-edged dagger (khanda) on top. The emblem on the flag, which depicts a double-edged sword called a khanda (☬) in the centre, a chakkar which is circular, and flanked by two single-edged swords, or kirpans. A traditional symbol of the Khalsa Panth, the Nishan Sahib can be seen from far away, signifying the presence of Khalsa in the neighbourhood.

The concept of Miri Piri, introduced by the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib, represents the union of political (Miri) and spiritual (Piri) authority, symbolized by two swords.The Sikh community commemorates Guru Hargobind Sahib's legacy with parades, where participants carry signs reflecting his teachings. Individuals along the route serve food, embodying the Sikh principles of service and community.

The Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara (Temple) was established in the early 1970s, one of the oldest gurdwaras in North America. The gurdwara (temple) is located in Surrey, B.C., and provides a wide range of programs, including, Sikh religious programs, social, sports, women's and children's programs. The Gurdwara has a Panjabi language school as well as a television show and regularly undertakes Sikh youth seminars and workshops.