Palatine's Sikh Religious Society parade to celebrate founder's birthday

Sikh Religious Society in Palatine will hold a parade and procession Saturday to recognize the 550th birthday of founder Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

Palatine village council members this week approved the society's plan to hold the event from 10 a.m. to noon. There will be at least two floats and a processional with singing of holy hymns.

Under a revised parade route submitted to Palatine village officials, the birthday celebration will begin on eastbound Winnetka Street, then travel north on Grove Avenue, west on North Street and south on Palos Avenue. The parade will conclude by returning for prayer at the Sikh Religious Society, 1280 Winnetka St.

About 300 people are expected to attend the festivities, society President Pardeep Singh Gill told Palatine officials. The village agreed to temporarily close the streets for the event and Palatine police will assist with the procession. Documents show the society will be responsible for costs incurred by the village if additional resources become necessary.

Celebrations of the 550th birthday of Sikh founder Guru Nanak Dev Ji have been happening across the world.