Recognised as the premier annual sporting and cultural event of the Sikh community in Australia, the games are hosted in different capital cities and major regional centres each year. The three-day event typically attracts over one lakh visitors.

Competitions are being held across age groups-from juniors to veterans - and are open to all, not just members of the Sikh community, underscoring the inclusive nature of the event. Sporting disciplines include kabaddi, hockey, soccer, athletics, netball, volleyball, basketball and cricket, alongside traditional Indian games. Cultural segments feature bhangra, giddha, music and art showcases.

Jagroop Singh Jarkhar, sports promoter and organiser of the Jarkhar sports festival in Ludhiana, said a large number of athletes, including former players from Jalandhar, regularly participate in the Games.

However, cultural performer Ravinder Rangowal, who attended the previous edition but could not travel this year, said participants and spectators had arrived from across Australia and overseas, including New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Canada and the United Kingdom.

Beyond numbers, the Games serve as a community reunion, bringing together generations of the Punjabi diaspora.

Families gather to watch young athletes compete, while migrants witness a blend of cultural identities as younger generations participate in both traditional and mainstream sports.

The event emphasises values rooted in Sikh tradition - discipline, teamwork and seva (selfless service) - with children and youth competing in athletics, kabaddi and team sports, adults taking part in mainstream competitions, and special categories for veteran athletes ensuring inclusivity.

Sydney, which hosted the Games last year, is being represented by teams from New South Wales under the leadership of hockey promoter Navtej Singh Basra.

Sarvinder Rumi said a Sikh Forum organised alongside the games would deliberate on key issues such as strengthening coordination within the Punjabi community, enhancing representation at state and national levels in Australia, improving Punjabi language education in schools, reforming gurdwara management structures, and addressing racism.

Cultural evenings on April 3 and 4 are expected to be a major draw, featuring giddha, bhangra and other performances. Gatka displays, turban-tying contests, book exhibitions, and showcases of Punjabi heritage and language will also attract visitors.

With the event coinciding with Easter holidays, organisers expect a turnout of nearly one lakh people. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan have extended their greetings to the Sikh community on the occasion.