New Delhi: On the 19th of July 2008, UNITED SIKHS organised another event at Guru Tegh Bahadur Public School, Mansarovar Garden, New Delhi, as students went back to school after the summer vacation. This program was based on the ‘Importance of Turban’, for the children of 11-12 year age group.

The event started with a 5 minute simran (meditation) session led by a UNITED SIKHS volunteer Baljit Singh at 8:30a.m, followed by welcoming words from the Chief Guest, Mohinder Kaur, Vice Principal, Guru Tegh Bahadur Public School. The role model for the event was Jatinder Pal Singh, Mr. Singh India 2008, a bachelor of commerce graduate from the All India Ghandharva University with a first class degree in Tabla. Having a comprehensive knowledge of instruments like the harmonium, Casio keyboard, congo, flute and guitar, Jatinder Pal Singh won the title of Mr. Singh India 2008 and the best talent award.

A presentation titled ‘Turban – The Proud Heritage’ was led by UNITED SIKHS volunteer, Harsimran Singh. All the children who took active participation during the slide show were rewarded with chocolates.

An interactive session held in the end gave students a chance to clarify their doubts. Students who took the initiative in asking questions were rewarded with chocolates.

Baljit Singh honoured the role model and the chief guest with a bouquet and a UNITED SIKHS CD on the recitation of Japji Sahib, Rehraas Sahib and Sohila.

Sharing his views with children Jatinder Pal Singh said, “It was a great pleasure for me to be a part of the noble gathering. The session on ‘Importance of Turban’ was held to propagate the noble thought, values, importance and significance of Turban in Sikhism by one of the most prestigious organization, UNITED SIKHS.”

He added, “The kids really enjoyed it and the purpose was also fulfilled by seeing the zeal and enthusiasm in those small kids. I am sure these kinds of sessions would leave a long lasting impact and would help to create a strong belief in Sikhism, which would result in a strong cultural future. We must concentrate on the new generation to dream a strong future.”

Ashpreet Singh, a student of Class VII A shared, “It has helped me to increase my knowledge on Sikhism and the importance of wearing a Turban. I feel proud to be a part of the Sikh community.”

Additionally, UNITED SIKHS volunteer Satinder Pal Singh said, “I am sure these measures would play a lead role in cementing the pillars of Sikhism. Youngsters have a lot of questions that remain unanswered which in turn causes them to deviate from the basic values. By organising such events we are explaining to them the reason to keep unshorn hair or why Sikhs should not wear a cap and what is the significance of the turban, etc… They then could revert with an answer to their inner self and the world.”

“Tere Jhulte Nishan Rahe Kalgiyan Waleya, Mera Bhaven Kakh Na Rahe”- May your flag remains flying, O’ tenth Guru, even if nothing of mine remains – This was the note on which the event ended

Issued By: 
Komalmeet Kaur
Project Coordinator
UNITED SIKHS-Asia
Tel: +91-9818096705