Giving a global sikh news update. Gathered from various sites online and consolidated and merged onto this blog of every news or article relating to the sikhs, sikhism or sikh related issues.
According to Coventry Telegraph “ More than £3,000 was raised as Sikhs walked throughCoventryto help those affected by Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Participants set off from the Gurdwara Guru Nanak Parkash inFoleshill.
Sikhs gathered in September for the 38th Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Charity Walk. It is organised annually by the Sikh Union.
Over 80 people walked the 15km route starting and finishing at Gurdwara Guru Nanak Parkash on Harnall Lane West. Participants were joined by Lord Mayor Cllr Rachel Lancaster and 'Lady Godiva' Pru Porretta. Funds raised included £2,000 donated to the Coventry and Warwickshire Motor Neurone Group. Meanwhile, £1,700 supported Hockey Youth Development, Girls' Pathway to Hockey and Sikh Union projects.
Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a rapidly progressing neurological condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. Messages from the nerves stop reaching the muscles, leading to stiffness and paralysis, which can affect walking, speaking, swallowing, and breathing.
Volunteers at the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA) focus on campaigning for people living with or affected by MND. Around 3,000 people living with the illness received more than £3.2m in grants in 2024.
According to Rozana Spokesman “ This decision effectively allows non-domiciled CDL holders to continue working without fear of losing their livelihood. This initiative is a major milestone for the diaspora, highlighting the importance of community-driven support and legal advocacy in protecting immigrant workers' rights.File Photo.
Fateh! Sikh Coalition Launches Helpline Following Legal Win for Truck Drivers
The Sikh Coalition has launched a Punjabi-language helpline to support Sikh and Punjabi truck drivers in the United States facing discrimination due to their identity. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit issued a stay on the Trump Administration’s Interim Final Rule (IFR) that had stripped roughly 200,000 non-domiciled commercial drivers’ licenses (CDLs).
Under the IFR, drivers were barred from obtaining or renewing CDLs not because of their skills, driving record, or language ability, but solely based on their immigration status—even though all affected individuals were legally authorised to work in the U.S. The court recognised that the rule had no demonstrable public safety benefit and highlighted its harmful impact on communities, including Sikh truckers and trucking company owners. This decision effectively allows non-domiciled CDL holders to continue working without fear of losing their livelihood.
In response to the evolving regulatory landscape, the Sikh Coalition launched the Truckers’ helpline to provide confidential assistance in Punjabi and English. Drivers facing discrimination can leave messages at “212-287-9169” in Punjabi or English, and the coalition’s team ensures timely support. The helpline is part of a broader effort to protect drivers’ rights, offering guidance, resources, and advocacy for those navigating complex workplace and regulatory issues.
Beyond the phone line, the Sikh Coalition continues its hands-on outreach, hosting “in-person gurdwara clinics” in states such as Indiana and New Jersey. They also provide “free, bilingual resources”, including updated brochures and legal guidance available online at [thesikh.co/truckers](https://www.thesikh.co/truckers).
According to the Sikh Coalition, “The helpline empowers Sikh and Punjabi truck drivers to report discrimination and access the support they need.” “We encourage everyone to practise their faith fearlessly and know that they are not alone.”
This initiative is a major milestone for the diaspora, highlighting the importance of community-driven support and legal advocacy in protecting immigrant workers’ rights. It ensures that Punjabi truckers can continue their work safely, confidently, and without fear of unjust treatment.
According to Tribune “ The 10th Amritsar Literature Festival and Book Fair began at Khalsa College in presence of all members of the Khalsa College Governing Council. Rajinder Mohan Singh Cheena, Pro-Chancellor, Khalsa University, and Secretary, Khalsa College Governing Council, along with Guru Nanak Dev University Vice-Chancellor Prof Karamjit Singh, former diplomat Navdeep Singh Suri, and Khalsa University Chancellor Dr Mahal Singh inaugurated the festival.
Chinna, while stressing on the importance of promoting literature, said, “Literature is an important aspect of life. Books give direction to life. Along with increasing knowledge, books sharpen and refresh human mind. Taking into account the objective of development and promotion of book culture, this literature festival and book fair is organised every year.”
Navdeep Suri said he reached high positions only on the strength of knowledge gained through reading. “The present generation needs to connect with books to not just increase their knowledge, but also sustain linguistic heritage that otherwise will be lost to generalisation. Books teach lessons beyond any classroom and introduce an individual to places and stories that help gain a personality,” he said.
The five day literature festival will host a series of book exhibitions, literary sessions and cultural performances by eminent artistes.
Many book sellers from different regions across Punjab have been invited to display stalls and promote Punjabi as well as vernacular literature.
Dr Atam Randhawa, Principal, Khalsa College, said, “This fair has made its own identity outside Punjab and abroad. Its uniqueness compared to common fairs is that it is a literary fair, whose aim is to promote books as heritage.”
The first day hosted a panel discussion with Pingalwara Charitable Society Director Dr Indrajit Kaur about Bhagat Puran Singh’s dedication to human life and his selfless services for the welfare of humanity. Noted author and Sikh scholar Dr Heera Singh and Dr Indrapreet Singh Dhami discussed various aspects of child psychology on the occasion.
After this, Shiromani children’s writer Baljinder Mann and famous artiste Kamaljit Singh Nilo performed for the audience comprising mostly students. The book fair would continue till November 19.
According to Tribune “ Vice-chancellor of Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), Prof Karamjeet Singh, today announced that the university is going to create a digital archive of all the literature related to the ninth Sikh Guru, Tegh Bahadur. Prof Karamjeet Singh, in his presidential address at the two-day national conference dedicated to the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, said, "We will compile all primary sources related to Sikhism into a central digital archive, enabling scholars worldwide to access them." He emphasised that Sikhism imparts not just knowledge but also wisdom and self-confidence, freeing individuals from inner fears.
The two-day national conference is being held in the auditorium hall of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Study Centre in collaboration with the Department of Guru Nanak Studies and the Department of Political Science. The theme of the conference was 'Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji: Martyrdom and Moral Consciousness'. In the inaugural session of the conference, Prof Karamjit Singh, along with the keynote speaker, noted Sikh thinker and scholar, Prof Amarjit Singh Grewal, Prof Manjit Singh (former Jathedar, Sri Akal Takht Sahib), Prof Sarbjinder Singh (Vice-chancellor, Sunny Oberoi Vivek Sadan Futuristic University, Sri Anandpur Sahib), were the main speakers.
Prof Amarjit Singh Grewal emphasised that Guru Tegh Bahadur gave the slogan of "Baari Meet Saman". "He was the champion of rights for all, irrespective of their religion or faith. He is remembered for his poetry as much as for his sacrifice," he said.
Prof Manjit Singh (former Jathedar, Sri Akal Takht Sahib), said that there is a need to understand the secrets of the life of Guru Tegh Bahadur through the episodes mentioned in Sikh religious literature. "When Guru Sahib gives important messages like 'Harakh Sog Te Rahai Niaro' and 'Kanchan Mati Manai', he inspires to live a joyful life," he said.
Prof Sarbjinder Singh highlighted the uniqueness of the concept of martyrdom in Sikhism from the perspective of theology in the context of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur. "He made us feel proud of the spirit with which Guru Sahib Ji himself attained martyrdom, only known in Sikhism. For this reason, we should be proud of our heritage and live our lives being aware and practicing the teachings of our Gurus."
Vice-chancellor Prof Karamjeet Singh said that in the era of technology, digitising the entire Sikh source texts related to the ninth Sikh Guru and announcing the Amritsar Declaration, which includes publication of the research papers of all the scholars who participated in this conference in book form, is a commitment towards creating awareness among the next generation.
According to UHNM “ UHNM joins forces with local Sikh community to deliver health and wellbeing event in Stoke-on-Trent
University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM) is joining forces with local Sikh leaders to promote cancer screening and healthy lifestyles for early detection and treatment.
A special health and wellbeing event will take place at Guru Nanak Gurdwara and Sikh Cultural Centre in Stoke-on-Trent on Friday 14 November 2025, bringing together the local Sikh community and healthcare partners to raise awareness of cancer prevention, promote NHS screening programmes, and support early detection to improve health outcomes.
The event is delivered in partnership with University Hospitals of North Midlands (UHNM) Cancer Screening Services, UHNM Population Health team, VAST and the local Sikh community. It aims to provide vital information on NHS cancer screening programmes and healthy lifestyle choices, helping reduce health inequalities.
Visitors will have the opportunity to:
Learn about NHS cancer screening programmes for bowel, breast, lung and cervical cancer.
Speak directly with healthcare professionals about symptoms, early detection, and available support.
Take part in wellbeing activities and receive guidance on diet, exercise, and mental health.
Access to flu vaccinations for the eligible population.
Alex Nisbeck UHNM Public Health Practitioner said “These events play a vital role in improving community health. They provide opportunities for early detection of conditions like cancer, reduce health inequalities by reaching underserved groups, and build trust between healthcare providers and communities. They also promote preventative health through education on diet, exercise, and mental wellbeing, while creating a supportive environment where people can access advice and resources in a familiar setting.”
Sadaf Butt UHNM Organisational Development Consultant, said: "By working closely with faith groups and local leaders, we can ensure that everyone has access to life-saving information and services in a trusted and familiar environment."
She added: "This event reflects UHNM’s continued commitment to working with communities to ensure better health outcomes for all. By bringing services into the heart of local communities, we can break down barriers and make healthcare more accessible and inclusive."
According to Tribune “ Chief Khalsa Diwan (CKD) is all set to expand its chain of 48 educational institutions by establishing a state-of-the-art new school in Balachaur on five acres of land generously donated by Sant Baba Daljit Singh Chicago Wale. The foundation stone of this upcoming institution was laid recently by Giani Raghbir Singh, Head Granthi, Sri Darbar Sahib, in the presence of prominent religious, social and political dignitaries.
During a meeting held today at the Chief Khalsa Diwan head office, CKD president Dr Inderbir Singh Nijjar shared that the Diwan’s remarkable contribution to education and moral upliftment has earned global recognition. “Inspired by this, philanthropists like Sant Baba Daljit Singh are placing immense trust in CKD by donating land to spread the light of knowledge that harmonizes modern education with spiritual values,” he said.
Dr Nijjar further informed that similar land donations have been offered to CKD in Jalandhar and Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting the growing faith and confidence of the people in the institution’s integrity and service. “The amalgamation of religion and science,” he emphasised, “is the foremost need of the modern era, and this school will mark a significant step in that direction.”
Appreciating the selfless contributions of Sant Baba Daljit Singh toward Panthic service and public welfare, Dr Nijjar announced that the new school would be developed as a model of world-class education, featuring modern science laboratories, digital classrooms, modern facilities, and sports infrastructure. Alongside advanced academics, students will also be nurtured with ethical values and Sikh principles, ensuring a holistic educational experience.
He expressed hope that this new CKD institution would become a centre of knowledge, ideals and spirituality, playing a vital role in ushering in a new era of value-based education for future generations.
According to BBC “ A Sikh gurdwara held a blood donor drive with dozens of people expressing an interest in donating.
About 200 people discussed becoming a donor at an event at the Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Luton on Sunday. Twelve registered as new donors, with five of those making donation appointments.
There is a critical shortage of donor blood from ethnic minorities in the UK.
NHS statistics show fewer than 5% of blood donors last year were from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities, despite representing around 14% of the population. Gurch Randhawa is a professor of diversity in public health and also a sewadar (volunteer) at the gurdwara who helped organise the event.
"Our University of Bedfordshire research focuses on understanding why there are lower rates of organ and blood donation amongst minority ethnic communities in this country," he said.
"A lot of that work shows there are low levels of awareness and a lack of trust in blood and organ donation.
"[At this event] we had the Sikh priests explaining to the congregation why blood donation is important and how it aligns with the Sikh concept of selfless service. It was fantastic. We had over 2,000 people at the gurdwara and a couple of hundred came downstairs to find out about becoming a potential blood donor." Mary Adeturinmo, an assistant at the event, said it was all about "trying to recruit new blood donors to help our donor base".
"We're hoping to diversify and help save the lives of patients and countless patients in hospitals," she said.
One blood donation can save up to three lives.
A number of blood conditions, like sickle cell and thalassaemia most commonly affect people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. The best match typically comes from blood donors from the same ethnic background.
NHS Blood and Transplant helped organise the event which was only the second of its kind ever held at a place of worship in Luton. The health authority urged more places of worship in the region who were interested in hosting similar events to contact them.
Mark Chambers, from NHS Blood and Transplant, said: "The NHS needs more Black and Asian donors to come forward to help patients who need blood from someone of a similar ethnicity.
"Giving blood is quick and easy. Our Luton Donor Centre has around 1,200 appointments available over the next six weeks."
According to Daily Free Express “ The Sikh Student Association at Boston University brought a slice of Sikh life to the BU community Wednesday afternoon with its celebration of Gurpurab at the George Sherman Union.
Gurpurab celebrates Guru Nanak, the first of the 10 Sikh gurus and founder of the Sikh tradition. A day of ritual and reflection, Gurpurab is one of the most sacred festivals celebrated by Sikhs.
Members of SABU spent the afternoon handing out complimentary samosas, mango lassi, pakoras and homemade chai to alleviate the stress of midterms season among BU students, Secretary Birinder Bachhal said.
One of the principal tenets of the holiday is seva, a form of selfless service for the betterment of humanity, which SABU members said they wanted to bring to the BU community.
“You’re supposed to serve your community through your heart,” SABU President Sharleen Kaur Sandhu said. “[Seva] means a lot to me, because I feel like we don’t see a lot of that nowadays, so I’m excited to have the opportunity to do this for [Guru Nanak’s] birthday today.”
SABU concluded the holiday with a trip to the gurdwara, or Sikh place of worship, where members shared langar — a communal meal — and sat together in prayer.
“[Gurpurab] holds a nostalgic tone for me because growing up in America as a Sikh, it’s kind of hard to find your community,” Bachhal said. “But I think it’s a cool perspective as a college student, and I think I’m doing a great job employing [my religious practices] as best as I can.”
Bachhal is from Long Island, New York, which he said has a dense Sikh population. The closest Sikh temples to BU are in Everett and Medford, which he said can pose challenges to his religious practices.
Bachhal said although practicing Sikhism at BU is a “huge change” from the way he practiced back home, he tries to emulate his home practices to maintain his connection to Sikhism.
Sandhu said she has only learned and grown into her faith more since coming to BU.
“I think it’s because we are so many people who are away from home trying to find ourselves and how we fit into this world,” she said.
Bachhal said he believes BU can do a better job of being more inclusive toward more religious holidays.
The BU Policy on Student Absence Due to Religious Observances protects students who are absent from class and exams and provides accommodations upon request. This is true of “all religious observances, within all religious traditions,” according to the policy.
However, Bachhal said, in his experience, BU does not recognize Sikh holidays like Gurpurab on the same scale as other religions. He said SABU saw a large increase in turnout during their celebration Wednesday, so he hopes Gurpurab receives more recognition from the University.
“I think one of the more important things for BU [to do] is to recognize all these holidays from their student body and religions that they follow.” Bachhal said. “One step that BU could take forward is recognizing Gurpurab and giving resources to Sikh students across campus.”
Bachhal said he is looking forward to future Sikh celebrations as SABU’s turnout continues to grow. He emphasized the value of practicing seva on campus and getting more students involved.
“As college students, we tend to just be very individualized, and it’s nicer to give back to the community whenever you have the chance,” he said.
