Sikh community facility approved

 According to Wyndham “ Wyndham council has approved plans to renovate and expand the Gurdwara Sikh community facility in Hoppers Crossing, despite 108 objections from residents. 

Under the proposal, the three existing buildings at 405-417 Sayers Road will be replaced by three larger buildings that include a prayer hall, dining facilities, a Punjabi school and community spaces.

The facility is intended to be operated daily between 8am and 10pm and accommodate up to 600 people during special events.

At the Tuesday 11 November planning meeting, several residents spoke on the matter, citing concerns that increasing the capacity of the site might make traffic on nearby residential streets worse and increase noise.

However, Cr Preet Singh said the Sikh community has been part of Wyndham for decades and that their generosity is needed in the area.

“Tonight we stand at a crossroads, a moment that calls for clarity, courage and conviction – we are being asked to make a decision that will shape the future of our community,” Cr Singh said. 

“Asking them to relocate is not just impractical, it is unjust.”

Cr Shannon McGuire, who said he lives less than 1.5km from the site, said he had to vote against the motion due to traffic concerns on roads such as Sayers Road.

“The road network is already at breaking point and will not be any better as a result of this, I don’t thing any reasonable person would say so–both in the short term and long term,” Cr McGuire said.

“In ten years time, people will be driving down Sayers Road saying ‘who allowed this to happen?”

He received a round of applause from members in the public gallery.

Cr Susan McIntyre also said it was a difficult decision, but the debate was a matter of the feasibility of the development’s scale, not the good work of the Sikh community.

“To me it really comes down to saying is this the right facility of this size and scale in this area, and that is why I won’t be supporting it,” Cr McIntyre said. 

Council voted in favour of allowing the expansion, nine votes to two.”

Railways to operate two special trains for Sikh devotees on Guru Tegh Bahadur martyrdom day

 According to Devdiscourse “ Indian Railways will operate two special train services, one from Patna Sahib and another from Old Delhi, starting November 22 to facilitate smooth travel of devotees during the commemoration of the martyrdom day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur, S. Ravneet Singh, Minister of State for Railways, said on Thursday.

''Honouring the Guru's immortal legacy of sacrifice for religious freedom, truth, and human dignity, Indian Railways is committed to ensuring that pilgrims travelling to Sri Anandpur Sahib receive safe, seamless, and comfortable travel arrangements during this sacred period,'' Singh said.

A press note from the Ministry said that a 22-coach special train will depart from Patna on November 23 at 06:40 hrs, reaching Sri Anandpur Sahib at 04:15 hrs on November 24.

''The return service will depart from Sri Anandpur Sahib on November 25 at 21:00 hrs, arriving at Old Delhi at 23:30 hrs. The train will halt at Lucknow, Moradabad, and Ambala en route,'' it added.

According to the press note, another daily AC special service will depart from Old Delhi at 07:00 hrs on November 22, 23, 24, and 25, reaching Sri Anandpur Sahib at 13:45 hrs the same day.

''Return services will depart from Sri Anandpur Sahib at 20:30 hrs daily, arriving at Delhi at 03:15 hrs. The service will stop at Sonipat, Panipat, Kurukshetra, Ambala, Sirhind, and New Morinda in both directions,'' the note added.

The minister stated that these services reflect Indian Railways' continued dedication to providing accessible and reliable travel options for large numbers of devotees observing this solemn occasion.

Singh further affirmed that the Railways is honoured to support the pilgrimage associated with the life and teachings of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

''Indian Railways urges passengers to plan their journeys accordingly and make use of these special services for a smooth travel experience,'' the press note said.

New exhibit highlights elements of Sikh culture

 According to Nexus Newspaper “ Sheeshe ‘ch thareṛ, or A Crack in the Mirror, is a collection of mixed-media art that highlights different elements of Sikh culture and demonstrates how they interact with one another across the diaspora and across time. Textiles and objects in the exhibit, opening Saturday, November 22 at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria (AGGV), offer a variety of perspectives for reflection.

Created by artists Simranpreet Anand and Conner Singh VanderBeek, who is also an ethnomusicologist, the exhibit is guest curated by Sajdeep Soomal. AGGV curator of contemporary art Toby Lawrence says that A Crack in the Mirror speaks to the idea of shifted perspectives.

“Specifically offering through the perspective of Sikh visual culture and material culture,” says Lawrence. “The exhibition offers a breadth of opportunity to really consider a number of different ways of thinking about the objects that are present, along with the narratives, the materials, and their histories.”  Together, the artists have placed an emphasis on how these aspects of Sikh culture have changed and how they have been forced to adapt to modern conditions. Historically, the fabrics on display would have been made from natural materials. But, contemporary economic forces have influenced a change in the makeup of sacred Sikh textiles from quality natural fibres to cheaper plastic ones.

“The artists are really looking at this tension between the historical production of these sacred materials, these rumala sahib, and how the material itself has shifted into a more synthetic, mass-produced material based on economic need,” says Lawrence.

Lawrence says the change from natural material to artificial plastic has impacted these practices and the life cycle of sacred Sikh fabrics.

“What happens with these materials that are given as offerings during sacred celebrations is that once they’ve reached their lifespan, they’re cremated, and the spirits are returned to that realm. But now that we’re seeing this shift into synthetic materials, that burning process really takes on a different tone, because we’re no longer burning natural fibres like cotton or silk,” she says. “In fact, it’s burning of a plastic or a petroleum-based product, so then that releases toxic fumes rather than sacred energies.”

Lawrence believes exhibits like this are useful to expand our creative selves and promote a space for learning and sharing.

“It provides us a space to think through things in ways that we may not have access to in our daily lives. It’s a place for both experimentation with materials, but also experimentation with ideas,” says Lawrence. “It’s also a place for risk. Some folks may not have the ability to take creative risks in their own lives, and so I think art provides us an avenue to experience and participate in that.”

The exhibit brings together various perspectives from Sikh and Punjabi cultural, religious, historical, and gender-based experiences. She hopes that together they can promote visitors to contemplate diversity and inclusivity.

“It also provides an amazing and creative point of reference to meet people and build new relationships,” says Lawrence. “I think when we do that, when we can come together through our differences, it helps build a more responsible and a more connected citizenship.”

A Crack in the Mirror
Saturday, November 22 to Sunday, April 12
Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
aggv.ca

Sikhs raise more than £3,000 with 15km walk through Coventry

 According to Coventry Telegraph “ More than £3,000 was raised as Sikhs walked through Coventry to help those affected by Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Participants set off from the Gurdwara Guru Nanak Parkash in Foleshill.

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.

Sikh Coalition Launches Lifeline for Punjabi Truck Drivers Facing Discrimination in the U.S.

 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.

10th literary festival begins at historic Khalsa College

 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.

GNDU to create archive of literature on ninth Sikh Guru

 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.

UHNM joins forces with local Sikh community to deliver health and wellbeing event in Stoke-on-Trent

 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."