Sikh Temple of Spokane donates $30,000 to wildfire relief

 According to Spokesman “ Whatever God gives his people, the Sikhs return to communities in need.

The Sikh Temple of Spokane donated $30,000 on Sunday afternoon to the Innovia Foundation’s Spokane Complex Wildfire Response Fund. The temple called on its members to donate so it could present one large check.

“Whatever we receive from him, we give it back,” said Simran Padda, a lifelong member of the Spokane temple. “We should give back as much as possible.”

Giving back is at the core of the Sikh temple’s mission. Whether it’s donating locally, to charities like Second Harvest and Innovia, or raising money for people affected by the Nepal floods, the temple bands together for the cause, she said.

The temple’s community grew in the past two decades, member Manivir Singh said, and many members work in academia, healthcare and engineering. Many families do quite well for themselves, he said, but they use that wealth to help others. After the Spokane Complex fires, the temple’s members brainstormed ideas to help the community. They chose Innovia because the foundation ensures money goes to organizations directly involved in relief efforts.

Members of the temple gathered outside the building as Republican U.S. Rep. Michael Baumgartner, who represents Washington’s 5th District in Congress, shook hands and learned about the religion. He thanked the Sikh Temple of Spokane.

“I really appreciate how focused you are on families and hard work and education,” he said. “Many of your stories are very reaffirming to the American dream. That if you come to America and you work hard and you care about education and you save your money and you invest in businesses, you can do very well.”

Baumgartner introduced Washington State University plant genetics researcher Kulvinder Gil, who spoke about the importance of having public understanding of Sikhism’s values, especially their capacity to give and support others.

“I can safely say we are the most generous, most peace-loving and very hardworking,” he said.

Innovia Foundation’s CEO Shelly O’Quinn accepted the check at the temple. She shook hands with Sikh temple members and smiled as Baumgartner and Gil gave brief speeches.

“I just want to thank you for your generosity as a community,” she said.

University of Montreal Launches Graduate Course on Sikhism in French

 According to South Asian Herald “ The University of Montreal in Quebec, Canada, has become the first university in the world to launch a graduate-level course on Sikhism taught in French, according to supporters of the initiative. The course is offered as part of the university’s master’s and doctoral curricula.

Although several North American universities have established chairs in Sikh studies, the University of Montreal has taken the lead in introducing courses on Sikhism in French, said Montreal-based businessman Baljeet Singh Chadha and his wife, Mandeep “Roshi” Kaur Chadha.

“Sikh Studies in French will start with the current academic session beginning this month. It is a milestone representing an important step forward in the academic study of Sikhism and in making Sikh studies accessible to French-speaking students and scholars. Also, these courses create bridges for interreligious and intercultural understanding,” Baljeet Singh Chadha said.

According to a statement from the university, the graduate-level course will offer an in-depth examination of the Sikh tradition and its connections to the bhakti tradition. It will cover sacred texts as well as Sikh rituals, doctrines, philosophy and belief systems.

The course is being taught under the supervision of Professor Diana Dimitrova.

It will also examine the effects of colonialism on the Sikh tradition and the postcolonial period, including conflicts and nationalist movements. Other areas of study include contemporary Sikhism in India and the diaspora, along with representations of the Sikh tradition in popular films.

The course is taught in French, while students may complete examinations and papers in either French or English. Classes began September 2.

Dimitrova is a full professor of South Asian traditions and cultures at the University of Montreal and a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada. She earned a doctorate in South Asian studies from Heidelberg University in Germany.

She has served as a visiting scholar at McGill University in Canada; the University of Miami in the United States; KU Leuven, the University of Liège and the Free University of Brussels in Belgium; the School for Advanced Studies in the Social Sciences in Paris; and Heidelberg University.

Her academic interests include cultural identity, nationalism, discourses of otherness and South Asian perspectives on the body. Her recent publications include Cultural Identity in Hindi Plays: Poetics, Politics and Theatre in India, published by Oxford University Press in 2023, and the edited volume Mythologizing in South Asian Traditions: Myth, Gender, Power and Politics, published by Palgrave Macmillan in 2025. Her current research focuses on the Brahma Kumaris tradition in Canada and the United States.

Dimitrova has served as president and past president of the Canadian Society for the Study of Religion. She was also a member of the executive board of the Canadian Corporation for Studies in Religion and co-editor of the “Matière à pensée” series published by the University of Montreal Press.

She currently serves as editor of Routledge’s Series on South Asian Culture and Society and as an editor of De Gruyter Brill’s Culture, Religion and Society series.

Scholarship distribution by Nishkam Sikh Welfare Council, New Delhi and Sikh Human Development Foundation, USA at Guru Nanak Dev University

 According to Punjab News Express “ Nishkam Sikh Welfare Council, New Delhi and Sikh Human Development Foundation, USA organised a scholarship distribution function in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Bhawan, Guru Nanak Dev University for needy and deserving students pursuing higher education, including professional courses. 

The function was presided over by Prof. Karamjeet Singh, Vice-Chancellor, Guru Nanak Dev University. He motivated the students to implement Guru Nanak’s principles of doing Kirt and Sewa in life. He inspired the students to aim high and work hard to achieve their goal. He guided the students for ethical use of technology for the betterment of their self and society. Mr. Harbhajan Singh, President, Nishkam Sikh Welfare Council, New Delhi, briefed the audience regarding various welfare activities conducted by the council. Earlier, Prof. Dalbir Singh Sogi, President, Amritsar Unit of the council, welcomed the guests, beneficiary students and their parents. 

He highlighted that 118 students were given means-cum-merit scholarships by Nishkam Sikh Welfare Council, whereas 23 students were funded by Sikh Human Development Foundation, USA. Of note, scholarship worth 43 lakhs were distributed to the students in the said function. Mr. Tirath Singh, Director, Centre for IT solutions, GNDU conducted the stage. Dr. Harinder Pal Singh proposed a vote of thanks to the audience. 

The occasion was graced by Dr. H. S. Saini (Dean Acdemic Affairs), Dr. Amarjit Singh, Dr. Amar Singh, Dr. Mohabbat Singh, Dr. Sumanjit Kaur, Dr. Sukhdeep Kaur, Dr. Amrit Pal Singh, Mr. Surjit Singh and Mr. Tejinder Singh

Pakistani Sikh Student Becomes First-Ever Board Position Holder in Matric

 According to Bloom Pakistan “ A Pakistani Sikh student has made history by securing a top position in the Matric Annual Examinations 2026, becoming the first student from the Sikh community to achieve this milestone in the Board’s history.

Onkar Singh earned 1,189 marks and secured second position in the Science Group (Boys). His achievement marks a historic moment and highlights the growing academic success of students from minority communities. Speaking after his success, Onkar Singh said he aims to pursue a medical education and become a doctor to serve humanity. He added that his achievement was the result of hard work, his parents’ prayers, and the guidance of his teachers.

Furthermore, Onkar Singh stressed the need for further reforms in the education system to improve learning standards. He also urged the Govt to create better employment opportunities for young people to help address unemployment.

In addition, he said that minorities in Pakistan enjoy complete freedom and protection, expressing confidence in the opportunities available for all citizens. His remarks came as he celebrated his historic achievement in the Matric examinations.

County museum celebrating opening of ‘Sikhs in America’ exhibit at Micke Grove Park

 According to Manteca Bulletin “ Sikhs have played a vital role in shaping the history, agriculture, economy, and cultural landscape of San Joaquin County for more than a century.

For the first time in its history, the San Joaquin County Historical Museum has dedicated a major exhibition to preserving and sharing the history of the local Sikh community that is deeply woven into the fabric of the region. 

The opening celebration of “The Sikhs in America: Faith, Resilience, and Power” exhibit takes place Saturday, Aug. 22, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the San Joaquin County Historical Museum located in Mike Grove Park south of Lodi.

The opening celebration will feature remarks from community leaders, authentic Punjabi cuisine, demonstrations of traditional Sikh martial arts (Gatka), and live music celebrating Sikh culture and heritage.

Presented by the San Joaquin County Historical Society & Museum in collaboration with the Sikh American History Project and the Stockton Gurdwara, this dynamic bilingual exhibit (presented in both Punjabi and English) brings more than a century of Sikh history in San Joaquin County to life. 

Viewers will follow an engaging timeline that explores early migration through British Columbia, the founding of the historic Stockton Gurdwara and Pacific Coast Khalsa Diwan Society, and the Sikh American community’s continued growth despite targeted immigration laws and devastating global events. 

Along the way, immersive mini-stations spotlight Sikh contributions to agriculture and trucking, powerful traditions like gatka martial arts, political and social activism, and vibrant contemporary Sikh art.

The community invited Aug. 22 to commemorate the landmark exhibition and celebrate the people, stories, and legacy that have made San Joaquin County home to one of the oldest and most significant Sikh communities in the United States. 

Admission to the exhibit opening celebration is free and there is a $6 per car fee to enter Micke Grove Park (free for Museum members). For more information, call (209) 331-2055.

The San Joaquin County Historical Society and Museum reveals the rich heritage of the region, from the Miwok and Yokuts Indians through Charles Weber (founder of Stockton and first farmer in the area) and the development of modern agriculture. 

The Museum has eight exhibit buildings and four historic buildings.

It is home to the popular Valley Days, an award-winning living history educational program for third, fourth and fifth graders. 

The 18-acre grounds include the Sunshine Trail living exhibition of native habitats and the Delta Water Path.

Sikh museum in Kurukshetra to connect new generation with history

 According to Social News “ Nirmal Singh, President of the Central Singh Sabha Gurudwara in Alambagh, Lucknow, has welcomed the laying of the foundation stone for a proposed Sikh museum in Kurukshetra, Haryana, calling it a historic step to preserve the rich legacy of Sikh Gurus and traditions.

Speaking to IANS, Nirmal Singh said the museum would play a vital role in connecting future generations with Sikh history, the sacrifices of the Gurus and warriors, and India’s cultural heritage, while strengthening national unity.

He added: “The recognition accorded to Sikh history and traditions at the national level by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sent a positive message to the Sikh community. Today is a very significant day for us.”

Nirmal Singh highlighted that although Sikh history spans nearly 550 years, it is filled with inspiring examples of renunciation, sacrifice, and service to humanity.

He recalled the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who promoted equality and the tradition of Langar, community kitchens where people from all backgrounds sit together, challenging the prevailing caste system and social discrimination.

He emphasised that the museum should prominently showcase the sacrifices of the Sikh Gurus, the four Sahibzadas, Mata Gujri, and Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s family.

He said the period from December 22 to December 27 holds immense emotional significance, and presenting these events in a modern format would inspire children and youth to dedicate themselves to the nation and their faith.

On the national observance of Veer Bal Diwas, Nirmal Singh said it fulfilled a long‑standing demand of the Sikh community.

He noted: “This had long been a demand of the Sikh community. Today, Veer Bal Diwas is being observed not only in India but also abroad, conveying a message of courage, righteousness, and moral values to children.”

He also acknowledged the contributions and sufferings of the Sikh community, referencing the immense pain during the Partition and the 1984 anti‑Sikh riots.

Nirmal Singh noted recent efforts toward justice, compensation, and rehabilitation for riot victims, which have strengthened hope within the community.

Praising the Prime Minister’s gestures, he said the act of bowing in reverence at Gurdwaras is not merely a matter of religious faith but also a symbol of respect for the martyrdom and ideals of the Sikh Gurus. “This makes the Sikh community feel honoured,” he added.

Nirmal Singh also said that the Sikh community remains committed to India’s unity, brotherhood, and progress, and will continue to contribute wholeheartedly to nation‑building.

Sikhs for Business Announces VISTAR 2.0

 According to The Print “ Sikhs for Business, a global business networking platform for entrepreneurs and business owners, has officially announced its flagship event VISTAR 2.0, a large-scale international business networking conclave designed to connect, empower, and accelerate business growth across industries.

The event will bring together *1,500+ entrepreneurs, startup founders, and business owners from India and global markets to create meaningful partnerships, collaborations, and growth opportunities.

Sikhs for Business operates under the Ustat Foundation with a mission to strengthen entrepreneurship, business networking, and economic development through a trusted ecosystem of Sikh founders and industry leaders.

BUSINESS NETWORKING FOR GLOBAL GROWTH

VISTAR 2.0 is designed as a high-impact business networking platform where entrepreneurs can:

* Connect with industry leaders and mentors

* Explore business partnerships and expansion opportunities

* Learn from experienced business founders

* Access cross-sector collaboration opportunities

* Build long-term business relationships

The focus is on *real business growth, execution, and scalable connections*

INDUSTRY LEADERS & MENTORS

VISTAR 2.0 will feature a curated group of leading entrepreneurs, industrialists, and business mentors from diverse sectors including manufacturing, infrastructure, engineering, food industry, automotive, exports, and entrepreneurship development.

The confirmed industry leaders include:

Dr. P. J. Singh – Chairman & MD, Tynor Orthotics

S. Hartek Singh – Chairman & MD, Hartek Group

S. Baljeet Singh Jubilee – Director, Jubilee Group

Harjinder Singh (Prayagraj) – Managing Director, Milan Group

Charanjit Singh Shah – Architect & Urban Design Professional

Rajinder Singh – Kartar Valves, Industrial Manufacturing Sector

Parvinder Sahney – Windsor Group, Business Leadership

Saranjit Singh – Gopal Sweets, Food & Hospitality Industry

Paramjit Singh – Regional Centre for Entrepreneurship Development

Rupinder Singh Sachdeva – Hi-Tech Industries, Engineering Sector

Arvinder Singh – Seedways Tyres, Automotive Industry

Amardeep Singh Hari – Africa (Ghana), International Trade & Export

Sandeep Kaur Minnie Riat – Akal Springs, Industrial Manufacturing Sector

H.S. Cheema – Cheema Boilers, Engineering & Energy Solutions

Upkar Singh – CICU & New Swan Group, Industrial Development

Onkar Singh Pahwa – Avon Cycles, Global Bicycle Manufacturing & Export Industry

These leaders represent a powerful mix of established enterprises and global business networks, offering insights into scaling, innovation, leadership, and international expansion.

ORGANISER STATEMENT

“VISTAR 2.0 is designed to create a platform where entrepreneurs, business owners, and industry leaders come together to build real opportunities for growth and collaboration. Our goal is to strengthen business ecosystems that go beyond networking and lead to real execution.”

— Baljeet Kaur, Entrepreneur ecosystem builder

Founder, Sikhs for business & Free Mind a school for Professional skills 

BUSINESS RECOGNITION PROGRAM

Alongside networking, VISTAR 2.0 will also recognize outstanding entrepreneurs through a nomination-based award initiative.

Categories include:

* Family Business Excellence

* Rising Women Entrepreneurs

* Emerging Business Leaders

* High-Growth Startups

This initiative aims to highlight businesses showing strong performance, consistency, and growth potential.

REGISTRATION & ACCESS

Due to limited seating and premium networking structure, participation is carefully curated.

* Registration: vistar.sikhs4business.com

* WhatsApp: +91 73992 50001

Sikh Community to Celebrate 200 Years of Settlement in Assam

 According to Sentinel Assam “ The Sikhs of Assam have a rich and glorious history. Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, visited Assam during his first Udasi (missionary journey) in 1505. Later, at another important point in history, the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, visited Assam in 1667, adding further significance to the history of Sikhs in the state.

Although Sikhs migrated to Assam at different times for various reasons, the most significant permanent settlement began during the Burmese (Maan) invasion of Assam between 1818 and 1822. At the request of Swargadeo Chandrakanta Singha, the King of Assam, Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab sent a force of 500 Sikh soldiers under the leadership of the brave Chaitanya Singh to fight against the Burmese. After the final battle of Hadirachaki, many of these Sikh soldiers settled permanently in Assam. This marked the beginning of the indigenous Sikh community in Assam, a history that now spans more than two centuries.

In fact, if the establishment of Gurdwara Mataji at Chaparmukh in 1820 is taken as the base year, the bicentenary of the permanent settlement of Assamese Sikhs should have been celebrated in 2020. However, the event could not be organised due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent Lok Sabha and Assembly elections.

Meanwhile, the Assamese Sikh Santha, the state's traditional social organisation of Sikhs, has become divided and weakened because of prolonged inaction by its leadership.

Against this backdrop, a special general meeting held on June 7, 2026, at the Borkola Central Gurdwara resolved to organise a grand bicentenary celebration of the permanent Sikh settlement in Assam. Accordingly, a general meeting of the Indigenous Sikhs of Assam has been scheduled for July 12 at the Borkola Central Gurdwara, the cultural and religious centre for Assamese Sikhs.

The meeting will discuss the present condition and future direction of the Assamese Sikh Santha. It will also initiate the formation of the organising committee for the grand celebration marking 206 years of the permanent settlement of Sikhs in Assam.