UK: At Southall Gurdwara, Sri Akal Takht Jathedar advocates unity, service and Sikh values
Babushahi Bureau
London (UK), July 19, 2026: Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj, called upon Sikhs across the world to remain united, strengthen their connection with Sikh institutions and actively engage the younger generation in religious and community service while addressing a Gurmat Samagam at Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Southall, during his visit to the United Kingdom.
The religious congregation was organised by the gurdwara's management committee with the support of the local Sikh community and youth.
During his address, Jathedar Gargajj said gurdwaras serve as centres of unity where Sikhs come together to strengthen their spiritual bond with the Guru. He urged gurdwara managements to provide greater opportunities for young people to participate in religious activities and community service, enabling them to remain connected with Sikh values and traditions.
Highlighting the contributions of the Sikh diaspora, he said Sikhs and Punjabis have played a significant role in the development of both the United Kingdom and Punjab. He encouraged members of the community living abroad to maintain strong ties with their roots by regularly visiting Punjab and paying obeisance at Gurdwara Sri Nankana Sahib and Sachkhand Sri Harmandar Sahib.
Emphasising the importance of Sikh history, the Jathedar urged the youth to learn from the lives and sacrifices of their ancestors and shape their future in accordance with Sikh teachings. He also said the enthusiastic participation of young Sikhs at the event reflected their deep faith and commitment to the Guru.
Calling for unity within the Panth, Giani Gargajj appealed to Sikhs to rise above internal differences and work collectively for the welfare of the Sikh community. He also stressed the significance of the Sikh principle of Miri-Piri, urging the community to strengthen both the Panth and Punjab in line with its ideals.
The Jathedar further advised Sikhs residing overseas to ensure that financial assistance sent to Punjab reaches genuinely deserving beneficiaries directly.
Expressing concern over what he described as attempts to weaken the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), Giani Gargajj said the institution was established through the sacrifices of Sikh martyrs and must be safeguarded. He added that efforts would be made to further strengthen the relationship between Sikhs worldwide, Sri Akal Takht Sahib and the SGPC while promoting greater global Sikh representation.
He also noted that whenever Punjab or the Sikh Panth has faced difficult times, the Sikh diaspora has consistently extended support in the spirit of Sarbat da Bhala and Chardi Kala.
Earlier, Jathedar Gargajj held a meeting with office-bearers of the Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Southall management committee to discuss issues concerning the progress, unity and welfare of the Khalsa Panth, Punjab and Sikh youth. He invited the committee to submit its recommendations in writing for further consideration.
The visiting Jathedar was welcomed by Gurdwara committee president Gurmail Singh Malhi, Stage Secretary Manjit Singh and other office-bearers, who appreciated his services to the Sikh community. The management committee also honoured him with a siropao and a commemorative memento.
Several prominent members of the Sikh community, including committee office-bearers and community representatives, were present at the event.