May hails British Sikhs' huge contribution in UK

London: British Prime Minister Theresa May hailed the “exceptional” contribution of British Sikhs in the UK’s economy, charity and armed forces as the community marked the 350th birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh.

Describing the occasion of Prakash Parv as a “very special anniversary”, the British Prime Minister said the occasion highlighted values of equality, respect and fairness, and helping those less fortunate.

She said in her message: “Time and again I have seen these values put into practice, from visiting gurdwaras to attending the Sikh war memorial in Derby. Indeed, when we celebrate Vaisakhi soon, we will be reminded once again how the teachings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji enrich our wider society.

“This anniversary is also a chance to remember that British Sikhs have made and continue to make an exceptional contribution to business, professions, charity and our armed forces.

“So may I take this opportunity to wish all those celebrating a very blessed and happy Gurpurab.” 

The new Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Y K Sinha, Deputy high commissioner Dinesh K Patnaik and other senior officers of the Indian High Commission in the UK also joined Sikh devotees in the UK yesterday in prayers at the historic Shepherd’s Bush Gurdwara Sahib, the oldest gurudwara in Europe.

The high commissioner was presented with a ‘Siropa’ by the Gurudwara Committee on the occasion.

While paying homage to Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji, Sinha referred to the Sikh Guru’s “noble qualities and his sterling contribution to humanity”.

He also recalled how his parents, from his early childhood, instilled in him great reverence for the teachings of the Guru and how he took great pride in the fact that he hailed from Patna, the city that was the birth place of the 10th Sikh Guru.