First International Jassa Singh Ahluwalia

Hoshiarpur/London/Daljeet Ajnoha /Nov. 19 :  The British Desi Society (BDS), under the leadership of its president Rishu Walia and his dedicated team, organized the first-ever International Jassa Singh Ahluwalia Memorial Day on November 16, 2025, at Guru Amar Das Gurdwara Sahib in Leicester. The event marked a historic occasion for the global Sikh community, drawing Sikh leaders, scholars, social activists, and distinguished guests from both the United Kingdom and India.The ceremony commenced with the recitation of the Sukhmani Sahib, followed by an extensive presentation on the life, achievements, and lasting contributions of the eminent Sikh leader, Sultan-ul-Quam Jassa Singh Ahluwalia (1718–1783). The highlight of the program was the launch of his biography titled “The Warrior Saint – A Warrior, A Statesman.”In his welcome address, BDS President Rishu Walia expressed gratitude to the Gurdwara Committee, community members, and BDS volunteers, emphasizing the importance of reviving Sikh heritage and preserving historical narratives for future generations. He also highlighted Ahluwalia’s pivotal role in uniting the twelve Sikh Misls under the Khalsa flag and his enduring legacy as the “Sultan-ul-Quam.”Prominent guests in attendance included Bhai Sahib Mahender Singh Ahluwalia (O.B.E., K.S.G.), Advocate General of Jaipur and National Sikh Sangat President Gurcharan Singh Gill, Dr. Venkatchalam Murugan, Consul at the Consulate of India in Birmingham, MP for Leicester South Shaukat Adam, and Resham Singh Sandhu (M.B.E., D.L., F.R.S.A.), who all shared their reflections on Sikh history and heritage.Other dignitaries present were Rupert Matthews, Police and Crime Commissioner for Leicestershire; Councillor Bhupen Dave, Deputy Lord Mayor of Leicester; Councillor Jasveer Chauhan, Mayor of Oadby and Wigston; and Ashok Verma, husband of Baroness Verma of the House of Lords. The event saw a large turnout of guests from London, Birmingham, and other major cities across the UK, reinforcing the deep respect and enduring inspiration drawn from Jassa Singh Ahluwalia’s legacy.