Third Annual “Chardi Kala” Sikh Conference Held for British Armed Forces

May 14, 2009

Author: Staff Writer

Source: SikhNet

http://www.sikhnet.com/news/third-annual-chardi-kala-sikh-conference-held-british-armed-forces

The Chardi Kala Sikh Conference took place on 8-10 May at the Armed Forces Chaplaincy Centre at Amport House near Andover in Hampshire. This was the third occasion of its kind, providing an opportunity for all Sikhs serving in the Armed Forces and their families to gather together for discussions and prayer.

Various guest speakers spoke to the conference and discussed how to practice faith while being on duty. Major General Andrew Gregory (Director General Personnel for the Army) picked up on many important issues concerning Sikhs and Bhai Sahib Mohinder Singh Ji, Chairman of the Nishkam Sewak Jatha Birmingham, shared his deep spiritual wisdom with the attendees.

This was a great opportunity for serving Sikhs to pray together and enhance their spiritual life through various discussions about understanding the real meaning of prayer.

Mandeep Kaur, Sikh Chaplain to the British Armed Forces, said: “It gives me huge satisfaction looking at people here, integrating with each other, discussing various issues openly and honestly without judgement, and relishing the bliss of Naam together. It feels like I have a big family to look after and I can feel how much need there is for events like these to happen.”

LCpl Purewal commented: “The enlightenment that we got from the Sikh Chaplain and various speakers was amazing and I am glad there is someone to talk to on various issues within the forces who is so approachable”.