Handsworth’s ‘Walk of Witness 2013’ – Bringing together communities

April 2, 2013 by Leave a Comment

20130329_141457Twelve churches came together to walk the length of the famous Soho Road, to celebrate and share a historic moment. The Good Friday walk saw communities walking side by side and then culminating in an uplifting faith inspired service held near the Soho Road Gurudwara. The event was a national observance and celebration of the Good Friday message across all denominations.

Reflecting on the event, Sewa Singh said: “It was a fantastic opportunity to walk with colleagues along the Soho Road to show unity and to encourage others to join in the walk. We have always maintained that there are good working relationships, with the majority of people working together well. It is important that we celebrate each other’s religious and cultural events together. Sikhs are committed to working in partnership with those from all faiths and none to ensure the wellbeing of all. I am pleased today went as well as it did”.

Reverend John Mall from the Baptist Church in Handsworth was ecstatic that colleagues from the Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ) and the Nishkam Civic Association (NCA) had turned out to support the walk. He captured the moment by saying, “It is really great to see our Sikh brothers and sisters here supporting us and making this event even more special for all to enjoy”.

Rev John Mall than made a heartwarming announcement on the PA system to publicly thank the Sikh community and to inform all attendees that the Sikh volunteers had put on refreshments and hot tea as a mark of love and respect for all gathered at the event”.

The serving of refreshments and tea to all the by-passers and Walk of Witness attendees was only made possible by the dedication of volunteers. The volunteers came from the Gurudwara, Nishkam Centre, neighbouring businesses, including Marg Sat Santokh (a timber merchant and fitted kitchens supplier), Nishkam Pharmacy, the Photo Shop, the Flower Shop and MySafety Hub. Rev John Mall said that the volunteers had added a whole new dimension to the Good Friday event aSSM Rev Mallnd it was the icing on the cake.

Mr Mandla went on to say, “The volunteers as always demonstrated that sacrificing time and serving fellow citizens was a priceless undertaking for them. We are happy to be part of today to mark a joyous day with our friends”.

Amrick Singh from the Nishkam Centre remarked on the warmth generated at the event despite the very cold weather spell being endured. He commented, “Having spoken to distinguished colleagues today at the event like Ricky Dehaney, Desmond Jaddoo, Rev John Mall and Pall Singh from the Lozells Project the sentiments shared were that the day demonstrated why Handsworth was so special and also exemplified what the resurrection meant. It was about the truth always being victorious and living for ever; it was about sacrificing oneself for others; it was about forgiving and looking forward; and it was about celebrating our differences whilst rejoicing in our uniqueness. All religious traditions and faiths are based on the foundations of compassion, mercy and forgiveness.

“Greater collaboration and partnership working across people of all faiths is clearly evident and present in Birmingham, we should all be proud of this”.

                                                                                                                                                                                                            ENDS

Released by: Nishkam Centre

T: 0121 515 4229

Notes to Editor

1. Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ) is a multi-faceted, faith based organisation practising and propagating the Sikh Dharam (faith) in the name of Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469-1539). It has been involved in selfless intra-faith work in Kenya and India informally since 1950, and formally in the UK since 1978 as a registered Charity through five centres for excellence in the inner-city depressed area of Handsworth, Birmingham, where its Headquarters are based. GNNSJ also has sister organisations in Leeds and London (UK); as well as in Kericho (Kenya) and Amritsar (India). Significant achievements have been made by GNNSJ in the conservation and restoration of historical Sikh shrines.

Chaired by Bhai Sahib (Dr) Mohinder Singh it aims to serve and uplift society through the practice of core values – nishkamta, or the spirit of selflessness, being one of them. Inspired by spirituality, GNNSJ has generated a flourishing culture of volunteering, which has contributed immensely to transform visionary projects into reality.

For his services to religious faith propagation, community service, education and research, Bhai Sahib has been awarded two Honorary Doctorates from Birmingham’s Universities. He is passionate about values-based education and is the Patron of the Nishkam Education Trust.

 2. Nishkam Civic Association www.ncauk.org
Filed Under: Nishkam Centre

All Party Parliamentary Group visit Birmingham to witness ‘faith in action’

February 20, 2013 by Leave a Comment

All Party Parliamentary Meeting The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Faith and Society, chaired by Stephen Timms MP, including Jim Dobbin MP, Sir Peter Bottomley MP, Baroness Kathleen Richardson and Lord Sheikh visited Birmingham to explore how faith based initiatives are promoting wellbeing and providing services in the City.

The delegation visited local faith centres including Birmingham Central Mosque, Central Synagogue and Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ) Gurudwara (Handsworth) meeting with faith leaders and City Council members to discuss the impact of faith on the City and the City’s growing number of faith initiatives.

The visit to GNNSJ and the Nishkam campus included a tour of the ‘Nishkam Centres of Excellence’, that began with a humble presentation of bouquets by the guests to Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the eternal Guru and scripture of the Sikhs. This was followed by a visit to the Guru’s Kitchen, where over one million free vegetarian meals are prepared and served every year to visitors by volunteers. The esteemed guests toured the faith inspired community cooperative for economic development (Marg Sat Santokh Ltd) before visiting the renowned new free school, Nishkam Primary School and then made a final stop at the Nishkam Centre to meet representatives from faith-based organisations, to explore their experiences and innovative contributions across the City.

The meeting included a discussion for organisations to identify barriers they face, whilst reflecting on the progress Faith Based Organisations (FBO) had made in creating interfaith harmony and community cohesion.

Stephen Timms MP said: “We were looking for ideas today and we found some good inspiration for our work in the next few months. I was very impressed by the Nishkam Primary School, I thought that was beautiful. The emphasis on teaching values to young children at the beginning of their school life is very valuable and impressive.

“This is the first time the APPG has met outside Westminster and we are very pleased that Birmingham has been the venue and the Nishkam Centre has been so hospitable to us, we are very grateful.”

A humble presentation of bouquets by the guests to Guru Granth Sahib Ji

Lord Sheikh went on to comment: “I was most impressed by how work is being done on the ground level amongst the community, which is appreciated. The Nishkam Centre is a role model and perhaps, others can follow what has been done here.

“We cannot be complacent and we must ensure that this cohesive work continues to be undertaken.”

Baroness Kathleen Richardson said: “The friendships that we have between as people of faith, the outcome of that must be a strengthening of society and the common good because that’s what we have in common.”

Bhai Sahib Dr Mohinder Singh reminded all about the significance of partnership working and a unified faith inspired approach. He said: “We have to restore the dignity and honour of religion back again in the 21st century, you cannot park religion away. 75% of the 7 billion people across the world are directly or indirectly involved in religion or in faith. If you have faith, it means you have trust. If you have trust, you have hope.

“We also need to consider personal exposure as we humans are a function of our exposure. If people are further exposed to faith communities, people will see that faith is an agent of goodness. The UN Millennium Development Goals compel us to work together on serving humanity; we must form partnerships on common grounds between faith based organisation, Governments, local agencies, civic bodies and society.”

A discussion for organisations to identify barriers they face

Birmingham City Council Cabinet Member for Social Cohesion and Equalities, Cllr John Cotton said: “The Council is working ever more closely with faith communities as part of our drive to deal with inequality and disadvantage and I look forward to showcasing that work. The very fact that the All Party Parliamentary Group is visiting Birmingham reflects the incredible work already being carried out by our faith communities.”

Daniel Singleton, National Executive Director of FaithAction, the secretariat for the APPG said: ‘We are delighted to support the APPG, we hope that though this group we can raise awareness of the fantastic work of faith based organisations that we at FaithAction witness on a daily basis. The whole event today was superb and the Nishkam team role modelled for us all what faith in action is all about’.

To view images from the day please click here

To view videos from the day click here

ENDS

Released by: Nishkam Centre

Telephone: 0121 515 4229

Email: amrick.ubhi@ncauk.org

Notes to Editor

1. The Nishkam Civic Association, more fondly known as the Nishkam Centre is one of the five Centres for Excellence created by the faith-based charity, Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha.

The Nishkam Centre is at the forefront of advancing community and economic wellbeing; promoting interfaith, intercultural, intercommunity dialogue; and championing social justice and inclusion. To deliver its mission, it has embedded and promotes active volunteering and selfless service for the benefit of humanity in all aspects of its work

Chaired by Bhai Sahib Dr Mohinder Singh, who holds two honorary degrees from the city’s universities, it aims to serve and uplift society through the practice of core values – nishkamta, or the spirit of selflessness, being one of them.  Inspired by spirituality, the organisation has generated a flourishing culture of volunteering, which has contributed immensely to transform its visionary projects into a reality.

For more information, please visit www.ncauk.org

2. The All Party Parliamentary Group on Faith and Society was established in 2012 to explore the practical contribution that faith makes to society through the work of faith based organisations, identify best practice and promote understanding of the groups providing innovative solutions around the country. It aims to draw attention to the way faith-based initiatives are working effectively to serve the most vulnerable members of their communities.

A growing movement of faith based social activism is making itself felt in the UK in a huge range of projects – youth work, employment support, food banks, debt counselling – and overseas with fair trade, banks for the un-bankable and health initiatives on a large scale.

For more information on FaithAction please email hannah.walker@faithaction.net

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Community says “No to Race and Hate Crime”

December 17, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Guests view presentationsLeading experts from around the UK converged at the Nishkam Centre, at the end of October, to share their understanding of and efforts towards dealing with Race and Hate crimes. Addressing the Coalition Government’s “Challenge it, Report it, Stop it” action plan, the conference shed light on many underlying factors that needed to be considered.

The day recognised the need for academia, public, private and voluntary sectors to stand together and address these issues from the local level upwards in order to create a changed nation. The entire conference showed that interracial harmony could only come about when individuals are content in their own identity and compassionate towards those that appear different from them.

The agenda was decidedly a personal one, with speakers highlighting the need to reconsider the way identity and culture is taught perhaps by creating a transient identity ideal for the global village; recognising the individual motivations that produce hate crime, much of which is due to fear; empowering “victims” by referring to them as a “client”, and dealing with hate crimes by using the tried and tested domestic violence model.

Event Speakers included:

  • Prof Ted Cantle from Institute of Community Cohesion.
  • J Boora from All Nations Consultancy.
  • Dr Collin Webster of LeedsUniversity and Author of ‘Understanding Race & Crime’.
  • Dr Paul Iganski of University of Lancaster and Co-ordinator of Hate Crime Research.
  • Dr Mashuq Ally, Assistant Director of Equalities and Human Resources at Birmingham City Council.
  • Police Superintendent Paul Giannasi, UK Ministry of Justice.
  • Emile Peltier, Senior Practitioner Calerdale Youth Offending Team.

Director of the Nishkam Centre and opening speaker, Amrick Singh Ubhi said, “The theme of today is “moving towards harmony” – this implies we – individually and collectively – must task ourselves and give ourselves permission to do something different. As individuals we are the weakest and strongest links in the human chain we must strengthen that chain by empowering ourselves and others with the right values and so the chain becomes stronger”.Engaging talks

He went on, “ Nishkam means selfless service – going beyond yourself without any reward or expectation – today we need to apply that – we need to go away from the conference to be the change we want to see in others. My dharam (faith / duty) through our tenth Sikh Guru – Guru Gobind Singh, states: ‘Recognise the human race as one’ – the whole of humanity is one mega-race and one big family. Community says “No to Race and Hate Crime”

The importance of community cohesion cannot be underestimated. Cohesion creates stability, and allows a gain in confidence to all. We need to ensure adequate protection and safeguards of fundamental rights and provide equal opportunities, within both secular and spiritual fields – also imparting education / knowledge and important values within diversity”.

Amrick concluded with “Every human act has its origin in the mind. The human mind is a powerful tool with the capacity to be either one’s best friend or one’s worst enemy – I invite all delegates and those reading later, to be the change, participate and make a difference”.

Bhai Amrick SInghMr Cantle, who was on his way to launching his latest book ‘Interculturalism: the new era of Cohesion and Diversity’ spoke eloquently about the changing landscape and how multiculturalism and super-diversity policy were no longer relevant. He went on to clarify why multiculturalism policy had failed and that the era of interculturalism which was appropriate for a world defined by globalisation an superdiversity.

Mr Mashuq Ally commended Handsworth, the area in which the conference was held, for the community’s ability to unite against hate crimes in order to transform it into a safer neighbourhood. He went on to explain how Birmingham City Council was dealing with diversity and cohesion matters.

Moving forward, the conference provided examples of best practice that others could learn from and apply themselves. The consensus was a profound difference for years to come could be made by uniting, sharing our knowledge and teaching respect for all.

Whilst there is always more work that can be done, the conference gave hope by reminding everyone that great steps had already been taken towards harmony.

ENDS

 

Released by: Nishkam Centre

Telephone: 0121 515 4229

Email: info@ncauk.org

For further information:

Nishkam Civic Association,

The Nishkam Centre,

6 Soho Road, Handsworth,

Birmingham, B21 9BH.

Tel: 0121 525 4229

email: info@ncauk.org

http://www.ncauk.org

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Driving for Charity

December 17, 2012 by Leave a Comment
The drivers and campaign team at the launch

The drivers and campaign team at the launch

The challenge was to drive 2,500 miles, taking 12 days to complete and to engage as many people as possible. The main beneficiaries were the Anthony Nolan, the Stroke Association and the Rik Basra Campaign. The purpose was to raise funds and more importantly to raise awareness of some life-changing and life-saving facts.   

The Nishkam Centre was honoured to be selected as the start point for the prestigious Driving for Charity event. The challenge was to travel from Land’s End to the UK’s most northern point, John O’Groats. Prior to the start of the tour there was a visit to the Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ) Gurudwara on Soho Road for an Ardaas – a prayer for a safe and successful undertaking. 

The two drivers Maninder Sanghera and John Allen were elated about the success of the event. They were able to raise precious funds for the charities and raise awareness amongst some very diverse and sometimes remote communities about the desperate need for help. 

The charities to benefit are the Anthony Nolan – saving the lives of people with blood cancer and the Stroke Association – providing support to stroke victims and their families. The drive was also providing support and raising awareness for the Rik Basra – Save A Life Campaign for leukemia sufferers. The cross-country trek passed through many cities and tourist attractions on the route to raise awareness. The focus was to connect with people from the Asian / Afro-Caribbean and other ethnic communities as there is currently an acute shortage of donors from these communities for the Anthony Nolan.
Many people have participated in this good cause by donating and assisting to raise awareness amongst diverse communities. We encourage everyone to visit the following websites where you will find more information about the crucial work these charities undertake.

Stroke Association www.stroke.org.uk

Anthony Nolan www.anthonynolan.org

Rik Basra www.rikbasra.com
Some key statistics to ponder over, every 23 minutes a child or an adult is diagnosed with a blood cancer and every 5 minutes, someone suffers a stroke, even babies. By supporting and partnering with the Anthony Nolan, the Stroke Association and the Rik Basra Campaign, we can all promote and assist a cause that is in immense need of attention within our communities.

Ajit Singh, Operations Manager at the Nishkam Centre, said, “We have partnered with the Rik Basra team and Anthony Nolan before in 2011 and we were thrilled to get nearly 300 people turn out to an event at Nishkam where many donors were recruited to join the Anthony Nolan Register. We would encourage all communities to get involved and support where they can.”  

He went on, “it is crucial that we raise the awareness of why Asian and Afro-Caribbean communities need to register with Anthony Nolan for this reason we supported this initiative. We are pleased that the trek took the team to shopping malls, theme parks and more importantly Temples, Mosques, Gurudwaras, Churches and other places of worships”.     

For more information on the event please visit www.sites.google.com/site/drivingforcharity and to support / donate please visit the charity links above.

END

For further information please contact:                                                                

Nishkam Civic Association,

The Nishkam Centre,     

6 Soho Road, Handsworth,

Birmingham, B21 9BH.

Tel: 0121 525 4229

email: info@ncauk.org

www.ncauk.org

Filed Under: Nishkam Centre

Statement from the Nishkam Civic Association – Wisconsin Gurdwara shooting

August 20, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Wisconsin Gurdwara shooting – our thoughts and prayers

Two weeks ago we saw a tragic chapter unfold in the USA when, in Oak Creek Gurdwara, Wisconsin, an armed assailant opened fire on Sikh worshippers. This marked a low in community relations and cohesion; something many of us never want to see again. As Sikhs, like many faith-inspired people, we turn to our spirituality. We turn to God and we pray; we seek wisdom and strength to deal with unfolding events. No matter how devastating a situation – especially for those who we there and those who lost loved ones – Sikhs and people of faith deal with disaster with inner strength provided through spirituality.

 Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ) and Nishkam Civic Association (NCA) are touched and honoured by the messages of condolence and wishes received from around the globe over the weeks. GNNSJ serves one of the largest gurdwaras in Europe, on one of the busiest roads in the city of Birmingham. It welcomes daily streams of Sikh devotees and non-Sikh visitors and serves an estimated 20,000 meals per week, free of charge from the langar or Guru’s kitchen, an institution integral to every gurdwara, founded on the principles of equality, generosity, humility and service to humanity.

At 5am on Friday 10th August 2012, an akhand paath was started here to honour the memory of the six victims of the Wisconsin attack and give thanks for the lives that were bestowed to them. An akhand paath is the continuous, non-stop recitation of the entire Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the volume of scripture which resides in the ‘guru-dwara’ or ‘Guru’s abode’. It is revered by Sikhs as their perpetual Guru, or spiritual enlightener, authority and guide, with verses including interfaith dialogue centred on humanity’s most noble, spiritual values which transcend all social divides. The 48-hour recitation concluded with a final service and supplication on Sunday 12th August at 5am – in the ambrosial hours of the morning.

A Sikh prays for the wellbeing of all humanity every day. It is inconceivable for a Sikh not to expect the welfare of all. As practitioners of a monotheistic faith that encourages those of other faiths to be reflective and robust in their own faith traditions, the Sikhs do not believe in exclusivity or hierarchy. The whole of humanity is one big family. As children of One Creator we have a moral duty to understand, support, help and be there for all our neighbours irrespective of religious, cultural or social background.

The world witnessed thousands of mourners gather on Friday 10th August 2012 in Wisconsin to pay their final respects to the six worshippers gunned down. A wake and visitation service at a school saw mourners from around the world, and also the US Attorney General, Eric Holder, in attendance. Gov. Scott Walker addressed the congregation, telling mourners how the Sikh community has shown others that the best way to respond to hate is with love. The service included commencement of an akhand paath, Sikh hymns and traditional hospitality.

As part of the global Sikh community, we thank Police Lt. Brian Murphy who risked his life in the line of duty to defend his fellow countrymen. We are pleased that he has been blessed with strength and is now in a satisfactory condition. He has demonstrated an important characteristic which we see as our moral duty; being prepared to sacrifice oneself to protect the rights and lives of others. We pray for those who have lost loved ones to be blessed with strength and solace in their bereavement, and offer our prayers in memory of those individuals below who departed this world:

  • Satwant Singh Kaleka (65)
  • Paramjit Kaur (41)
  • Ranjit Singh (49) and his brother
  • Sita Singh (41)
  • Suveg Singh Khattra (84)
  • Prakash Singh (39)

We learnt that President Barack Obama contacted the Indian Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, to express his condolences over the brutal shootings. The full statement released by the White House read: “President Obama spoke with Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh this morning to express condolences for victims of the senseless attack at the gurdwara in Wisconsin, which took the lives of Indian nationals as well as Americans, and to convey the solidarity of the American people. President Obama reiterated that the Sikh community is an essential and vibrant part of the American family.

The President also underscored that the incident is particularly tragic because it took place in a house of worship. Prime Minister Singh expressed his gratitude for the many messages and gestures of support from the United States, and for the prompt reaction and heroism of the local police department. The two leaders re-affirmed their nations’ commitment to the shared values of pluralism, religious freedom, and freedom of worship.

The Sikh faith is the fifth largest in the world, with more than 30 million followers. It includes belief in one God and that the goal of life is to lead an exemplary existence. Sikhs are identified by their unique appearance, complimented by the dastaar (or turban) and beard, as well as their commitment to a unique spiritual lifestyle. This distinct identity separates Sikhs from others, holding them accountable to their spiritual values and commitments for the common good of others. Unfortunately, it has in the past – and now in the Wisconsin tragedy – made them a target for discrimination. The media informs us that the tragedy was a case of mistaken identity; the assailant thought these were Muslim people. Such a statement begs the question of why an impulse to target Muslim brothers and sisters might be deemed acceptable – or, for that matter, Jews, Africans Eastern Europeans, or those of any other identifiable community?

‘Mistaken identity’ is a glib term with an insidious subtext, suggesting something wrong with being a Muslim in America. The Wisconsin attack was an attack on humanity which cannot be condoned or excused, nor involve the belittling of any community.

At a vigil in Wisconsin many were struck by the Sikh community’s willingness to forgive the man who committed murder in their gurdwara, and to emphasize peace over vengeance. The town’s Police Chief, John Edwards, was quoted in The Guardian as saying: “In 28 years of law enforcement, I have seen a lot of hate. I have seen a lot of revenge. I’ve seen a lot of anger. What I saw, particularly from the Sikh community this week, was compassion, concern, support,” he told the vigil. “What I didn’t see was hate. Idid not see revenge. I didn’t see any of that. And in law enforcement that’s unusual to not see that reaction to something like this. I want you all to understand how unique that is.”

Echoed here is verse from Guru Granth Sahib Ji regularly recalled by the Chair of GNNSJ and NCA, Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh. Attributed to the north Indian saint, Kabir Ji, it ends with the message: “Where there is forgiveness, there is God himself.”

The silver lining to the Wisconsin cloud is that we see people around the world wondering, ‘Who are the Sikhs? What are their beliefs and the values they stand for?’ It has stimulated a desire to know more about this lesser known, diaspora people who, from its origins in the Punjab, as a minority in India, have over a century-long history of settlement in Europe, North America, East Africa and the Far East. We are also seeing people from all walks of life coming to stand together in solidarity, and hearing messages promoting unity, community cohesion, working and living together as one. We must nurture this in everyday, practical ways and move to act differently going forward.

As Sikhs we are called to be our “brother’s keeper” and this includes the whole of humanity. We want to extend an invitation to others to join us and take collective responsibility by promoting the values of compassion, mercy, forgiveness, truthfulness, selflessness, humility and, most of all, love. Our faith requires us to give utmost respect to all places of worship, and indeed, to see the whole of ‘mother earth’ as a sacred space which we are to look after with responsibility and care, cherishing its diversity.

In the wake of the Wisconsin attack, as we come to terms with sadness and loss and face the challenges of human ignorance, confusion and conflict, the Sikh principle of chardi kala or incessant positivity compels us to light a beacon of hope and determination to do all we can to build a peaceful and flourishing shared world.

                                                                                                                                                                               Ends

 For further information please contact:

Amrick Singh Ubhi,

Nishkam Civic Association,

The Nishkam Centre,

6 Soho Road, Handsworth,

Birmingham, B21 9BH.

Tel: 0121 525 4229

email: info@ncauk.org

www.ncauk.org

Notes for Editors

1. Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ) is a multi-faceted, faith based organisation practicing and propagating the Sikh Dharam (faith) in the name of Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469-1539). It has been involved in selfless intra-faith work in Kenya and India informally since 1950, and formally in the UK since 1978 as a registered Charity through five centres for excellence in the inner-city depressed area of Handsworth, Birmingham, where its Headquarters are based. GNNSJ also has sister organisations in Leeds and London (UK); as well as in Kericho (Kenya) and Delhi/ Amritsar (India). Significant achievements have been made by GNNSJ in the conservation and restoration of historical Sikh shrines.

Chaired by Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh, who holds two honorary degrees from the city’s universities, it aims to serve and uplift society through the practice of core values – nishkamta, or the spirit of selflessness, being one of them. Inspired by spirituality, GNNSJ has generated a flourishing culture of volunteering, which has contributed immensely to transform its visionary projects into a reality, including the Nishkam Civic Association (see below) which received a Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2010. Bhai Sahib was recently created a knight by the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI in recognition of his dedicated work for Roman Catholic / Sikh relations and for his enthusiastic commitment to working for peace among people of all faiths.

2. The Nishkam Civic Association (NCA) is the civic arm of GNNSJ. More details can be found at www.ncauk.org.

Filed Under: GNNSJ, Nishkam Centre

Statement from Birmingham Faith Leaders to the Sikh Community‏

August 15, 2012 by Leave a Comment

The following statement has been agreed by the non-Sikh members of the Birmingham Faith Leaders’ Group as their message of condolence to Sikh brothers and sisters who have been affected by the recent shooting at a Sikh temple in Wisconsin.

To view, please click here

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Birmingham Faith Leaders amongst hundreds welcoming HM The Queen

July 13, 2012 by Leave a Comment

On Thursday 12th July 2012, Bhai Sahib Bhai Mohinder Singh, Chairman of Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha and Nishkam Civic Association was honoured to be part of the many hundreds of people who welcomed HM The Queen to Birmingham.

As a member of the Birmingham Faith Leaders Group, Bhai Sahib attended the open-air reception to honour the Queen. The Faith Leaders Group occupied a VIP area in Victoria Square, Birmingham along with other community members.  The other Faith Leaders present included Jonathan Gurling, Major Samuel Edgar, Rabbi Yossi Jacobs, Ravi Ladva, Andrew Smith and also Archbishop Bernard Longley and Bishop David Urquhart.

The Queen was visiting Birmingham as part of her Diamond Jubilee tour.  She arrived by train at Snow Hill Station and proceeded to Victoria Square for a walkabout to meet the waiting crowds. Hundreds of well-wishers turned out at Victoria Square to greet and cheer the Queen.  The crowds were entertained by an American Babershop Quartet with Chinese Dancers from Leeds.

Accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh, Her Majesty was welcomed by city dignitaries after which she met the waiting crowd. During her walk about she met various people including the many school children excited to be at the event.

Reflecting on the event, Bhai Sahib Bhai Mohinder Singh said, “The atmosphere was great, everyone was happy and really positive, above all the Lord blessed us with beautiful sunshine too. The Queen is a remarkable lady, she does us all proud by the sheer determination she demonstrates to meet and greet people.”

He went on to commend the people that had turned out to show their appreciation for the Queen. He also said, “By coming today the Faith Leaders have shown how closely we work together as different faith traditions. Birmingham is a diverse and beautiful collection of many different traditions and just as the Queen leads the Church of England, it was only befitting that the Birmingham Faith Leaders Group be part of the welcome”.

Amrick Singh, Director of the Nishkam Centre, was also present and reflected on the proceedings of the morning by saying, “Today was very touching, to see the Queen talk to the young children and spend time talking to the people as she walked past was, for many, a life-times dream come true. We saw young and old wanting to speak to the Queen; she is a source of inspiration, a role model, a faith person with an aura about her that uplifts people – it was a pleasure to have been present with the other distinguished VIPs”. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               ENDS

Released by: Nishkam Centre

Telephone: 0121 515 4229

Email: info@ncauk.org

Notes for Editors

1. Birmingham Faith Leaders’ Group

Area served: Birmingham and surrounding area

Main aims: To discuss issues of common concern

Year founded: 2001

Faiths and beliefs currently involved: Buddhist; Christian; Hindu; Jewish; Muslim; Sikh

Activities: Discussion meetings on religious topics; discussion meetings on social issues; promoting good community relations; making statements on current issues; joint fundraising for charity; providing advice to public bodies; acting as a consultative forum on local issues for local government.

Membership Policy: Membership comprises leaders from the principal faiths of Birmingham. Meetings are held at the request of the faiths involved and attendance is by invitation.

Contact details:

Mr Jonathan Gurling Secretary

Tel: 0121 608 1328

Filed Under: GNNSJ, Nishkam Centre

Handsworth community celebrates as one family

June 19, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Hundreds of community members from across Handsworth and the surrounding areas joined together to celebrate Her Majesty the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, a Year of Service and the shaheedi (sacrifice) of the Guru Arjan Dev Ji – the 5th Guru of the Sikhs.

Event partners included Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ), Birmingham Faith Leaders, Birmingham Council of Faith, WM Faith Forum, the Nishkam Civic Association (NCA), West Midlands Police, Birmingham City Council, Central Mosque, Buddhist Vihara, Religions for Peace, Hindu Council of Birmingham, Nishkam Nursery, Jubilee Debt Campaign, Nishkam Primary and High Schools, Birmingham Churches Together, Soho Traders, Faizul Qur’an Jamia Masjid and of course Job Centre Plus who made the venue available. Organisers celebrated in style by setting up a marquee so that the forecasted rain did not disrupt proceedings.

Hosted on the busySoho Road, the event included personal reflections, stalls and exhibitions, children’s events, free food and a traditional “shabeel” serving refreshment to attendees and those simply passing-by. For some, the highlight was an exclusive showing of art work by Daniel Connell, which gave visitors the opportunity to meet the artist, watch him at work and view his latest collection. The exhibition created opportunities for dialogue and reflection between diverse communities using portraiture.

Birmingham’s faith representatives took to the stage to share their message of peace and tolerance and also give their personal congratulation to Her Majesty the Queen, expressing their gratitude for the freedom, dignity and generosity with which she rules her great diverse nation. The speakers sharing personal reflections included inspirational figures like Moqapi Selassie, Arvinder Jain, Ramona Kauth, Matloob Hussain, Dinesh Chauhan, Sajida Madni, Bill Ozane, Cllr M Hussain and Parmjit Kaur. Each of them gave a clear message of thanks to Her Majesty and also messages of cohesion, unity, peace, love and the welfare of all.

Speaking at the event, Chairman of GNNSJ and the NCA, Bhai Sahib Dr Mohinder Singh said, “Today is significant on many levels, but the key messages are about commitment with an unambiguous sense of duty / Dharam or righteousness. There is a need to uphold values, sacrifice, selfless service and a belief system based on the dignity of others. We need to have a clear understanding of justice, whilst being a role model for others to aspire and emulate.

“All religious traditions and faiths are based on the foundations of compassion, mercy and forgiveness. Justice must be within the context of practising compassion, mercy and forgiveness. These virtues and values cannot be discarded even for a millisecond.”

Bhai Sahib concluded his address to HM the Queen with, “We pray God grants the Queen many more years to reign.”

The Year of Service, a Government sponsored initiative, highlights the voluntary service people of faith carry out in their local communities. It gives each faith community an opportunity to share their faith or a project with the wider population. The Sikh community chose June for Year of Service because it allowed the marking of the shaheedi of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, who lived a life in service to humanity and devotion to God.

Event Organisers were grateful to Cllr Paulette Hamilton and Cllr Waseem Zaffar MBE who joined the celebrations and congratulated all for their commitment and passion. Cllr Mahmood Hussain addressed the community by reflecting on the success of the event. He said, “It was a great event that was very well put together by the partners. I am very pleased to have seen the diversity of people that came out to celebrate with us. The turnout was exceptional. I am sure that HM The Queen must be delighted that her citizens of diverse communities are celebrating her Diamond Jubilee together showing solidarity and social cohesion.”

Cllr Hussain went on to say “I was also very inspired by the fantastic artwork displayed by the Australian Artist who was simply marvellous bringing different people together by his sketches. Through his creativity he is making a great impact across the globe on perceptions of minority groups.”

Cllr Hendrina Quinnen said, “What we have seen today is a great gathering of different communities to celebrate the Jubilee and other faith related events. It’s lovely to get together and share things of common interest and where possible, I feel we need more of these events. I have seen that the understanding of other faiths is important and is the baseline of bringing people together through shared values and responsibilities. The event really demonstrates we can work together and become united through understanding each other’s beliefs.”

The pictures of the day have been shared with the HandsworthCelebrates website. This is a website celebrating the success of events in Handsworth and Lozells to allow people to share stories with all – see

                                                                                                                                                                                        ENDS

Released by: Nishkam Centre

Telephone: 0121 515 4229

Email:kiran.jheeta@ncauk.org

Notes for Editors

1. For more information on Daniel Connell and his artwork can be viewed at http://danielconnell.net

2. For more information on the Year of Service, please visit http://ayearofservice.org.uk

3. Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ) is a multi-faceted, faith based Organisation practising and propagating the Sikh Dharam (faith) in the name of Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469-1539). It has been involved in selfless intra-faith work inKenyaandIndiainformally since 1950, and formally in theUKsince 1978 as a registered Charity through five centres for excellence in the inner-city depressed area of Handsworth,Birmingham, where its Headquarters are based. GNNSJ also has sister organisations in Leeds and London (UK); as well as in Kericho (Kenya) andDelhi/Amritsar(India). Significant achievements have been made by GNNSJ in the conservation and restoration of historical Sikh shrines.

Chaired by Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh, who holds two honorary degrees from the city’s universities, it aims to serve and uplift society through the practice of core values – nishkamta, or the spirit of selflessness, being one of them. Inspired by spirituality, GNNSJ has generated a flourishing culture of volunteering, which has contributed immensely to transform its visionary projects into a reality.

Bhai Sahib was also recently created a knight by the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI in recognition of his dedicated work for Roman Catholic Sikh relations and for his enthusiastic commitment to working for peace among people of all faiths.

4. Nishkam Civic Association (NCA) is the civic arm of GNNSJ and more details can be found at www.nishkammediacentre.com

www.ncauk.org

Filed Under: News

Nishkam Centre mentioned in House of Lords

May 31, 2012 by Leave a Comment

 debate took place yesterday in House of Lords on the role of faith communities in the UK.  Initiated by the Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks, many different aspects of the role of faith communities in British society was debated, including the significance of A Year of Service.

See below for what Baroness Hanham had to say about the role of faith in the community and A Year of Service:

“As well as providing spiritual succour to their followers, religions inspire great numbers of people to offer service to their own communities and more widely. A number of contributions made that clear today. Tens of thousands of faith-based charities and community groups work tirelessly either in international development such as Islamic Relief or Christian Aid, or in providing homeless shelters, support for young mothers or care for the elderly in their local neighbourhoods.
[…]
Care of the elderly in local neighbourhoods is part of the support given by faith groups, and annual projects such as the Hindu-led Sewa Day and the Jewish-led Mitzvah Day motivate thousands to perform acts of selfless service. Sikh gurdwaras not only provide free food to all, but run community centres such as the Nishkam Centre in Birmingham, which I visited. Black-majority churches offer free health advice and counselling as well as religious support.
[…]
This jubilee year, the Government are facilitating a programme-A Year of Service-to celebrate and link-up social action, and I am grateful to noble Lords for mentioning that. Every month, each of nine faith communities in turn is hosting a day of volunteering around the country and inviting people of other faiths and beliefs to join in. Each Day of Service is linked to either a religious festival or an existing volunteering day and each has a theme, such as visiting the elderly, feeding the hungry or planting trees. In addition to that, we might also say that they are sharing their faith with others and making connections between one faith and another. For example, this March, the Zoroastrian community marked the Iranian new year by bringing music and laughter to old people’s homes and hospices in different parts of London. We should urge all faith communities to take advantage of the opportunities offered by A Year of Service.”

Read the full transcript here

Filed Under: National News Tagged With:

Indian classical music concert receives an overwhelming response

May 30, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Surdarshan Singh and Roopa Panesar

The Nishkam Raag Darbar Annual Concert which presented a rich repertoire of rare and beautiful Indian classical music, raised over £500 to benefit the Nishkam Saint Puran Singh Institute (NSPSI) in Kenya, Africa through an overwhelming response from musicians and music lovers from across the country.

The Nishkam Raag Darbar series is in its third year and has gained national recognition on the majesty of the performers and their music. This year’s extravaganza saw the launch of a series of events to raise money for children in Kenya, Africa at NSPSI.

Contributing towards the Millennium Development Goals, the NSPSI was set up in Kericho, Kenya as a technical college aiming to provide qualitative education to the indigenous community around Kericho, Rift Valley and Kenya at large.

The rare raag performance united two of Europe’s leading Indian Classical Musical Maestros; outstanding sitar musician, Roopa Panesar and tabla sensation, Surdarshan Singh. Both performers have been dubbed experts within their instrumental arenas and are now

Sitar musician, Roopa Panesar

Sitar musician, Roopa Panesar speaking to the audiance

regarded as highly skilled performers and dedicated teachers in their respective traditional art forms.

Speaking on the successful event, sitar musician, Roopa Panesar said, “This has been an absolutely amazing evening. The vibes here were indescribable! The audience gave us so much love and warmth”.

The audience, which consisted of members from different faiths and cultures both young and old, enjoyed beautiful melodies, masterful improvisation and vigorous, rhythms. Each piece consisted of a name, a melodic mode called ‘raag’, and a cycle of rhythm called ‘taal’.

Music maestros with Bhai Sahib Bhai Mohindher Singh

Music maestros with Bhai Sahib Bhai Mohindher Singh

Onlookers were given an invaluable opportunity to meet the artists, learn more about raag and taal, and to ask questions regarding the art form, the performance and the artists themselves.An attendee of the event and Gurbani Kirtan Musician, Beant Singh said: “This was by far the best concert I have ever been to. There was so much emotion and love packed into the performance by both artists. The atmosphere and energy was spiritually charged, it was really indescribable. I am really looking forward to Raag Darbar 2013”.

To view photos from the event please click here

For more information on the latest events please visit www.ncauk.org

                                                                                                                                                                                                                        ENDS

Released by: Nishkam Centre

Telephone: 0121 515 4229

Email: Kiran.jheeta@ncauk.org

Notes for Editors

1. Raag – Raag is a form of traditional Indian music that constructs creative sequence of musical notes into a melody, conveying a series of moods that evoke passionate feelings such as love, affection, sympathy, desire, motivation, joy, or delight.

2. The Nishkam Saint Puran Singh Institute (NSPSI), Kericho, Kenya was opened in 2009 by the Rt Hon Raila Odinga, Prime Minister of Kenya.

The NSPSI aims to assist disadvantaged Africans in their quest to obtain a quality, relevant education in order to ensure that they are in a position to become global citizens and a competitive, productive element in the local job market.

NSPSI already has a track record of producing some of the highest achievers in Kenya. At present, some 350 students are enrolled on certified courses in Finance, Accountancy, Administration, Information Technology, Secretarial Studies and Carpentry.

For more information, please visit http://www.gnnsjkenya.org/nspsi

3. Millennium Development Goals – In the year 2000, the UN set eight global poverty targets called the Millennium Development Goals.

The deadline for achieving them is 2015.

1. End poverty and hunger

2. Universal education

3. Gender equality

4. Child health

5. Maternal health

6. HIV / AIDS

7. Environmental sustainability

8. Partnerships

To these eight we can also add the financial crisis, extremism and the erosion of values. In the new global scenario of the 21st Century, where global is local and local is global, we have a shared responsibility for achieving these social justice targets – partner with us to help others help themselves.

Filed Under: Event News
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