Post by Gurdwara Aid

Vaisakhi at 10 Downing Street: A Celebration of Unity and Community Service The team was honoured to attend 10 Downing Street to celebrate Vaisakhi with the Prime Minister and esteemed guests. It was a powerful evening celebrating the vast contributions of the Sikh community near and far. We were proud to be joined by representatives from Gurdwaras across the country, standing together to represent the strength of our community: Khalsa Jatha British Isles (Shepherd's Bush) Guru Nanak Darbar (Gravesend) Singh Sabha (Southall, Basingstoke, Letchworth, Reading, Croydon, Hounslow, Great Barr, Derby, and Edward St) Sikh Foundation Manchester Nanaksar Gurdwara (Pleck, Walsall) Guru Nanak Gurdwara (Caldmore, Walsall) Nishkam Birmingham During the event, members of the Gurdwara Aid team presented Sir Keir Starmer with copies of the Gurdwara Handbook and the latest British Sikh Report. The Prime Minister accepted both with positive interest. We are grateful to the Prime Minister for his speech, in which he specifically recognised the work of Mandip Singh from Gurdwara Aid. He highlighted Mandip’s dedication and the vital role of Gurdwaras in providing Seva (selfless service) and social support. A key theme of the evening was unity. Sir Keir spoke about the importance of ensuring we do not become a nation divided. Crucially, he addressed the issue of Sikh Hate Crime, reaffirming the government's commitment to tackling hate and ensuring the community feels safe, respected, and heard. The Prime Minister also referenced "The Last Princesses of Punjab" exhibition at Kensington Palace. By highlighting the legacy of figures like Princess Sophia Duleep Singh, he connected the historical "warrior" spirit of Sikh women to the vital role the community continues to play in British life today. As the "Deeds Not Words" motto of the suffragettes reminds us, our community continues to lead through action and service. Photo Credit 10 Downing Street Jagtar Singh Gill OBE Harvinder Singh Rai MBE Mandip Singh Sohal Amrit Singh Mann Surinder Kaur Sahota Jagdev Singh Virdee Paramjit Kaur Matharu Harjot Wahiwala, ACSI Manraj Singh Avtar Kaur Sundeep Kaur