The fact that the Sikh community is one of the most resourceful in fostering community welfare, cultural plurality and the spirit of enterprise was evident on March 11, 2012 as Sri Kalgidhar Sahib, the Gurdwara in Takanini, South Auckland marked the seventh anniversary of its establishment.
It was in fact cultural fusion at work, with more than 6000 men, women and children present at the imposing complex to celebrate an event, which was rightfully considered a landmark.
Seven years ago, we wrote about the sweat and toil of a small group of people with large hearts, reaching out to a large number of people with equally large hearts; and how the union of minds and deeds gave birth to an impressive and function-built complex.
But society members acknowledge the services of Manpreet Singh, Lali Ranvir Singh, Daljit Singh and members of the executive committee for their selfless service and contribution to the construction, maintenance and activities of the Gurdwara.
We were there, as always, lending a hand of support to the people of the Sikh community, for, together, we have strived to foster its goal of communal harmony and peaceful co-existence through goodwill and understanding.
Cultural fusion
If the inaugural function held on March 13, 2005 in the presence of former Prime Minister Helen Clark, Singh Sahib Joginder Singh Vedanti, the religious and spiritual head of the Sikh community, known as the Jathedar of the Sri Akal Takhat (the Supreme Council of spiritual leaders) and other religious, community, social and political leaders was an event to remember, the seventh anniversary proved the growing popularity of the Sikh community in New Zealand.
It was in fact cultural fusion at work.
The event, organised by the Auckland branch of the New Zealand Sikh Society, saw more than 6000 people congregating to prey, sing kirtans, hear speeches of solidarity and community welfare and pledge to work towards greater cohesion among the people of varied ethnicities in the country.
Political and community leaders have always spoken high of the Sikh community in New Zealand.
“The Sikhs have always been known for their hard-work and pursuit of goals and the Gurdwara proves that belief. It is a facility that has become a source of pride and convenience to thousands of members of the community,” they said.
Ms Clark said members of the Sikh community, with their huge support and involvement in various activities, are a source of inspiration to others wherever lived.
“I have always been impressed by the involvement of Sikhs in the local communities round the world. Their successful participation in the farming sector initially in the Waikato area is well known,” she said.
