On November 18, 2017, Belfast saw what was probably the first ever Indian community event organized by High Commission of India.
The celebration of 350th birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh ji at Indian Community Centre, Belfast was well attended, with Indian community members converging from all parts of Northern Ireland.
The celebration commenced with Sikh devotional music performed by group ‘KauRas’.
Local children also delivered Gurbaani recitals at the special celebrations that were co-hosted by the Sikh Gurudwaras in Belfast and Londonderry.
A seminar on the life and teachings of the revered Tenth Sikh Guru also took place at which Lord Rana, eminent historian Professor Dr. Tom Fraser, local community leader & surgeon Dr. Panesar, and Chairman, Indian Community Centre - Dr. Satyavir Singhal poke of the increasing relevance of the Guru's teachings on equality, harmony and freedom from exploitation.
A special exhibition prepared with the support of V&A Museum was launched by the High Commission of India on the special occasion. The photo-exhibition containing some of the very rare-works on the Sikh Gurus and Sikhism, was very well-received by the visitors to the event. (This exhibition will also be displayed at various cities across the UK to mark the special year celebrations on Guru Gobind Singh ji).
Acting High Commissioner Amb. Dinesh K. Patnaik thanked Indians in Belfast for welcoming the celebrations of 350th birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh ji in Belfast with such warmth. He spoke of the year-long celebrations taking place all over the country, with financial assistance of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. He also spoke about the Guru's contribution in promoting national unity and equality, and spoke about the Panj Piaras who were chosen from different regions, different castes and different professions. Amb. Patnaik hailed Indians' contributions to Northern Ireland's economy and social fabric, and their role in building on India's relationship with Northern Ireland.
Earlier in the day, Acting High Commissioner paid obeisance at the Belfast Gurudwara- Gurudwara Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and at the Hindu Mandir at Clifton Street. During his Belfast visit, Amb. Patnaik also met with Mr. Edwin Poots & Mr. Jonathan Buckley of the Democratic Unionist Party. Hon. Consul General of India in Belfast- Lord Diljit Rana also hosted a working lunch of Amb. Patnaik with eminent community members and business leaders of North Ireland.
