Three-Day World Punjabi Conference Starts at Panjab University

Chandigarh, February 11, 2025: The Three-Day World Punjabi Conference on “The Concept of Sewa in Sikhism” commenced today at Law Auditorium, Panjab University, Chandigarh.

The prestigious conference is being organised by Department of Guru Nanak Sikh Studies, Panjab University and Virasat Punjab Manch under the patronage of PU Vice Chancellor, Professor Renu Vig. Dedicated to exploring the essence of sewa (selfless service) in Sikhism, the conference will continue until 13 February 2025.

In her inaugural address, Professor Renu Vig highlighted how the Sikh Gurus led by example in practising sewa, inspiring generations to adopt selfless service as a way of life. She urged the younger generation to integrate sewa into their daily lives.

Addressing the gathering as Chief Guest, former Chief Justice of India, Justice J.S. Khehar, emphasised that sewa must be selfless, referencing Guru Granth Sahib and the concept of langar introduced by Guru Nanak Dev Ji at Kartarpur Sahib (now in Pakistan). Quoting Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings, he underscored that “Sharing is caring”, while also citing the contributions of Guru Angad Dev Ji, Guru Amardas Ji, and Guru Ramdas Ji, each of whom embodied different aspects of sewa.

Maj Gen PBS Lamba, General Officer Commanding, Kashmir Sub Area, Srinagar, attended as the Guest of Honour and highlighted the parallels between sewa in Sikhism and the service ethos of the Indian Army.

Renowned Sikh scholar Sardar Ranjodh Singh spoke on the concept of sewa across different religions, while Sardar Gurtej Singh (IAS), in his Keynote Address, provided a historical and philosophical perspective on selfless service in Sikhism.

Earlier, the Conference started with welcoming note of Professor Horjodh Singh. It was followed by a message from Padma Shri Baba Sewa Singh (Nishan-e-Sikhi, Sri Khadoor Sahib), reinforcing the significance of sewa.

The conference was presided over by Baba Baljinder Singh (Rara Sahib) and saw the presence of several distinguished personalities, including Sardar Gurdev Singh (IAS), Sardar Hardial Singh (IAS), Professor Balkar Singh, Sardar Bhupinder Singh Bajwa (Canada), and Sardar Mota Singh Sarai (UK), who were honoured for their contributions.

Justice J.S. Khehar also released the book “Concept of Martyrdom in Sikhism”, edited by Dr. Harjodh Singh.  The  inaugural session was concluded with the vote of thanks given by Professor Gurpal Singh.

The academic sessions of the conference are being held at the Golden Jubilee Hall, where scholars, researchers, and community leaders are engaging in discussions on the relevance of sewa in Sikhism and its application in contemporary society.