Saanjhivaalta and Chardikala Define Sikh Identity: Air Chief Marshal Dhanoa

 

 

The Two-day Symposium "Samwad" organized by Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University, dedicated to Hola Mohalla, concluded successfully with thought-provoking discussions and scholarly exchanges. Former Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa was the chief guest of the valedictory session. He emphasized that the Sikh identity is globally recognized through saanjhivaalta (community spirit) and chardikala (eternal optimism). He highlighted that Hola Mohalla teaches us to navigate challenges with resilience and serve humanity without discrimination. Prof. Sukhwinder Singh Billing, Dean Academic Affairs of the University welcomed the Guests and expressed his delight over the successful achievement of the Symposium. Presiding over the session, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Prit Pal Singh stated that such academic engagements play a crucial role in shaping young minds by enhancing not just their intellectual capabilities but also their literary, social, political, and ethical perspectives. Prof. Dharamjeet Singh Parmar, Vice-Chancellor of Sant Baba Bhag Singh University, commended the University’s initiative to bring together distinguished international scholars from various fields onto a common platform to inspire students. A key highlight of the second day was a book discussion session led by Prof. Kehar Singh, former Chairman of the Punjab School Education Board, who engaged in a critical conversation on the book “Significant Resolutions and Decisions of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee”, authored by Prof. Paramvir Singh from Punjabi University, Patiala. The literary session, Kavi Darbar, featured renowned poets and scholars, including Jaswant Jafar, Director of the Punjab Language Department, Prof. Sukhwinder Amrit, noted poet Vijay Vivek, and Dr. Hardev Singh, Head of the Department of Religious Studies. These poets shared their poetic compositions, adding a creative dimension to the event. Engaging discussions on contemporary issues also took center stage, with Prof. Teerath Singh Virdi from the UK speaking on the significance and challenges of Artificial Intelligence. Senior journalist S.P. Singh from PTC News reflected on the relationship between Sikhism and journalism, while Prof. Harvinder Singh Bhatti from the Department of Sociology examined the generational gap in society. Prof. Ramesh Arora from the Department of Agriculture provided an in-depth analysis of the ongoing agrarian crisis, bringing critical socio-economic perspectives to the forum.

The event concluded with Dr. Hardev Singh, Convener of the Indian Knowledge System Cell, presenting the program report. Dr. Ankdeep Kaur Attwal, Coordinator of the IQAC Cell, and Dr. Charan Kamal Sekhon, Head of the Zoology Department, delivered the welcome addresses, while Dr. Sikandar Singh, Dean Students' Welfare, and Dr. Nav Shagan Deep Kaur, Head of the Sociology Department, presented vote of thanks. Dr. Harneet Billing, Head of the Education Department, and Dr. Binder Singh from the Punjabi Department moderated the proceedings seamlessly.Students shared positive feedback, stating that the event was highly insightful and enriching, providing them with a deeper understanding of academic, cultural, and contemporary socio-political issues. The event was attended by Deputy Registrar Jagjit Singh, along with department heads, faculty members, and a large number of students, making it a truly impactful and memorable gathering.