Hoshiarpur:- Rishu Walia President and the entire team of the British Desi Society (BDS) organised the first International Jassa Singh Ahluwalia Commemoration Day on 16th November 2025 at the Guru Amardas Gurdwara in Leicester, which was a historic moment for the global Sikh community. The event brought together community leaders, scholars, dignitaries and guests from across the United Kingdom and India to honour the legacy of Sultan-ul-Qaum Jassa Singh Ahluwalia (1718-1783).
The function began with the recitation of Sukhmani Sahib Path, followed by an in-depth presentation on the life, achievements and lasting contributions of the great Sikh leader. A highlight of the programme was the launch of the biography “The Warrior Saint – A Warrior, a Statesman” dedicated to the life and leadership of Jassa Singh Ahluwalia. President Rishu Walia welcomed the presence of the Gurdwara Committee, community members and BDS volunteers.
He stressed the importance of reviving the Sikh heritage and preserving historical narratives for future generations. He reflected on the significant role of Jassa Singh Ahluwalia in uniting the twelve Sikh Misls under the Khalsa flag and his unparalleled honour as Sultan-ul-Qaum.
The event featured keynote addresses by prominent leaders including Bhai Sahib Mahendra Singh Ahluwalia (OBE, KSG), Gurcharan Singh Gill (Advocate General, Jaipur and President of the Rashtriya Sikh Sangat), Dr Venkatachalam Murugan (Consul General of India, Birmingham), Leicester South MP Shaukat Adam, and Resham Singh Sandhu (MBE, DL, FRSA).
The event was attended by a number of dignitaries, including Leicestershire Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews, Leicester Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Bhupen Dave, Oadby and Wigston Mayor Councillor Jasvir Chauhan and Ashok Verma, husband of Baroness Verma of the House of Lords. Guests travelled from London, Birmingham and other major cities in the UK to witness the historic occasion.