Amritsar:- Today, the Jathedar of the highest temporal seat of the Sikhs, Sri Akal Takht Sahib, has conferred a special honour upon Melbourne-based artist Bethany Cherry and leading community activist Harkirat Singh Ajnoha.
The honour was bestowed upon Bethany Cherry for her extraordinary mural depicting Shaheed Jaswant Singh Khalra on the famous Hosier Lane in Melbourne. Harkirat Singh Ajnoha has been recognised for his deep and dedicated service to the Australian Sikh community and for his pivotal role as the main inspiration and facilitator in bringing the Khalra Mural Project to reality.
This decision, taken by Jathedar Gyani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, underlines the global significance of art in highlighting the story of human rights advocacy on an international platform while also acknowledging the essential efforts of the local community.
Praise for artist Bethany Cherry “Bethany Cherry’s art is not merely paint on a wall; it is a powerful message to the world about courage, sacrifice and the ongoing struggle for human rights,” said a spokesperson of Sri Akal Takht Sahib. “Her dedication, carried out with profound respect and research, is proof of the universal reach of Sikh values.”
Special recognition for Harkirat Singh His crucial role in coordinating with Australian authorities and ensuring community support has been particularly highlighted.
Harkirat Singh said: “Receiving this honour from Sri Akal Takht Sahib is the highest affirmation of our community’s mission in Australia. The Khalra Mural is much more than a memorial; it is a tangible commitment to global justice and historical truth.
It serves as a daily reminder that the work started by Shaheed Khalra must continue until accountability is achieved. We are grateful that our efforts to bring this story to light on earth have been recognised by the highest authority – Sri Akal Takht Sahib itself.”