India Post News Service

WALNUT: The birth centenary of Shaheed Sardar Bhagat Singh was celebrated with piety and enthusiasm at Gudwara Sahib Walnut.A large sangat got together for prayers and reflection. It was a perfect Southern California day- bright and sunny, and a little warm for this time of the year. Eminent raagi jathas rendered shabad keertan.

One could not help but get mesmerized listening to Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji. Former principal of the Guru Nanak Children's Academy (Santa Ana) spoke on the importance of religious and cultural education for kids. The Walnut Committee is in the process of introducing new ideas and concepts for their school and has invited expertise and advice. Maninder Kaur Saini is a part of that endeavor. Amritpal Singh, (Downey) sang patriotic songs eulogizing Shaheed Bhagat Singh. Accompanied by Pipal Singh (Walnut) on Mandolin and James Sidhu on Dhol. Amritpal Singh enthralled the Sangat with songs that he has composed himself.Former Olympian S Sukhminder Singh also addressed the Sangat. The day ended with ardaas and langar.

The day's Akhand path and langar Sewa was by Saab Singh Bhullar and Nachhatar Singh Bhullar. Talking to India Post, Gurudwara Sahib Walnut committee members Saab Singh Bhullar, Balbir Singh Hundal, Surinder Bhogal, Sohan Singh Gill and Kuldip Singh Bhullar spelt out the broader agenda of the Gurdwara Sahib. They said that education is one area they are totally committed to. "We have over a dozen Gurdwaras here in the Southland. Each Gurdwara has its own school and each school has its own success story. We believe that rather than compete with each other, we all need to come together and form a common pool of talent and expertise that will prepare our youngsters to take on the mantle and in turn teach their young ones.

This is the only way that we can preserve our culture values and heritage for generations to come. We are first generation immigrants with strong direct ties to India, Punjab and our heritage and culture. The same will not hold true for the grandchildren of our kids and thus what we teach our kids is the key to what the future generations will imbibe," says a committee member.On Oct 21, Gurdwara Sahib Walnut held a medical camp where a team of very highly qualified doctors and other medical professionals did check ups and various tests on the sangat.

Apart from the routine tests the doctors also counseled the sangat individually on different health issues. Private counseling was also provided to those who desired. "Along with being a place of worship we also want this to be a venue for community gets together and personal interaction," said Saab Bhullar.On Nov 9, Walnut will celebrate Diwali and Bandi Chhor Diwas.