CHICAGO: Indian Consul General in Chicago Dr Ausaf Sayeed inaugurated a week long photo exhibition “The Sikhs – A Heritage of Valor and Devotion” in the atrium of the State of Illinois Building in Chicago on Monday September 9.
The Exhibition by the renowned photo artist Sondeep Shankar is a pioneering work which showcases the rich Sikh Heritage and traditions. The Exhibition is sponsored by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, New Delhi and is co-hosted by the Indian Consulate in Chicago, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn and the Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago (PCS).
The Exhibition remained open to the public till September 13. Other venues for this display are also being planned.
Nearly fifty Indian American community members attended the inauguration ceremony of the exhibition. On behalf of the Governor Pat Quinn, Ms. Theresa Mah welcomed everyone and announced that it was a part of the series of events displaying the diversity of cultures in Illinois.
Rajinder Singh Mago of PCS gave an overview of the Sikh beliefs, the history of Sikhs in America and their contributions and sacrifices in the world wars gallantly fighting for the success of the allies.
Mago introduced Consul General Dr Ausaf Sayeed who along with dignitaries cut the ribbon to officially declare the exhibition open to the public. In his remarks, Dr Sayeed spoke highly of the rich Sikh Heritage and the openness and inclusive nature of the Sikh culture personally experienced by him over the years through his many Sikh friends. He also touched upon the inclusive nature of Guru Granth Sahib.
A moment of silence was observed in memory of the two Sikhs, one US national and another Indian national, who were murdered at a grocery store in Middlebury Street in Elkhart in northern Indiana during a robbery attempt recently.
The Consul General and other invitees viewed the exhibits on display.
“This exhibition will generate awareness and understanding about the Sikh American community among their fellow Americans, which is invaluable during the week of nine eleven,” said Rajinder Singh Mago.
Sikhism established in the 15th century, is just over 500 years old religion. Its teachings are founded in philosophy of humanism, pluralism, universal brotherhood etc. Guru Nanak Devji was the first Sikh Guru, born in 1469.He was followed by nine Gurus whose descendants and close followers are spread in large numbers across the world. There are approximately 700,000 Sikh Americans in United States, including thousands in the state of Illinois.
Surendra Ullal
