Diwali & Bandi Chorr Diwas at Khalsa Panth Academy

Last Friday the 17th Oct, our academy family came together to celebrate Diwali and Bandi Chorr Diwas. It was a warm, happy evening focused on learning, values, and plenty of fun for the kids.

       

We began with a simple talk for children on why this day is important. In easy words, we shared the story of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and the meaning of Bandi Chorr Diwas—freedom, fairness, and standing up for others. The kids asked great questions and linked the message to everyday life: being kind at school, helping friends, and speaking the truth.

   

After the talk, it was activity time. The bouncy castle was busy from start to finish and kept the little ones smiling. Our art corners had Diwali-themed painting and colouring, and a craft table for decorating diyas and making paper lanterns. Children proudly showed their artwork to parents and took photos with their creations. Tea and snacks were set out so families could relax and chat while the children played.

Events like this show what Khalsa Panth Academy is about—Sikhi, Gatka, Music, and community spirit under one roof. Big thanks to our volunteers and parents for keeping everything safe, tidy, and welcoming. Your support makes it possible to run family-friendly events that teach values and build confidence.

To close the evening, we stepped outside for a small, safe fireworks display. The bright colours lit up the sky and the children loved every moment. It was a simple way to end the night and make the celebration truly memorable.

If your child would like to join our regular classes—Punjabi, Gurbani basics, Kirtan (Harmonium/Tabla), Tanti Saaj, and Gatka—please get in touch. We keep costs reasonable so every family can take part.

May this season bring light to every home and courage to every heart.
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.

SGPC Opens UK & Europe Coordination Centre at Khalsa Panth Academy, Walsall

A new chapter of unity and service has begun for the Sikh community in the United Kingdom and Europe. With the blessings of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), Sri Amritsar Sahib, has officially opened its UK & Europe Coordination Centre at Khalsa Panth Academy, Cramp Hill, Walsall.

This historic step strengthens the bridge between the Sikh Sangat living abroad and the sacred institutions of Punjab. The initiative brings the spirit of Sikhi, Seva, and Panthic unity closer to the hearts of Sikhs across Europe.

A Step Towards Global Connection

For decades, the Sikh community across the UK and Europe has longed for a direct and organised way to connect with the SGPC and the holy Takht Sahibs in India. The new Coordination Centre has now made that dream a reality. It serves as a one-stop facility to assist Sangat with spiritual, cultural, and logistical needs connected to our sacred heritage.

     

Through this Centre, Sangat can now easily book accommodation (Sarai) at all five Takht Sahibs — Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib, Takht Sri Patna Sahib, Takht Sri Hazur Sahib, and Takht Sri Damdama Sahib — without the need for travel agents or complex procedures.

In addition to Sarai bookings, the Centre also provides direct access for Akhand Paath Sahib bookings and Nishaan Sahib Seva at these holy sites. This new system ensures that overseas Sangat can take part in these sacred sevas with full transparency and ease, staying closely connected to their roots.

     

Service with Simplicity

The UK & Europe Coordination Centre is not just an office — it is a bridge of faith and love between the global Sikh community and Sri Amritsar Sahib. It reflects SGPC’s ongoing mission to make spiritual services more accessible to Sikhs worldwide while upholding the true spirit of Seva and equality.

To make things even simpler, Sangat can now make all bookings online through the official website:
🌐 www.sgpcuk.com