Tabla Maestros Meet at Khalsa Panth Academy

Khalsa Panth Academy was pleased to welcome a special meeting between Sharanjeet Singh, Tabla Teacher at Khalsa Panth Academy, and renowned tabla maestro Sukhwinder Singh Pinky.

 

The meeting provided a valuable opportunity to discuss the development of tabla learning, teaching methods, student progression and the importance of creating more opportunities for young learners to connect with Indian classical and Sikh musical traditions.

Both musicians shared thoughts around practical training, master classes, workshops and future collaborations that could help students gain wider exposure and learn from experienced artists.

The discussion also focused on how specialist sessions can support tabla teachers and learners by introducing different techniques, playing styles and approaches to rhythm, while keeping strong foundations in taal, discipline and regular practice.

At Khalsa Panth Academy, we believe collaboration between experienced musicians and teachers can create meaningful learning opportunities for the next generation. Meetings like this help us build stronger links within the music community and explore new ways to support our students.

We look forward to developing future opportunities with Sukhwinder Singh Pinky and continuing to strengthen tabla and Gurmat Sangeet learning at Khalsa Panth Academy.

Music • Sikhi • Gatka

Khalsa Panth Academy was blessed to host a beautiful Vaisakhi Samagam 2026 on Saturday, 18th April, bringing together students, parents, volunteers and sangat to celebrate one of the most important occasions in the Sikh calendar.

   

Vaisakhi is a day of great pride and reflection for Sikhs across the world. It reminds us of the creation of the Khalsa Panth by Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the values of courage, equality, seva, discipline and devotion. At Khalsa Panth Academy, this special occasion was celebrated with love, togetherness and a strong focus on passing Sikh values to the next generation.

The Samagam included Kirtan, inspiring talks, Gatka performance and Guru Ka Langar. Our students had the opportunity to take part and showcase what they are learning at the academy, including Sikh music, discipline and confidence through Gatka. It was heartwarming to see young children connecting with Gurbani, Sikh history and the spirit of community.

Live Kirtan and Tabla Performance by Karanjeet Singh and Sharanjeet Singh

Sharan Singh accompanying the Kirtan programme on tabla during Vaisakhi Samagam 2026, demonstrating the collaborative role of traditional percussion in live Sikh music.

A special part of the Vaisakhi Samagam was the live Kirtan and musical contribution from Bhai Karanjeet Singh Khalsa and Sharanjeet Singh, professionally known as Sharan Singh, tabla artist, vocalist and music mentor at Khalsa Panth Academy.

Sharan supported the Kirtan programme through live tabla accompaniment, bringing together traditional rhythmic discipline, sensitivity to Gurbani and many years of classical music experience. His playing helped create a balanced and engaging musical setting for the sangat while also giving younger learners an opportunity to experience tabla in a live performance environment.

A key highlight of the day was the Gatka performance, where students demonstrated the traditional Sikh martial art with focus, energy and respect. Gatka is not only a martial art, but also a way to build discipline, confidence, fitness and connection with the Sikh warrior spirit.

   

The Kirtan and talks reminded everyone about the importance of staying connected to Gurbani, mother tongue, Sikh traditions and our roots. The event also gave students a chance to serve, learn and take part in a positive sangat environment.

We are truly thankful to all the parents, volunteers, teachers and sangat members who supported the Vaisakhi Samagam and helped make the day successful. From preparing and serving langar to guiding students and supporting the arrangements, every seva made a meaningful difference.

Khalsa Panth Academy will continue working towards its mission of promoting Sikhi, Sikh music, Gatka, Punjabi language, Gurbani and traditional values for future generations.

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.

On 20th March 2026, Khalsa Panth Academy hosted a special Tabla Master Class led by Sharanjeet Singh, giving students an opportunity to develop their skills through focused, practical learning.

The session brought together learners of different levels, from those still building confidence with basic taal and hand technique to students looking to improve their control, clarity and understanding of tabla accompaniment.

Learning Beyond the Basics

The master class was designed to give students more than a normal weekly lesson. Sharanjeet Singh worked closely with learners on important areas including hand positioning, sound clarity, timing, rhythm, taal, speed control and accompaniment.

Students were able to observe techniques closely, practise them during the session and receive direct guidance on where they could improve.

A major focus was placed on understanding rhythm properly rather than simply memorising patterns. Learners were encouraged to listen carefully, understand the structure of the taal and develop confidence in keeping a steady rhythm.

   

A Valuable Experience for Learners

One of the most positive parts of the session was the interaction between the teacher and students.

Learners had the opportunity to ask questions, practise difficult sections and receive individual feedback. For many students, small corrections in hand movement, sitting position or timing made an immediate difference to the quality of their playing.

Students also gained a better understanding of how tabla works alongside Kirtan and Gurmat Sangeet, where the role of the tabla player is not only to maintain rhythm but also to listen carefully and support the Shabad and the overall musical presentation.

Many learners came away from the session feeling more confident, motivated and clearer about what they should practise next.

Building Confidence Through Practice

Master classes like this are especially useful because students can learn from both the teacher and from watching other learners.

Hearing different playing styles, observing corrections and practising together creates an environment where students can improve naturally.

The session also reminded learners that becoming a good tabla player takes patience, regular practice and discipline. Progress does not always come from playing faster. It comes from producing a clean sound, maintaining correct timing and understanding the rhythm properly.

Keeping Sikh Musical Heritage Alive

At Khalsa Panth Academy, teaching tabla is part of a much wider purpose.

Our aim is to help the next generation remain connected with Sikhi, Gurbani, Punjabi language and Sikh musical traditions while giving them access to experienced teachers and structured learning.

Tabla has an important place within Kirtan, and by helping young people understand the instrument properly, we are also helping them develop a deeper appreciation of the musical traditions connected with Gurbani.

Alongside tabla, the Academy continues to encourage learning in Kirtan, harmonium and traditional Sikh instruments such as Sarangi, Dilruba, Taus, Taar Shehnai, Tota Sarangi, Issraj and Sitar.

Learning Together, Growing Together

The Tabla Master Class on 20th March was not simply about improving technique. It was about creating interest, confidence and a stronger connection with our musical heritage.

We would like to thank Sharanjeet Singh for sharing his knowledge and experience with the students, and also thank all the learners and families who continue to support the work of Khalsa Panth Academy.

Seeing students practise, ask questions and improve during the session is exactly why these opportunities are so important.

Khalsa Panth Academy will continue organising specialist sessions and master classes to give learners opportunities to learn directly from experienced teachers and develop their skills further.

Music • Sikhi • Gatka

Together, we are helping prepare the next generation to understand, practise and carry forward our Sikh heritage..

On Friday 6 February, Khalsa Panth Academy was honoured to welcome Rt Hon Pat McFadden MP for a visit to our academy. His visit gave him a close up glimpse of the work we do to support Sikh music, Sikh education, and positive community activity for children, youth, and families.

   

During his time with us, Mr McFadden listened to live kirtan and observed how our students and teachers use music to connect with Gurbani performance by Bhai Karanjeet Singh Khlasa and Tabla by Sharanjeet Singh in a calm and respectful way. He also took time to speak with our members and volunteers, learning about the different classes we deliver and the wider support we offer through community events and seva.

   

We were also pleased to host the Amber Radio Team, who interviewed Mr McFadden during the visit. In the interview, he shared thoughtful views about the academy and highlighted the importance of Sikh values such as service, respect, discipline, and unity. His words recognised the effort of everyone involved, from our tutors to our volunteers and families who support the academy week after week.

To close the visit, Mr McFadden delivered a short speech to our team and attendees. He encouraged us to continue the work we are doing for the community and praised the positive impact of faith based education, music, and cultural learning. We are grateful for his time, his encouragement, and the interest he showed in our mission to keep Sikh heritage and values strong for the next generation.

On 24 January, Khalsa Panth Academy held a heartfelt event to commemorate Baba Deep Singh Ji, remembering his spirit of courage, seva, and unwavering faith.

 

The programme began with Sukhmani Sahib Path in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib Ji, creating a calm and uplifting atmosphere for everyone in attendance. Sangat sat together with full focus, and the words of Gurbani set the tone for the whole day, reminding us of chardi kala and strong Sikh values.

A special highlight was seeing our children take an active role throughout the event. The kids performed Shabad Kirtan with confidence and respect, showing their progress in both music and understanding. For many families, it was a proud moment to watch the next generation connecting with Sikhi through raag and shabad. The sangat also enjoyed Kirtan by Bhai Karanjeet Singh and Gursharan Singh Ji, which brought a powerful sense of devotion and unity in the hall.

   

Alongside the stage programme, the children were also given the chance to volunteer and support the event, learning the true meaning of seva in a practical way. From helping with simple arrangements to supporting the flow of the programme, their involvement made the day even more meaningful.

   

As always, the warmth of the community was felt through Langar prepared by the sangat, served with love and humility. We were also honoured that prestigious guests joined us, and shared valuable thoughts on Baba Deep Singh Ji’s life, his sacrifice, and how his message still guides us today.

Khalsa Panth Academy is grateful to everyone who attended, supported, and contributed. May we continue to learn from Baba Deep Singh Ji’s legacy and pass these values on to our children with pride and purpose.

It was a real honour for Khalsa Panth Academy to welcome Bhai Davinder Singh Sodhi Ji during his visit to the academy. We were blessed to have the opportunity to receive his presence and offer our respects. The visit was a proud moment for our Sangat and a reminder of the importance of staying connected to Sikhi, Gurbani, and our traditional values.

    

During this visit, we also shared an update on the academy’s progress and overall growth. Khalsa Panth Academy continues to move forward with its mission to promote Sikhi, music, and Gatka in a way that is accessible and affordable for families across the community. We highlighted the steady development in our classes, including Kirtan, tabla, Sikh education, and Gatka training, and how these programmes are helping build confidence, discipline, and a stronger connection to our mother tongue and Gurbani.

Bhai Sahib’s visit brought positive energy and motivation for the team behind the academy, encouraging us to keep improving and serving with humility. We are grateful for this visit and pray for continued blessings as we work towards expanding our efforts and supporting the next generation in learning, living, and representing Sikhi with pride.

Gurpurab and Shaheedi Remembrance at the UK Parliament

Khalsa Panth Academy had the honour of joining a special gathering at Committee Room 10, Houses of Parliament, to mark Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Gurpurab and remember the Shaheedi of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. It was a moving evening of shabad, reflection, and unity, shared with Members of Parliament and community leaders.

Our students opened with a heartfelt shabad, sung with calm and confidence. Their voices filled the room and reminded everyone of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s message of Naam, Kirat, and Vand Chhakna. Bhai Karanjeet Singh Khalsa then sang a shabad with deep feeling. With more than 25 years in Sikh kirtan and composition, his rendition guided the sangat into simran and gratitude.

     

Speakers, including respected MPs and guests, spoke about the values taught by our Gurus. They highlighted freedom of faith, human rights, and service to others. The remembrance of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s supreme sacrifice touched every heart. His stand for the right to worship remains a timeless lesson for the world, and it felt especially meaningful to honour this in the UK Parliament.

For our students, this was more than a performance. It was a chance to live Sikhi through music and to represent the community with respect. Moments like these build confidence, connect young minds to Gurbani, and keep our heritage strong.

     

We thank the organisers, the MPs who attended, and all who supported the event. Khalsa Panth Academy will continue to promote Sikhi, music, and community service so that our children grow with strong values, healthy minds, and love for our mother tongue and traditions. May we all follow the path shown by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and remember the courage of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji in our daily lives.

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.

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.

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

On Friday, 12th July, we had the great honour of welcoming Valerie Vaz MP to Khalsa Panth Academy for a friendly visit and tour of our premises.

The visit was a moment of pride for our academy, students, and sewadars. Valerie Vaz MP kindly took time out of her busy schedule to meet our team, observe our facilities, and learn about the work we’re doing to preserve and promote Sikh music, education, Gatka, and cultural values among the next generation.

🔍 What Happened During the Visit

• Valerie Ji was given a guided tour of the academy classrooms, music rooms, Gatka practice zone, and community learning areas.
• She interacted with our teachers and young students, showing genuine interest in how we teach Kirtan, Tabla, Punjabi, and Self-Defence.
• The atmosphere was warm, spiritual, and filled with community energy. Our students were excited and inspired to meet such a respected guest.

    

🎤 A Heartfelt Speech of Appreciation

After the tour, Valerie Vaz MP addressed the gathering with a touching speech. She appreciated the academy’s dedication to education, heritage, and youth development, noting how Khalsa Panth Academy is a true example of grassroots community empowerment.

She also praised the academy’s efforts in making education inclusive, affordable, and deeply rooted in Sikh values like Seva, discipline, and unity.

        

🍵 Light Refreshments & Sangat Time

The visit concluded with light afternoon tea and snacks, where Valerie Ji spent time engaging with guests, families, and volunteers. Her presence brought great encouragement to all of us striving to serve the community through education and tradition.

📸 Stay Tuned for Photos!

We’ll be sharing moments from the day soon on our Instagram and Facebook pages. Follow us to stay connected with everything happening at Khalsa Panth Academy.

    

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!
We thank Valerie Vaz MP once again for her visit and support.
May Guru Sahib continue to bless this path of seva and learning.