In 2008, Veer Ravjeet Singh visited a primary school in London to share knowledge about Sikhi with the students and staff. The day began with a morning assembly where Ravjeet Singh gave a 15-minute introduction about Sikhs, their origins, and why they have a distinct appearance.
During the assembly, the school caretaker listened attentively to the talk. He became quite interested in Sikhi. Afterwards, he approached Veer Ravjeet Singh and asked him to put a Dastaar (turban) on his head. As Ravjeet Singh only had material for small turbans (keskis), he tied a small Dastaar on the caretaker's head.
The caretaker was extremely impressed and happy to sport a turban on his head. However, he said, "You are wearing two turbans. A small one is covered by a big one. Can you please tie the big turban on my head as well?" Ravjeet Singh didn't have any large turban material, but he used the small turban material to tie a second turban over the keski. Waheguru. The caretaker was overjoyed. It was amazing to witness such enthusiasm and love for the Sikh appearance from someone who is not Sikh.
Ravjeet sharing his learning
During the day, Ravjeet Singh had three classes, spending an hour in each class. He began by recapping the information shared in the assembly, such as the origin of Sikhs and the significance of the 5 Ks. Then he discussed the fundamental Sikh principles, lifestyle, major festivals, and Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple). The children had an opportunity to ask questions. One boy pointed to the photo of Harmandir Sahib on the screen and asked, "Why is the Golden Temple called Golden Temple?
At the end of the class sessions, Veer jee distributed Karhaah (not parshaad) to let the children experience the taste of Karhaah Parshaad from the Gurdwara. All the children enjoyed the Karhaah. Some Muslim or Christian children initially felt uncomfortable eating it and didn't have any. However, when they saw the other children asking for seconds, thirds, and more helpings, they decided to try some and enjoyed it. The children were also given the chance to have a small Dastaar tied on them. The Dastaar demonstrations were highly popular with the children.
The Sikh Awareness Day at this school demonstrates that by having a simple conversation, addressing children's queries, sharing food, and playfully putting Dastaars on children, we can promote understanding about Sikhs, and eliminate ignorance, prejudices, and misconceptions. Such initiatives have consistently fostered awareness about Sikh culture over the years. As a result, more people are now familiar with Sikhism, and its awareness continues to grow.
*Based on an article by Manvir Singh, published on 12th June 2008