Italy’s growing Sikh community organized a daylong congregation to promote universal brotherhood and peace through the recitation of sacred Gurbani.
The fifth annual event, organized by the Sarbat da Bhalla society in collaboration with several Sikh institutions, drew a large gathering, including many local Italians.
Held in the city of Lasara in the Emilia-Romagna region, the program featured performances of Gatka, the traditional Sikh martial art, and continuous Gurbani recitations by prominent ragi jathas, including groups invited from India.
Prithipal Singh, president of the registered World Sikh Soldiers society, said the city’s newly elected mayor, Stephanie Mussi, praised the contributions made by Sikhs, particularly Sikh soldiers, to Italy’s development.
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The program began with a recitation of Sri Sukhmani Sahib by a group of girls and boys. It was followed by the recitation of “Dhadhi vaars,” or Sikh heroic ballads, by visiting performer Dhadhi Jawala Singh Patanga.
Members of Missal Shaheedan presented a Gatka demonstration that captivated the audience. Prithipal Singh, Satinder Singh and Pritpal Singh of World Sikh Soldiers later presented mementos and trophies to the participants.
A special langar, or community meal, was served to everyone in attendance.
