Join WhatsApp Channel
The World Gatka Federation, in collaboration with the Norwich Mayor’s Office, commemorated Miri-Piri Day and Sikh Veterans Day 2026 at Norwich City Hall in Connecticut.
The event brought together Sikh organizational leaders, community members, and other guests from across the East Coast. The gathering focused on the principle of Miri-Piri established by Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and honored the history, legacy, and sacrifices of Sikh warriors, according to a statement from the Gatka Foundation.
Dr. Deep Singh, general secretary of the World Gatka Federation, provided details about the program, which began with an Ardas, or prayer, led by Bhai Gagandeep Singh Bareilly of New York.
Following the U.S. national anthem, Simranjeet Singh and Gursimran Kaur performed Shabad Kirtan, or devotional hymns, centered on the concept of Miri-Piri. Several speakers later addressed the gathering and shared their perspectives on its historical and contemporary significance.
Sikh youth leader Gurpratap Singh discussed the principles of Miri-Piri, presented key aspects of Sikh history, and spoke about the Sikh Raj. Surinder Singh of the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund in Washington, D.C., explained the significance of Miri-Piri and highlighted the organization’s community initiatives.
The World Gatka Federation and Gatka Federation presented a Lifetime Achievement Award to Bhagat Singh Deikwala of Pennsylvania. Deikwala, a Panthic leader and representative of the World Sikh Parliament, was recognized for his service to the Sikh community.
Special honors were also presented to Norwich Mayor Swarnjit Singh Khalsa, President Pro Tempore Joseph A. DeLucia, and Alderman Zato Kadambaya.
One of the program’s highlights was the unveiling of a sculpture of Maharaja Ranjit Singh created by sculptor and artist Samson Tonton, who attended the ceremony, according to the statement.
Other honorees included Norwich City Historian Dale Plummer; Bobbie Bradboy, director of Global City Norwich; Himmat Singh and Harminder Singh Ahluwalia of the World Sikh Parliament; Gurtej Singh Patiala; Hridaypal Singh; Gagandeep Singh of the Singh Cultural Society of New York; S. Kular of Shiromani Akali Dal Amritsar; Rajinder Singh of the Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Society; and Angad Singh, representing local Sikh youth.
During the event, Khalsa thanked attendees and paid tribute to Gatka, the Sikh martial art. He presented an official proclamation to Deep Singh, which Angad Singh read aloud.
Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont also issued an official proclamation recognizing Miri-Piri Day as Sikh Veterans Day, according to the statement. The program also included the announcement of a scholarship for local schools in memory of Jaswant Singh Khalra, a prominent human rights activist.
The Gatka Federation USA team supported the event. Team members included Sujan Singh, Jaskeerat Singh, Gurpreet Singh Patiala, Sarbjit Kaur, Jasved Singh, Baljinder Singh Ludhiana, and Arshdeep Singh.
Related posts:
New York Gatka Association Wins Overall Trophy at 3rd U.S. National Gatka Championship
Gatka Federation USA Hosts 4th US National Gatka Coaching and Refresher Course to Promote Sikh Martial Art
New York Expands Job Access for Disabled Veterans as Governor Hochul Signs Assemblywoman Rajkumar’s Bill
Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont Leads Trade Mission to Strengthen Economic Ties with India
