HAMPSHIRE, UK—”Bole-So-Nihaal! Sat Sri Akaal!” The Sikh jaikara, a spiritual jubilation ‘cry,’ marked the beginning of the 8th Chardi-Kala moral development course for Sikhs in the Armed Forces. Sikhs from all three services congregated at Amport House, home of the Armed Force Chaplaincy Center, for the three day Sikh spiritual awareness course.
The annual event, organized by the Sikh Chaplain to the Armed Forces, Mandeep Kaur, is a rare opportunity for Sikhs in the Royal Navy, Army, and Royal Air Force to learn, pray, and eat together. It involves spiritual guidance, lectures on history, and current affairs within the military environment.
“We have named this event Chardi-Kala, which in Punjabi this translates to ‘in high spirits, regardless,’ so no matter what happens in one’s life, despite their emotional state, Sikhs will always place their trust in God’s hands. They accept the fate that has been bestowed upon them and they endeavor to carry on in high spirits” Said Mrs. Mandeep Kaur.
The feedback of the attendees echoed a raised morale as a result of having a good laugh, spending time with others from the same background, and connecting more deeply with Sikhi through learning about Gurbani, (scripture) and the Guru’s teachings.
