SWISS STANDING & COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION

During the summer holidays, a Sikh Summer Camp was organized for youth in Switzerland. The main aim of this camp was to educate the younger generation about the Punjabi language, Sikh values, and Sikh traditions, while strengthening their connection with their religious and cultural identity. At the camp, students were taught Punjabi language, Gurbani, and the teachings and study of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Special focus was given to Kirtan, helping youth understand its spiritual significance. Participants also took part in Gatka, the traditional Sikh martial art and game, which promotes physical fitness, discipline, courage, and self-defense. Along with religious and physical education, the camp strongly emphasized Seva. Students actively participated in Langar Seva, learning the values of equality, humility, teamwork, and selfless service. The camp also included Dastar Tying training sessions, where youth were taught the importance of the Sikh turban and how to tie it properly, helping them take pride in their Sikh identity. Speaking on the occasion, Bhai Ranjit Masuta highlighted the importance of organizing such camps for Sikh youth living abroad. He stated that these camps play a vital role in preserving Sikh heritage and guiding the younger generation toward a positive, disciplined, and meaningful life. Overall, the Sikh Summer Camp provided a positive and enriching environment, helping youth grow spiritually, culturally, and morally, while making their summer holidays meaningful and productive. In that year, at Takht Sri Hazur Sahib, Guru Gobind Singh Ji bestowed Guruship upon the Guru Granth Sahib, affirming that the Shabad (Divine Word) would guide the Panth for eternity. Three centuries later, Sikhs across the world honoured this defining moment through prayer, kirtan, seva, and Nagar Kirtans. In Langenthal, the procession commenced and concluded at Gurdwara Sahib Langenthal, the first purpose-built Gurdwara in Switzerland constructed in traditional Sikh architectural form. The Palki Sahib, beautifully adorned with flowers and canopies, was carried on a decorated vehicle through the principal streets of the town. The sangat walked barefoot in disciplined reverence, led by sewadars in kesri bana carrying Nishan Sahibs, while continuous kirtan was performed by children and elders alike. Gatka demonstrations, ardaas at key town squares, and petals offered in devotion transformed the civic landscape into a moving sanctuary of faith. The event was conducted with official coordination and escort by the Swiss authorities, reflecting mutual respect and exemplary civic harmony. Residents and onlookers witnessed a serene expression of Sikh spirituality articulated through music, service, humility, and collective devotion. This occasion also stood as a tribute to the vision and efforts of Ranjit Singh Masuta, whose leadership helped establish the Langenthal Gurdwara as a spiritual home for the Sikh community in Switzerland.