SIKH Heritage Month BC is celebrating its eighth anniversary with a lineup of events that will be held in April, to recognize and honour the unique contributions of Sikh Canadians.
This year’s theme for Sikh Heritage Month is “Anand,” meaning a state of peace, joy or divine bliss. The Sikh concept of “anand” encapsulates the feeling of true joy which can only be found through connection with the Divine. Individuals are encouraged to open their eyes and their hearts and experience the true beauty of this wondrous creation. Working towards a state of “anand” requires acceptance and action – accepting what is, while at the same time striving to create positive change.
“The rich tapestry of this province is woven with the stories and contributions of British Columbians from all walks of life and all corners of the world,” says Mohnaam Kaur Shergill, director of media and communications at Sikh Heritage BC. “We hope that British Columbians will take advantage to learn more about their Sikh neighbours, colleagues, and friends, in order that we can all work towards a Province where each of us can live in a state of “anand.””
This year’s events include:
* Sikh Heritage Month 2025 Opening Celebration, March 29, 1-3 p.m., Surrey City Hall:
Guests will enjoy a live performance, a sneak peak of the arts event and plenty of food. This event is the official kickoff of Sikh Heritage Month in BC, and includes official recognition of SHBC’s five scholarship recipients and celebration of three ‘Community Changemakers’.
* Anand: A Soul’s Journey Home – April 5, 6-8 p.m., at Anvil Centre:
An evening of art, performance and storytelling, highlighting the soul’s journey through life and its return to the light. This event features a variety of local artists, performers and instruments, including spoken word, sarangis, violins, tablas, and dhaadi.
* Anand: The Art of Balance – a live and interactive art exhibit at Jig Space, Vancouver, April 12, 2-8 p.m.:
SHBC’s flagship art exhibition, capturing the delicate balance that defines Sikh life – between life and death, desire and restraint, light and darkness. “Anand” is presented not simply as joy or desire, but as the perfection found in balancing all aspects of life. The exhibition is open from 2 to 8 p.m., with a special finale session with the artists from 6 to 8 p.m.
* Sikhs Speak: Inspiring Talks and Stories – at Surrey City Hall, April 13, 2-4 p.m., at Surrey City Hall:
An enlightening event where Sikhs from all walks of life come together to share their stories, experiences, and wisdom. Featuring a variety of local speakers, this event explores the concept of “anand” through personal reflection and storytelling.
In addition to these events, SHBC is also hosting a number of partnered events throughout the month. Further details can be found at www.sikhheritagebc.ca (Sikh Heritage BC).
SHBC’s education project features five $1,500 scholarships. These scholarships are being awarded to current grade 12 students attending a post-secondary institution in September 2025, regardless of their ethnicity, religion or status. They include the Bhai Mardana Ji Arts Scholarship, the Bibi Harnam Kaur Ji Leadership Scholarship, the Mata Bhaag Kaur Ji Athletics Scholarship, the Mata Khivi Ji Community Service Scholarship, and the Sant Teja Singh Ji Academic Achievement Scholarship.
“In keeping with our mandate, these scholarships are a key element of our education project,” says Jasleen Kaur Sidhu. “Although applications have now closed, we will formally recognize the scholarship recipients at the onset of Sikh Heritage Month. We hope funding opportunities like these will assist young British Columbians in pursuing their dreams and making an impact in their communities.” For more information visit: Education — Sikh Heritage BC (www.sikhheritagebc.ca).
SHBC also has a series of lesson plans which aim to incorporate Sikh voices and stories into BC classrooms and are created by teachers for teachers. For more information visit: Education — Sikh Heritage BC (www.sikhheritagebc.ca).
