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Second Chardi Kala held for Britain's Armed Forces

The Armed Forces Chaplaincy Centre in Andover played host to the second ever 'Chardi Kala' for all Sikh serving personnel, from the 9 - 11 May 2008.

Sikh serving personnel joined Chaplain Madeep Kaur for the second 'Chardi Kala' [Picture: Albel Singh]

Sikh serving personnel joined Chaplain Madeep Kaur for the second 'Chardi Kala' [Picture: Albel Singh]

Mandeep Kaur became the first Sikh Chaplain to the British Armed Forces in 2005, after which she held the first 'Chardi Kala' which was repeated again this year.  Various subject matters were addressed over the three day conference, including 'How to practice faith while being on duty', 'Values, Actions and Rituals' as well as 'Respirator, Helmet and Uniform for Sikhs'.

The event was an opportunity for Sikhs serving together to pray together, and take part in discussions and groups.  Talks were given by serving soldiers about their real life experiences, to explain how they integrated their beliefs with their role in the Armed Forces.

Sikh Chaplain Mandeep Kaur said:

"It gives me huge satisfaction to look at people integrating with each other, discussing various matters, praying and enjoying together.  It feels like I have a big family to look after through my Chaplaincy.  I also find that by talking to people you can feel how great the need is for events like these to happen."


The attending service personnel appeared to find the experience useful with Lance Corporal AC Singh commenting:

"I feel like I have met another family of my own and have found some new friends."

Defence Academy of the United Kingdom