Sikh Resilience & Remembrance in December

In this special BBC Radio London segment, host Shay Grewal speaks with Harinder Singh, Senior Fellow at the Sikh Research Institute and author of Guru Gobind Singh Sahib: Life, Vision & Wisdom, about why the month of December holds deep significance for Sikhs around the world.

As many celebrate festive holidays, the Sikh community reflects on a different kind of light — the sovereignty, courage, and resilience embodied by:

• The Char Sahibzade — the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh Sahib
• Mata Gujri Ji
• The 40 Mukte (Liberated Ones) led by Mai Bhago
• The Battle of Chamkaur (1704) and Battle of Muktsar (1705)

Together, they stood against oppression to uphold freedom and justice — not just for Sikhs, but for all people.

Harinder Singh offers a historical perspective, shares how young Sikh families in the UK are bringing these stories alive, and reflects on the message of hope these events carry for today's world.

Themes in this conversation

• Sikh history and remembrance in December
• Martyrdom as witness to Truth
• Guru Gobind Singh Sahib’s sovereign vision: power to the people
• Celebrating courage, compassion, and freedom
• The role of young Sikh families in remembrance today

Hosted by: Shay Grewal, BBC Radio London
‍Guest: Harinder Singh, Sikh Research Institute
Produced in London, UK