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Sikh selfless service on display at Cincy faith festival
The event brought together representatives of 34 faith traditions across 13 world religions.
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Pranavi Sharma - Mon, 30, Jun 2025
- 02:03 EDT
- 16
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Kirtan. / Courtesy of Sameep Singh Gumtala
Members of the Sikh community from across Cincinnati, Dayton, and surrounding areas participated in the 8th Annual Cincinnati Festival of Faiths, held at Xavier University and organized by EquaSion. The June event brought together representatives of 34 faith traditions across 13 world religions, creating a space for interfaith dialogue and spiritual exchange.
Sameep Singh, a community activist and longtime interfaith volunteer, noted that this year’s theme, “From Compassion to Action – Standing Together for the Greater Good,” aligned closely with Sikh values. “It was uplifting to see different communities unite in the spirit of shared service and collective responsibility,” Singh said in a press statement.
Interfaith prayer and Sikh community photos. / Courtesy of Sameep Singh GumtalaThe festival opened with an interfaith prayer service, where Prabhjot Singh represented the Sikh community. Drawing on the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, he emphasized that compassion should be expressed through selfless service. He spoke about Sikh practices such as Langar (community kitchen), Sangat (congregation), and Pangat (eating together) as expressions of equality and humility. He concluded with a Sikh prayer: “Nanak Naam Chardi Kala, Tere Bhaane Sarbat Da Bhala,” invoking the well-being of all.
The Sikh spiritual segment featured traditional Gurmat Sangeet and Shabad Kirtan led by Bhai Paramjeet Singh Ji from the local Gurdwara Sahib. He was joined by Bhai Bikramjit Singh, Bhai Angaddeep Singh, and Bibi Meher Kaur, who played the Dilruba and also shared the significance of Sikh musical traditions. They sang the Shabad “Hoi Ikatr Milahu Mere Bhaiee, Dubidhaa Door Karahu Liv Lai,” which speaks to unity and divine focus.
As in past years, members of the Guru Nanak Society Gurdwara Sahib hosted Langar, serving a free vegetarian meal to hundreds of attendees, regardless of faith or background.
ALSO READ: Sikhs participate in 7th annual Cincinnati festival of faiths
Turban tying and Sikh booth. / Courtesy of Sameep Singh Gumtala
The Sikh exhibition booth included information on the religion’s beliefs, scriptures, and the 5 Ks, or Kakars. Turban-tying demonstrations drew interest from attendees of all ages, with many choosing to wear the turbans throughout the event.
Aasees Kaur, a board member with EquaSion, reflected on the importance of the gathering. “It is inspiring to see our youth speak proudly and concisely about the Sikh identity with our neighbors, educators, and business leaders,” she said. “Events like this lay the foundation for a future free from bias and rich in connection.”
The late Jaipal Singh, who played a central role in founding the annual festival and guiding its early growth, was remembered fondly for his lasting contributions to the interfaith effort.
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