SikhRI Concludes its 22nd Sidak Leadership Program

Sikh Research Institute (SikhRI) is thrilled to announce the successful completion of its 22nd annual Sidak leadership program, held from 21 July to 3 August in Mission, BC, Canada.

This year’s program united 56 Sidakers and 13 staff members and facilitators from six nations (Canada, Dubai, India, Tanzania, the UK, and the USA) for a two-week immersive educational experience at the Khalsa Centre in Miracle Valley.

“Sidak is SikhRI's flagship program, guiding participants on a journey of deep self-discovery inspired by the Guru. We are eager to see how they will apply the insights gained from Sidak to enrich their personal, professional, and community lives,” shared Kulvir Singh, SikhRI’s Board Chair.

This transformational impact of the program resonated through the direct feedback participants shared:  

"Sidak has made me understand that being a practicing Sikh has value. I used to think that having a close connection with Guru Sahib is unattainable or only possible for a few. Sidak has taught me that a Gurmat lifestyle looks different for everyone but also benefits everyone. This experience has encouraged and inspired me to change my lifestyle moving forward." — Ajuni Kaur, Sikhi 101 Attendee

"This program has changed my perspective on my relationship with Ik Oankar and how I interact with Gurbani. It's made the interaction more personal and intimate." — Ravdeep Singh, Gurbani 101 Attendee

"Sikhi 201 has impacted all facets of my life. It has exposed me to new ideas and concepts forcing me to reflect on progress-orientated objectives." — Jaspreet Singh, Sikhi 201 Attendee

Throughout Sidak, participants delved into personal and panthic (collective) matters, utilizing a Gurmat (Guru’s Wisdom) framework rooted in Bani (wisdom), Tavarikh (history), and Rahit (lifestyle) to formulate their perspectives and solutions for pressing global issues.

Furthermore, Sidak nurtured a learning and inspiring environment through Sabad (Infinite-Wisdom) and sangat during the divan (royal court). This space allowed participants to engage in divan duties, seek answers, and delve and reflect on the sabads and Hukam (Command) of the day.

Sidakers also embarked on a visit to the Gur Sikh Temple (Gurduara) in Abbotsford, BC. This revered National Historic Site offered insights into the struggles of Sikh settlers who arrived in Fraser Valley in 1905.

Sidak 2024 was composed of three in-depth tracks that ran simultaneously:

Gurbani 101: Introduction to Guru Granth Sahib
Sikhi 101: Introduction to Sikh History & Theology
Sikhi 201: Religion & Revolution

To find out more about Sidak, visit SikhRI.org/Sidak