British Sikhs: Celebrating diversity and honouring Lee Rigby

The British Sikh Association chose their annual showcase event to honour Drummer Lee Rigby.

Hundreds gathered at the Radisson Hotel in Portman Sqare for an evening of dance, music and tributes to what Britain’s Sikh community hold dear.

Chair of the British Sikh Association Dr Rami Ranger spoke for many when he said:

Our community is proud of the contribution we have made over the years to the United Kingdom. We are proud to be Sikh’s and proud to be British, when Drummer Lee Rigby was brutally slain, whether you were Sikh, Muslim, Christian or any other, we all felt deeply saddened. Money raised this evening will go to charities including Combat Stress UK."

Government Minister Chloe Smith MP congratulated the organisers for a ‘wonderful evening’:

This is the first time I’ve been invited to this event, and I hope it won’t be the last. Everyone has been so warm and friendly, and in many ways the entertainment and delicious food encapsulates our rich diverse cultures."

Other guests included the Metropolitan Police Chief Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe, Lithuanian Ambassador Asta Skaisgiryte-Liauskiene, Paul Uppal MP, CB Patel, and Richard Harrington MP.

The evening began with a traditional dance. The dancers showing great majesty and grace. Then the Band of Life Guards came in fusing popular music with band stand classics. Awards were given to community and business leaders, including a special award for Dr. Pooja Dassan for her work in the community.

With the traditional Sikh hospitality of serving fine foods until you can eat no more, everyone enjoyed a wonderful evening.

If you’d like to make a contribution to the Charity highlighted on the evening, Please visit www.combatstress.org.uk.

Simon Woolley