AMRITSAR: Delhi Lieutenant Governor S. Taranjit Singh Sandhu stated on Monday that the ideals of equality, education, service, and social responsibility espoused by S. Teja Singh Samundri remain as relevant today as they were during his time.
Addressing a special function organized at Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) to commemorate the life and contributions of the historic Sikh leader, Sandhu emphasized the importance of connecting the youth with history. He noted that historical narratives carry enduring values and ideas that continue to provide crucial guidance to society.
A Legacy Brought to Life Through Art
During the inaugural session, GNDU Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Karamjeet Singh welcomed the chief guest and underlined the necessity of bringing such historical narratives to the younger generation. He stressed that preserving historical consciousness is essential, especially regarding personalities who played pivotal roles in shaping Punjab’s history.
To visually chronicle this legacy, a special exhibition was organized featuring rare photographs related to the life of S. Teja Singh Samundri and major historical events of his era. The showcase attracted considerable attention from students, guests, and visitors.
This was followed by an impactful theatrical presentation directed by renowned theatre personality Kewal Dhaliwal. The play vividly portrayed Samundri’s life, his steadfast ideals, struggles, and his lasting contribution to society. Appreciating the performance, Sandhu congratulated the entire theatre team and remarked that theatre is a powerful medium that brings history alive, allowing young people to experience historical events beyond the confines of textbooks.
The Power of Education and Social Reform
Reflecting on the era from 1920 to 1926, Sandhu pointed out that this period was particularly significant in the history of Punjab and Sikh leadership. He noted that Punjab played an active role in the national freedom movement during this time, while the values of non-violent struggle, equality, and social reform gained tremendous momentum.
The Lieutenant Governor appealed to youngsters and parents alike to openly discuss Punjab’s history and the contributions of its eminent personalities.
“Education had been an important instrument of social transformation even during Samundri’s time and continues to be the most powerful means of empowering the youth,” Sandhu stated.
Calling upon students to lead an “impactful life,” he urged them to make meaningful contributions to society in whatever way they could. Referring to the concept of the “Power of One,” Sandhu emphasized that every single individual has the profound potential to bring about positive change.
Furthermore, Sandhu appreciated GNDU’s proactive efforts to equip students with emerging technologies and fields, such as Artificial Intelligence. He encouraged successful professionals, experienced teachers, and industry experts to actively share their knowledge with the younger generation to help them benefit from their expertise.
The event concluded with the felicitation of the artists who brought the historical figures to life, while director Kewal Dhaliwal was specially honored by the chief guest for his significant contribution to the presentation. The gathering was also graced by several notable dignitaries, including Dean Academic Affairs Dr. H. S. Saini, Registrar Dr. K. S. Chahal, and Dr. Avtar Singh from Amandeep Hospital.
