Sewa, Hemkund Sahib, Jore Sahib & more: NZ leaders welcome PM Modi's tribute to Sikh heritage

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to New Zealand on 10-11 July has left a lasting impression on the Indian community, with many praising his recognition of Sikh heritage and the global contributions of the Sikh community during his address at Auckland's Spark Arena.

Following a ceremonial welcome, bilateral talks and official engagements, Modi addressed more than 10,000 members of the Indian diaspora at the Kia Ora Modi event on 11 July. His speech received a rousing reception, with loud cheers from the audience.

A significant part of the address focused on the rich heritage of Sikhism and the contributions of Sikh communities around the world.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech in Auckland was profoundly moving, especially his heartfelt acknowledgment of the invaluable contributions of Sikh Gurus and their timeless teachings," Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, community leader and first Indian MP, told The Indian Weekender.

"His recognition of the Sikh community’s service, courage, and unwavering dedication to humanity deeply touched the audience," he added.

Speaking at Spark Arena, Modi said India had continued to preserve and honour the sacred legacy of Sikhism. He highlighted the teachings of the Sikh Gurus on service, courage and equality, while outlining his government's efforts to protect Sikh traditions, improve access to places of worship and honour the legacy of the Sahibzadas.

Since 2022, India has observed Veer Bal Diwas (Brave Children's Day) each year in memory of the Sahibzadas.

"Today, this day has become a festival of inspiration for the entire country. Every child from [the Indian states of] Kerala to Assam is learning about the sacrifice of the Sahibzadas," Modi said.

"Veer Bal Diwas has instilled unwavering courage in the hearts of countless children and youth across India."

Bakshi said the Prime Minister's emphasis on the universal values of "equality, compassion, and selfless service" reinforced the message that the "legacy of the Sikh Gurus continues to bring hope, healing, and unity to people around the world."

Modi also praised the role of gurdwaras worldwide, describing them as centres of service and support for communities.

"If someone is hungry, they receive food there. If someone is in distress, they receive support there," the Prime Minister said.

Harbans Singh Bola, a senior member of the community, described the speech as "respectful of the Sikh religion."

"It was pleasant to hear Prime Minister Modi mention Sikh Heritage as part of his address to New Zealand, including the Sikh community with the wider Indian community," Bola said.

Bola also welcomed Modi's announcement that India is building a ropeway to improve access to Sri Hemkund Sahib, one of Sikhism's most revered pilgrimage sites in the Himalayas.

Modi also recalled how sacred copies of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib were brought safely to India after the situation in Afghanistan deteriorated in 2021.

Harjinder Singh Basiala (KSM), editor of Punjabi Herald in Auckland, described the address as "a historic and deeply emotional milestone for the Kiwi-Sikh community."

Particularly, Basiala said what stood out most was how the Prime Minister connected massive policy achievements—such as resolving Golden Temple GST issues, building the Hemkund Sahib ropeway, and the respectful rescue of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib from Afghanistan—with his own deeply personal, lifelong relationship with the Sikh community.

"He has often recalled his early years when he safely took shelter among Punjabi families and Gurdwaras. To hear him publicly honor the Sikh spirit of Sewa (selfless service) on New Zealand soil is a profound validation of our community’s contributions," Basiala added.

During his address, Modi also recounted a lesser-known chapter of Sikh history involving Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri's family.

The Prime Minister said Puri's ancestors, devoted followers of Guru Gobind Singh, had preserved the sacred "Jore Sahib" (holy footwear) of Guru Gobind Singh and Mata Sahib Kaur for nearly 300 years before handing the relics over to the Sikh community for permanent public darshan. He said the family had safeguarded the relics through generations and brought them safely to Delhi during the Partition in 1947.

"I am delighted that these sacred ‘Jore Sahib’ are now on the holy soil of Patna Sahib, and it was my privilege to witness that sacred occasion and be present there. Whenever you visit India, you must go to Patna Sahib to pay your respects to them," Modi said.