Season 2, Episode 4: The Legacy of the Gurdwara Cup – A Cross-Border Conversation

Season 2, Episode 4: The Legacy of the Gurdwara Cup – A Cross-Border Conversation

In a special first for SKA Awaaz, we bring you our inaugural cross-border podcast recorded on location in Ipoh, Perak, during the 74th Gurdwara Cup. Hosted by Harpreet Kaur, this episode explores the remarkable story behind one of the longest-running Sikh sporting traditions in the region. What began as a sporting tournament in 1952 has evolved into a cherished institution that continues to unite generations of Sikhs from Singapore and Malaysia through sport, friendship and community spirit. Organised by the Malaysia Singapore Sikh Sports Council (MSSSC), the Gurdwara Cup has become far more than an annual sporting competition, rather it is a celebration of shared heritage, camaraderie, and enduring cross-border ties. Joining us are four distinguished leaders and custodians of this legacy: Datuk Dr Surinder Singh Cheema (Patron, MSSSC), Datuk Amarjeet Singh (President, MSSSC), Datuk Gurjeet Singh Rande (Advisor, MSSSC and President, Perak Sikh Union), and Mr Jaswinder Singh Gill (Deputy President, MSSSC and President, Singapore Khalsa Association). Together, they reflect on the origins of the Gurdwara Cup, the deep bonds forged between Singapore and Malaysia over more than seven decades, and the role sport has played in strengthening community identity across borders. From stories of lifelong friendships and marriages that began at the tournament, to discussions on youth engagement, evolving sporting trends and the challenges of sustaining large-scale community events, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the people and passion behind the Gurdwara Cup. The conversation also highlights how the Gurdwara Cup has adapted through the decades, embracing new sports, nurturing young talent and earning recognition from national leaders, while remaining firmly rooted in the values of sportsmanship, service and community. More than a sporting competition, the Gurdwara Cup stands as a living testament to unity, resilience and shared heritage. As the tournament celebrates its 74th edition, our guests share their hopes for the future and why they believe this cherished tradition will continue to inspire generations to come. Tune in to this special episode of SKA Awaaz, as we explore the history, heart and enduring legacy of a tournament that continues to bring Sikh communities together across borders, generations and disciplines. #SKAAwaaz #VoicesThatInspire #gurdwaracup #msssc #malaysiasikhs #singaporesikhs #punjabis #sikhgames  #InspiringJourneys #CommunityStories #SikhHeritage #asiasamachar #khalsaassociation #singaporekhalsaassociation #sikhlens This episode is also brought to you by supporting media partner Asia Samachar. [https://asiasamachar.com/] Disclaimer: This recording was captured live during the Gurdwara Cup in Ipoh, Perak. As such, some variations in sound quality, background noise, and ambient sounds may be present. We have intentionally kept audio editing to a minimum to preserve the authentic atmosphere, energy, and spirit of the event. Tune in now on SKA Awaaz!   Podbean [https://theskaawaaz.podbean.com/] Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/2OS8Rt59Eloy0yKqytpchY?si=d88b855854aa4ae5&nd=1&dlsi=ed839be587d94f41] Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-ska-awaaz/id1791910996] YouTube Music [https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpif9aGBAZTt7qeyCAGfjAKHAHgHHDQAc&feature=shared] Amazon Music [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/638e687a-a75b-49e2-845b-fc25aa7f1592/the-ska-awaaz]

Season 2, Episode 3: Sarvindar Singh Chopra (The Red Jacket Series)

In this episode of The Red Jacket Series on SKA Awaaz, we sit down with Sarvindar Singh Chopra, a celebrated athlete whose remarkable journey brought immense pride to Singapore through multiple gold medal victories and record-breaking achievements. His legacy remains deeply etched within the community and continues to inspire generations of aspiring athletes. Behind every medal lies a story of sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering determination. Guided by the values and strength instilled by his father, Sarvindar reflects on the moments that shaped his character and competitive spirit. He opens up about how both encouragement and harsh criticism from mentors became the driving force behind his hunger to succeed. Rather than allowing setbacks and doubts to define him, he turned them into motivation to push even further. From overcoming personal and sporting challenges to proudly carrying the Singapore flag on the international stage, this episode dives into the mindset, discipline, and emotional journey behind the man in the red jacket. Join us as we uncover the untold stories, defining moments, struggles, and triumphs of a sporting icon whose impact on the community and sporting fraternity will be remembered for years to come. #SKAAwaaz #VoicesThatInspire #SarvindarSinghChopra #SikhSportsman #MenInSports #SingaporeAthletes #InspiringJourneys #CommunityStories #SikhHeritage #asiasamachar #khalsaassociation #singaporekhalsaassociation #sikhlens This episode is also brought to you by supporting media partner Asia Samachar. [https://asiasamachar.com/]   Tune in now on SKA Awaaz!   Podbean [https://theskaawaaz.podbean.com/] Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/2OS8Rt59Eloy0yKqytpchY?si=d88b855854aa4ae5&nd=1&dlsi=ed839be587d94f41] Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-ska-awaaz/id1791910996] YouTube Music [https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpif9aGBAZTt7qeyCAGfjAKHAHgHHDQAc&feature=shared] Amazon Music [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/638e687a-a75b-49e2-845b-fc25aa7f1592/the-ska-awaaz]

Season 2, Episode 2: Chamkaur Singh Dhaliwal (The Red Jacket Series)

SKA Awaaz – Voices that Inspire presents the Red Jacket Series — a tribute to members of our community who have represented Singapore at the highest level.   From the quiet neighbourhood of Sembawang to the intensity of the international track, Chamkaur Singh’s journey is not defined by setbacks, but by something far more powerful, such as discipline, consistency, and the drive to keep improving every single day.   In this episode, we trace Chamkaur’s path from his early days running on local tracks to representing Singapore at the SEA Games. Supported by a close-knit community that believed in him, his growth was steady, focused, and intentional. A sheer reflection of the habits he built over time.   This conversation shifts the narrative from struggle to structure. Chamkaur shares how discipline became his foundation, how small improvements compounded into big achievements, and how staying grounded in his roots helped him stay on track, literally and mentally.   More than just a story of sport, this is a reminder that success doesn’t always come from overcoming obstacles. Sometimes, it comes from showing up, doing the work, and getting better every day.   A story of quiet strength, purpose and pride — and a testament to the power of consistency.   This episode is also brought to you by supporting media partner Asia Samachar. [https://asiasamachar.com/]   Tune in now on SKA Awaaz!   Podbean [https://theskaawaaz.podbean.com/] Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/2OS8Rt59Eloy0yKqytpchY?si=d88b855854aa4ae5&nd=1&dlsi=ed839be587d94f41] Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-ska-awaaz/id1791910996] YouTube Music [https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpif9aGBAZTt7qeyCAGfjAKHAHgHHDQAc&feature=shared] Amazon Music [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/638e687a-a75b-49e2-845b-fc25aa7f1592/the-ska-awaaz]

Season 2, Episode 1: Healing Through Words: A Conversation with Sandeep Singh

SKA Awaaz – Voices that Inspire Season 2, Episode 1 Season 2 opens with author, bhangra performer and community interpreter Sandeep Singh— a guest whose work and lived experience embody resilience, service and purpose. In this powerful conversation, Sandeep reflects on ‘Aman Goes to School’, inspired by real community experiences of bullying and Sikh identity, and how children continue to connect with its message of courage. He also shares the emotional story behind his second book, ‘Harleen’s Home’, a deeply personal book that opens space for honest conversations around mental health. Through storytelling, cultural advocacy and community service, Sandeep represents the very spirit of SKA Awaaz by using his voice to uplift, educate and inspire. This episode is also brought to you by supporting media partner Asia Samachar. [https://asiasamachar.com/] Tune in now on SKA Awaaz! Podbean [https://theskaawaaz.podbean.com/] Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/2OS8Rt59Eloy0yKqytpchY?si=d88b855854aa4ae5&nd=1&dlsi=ed839be587d94f41] Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-ska-awaaz/id1791910996] YouTube Music [https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpif9aGBAZTt7qeyCAGfjAKHAHgHHDQAc&feature=shared] Amazon Music [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/638e687a-a75b-49e2-845b-fc25aa7f1592/the-ska-awaaz]

Episode 9: The Transformative Power of Art with Anit Kaur

In this inspiring episode of SKA Awaaz – Voices That Inspire, host Harpreet Kaur introduces Anit Kaur, a Singapore-based contemporary Sikh artist whose vibrant creations bridge spirituality, identity, and emotional healing. Through her art, Anit transforms personal experiences and deep reflections on Sikhi into breathtaking visual narratives that resonate across borders. From her soulful solo exhibition in Bali to her recent showcase in London celebrating Sikh women warriors, Anit’s journey is one of courage, faith, and resilience. She shares how art became her medium of healing, connection, and empowerment; turning pain into beauty and solitude into strength. Beyond her exhibitions, Anit is also pursuing her Masters in Art Therapy, using creativity as a powerful tool to help others find peace and expression in their own stories. Anit's story is a celebration of self-discovery and perseverance and of choosing light in moments of darkness and using creativity as a force for connection and healing. #SKAAwaaz #VoicesThatInspire #AnitKaur #ContemporaryArt #SikhArtist #WomenInArt #ArtTherapy #HealingThroughArt #SingaporeArtists #InspiringJourneys #FaithAndCreativity #PunjabiArt #ArtWithPurpose #CommunityStories #SikhHeritage #asiasamachar #khalsaassociation #singaporekhalsaassociation #sikhlens #inkquisitive #rishirich #hdhami This episode is also brought to you by supporting media partner Asia Samachar. [https://asiasamachar.com/] Tune in now on SKA Awaaz! Podbean [https://theskaawaaz.podbean.com/] Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/2OS8Rt59Eloy0yKqytpchY?si=d88b855854aa4ae5&nd=1&dlsi=ed839be587d94f41] Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-ska-awaaz/id1791910996] YouTube Music [https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpif9aGBAZTt7qeyCAGfjAKHAHgHHDQAc&feature=shared] Amazon Music [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/638e687a-a75b-49e2-845b-fc25aa7f1592/the-ska-awaaz]