Stockton, CA (KP) - Bhai Sahib Charan Singh Ji, a prominent figure in the California Sikh community, passed away just last week after losing a battle with pancreatic cancer. Bhai Sahib was 59.
He was first diagnosed with cancer in late February; however, he still remained in high spirits.
Bhai Sahib was born into a devout Gursikh family in the village of Sangat Pura, District Amritsar Sahib. After completing his education in Sirhali, he moved to Hong Kong where he worked as a security guard for approximately thirty-five years. While in Hong Kong, Bhai Sahib spent a majority of his time actively participating in Panthic seva. In the aftermath of Operation Blue Star, Bhai Charan Singh Ji organized peaceful protests to bring the media's attention towards the horrible atrocities committed against the Sikhs. Bhai Sahib had a great deal of respect for his fellow brothers and sisters. His willingness to help Gursikhs made him a very admirable and popular figure among the sangat in Hong Kong.
Approximately 3 years ago Bhai Sahib relocated to California where his family long awaited him. Bhai Sahib wholeheartedly continued taking part in panthic seva by helping in building and preserving Gurdwaras in Pakistan.
Prior to Bhai Sahib's passing away, he wanted to hold a rainsabee kirtan in the memory of Shaheeds. The rainsbaee kirtan was held on September 24th. Sangat throughout California came to meditate on Shabad Kirtan. Bhai Charan Singh was a very admirable figure in the Sikh Community and will be dearly missed.
Akaalustat Kaur can be reached at akaalustat.kaur@panthic.org
