"This installation bridges heritage and modern technology"
A three-metre bronze statue of Banda Singh Bahadur was unveiled at Guru Nanak Durbar Gurdwara in Gravesend, Kent, marking a landmark moment in British Sikh heritage.
The statue was unveiled on April 17, 2026.
Banda Singh Bahadur was an 18th-century Sikh military leader and disciple of Guru Gobind Singh. He is renowned for leading the first Sikh sovereign rule in parts of northern India and challenging Mughal authority.
Sikh historian Gurinder Singh Mann and artist Taranjit Singh led the design and creation of the statue. Their collaboration combined historical research with modern artistic techniques.
The unveiling ceremony brought together members of the Sikh community from across the UK.
Representatives of Sikh organisations, known as Jathebandia, were also present alongside local elected MPs.
The unveiling was formally conducted by Ajaib Singh Cheema, the previous President of the Gurdwara. The moment carried a strong sense of reverence and pride.
Several speeches followed, including one from current president Inderpall Singh Sall. The event highlighted both local and national support for the commemoration.
A traditional Dhadi Jatha delivered a powerful performance during the ceremony. They recited Banda Singh Bahadur’s Vaar alongside the resonant sounds of the Nagara.
The performance evoked the spirit of Sikh resistance and sovereignty. It added a cultural and emotional depth to the occasion.
Gurinder Singh Mann said: “This statue stands not only as a tribute to Banda Singh Bahadur’s bravery and leadership, but as a lasting reminder to future generations of the values of justice, equality, and resilience that he embodied.
“It is vital that we continue to preserve and share our history in meaningful and visible ways such as this.”
Taranjit Singh added: “It has been a privilege to work on this statue using innovative 3D technologies, which helped form the original basis of this statue.
“This installation bridges heritage and modern technology, ensuring that the legacy of Banda Singh Bahadur is presented in a way that resonates with contemporary audiences.”
The statue is expected to serve as an educational tool for young people and the wider community. It aims to increase awareness of Banda Singh Bahadur’s role in Sikh history.
The unveiling concluded in a spirit of unity, remembrance, and pride. It reinforced the Gurdwara’s role as a centre for faith, heritage, and community engagement.
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