In an era where sports can transform lives, the Sikligar Sikh community in Rajasthan, India, is witnessing a remarkable change. Young Sikhs like Kuljeet Singh are not just challenging stereotypes but are also carving a niche for themselves and their community in the field of hockey. This inspiring tale of perseverance, skill, and passion starts with Kuljeet Singh, the first Sikligar Sikh to become a police officer in Rajasthan through the sports quota, and spans the journeys of several young aspirants following in his footsteps. WSN correspondent Kamaljeet Singh reports.

In a day and age, when cricket rules the roost and everyone -from those who understand the game to those who gamble on the sports, are glued to TV sets, laptops, and phones, watching one cricket tournament after another, news of Sikh youth’s interest in hockey comes as a bit of surprise. What has inspired Kuljeet Singh and many other Sikligar Sikhs is the fact that 10 of the 11 players in the hockey team that won the Asian Cup were from Punjab and most of them were Sikhs, with some with flowing beards.

Jaipur-born-Kuljeet Singh, now a beacon of hope and inspiration within the Sikligar Sikh community, had no initial aspirations for a career in law enforcement. His journey into hockey, sparked by his uncle Balvinder Singh’s passion for the sport, began a decade ago. Singh’s rise from a young boy accompanying his grandfather and uncle to Alwar for summer vacations to a shining star in hockey is nothing short of extraordinary.

“Hockey was more than a sport; it became a pathway to a better life,” Kuljeet Singh shared in an exclusive interview with The World Sikh News. His pursuit of the sport led him to the Rajasthan University sports complex, where he met his mentor, Coach Harjinder Singh.

Harjinder Singh, an experienced player and dedicated coach, began his own hockey journey in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. Despite shifting his career focus due to limited opportunities to represent India, he has never lost his passion for the game. Today, he dedicates himself to training underprivileged children, providing them with free equipment and the opportunity to shine in hockey.

“The talent in these youngsters is immense. All they need is guidance and opportunities,” said Coach Harjinder Singh, whose academy has been pivotal in nurturing talents like Kuljeet Singh and others.

Following Kuljeet’s example, his elder brother Kulvinder Singh, and peers like Parveen Singh from Jhalana Doongri Dera in Jaipur have emerged as promising hockey players. Parveen Singh’s introduction to the sport came through a local social worker at his Gurdwara, who initially suggested basketball but seeing his interest in hockey, guided him to the university sports complex.

These young players have not only demonstrated exceptional skill but also resilience in the face of adversity. Their commitment, often involving long commutes and balancing financial constraints, is commendable. “The journey wasn’t easy, but my father’s unwavering support made it possible,” Kuljeet Singh recalled, emphasizing the role of his family in his success.

Kuljeet Singh, Kulvinder Singh, and Parveen Singh have left a mark in the regional hockey championship, securing gold and silver medals consecutively in 2017, 2018, and 2019. This success has not only fueled their dreams but also placed them in roles where they can give back to society, with Kuljeet Singh joining the Rajasthan Police.

Despite these achievements, their aspirations go beyond. “Representing India in my full Sikhi attire is my ultimate dream,” Kuljeet affirmed, a sentiment echoed by his companions.

Their journey and success have set a precedent in the Sikligar Sikh community, inspiring many youngsters to pursue sports as a career. “These players exemplify what dedication, hard work, and focus can achieve,” said coach Harjinder Singh, offering advice to the next generation of athletes and students.

Kulveer Singh, the younger sibling of Kuljeet, looks forward to participating in hockey.

This story of the attachment of Sikligar youth to hockey is not just about sports; it’s about breaking barriers, overcoming challenges, and inspiring a community.

This story of the attachment of Sikligar youth to hockey is not just about sports; it’s about breaking barriers, overcoming challenges, and inspiring a community.

At The World Sikh News, we believe stories like these have the power to motivate and guide, paving the way for many more Sikligar Sikhs to create their own remarkable journeys in sports and beyond.