Transplant surgeon Dr Rajinder Pal Singh makes literary debut with deeply personal lens on Sikh history
Dr Rajinder Pal Singh, a UK-based transplant surgeon and filmmaker, has ventured into the literary world with his first book – titled ‘Journey Across Boundaries: A Journey Across Race, Relations & Nations' – that delves into the roots of Sikhism, Hindu-Sikh relations, and his own remarkable life journey across borders. The book is now available on Amazon and offers a blend of historical insight, personal storytelling and poetic reflections.
In this exclusive conversation with iGlobal, Dr Singh opens up about the inspiration behind the book, the urgent need for community healing, and why he believes humanity is the greatest common bond.
What inspired you to write your first ever book?
The inspiration was drawn from the observations made during my journey across nations. With time, I realised that my roots always stood out as my greatest strength, like a parallel family. My roots are my friends in Bhubaneswar, Odisha and rest of India, and people of India with whose love and support I could overcome childhood challenges to become a doctor. These friends, from all communities, are among the most intellectually gifted and value relationships regardless of caste, race and religion. They are my inspiration. Odisha is the best place to live in the world. I hope I can return someday and make a transplant institute there.
Why did you choose this topic particularly?
Punjab has grievances, especially due to the mismanagement in the 1970-80s which gradually led to major disasters. But my story represents the unheard voice of a Sikh born in a state outside Punjab, who saw the love and acceptance of all communities around him, and who has no doubt that Sikhs and Hindus are branches of the same tree—as a family, as a community in continuity. This first-hand information needed to be shared for community healing, especially overseas. It’s time to remove the membranes of mistrust and suspicion.
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What message do you hope to give through this book?
That we are all essentially the same when it comes to our daily needs, grief and sorrow. Humanity is the best religion. In my experiences, especially of Hindus throughout India hold Sikhs in high regard. At Aligarh Muslim University, I met the epitome of humanity—Professor Mahmadul Haque, who saved the life of a Hindu gentleman and his two sons from being burnt alive during mob riots after the Babri Masjid demolition. The peace-loving majority in all communities should come forward to join hands for harmony.
Please tell us about your journey from India to the UK.
After being forced to leave our ancestral homes in Rawalpindi, my ancestors came to Odisha. My journey begins there. The book is divided into three sections—my own, the Hindu-Sikh relations and Sikh history, and finally, the journey of the soul: a scientific analysis of soul, cause-effect, afterlife, karma, moksha, free will or pre-determination.
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Can you share an excerpt or poem from the book with our readers?
Certainly. Here’s an excerpt from a poem titled ‘Jagannath’, inspired by the sacred city of Puri:
In the golden sands of Puri / Besides an ocean pristine
A bright jewel sparkles / In a radiant sheen...
Lift us with your Grace O Lord / Before we face the guillotine
We are merely part of you / Separated by a thin faith-line.
There are many books on Sikh history—however, the history of Sikhism in my book is presented with a unique perspective, which I would urge everyone to read. They will find it useful and informative.
*Info: Journey Across Boundaries