Indian PM Modi flags off Australian Sikh Games with spiritual message

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his message for the 35th Australian Sikh Games said that Sikh Gurus have emphasised on the importance of physical health and spiritual growth, and guided India and the world with many eternal and timeless values.

PM Modi noted that the Sikh Gurus gave a message of bringing people of different sections of society together as a team to achieve progress.

"These concepts are also relevant in the world of sport where people come together to participate on an equal platform irrespective of their social background," the PM said.

The Sikh diaspora in Australia participating in the 35th Australian Sikh Games held at Gold Coast in Brisbane, Australia from April 7-9, welcomed the PM's gesture and termed it as a great motivation for Indian youth living in Australia.

The Australian Sikh community showed a great interest in contributing towards PM Modi's vision of a developed India and pledged to work for the development of India. The Indian diaspora also expressed their trust in the leadership of PM Modi.

Indian Minorities Foundation (IMF) Convenor Satnam Singh Sandhu while talking about the Prime Minister's message for the games, said: "PM Modi's words served as a great motivation for the participants especially the youth. In his message PM Modi has termed the games as an important platform for Indian diaspora to connect them with their own culture. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always shown special affection and respect for Sikh Gurus and Community. During last 9 years in tenure as Prime Minister of India, Modi has carried out number of historical initiatives such as opening of Kartarpur Sahib Corridor after a wait of 7 decades, ensuring justice for 1984 anti-sikh riot victims after 3 decades, inauguration of Hemkund Sahib Ropeway project, grandeur celebrations of Gurupurabs and others".

Sandhu handed over the letter of wishes sent by Prime Minister Modi to President of Australian National Sikh Sports and Cultural Council Sarabjot Singh Dhillon. Prominent member of Indian Diaspora in Australia Rupinder Brar was also present on the occasion.

Notably, during the 35th Australian Sikh Games, the Indian national flag was also hoisted for the first time in the 35-years history of the games.
The participants were filled with the spirit of patriotism when the tricolour was hoisted at the stadium. The Games drew crowds of up to 100,000 people over three days. The games were well organised and took place at the world-class stadiums that are used for hosting Olympic and Commonwealth Games.

(ANI)