Future Plans and Events
There are a number of exciting projects currently underway that we hope will be of great interest. From ongoing research to upcoming features, we look forward to sharing these developments with you as they continue to grow.
Seva-A Charity
Always willing to Help
In remembrance of Sewa Singh Gola, and inspired by the Sikh values of humanity, diversity, and equality, a project is currently being developed to establish a community charity named SEVA – “Always Willing to Help.” This initiative aims to carry forward his legacy by supporting others and giving back to the community in a meaningful and lasting way.
The word Seva(or Sewa) is derived from Sanskrit and Punjabi, meaning selfless service — helping others without expecting anything in return. It represents kindness, humility, and compassion, and is a principle deeply rooted in Sikh teachings.
In Sikhism, Seva is a core value taught by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, encouraging individuals to serve humanity as a way of connecting with the divine. This is often practiced through acts such as Langar (free community kitchens), helping those in need, and volunteering within communities, especially during times of hardship. Across Indian culture, Seva reflects the belief that “service to humanity is service to God,” reinforcing unity, compassion, and the importance of giving back.
SEVA – Always Willing to Help will be a non-profit, community-driven charity built on these principles — a charity for humanity, equality, and support. Its mission is simple: to help those in need with dignity, compassion, and humanity, regardless of background, religion, or status.
The charity aims to provide both practical and emotional support within the community. This includes offering nutritious vegetarian meals to those in need, assisting the elderly with daily tasks and companionship, and supporting individuals facing loneliness or isolation. It will also provide mental health support through listening and guidance, assist in times of crisis or emergency, and offer help to those struggling at home. In addition, SEVA will aim to guide individuals towards trusted financial, legal, and wellbeing support services.
At its core, SEVA is built upon strong values: equality, by serving all people as one human race; compassion, by helping with kindness and respect; selfless service, with no expectation of personal gain; and integrity, ensuring transparency in everything it does.
As a non-profit organisation, all donations will go directly back into the community — supporting food distribution, outreach programmes, events, and essential operational costs. No volunteer will receive wages, ensuring that every contribution benefits those who need it most.
SEVA will also work closely with local businesses and organisations, encouraging collaboration through volunteering, sponsorship, and community-driven initiatives. By working together, it aims to create a stronger, more connected, and compassionate society.
Planned activities will include food distribution events, outreach programmes, support visits for vulnerable individuals, awareness campaigns, and volunteer-led initiatives — all designed to make a real and lasting difference.
This charity is more than just a project; it is a continuation of Sewa Singh Gola’s life, values, and legacy. It reflects the strength of his journey and the compassion he showed throughout his life.
Seva brings people together beyond differences, reminding us to be kind, to share what we have, and to support those in need. Even the smallest acts of Seva can create meaningful change.
Be part of something bigger — volunteer, partner, support, and help spread awareness.
Seva is not just an act — it is a way of life.
Sewa singh Gola The Lionhearted Sikh
Documentary
We are currently in the process of researching and uncovering the remarkable life of Sewa Singh Gola — a journey that is now being brought to life through an upcoming documentary.
This powerful and deeply personal film will trace Sewa’s story from the very beginning — from his childhood on what is now the Pakistan side of India, through the trauma of the Partition, and the challenges of rebuilding his life in a newly divided land. It will then follow his courageous decision to travel to the United Kingdom in search of opportunity, stepping into a world that was vastly different from anything he had known.
What unfolds is a story of resilience, identity, and determination. Arriving in a Britain that was not yet multicultural, Sewa faced language barriers, cultural differences, discrimination, and the struggle to find work. At a time when many had never encountered a Sikh before, his appearance alone set him apart.
Yet, what makes his journey truly extraordinary is that he never wavered. While others felt pressure to blend in, Sewa Singh Gola stood firm — keeping his turban, his hair, and his faith, no matter the cost.
The documentary will take viewers across the path he travelled — from Liverpool to London, to Doncaster, and finally to Hull, where only a handful of Sikhs lived at the time. It was here that he would go on to become not only one of the first Sikhs in the city, but the first to proudly remain true to his identity.
At its heart, this is more than just a story — it is a son’s journey into his father’s past. A journey of discovery, of understanding, and of honouring a life shaped by struggle, courage, and unwavering belief.
This is a story of history, identity, and legacy — one that will inspire, educate, and leave a lasting impression.
A story worth telling. A journey worth remembering. And a legacy the world deserves to see.
Sewa singh Gola The Lionhearted Sikh
The Story Book
Alongside the documentary, a book is also being developed to tell the story of Sewa Singh Gola — this time through a more personal and reflective lens, capturing his journey as if told through his own voice.
This book will go beyond simply documenting events. It will aim to express Sewa’s thoughts, emotions, and experiences as he lived through them — offering a deeper understanding of the man behind the journey. From his early childhood on the land that became part of Pakistan, through the trauma and uncertainty of Partition, to rebuilding life in India, the book will explore the foundations of his character, strength, and resilience.
It will then follow his courageous move to the United Kingdom, where he entered a society that was unfamiliar and, at times, unwelcoming. Through this narrative, readers will gain insight into the realities he faced — the loneliness of being far from home, the struggle to communicate in a new language, the challenges of finding work, and the impact of discrimination in a time when diversity was not widely accepted.
What makes this story especially powerful is Sewa’s unwavering commitment to his faith and identity. At a time when many felt pressure to adapt or hide their beliefs in order to fit in, he chose a different path. He remained true to who he was — keeping his turban, his uncut hair, and his Sikh identity — despite the difficulties this brought. The book will aim to reflect not just what he did, but how he felt in making those choices, giving readers a rare and honest perspective.
Through storytelling that brings together memory, history, and emotion, this book will allow readers to walk alongside Sewa on his journey — to see the world through his eyes, to feel the weight of his struggles, and to understand the strength it took to overcome them.
More than a biography, this will be a powerful and meaningful account of resilience, identity, faith, and perseverance. It will serve not only as a tribute to Sewa Singh Gola’s life, but also as a source of inspiration for others — reminding us of the importance of staying true to ourselves, no matter the challenges we face.
Ultimately, this book will preserve his voice, his experiences, and his legacy for generations to come — ensuring that his story continues to educate, inspire, and be remembered long into the future.
Passed Events
Event At Hull Historic Centre
The remembrance event held at the Hull History Centre brought together members of the community to honour the life and legacy of Sewa Singh Gola, one of the first Sikh pioneers in Hull. Timed to coincide with Vaisakhi, the Sikh New Year, the event celebrated both his personal journey and the wider story of early Sikh settlement in the city. Visitors had the opportunity to learn about his contributions to establishing the first Gurdwara in Hull, while also engaging with the values he upheld, including faith, resilience, and selfless service. As part of the event, free food was provided in the spirit of Langar, alongside community interaction and feedback, offering a meaningful introduction to the developing SEVA charity initiative and its mission to support those in need
First Death Anniversary Of
Sewa Singh Gola
A deeply moving remembrance event was held on the first death anniversary of Sardar Sewa Singh Gola, where the congregation gathered to pay their respects and honour his life, faith, and lasting legacy. The occasion was made especially meaningful by the presence of Bhai Kamaljeet Singh, who travelled to Hull to perform kirtan alongside his jatha, bringing a soulful and spiritual atmosphere that resonated with all in attendance. The kirtan held deep personal significance, reflecting Sewa Singh Ji’s love for these sacred recitations, with memories shared of him listening and singing along during journeys with his son, Guljar Singh. Shabads that were close to his heart were performed, creating a powerful sense of connection, reflection, and devotion. It was also a privilege to have India Wentworth present, who produced a heartfelt and touching feature for ITV News on Sewa Singh Gola’s life, which can be viewed by clicking here. The gathering not only marked a moment of remembrance but also brought the community together in unity, celebrating a life rooted in faith, resilience, and seva (selfless service).
Bhai Kulveer Singh Ji Jalandhar Wale was specially invited to do kirtan at the first death anniversary of Sardar Sewa Singh Gola, creating a deeply spiritual and emotional atmosphere for the congregation. Accompanied by a talented UK-based tabla player, his soulful recitations brought everyone together in remembrance, reflection, and prayer. The kirtan provided a powerful sense of peace and connection, leaving a lasting impact on all those present as they honoured Sewa Singh Gola’s life and legacy.
Sewa Singh Gola's Funeral
These photographs capture a deeply moving and historic moment at the Hull Gurdwara on 26th November 2024, during the funeral of Sardar Sewa Singh Gola. On this solemn occasion, Bhai Maninder Singh Ji visited Hull to pay tribute and lead prayers for the peace of Sewa Singh Ji’s soul. Accompanied by his team of musicians, including renowned tabla player Gurinder Singh Rajan, he performed soulful kirtan that filled the Gurdwara with a powerful sense of spirituality, reflection, and comfort. His presence marked a significant and historic moment for the local Sikh community, as it was the first time a Hazoori Ragi of his stature had visited Hull, leaving a lasting impression on all those gathered to honour and remember Sewa Singh Gola.
