Date: 13 Apr 2026

Mata Sundri College Hosts One-Day International Seminar Marking the 100th Birth Anniversary of Bhai Avtar Singh Ji Ragi

A One-Day International Seminar commemorating the 100th Birth Anniversary of Bhai Avtar Singh Ji Ragi was successfully organized on April 10, 2026, at Mata Sahib Kaur Auditorium, Mata Sundri College for Women, University of Delhi. The seminar was jointly organized by Nad Music Institute USA in collaboration with the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee and the Department of Music, Mata Sundri College for Women.

The event commenced with a dignified inaugural ceremony, including a welcome address, ceremonial lamp lighting, and a devotional college prayer presented by the students of the Department of Music and the Divinity Society. The occasion was graced by eminent dignitaries such as Prof. Harpreet Kaur, Prof. Rawail Singh, Prof. Lokesh Kumar Gupta, Bhai Swaran Singh Ji, Bhai Kultar Singh Ji, Dr. Tajinder Pal Singh (Convenor), and Dr. Manjit Singh (Co-Convenor), whose presence added both academic depth and spiritual significance to the seminar.

The first academic session began with a welcome address by the Principal, followed by an insightful keynote by Bhai Kultar Singh Ji, who reflected on the musical and spiritual contributions of Bhai Avtar Singh Ji Ragi. The session also featured thought-provoking reflections by Bhai Swaran Singh Ji and Bibi Jasvinder Kaur Ji. Recorded scholarly messages by Dr. Gurnam Singh and Dr. Francesca Cassio enriched the discourse with international perspectives. Academic presentations by Dr. Manjit Singh (USA) and Dr. Jaspal Singh further explored the evolution and preservation of Gurmat Sangeet traditions.

The seminar was also honoured by the presence of distinguished guests including Jagdeep Singh Kahlon, General Secretary of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee, and Jaspreet Singh Karamser, Head of the Dharam Prachar Committee. A special address by Tarlochan Singh highlighted the cultural and spiritual significance of preserving the legacy of Gurmat Sangeet exponents.

The second session, chaired by Prof. Gursharan Kaur, continued with enriching presentations and discussions. A special address by Bhai Baldeep Singh offered valuable musicological insights, while a recorded message by Bhai Mohinder Singh Ji and a talk by Bhagwan Singh Johal Ji added further depth to the proceedings. The session also featured global tributes and messages from contributors and family members based in Canada, reflecting the far-reaching influence of Bhai Avtar Singh Ji Ragi.

The valedictory session included concluding remarks by Prof. Gursharan Kaur, summarizing the key discussions and insights of the seminar. The formal vote of thanks was delivered by Bhai Kultar Singh Ji, expressing gratitude to all organizers, speakers, and participants.

The seminar concluded on a highly successful note, seamlessly blending academic inquiry with spiritual reflection. It served as a meaningful platform for scholars, musicians, and devotees to collectively honour and celebrate the enduring legacy of Bhai Avtar Singh Ji Ragi, while reinforcing the importance of preserving and promoting the rich tradition of Gurmat Sangeet for future generations.