Punjab Virsa: Unearthing the Untold Story of Unity, Empowerment, and Cultural Pride
In the Kingdom of Bahrain, the enduring spirit of Punjabi culture and heritage found a lifeline in an inspiring collective named Punjab Virsa. Six dynamic women, from diverse backgrounds and professions, banded together with a shared passion and purpose: to connect, educate and empower Punjabi women across the community.
Meet the founders of Punjabi Virsa: Dr. Gurpreet Kaur, Mrs. Harminder Kaur Gaba, Mrs. Mandeep Kaur, Mrs. Manpreet Kaur Rana, Mrs. Ramanpreet Praveen, and Dr. Tejender Kaur Sarna, independent women who decided to wage a cultural revolution in the heart of Bahrain.
The Genesis of Punjab Virsa
Their mission resonates with the rich, age-old heritage of Punjab. Dedicated to fostering a sense of cultural identity among the new generation and expatriates, Punjab Virsa is a testament to the vibrant Punjabi ethos. The visions are grand, and the mission is profound- educating the new generation about their cultural inheritance, perpetuating Punjabi heritage through language classes, and galvanizing cultural awareness through various programs and events.
Empowering Punjabi Women and Fostering Cultural Education
Punjab Virsa considers cultural education as its driving force. To this end, Punjabi Virsa has launched classes teaching Gurmukhi, the Punjabi language script, for younger generations at Gurudwara Sahib Salmabad.
The organization targets the promotion of integral aspects such as quizzes and handicrafts from Punjab, which play a significant role in Punjabi culture. Upcoming events centered around Baisakhi, the Punjabi New Year, promise to further etch the dynamism of Punjab Virsa in Bahrain's cultural landscape.
An Epoch-Marking Inauguration Ceremony
On January 12th, 2024, Punjab Virsa reached a significant milestone by launching its inaugural Punjabi language newsletter, GOONJ. This cultural landmark represents the resounding voice of the Punjabi community in Bahrain. The launch ceremony held at Gurudwara Sahib Salmabad was distinguished by the attendance of the Gurudwara committee, esteemed guests from the Sikh community, media representatives, and well-wishers, apart from friends and family members.
GOONJ pledges to echo the vibrant cultural spirit of Punjab and its people, a testament to the journey that Punjab Virsa has undertaken — a journey that not just celebrates Punjabi heritage but aims to inculcate a deep sense of cultural pride among the Punjabi diaspora in Bahrain.
We, at Punjab Virsa, stride in solidarity towards a future abundant with enriched cultural experiences, aiming at a sustained Punjabi legacy in Bahrain.
Best Regards,
Punjabi Virsa Team