A talented photographer from Jalandhar has earned prestigious recognition from the Punjab government for his remarkable efforts in fostering religious harmony through meaningful dialogue. Gurmeet Singh, the creative force behind GS Studio located in Adarsh Nagar, will be honored with the Punjab State Award for his outstanding contribution to organizing religious discussions that bridge communities.
From Camera to Community Building
The announcement came as part of the Republic Day honors, with the award ceremony scheduled for March 20 at the Punjab Raj Bhavan in Chandigarh. Gurmeet Singh has been organizing religious discussions for approximately five years, creating a platform where people from different faiths can come together, share perspectives, and develop mutual understanding.
What makes his achievement particularly noteworthy is that he pursued this community work independently, without affiliation to any specific religious or political organization. His studio in Adarsh Nagar has become more than just a photography business—it has transformed into a hub for interfaith dialogue and cultural exchange.
A Personal Mission Born from Observation
The inspiration behind Singh's interfaith initiative stemmed from his concern about growing religious divisions in society. Through his photography work, which often involved covering religious events across different communities, he noticed increasing polarization and decided to take action.
His discussions typically feature religious leaders, scholars, and community members from various backgrounds, creating a space for open conversation about different beliefs and practices. The sessions have gained popularity over the years, attracting diverse participants interested in learning about other religions and finding common ground.
Recognition and Future Plans
When informed about the award, Singh expressed both surprise and gratitude. He acknowledged that while he never sought recognition for his work, the state honor validates the importance of interfaith dialogue in today's increasingly divided world.
The photographer emphasized that the award belongs to all participants who have contributed to the discussions over the years. He sees this recognition as motivation to expand his interfaith initiatives, with plans to involve educational institutions and youth groups more actively in future dialogues.
Local community leaders have praised Singh's achievement, noting that his work demonstrates how individuals can make significant contributions to social harmony through consistent, grassroots efforts. The Punjab State Award not only honors his past contributions but also encourages continued work in building bridges between different religious communities.
