Sikh Writing Competition 2023: Short Story Dedicated to the Shaheeds!

Performance arts and the display of one’s virtues isn’t something new within the Sikh tradition. While the Gurus were in their physical human form, the court of the Sovereign would often hold displays of shastar vidya, gatka—including swimming, archery, sharpshooting, mock battles, and horsemanship—poetry, turban-tying competitions, and more! In light of such a rich history, Vidhiya Saagar strives to uphold the remembrance of these arts and their caretakers. In 2023, we held a successful art competition that saw dozens of artists from all around the globe submit their entries in various mediums, from watercolor to digitally created works.

This year, however, we turned our attention to the creative writers within our Sikh sphere! Just as the poets of Dasvey Patshah Ji’s court would write poetry, stories, and tales from their own anubhav (experience/thinking), we gave a similar task to our contestants this year! A historic-fiction, short story writing competition!(Click here to view the full competition rules).

The challenge was to honour the legacy of the martyrs through imaginative storytelling, blending historical inspiration with a unique vision.

With the criteria set, we received submissions from eager international competitors, all looking to put their creative writing to the test, with our youngest writer being 12 years old! With much deliberation and scoring, here are this year’s winners!

1st Place - The Cobra and the Buffalo by Upkar Singh ($500)

Tushayati and her father walk together under the soft glow of the nearly full moon, admiring two delicate lotus flowers peacefully floating on the water's surface, their petals gently illuminated by the moonlight.
Two subjects walking under the soft glow of the nearly full moon, admiring two delicate lotus flowers peacefully floating on the water's surface, their petals gently illuminated by the moonlight.

Upkar Singh has done an excellent job developing the characters and context. Through the character of Tushayati, we are introduced to the rural life and familial duty of a young village girl who becomes a witness at the horrifying trial of young Sahibzade.

Tushayati embodies the ordinary individual. We experience life's wonders and pains. This story perfectly portrays what it's like to have the world shatter in front of you, and all you can do is watch.

“Tushayati did not know what was happening to her. But she had to watch. She wanted the two boys to know that she was with them. Maybe they wouldn’t feel so alone while surrounded by a sea of angry faces.”

2nd Place - Moment of Doubt by Amandeep Singh ($350)

Anand Singh's Solemn Return in the Rain
Under a rain-drenched evening sky, Anand Singh treads a village road after being separated from his family and friends.

This short story navigates through pinnacle moments in Sikh history, such as the Vedava (Anandpur Sahib), the Shaheedi of the Sahibzadas (Chamkaur, Sirhind), and the liberation of the 40 Mukte.

The short story explores the themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and redemption through diary entries. The narrative follows protagonist Anand Singh's journey, encapsulating the transformative power of faith and forgiveness.

“Not a sound came from Anand. Tears roll down his eyes. “The King of Kings took them away from the circle of life and death, granting them all liberation. And that was that.” Anand looks up again at me. His stare holds. He reddens. He disappears behind the table and lands with a floor-shaking thump.”

3rd Place - Arrows of Bliss by Gurman Singh ($250)

Mughal Encampment Under a Siege Moon
Group of Mughal soldiers gathered in a desert campsite under a full moon, surrounded by red tents.

Gurman Singh's entry stood out for its unique narrative and its exploration of faith and redemption in the midst of war. Set during the Mughal siege of Anandpur, the story follows a young Mughal soldier named Murtaza Ali, whose encounter with Guru Gobind Singh Ji and stories of the Guru's glory leads to a profound spiritual transformation. Singh's storytelling skillfully combines historical events with moments of uplifting spiritual experiences, highlighting themes of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring power of faith in times of peril.

“I believe you to be the very form of Khuda! From what I have witnessed on the battlefield, there can be no other explanation. So please hear this plea, it was my desire to die on the battlefield as a martyr and guarantee my place in Heaven. But now, my wish is to die by your arrow and your arrow alone.”

Closing Remarks

We extend our gratitude to everyone who participated, submitted their entries, and dedicated their time to contemplating the great Sikh sacrifices.

We aspire to organize more competitions in the future! If you have any ideas or wish to contribute, please reach out to us at srisurajprakash@protonmail.com.