INDIANAPOLIS, OCT 14 : World renowned personality of Indianapolis Kanwal Prakash Singh has been conferred the Indiana’s highest award “Sagamore of the Wabash”. He was honoured with this prestigious award by Indiana Governor Mike Pence at the inaugural Sikh Day Parade ceremonies.
Astronauts, presidents, ambassadors, artists, musicians, politicians and citizens who have contributed greatly to Hoosier heritage have received this award which was instituted by the State of Indian during term of Governor Ralph F Gates (1945 to 1945).
“Today, to receive the highest honor from the State of Indiana and Honorable Governor Mike Pence and to be placed among the distinguished and greats of Indiana, this is more than my mind and soul can fathom, other than to affirm: God is great, he placed me in Indiana where people are good and welcome strangers. One never knows the turns of one’s destiny, I simply imagine the feeling and images: rebirth, living a dream, and being carried on the shoulders of so many! Thank you everyone for being a part of my life-journey,” said MP Singh
The Inaugural Sikh Day Parade, organized by the Sikh Society of Indiana with Gurinder Singh as its President, attracted about 4,000 persons from across Indiana and surrounding states. Indiana Governor Mike Pence, in his remarks, complemented the Hoosier Sikh community for their contributions and service to Indiana.
KP Singh thanked the Governor for this distinguished honor, for his leadership, and his friendship of many years. Mr Singh, recepietns of various awards said “I was moved by Governor Pence’s words and glowing introduction about my artwork, civic engagements, many diverse involvements, and interfaith leadership.”
A thunderous applause followed by the thousands who had gathered in Veterans Memorial Plaza for the festivities that followed the Parade through Downtown Indianapolis.
“I am deeply touched by the personal well wishes of hundreds who sent messages and shared this news. Let me begin by thanking the Wonderful Lord: All triumphs and victories belong to Him …He exalts the insignificant and makes the undreamed-of possible and manifest,” said KP Singh
“I reflected on what just transpired. My thoughts traveled to the incredible sacrifices of my parents and my family – Janice and our wonderful sons Jay Prakash and Rabindra Paul – in Indianapolis, in India and around the world; blessings, prayers, and kindness of friends and strangers from every faith, culture, and community that have shaped my life and my spirit. I am honored by their grace, generosity of spirit, and for placing before me and around me wisdom, ideas, and myriad opportunities to serve and grow.