Dildar Singh on Virtue and Faith

When we pause to reflect on ourselves, our journeys, our identities, and our very essence, it’s almost impossible to ignore the weight of our roots. These roots not only define the way we look, the legacy we carry, or the fortunes we inherit, but they also trace the paths of those who came before us, those who made sacrifices so that we might live the lives we know today. Our roots are the invisible threads connecting us to a time long past, to the generations who laid the foundations of the life we now call ‘home’. To us, home is simply what we’ve always known, an unwavering constant. Yet, was it always so for our parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents?

Recently, Masala had the privilege of sitting down with Dildar Singh also known as Suthep Suriya-amrith, a quiet yet profound hero in our community, whose life’s work illuminates the stories of our past and reminds us of the enduring strength of our shared roots. We met Suthep in the warmth of his home, where we gathered in his living room over refreshments, books, and sepia-toned photographs. His presence was inviting, his words measured, as he began tracing the story of his origins.

His family’s journey began in Gujranwala, Punjab, where his father – a businessman – first heard whispers of thriving business opportunities in Thailand. At the time, Thai merchants frequently sought fabrics and spices from the region, and with this prospect in mind, his father made a bold decision – to leave behind familiarity and forge a new path in a distant land. In 1916, he arrived in Baan Pai, Khon Kaen, laying the foundation for what would become his family’s new home. A year later, in 1917, the rest of the family followed, embracing an unfamiliar land with resilience and purpose.

Decades before the Partition of 1947 reshaped the subcontinent, his immediate family had already put down roots in Thailand. But as history unfolded, the upheaval of Partition prompted more members of his extended family to follow suit, seeking stability and new beginnings in a land that had, by then, already become home to their kin.

In times of war and uncertainty, from British Colonial India to the Vietnam War, there are those who suffered greatly, and those who fell toward a slightly more fortunate fate. Suthep and his family experienced this first-hand, providing services to both local and foreign customers who deemed them to be a necessity in society. For example, many who began their long-running legacy in textiles provided their bespoke services to American soldiers, who were seeking tailored garbs on their off-duty hours, during their frequent tours of battle in nearby Vietnam. Their businesses thrived within these circumstances. But this very familiar trek of essential trade and commerce for native Indians to Thailand is centuries old.

These specific trade routes created the foundation of cultural exchange and influence, an evolution impacted in cuisine, language, and architecture that we experience to this day. The modern Indian diaspora is credited to those who created a strong bond between cultures and commercial activities, generations before the events of 1947. Escaping political and social unrest back in India was, at the time, unforeseen; and therefore, not a primary reason for their departure into foreign lands. What took precedent were trade opportunities, economic prospects, cultural and religious ties, and skilled employment in an untapped market. The entrepreneurial drive, as was the case for Suthep’s family, is what spurred on the first generation of Indians to Thailand.

For a decade, Khon Kaen was their home, until the pull of greater opportunities led them to Thailand’s bustling capital. They resettled in Bang Burapa (what we now recognise as the Old Siam) where a growing community of Thai-Sikhs had gathered, living in close proximity to the Gurdwara. Suthep recalled attending the original Sikh Vidyalaya School, once perched just behind the Gurdwara, and reflected on its significance. At the time, Thai public schools imposed strict grooming policies, requiring boys to keep their hair no longer than four inches—an obstacle for young Sikh boys who maintained their unshorn hair as part of their faith. Faced with limited options of costly Thai private schools and exclusive international institutions, his community sought a solution.

They petitioned the Department of Education, advocating for the establishment of a school where their children could learn without compromise. Sikh Vidyalaya School became that beacon, offering not only a standard Thai curriculum but also foundational subjects and Punjabi language studies. It was here that Suthep spent his formative years, immersed in a dual identity that bridged heritage and homeland. Today, the school continues its legacy, though it has since relocated to Samrong, adapting to the evolving needs of the community. In addition, a new chapter unfolded with the establishment of Thai Sikh International School in Bearing, offering a British curriculum as well.

This initiative was a testament to Thailand’s acceptance of social integration and level of tolerance, embracing different walks of life that have coexisted for decades. Another critical component to the current success of today’s Thai-Indian society was the cultural and religious diversity within its borders. The natural evolution created a template of genuine and organic diversity; in turn, enriching communities throughout the country. The rich and vibrant heritage provided a platform for newly migrated Indians to solidify their position within society, opening doors to freely pursue personal endeavours both domestic and abroad.

Upon graduation, Suthep took a bold step by continuing his studies abroad, a venture that was considered unconventional at the time. He explained how, in those days, most children would complete their education and then step directly into the family business. For Suthep, however, the opportunity to study abroad was both thrilling and daunting. He vividly recalled his excitement and nerves as he prepared to attend Fach Hoch Schule Hamburg in West Germany (later rebranded to Hochschule für Angewandte Wissenschaften Hamburg in 2001), where he would study engineering. To mark the occasion, he showed us a family photo, taken on the day of his departure, with him and his parents sitting together, awaiting his flight.

After completing his studies, Suthep’s career took him to Ford Motors, where he worked as the lead production engineer, overseeing production engineering and vehicle assembly processes at their assembly plant in Samrong. His career in machinery, production, and management spanned much of his life, but he also made significant contributions to the automotive industry in Thailand, serving as an Executive Committee Member for The Federation of Thai Industries – Automotive Industry Club from 1984 to 1985.

Throughout it all, however, one constant remained: his deep love and devotion to his faith. Despite the demands of his professional life, his commitment to his spiritual practices remained unwavering, serving as a foundation that balanced his career and personal identity.

Suthep dedicated much of his life to social and community engagement, positioning himself as a steadfast advocate for his faith and culture. He served as the Secretary-General of Sri Guru Singh Sabha, the central organisation of Thai- Sikh communities, from 1999 to 2002, and later took on a leadership role as the President of Sri Guru Singh Sabha, representing the Thai-Sikh community from 2006 to 2007. His commitment to community service also saw him appointed as a Committee Member on the Subcommittee for Religious and Ethical Promotion under the National Identity Office, where he served from 1999 to 2007.

In 2006, Suthep was honoured with the opportunity to serve as a member of the National Assembly, furthering his influence and contributions to the nation’s development. His dedication to education and cultural preservation was evident in his work as a board member for the National Education Council from 2007 to 2011 and as an advisor to the Indian Studies Centre at Mahidol University in Salaya. Additionally, Suthep lent his voice as a regular speaker and Sikh religious representative at the Religious Affairs Department’s discussion forums from 1999 to 2009. His influence also extended to the Guru Nanak Centre, the central Sikh religious organisation in Thonburi, where he served as an advisor, ensuring the continued strength of his community’s traditions and values.

By this time, the Thai-Sikh community had enhanced the local economic development, which was instrumental to the economic growth of Thailand, especially in the textile and garment industry. With the establishment of successful businesses, including retail, wholesale shops, and factories, the community began the movement to more tactful and grander endeavours, such as real estate. Accelerating growth in various fronts led to the success of Suthep’s personal ventures, creating an ecosystem that ultimately fostered a sense of unity and cooperation between Indian and Thai communities.

During his tenure as President of Sri Guru Singh Sabha, representing the Thai- Sikh community, Suthep was invited to contribute to a publication by the Office of the Election Commission of Thailand, titled Virtuous Individuals in a Democratic Society (คนดีในวิธีประชาธิปไตย).In the journal, he was asked a profound question: What defines a virtuous individual?

In his thoughtful response, Suthep shared insights that mirrored his grounded and wise nature. He explained, “At its core, a true leader or virtuous individual, as understood through the teachings of Sikhism, is someone who embodies limitless compassion and unwavering contentment. They find fulfilment not in external validation, but in their personal journey. Their faith in the divine teachings remains steadfast, their courage unflinching, even in the face of adversity or temptation. Guided by a heart devoted to selfless service, they act not for personal gain, but for the betterment of others, with an unbreakable commitment to righteousness.” Suthep’s words reflect the principles he lives by: compassion, service, and integrity. All qualities that continue to define his work both within his community and beyond.

From 2006 onwards, while serving as President of Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Suthep began dedicating a considerable portion of his time to translating key literary works for the Sikh community in Thailand, bridging the gap between languages and cultures. His first translation, The Sikh Way, marked the beginning of what would become a lasting legacy, expanding to include a total of eight significant works. These translations cover a wide range of subjects, includingconduct guides, biographies, scriptures, and language books designed to teach Punjabi to Thai speakers, as well as Thai to Punjabi-speaking expatriates.

As our insightful conversation came to a winding yet rewarding end, we inquired about how he felt the state of affairs has been with the younger generation and their ties to their Punjabi or Indian roots. Solemnly taking a pause, he revealed that there is still much work to be done. Rather than succumbing to the inevitability of impressionable individuals that intermingle with their newly adopted homes and are led astray, Suthep sees opportunities, creating chances to correct the wrongs, reconnect with one’s ancestral roots, and reinforce the principles of a more tolerant, peace-loving society. Suthep’s commitment to this cause remains unwavering, with his current focus on translating two more significant pieces. Through these ongoing efforts, he continues to play a vital role in preserving and sharing the Sikh faith and culture within the community.