JULY

JULY

Artist: Dilrani Kaur, US
Title: Akali Phula Singh
Medium: Hand Painting
Commissioner: Charanjit Purewal

Born on 14th January 1761 in the village of Sarinh, Punjab, Akali Phula Singh Nihang was a revered Sikh warrior known for his exceptional bravery.

The Battle of Nowshera, fought on 14th March 1823, was to become a defining moment in his legacy. In this battle Akali Phula Singh, alongside Maharaja Ranjit Singh and General Hari Singh Nalwa, faced Yusufzai Afghans, Peshawar Sardars and the forces of Azim Khan Barakzai, the Afghan governor of Peshawar.

Despite sustaining numerous injuries, including two gunshot wounds, he fearlessly led his troops; riding valiantly into battle even after his horse fell victim to enemy fire. Adaptability became his strength; he mounted an elephant and continued the fight, wielding a bow and arrow with ease. His unwavering determination and tactical prowess guided the Khalsa Sikh forces to victory.

Akali Phula Singh’s indomitable spirit, resilience, and courage immortalised him as a true Khalsa Sikh warrior. His legacy serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the unbending nature of the Khalsa Sikh spirit, even in the face of adversity resonating through generations.

Artist

Dilrani Kaur, US

Dilrani Kaur is a multi-disciplinary artist born Leeds, in the North of England who recently relocated to Dallas USA. Her work encompasses dance, music and visual art. From a young age, she has been training in Bharatanatyam, Kathak and Santoor and continues to be involved in regular performances, workshops and projects. Dilrani’s art grew from her interest in mehndi and she now creates work on paper, the body and other mediums. Inspired by symmetry, many of her designs include themes of faith, nature and abstract aesthetics.