Vision Of Harmony: Celebrating 10 Years Of Collaborative Service In Dubai

On February 17, 2025, a significant gathering took place in Dubai, marking a decade of collaborative service between the Gurudwara Guru Nanak Darbar Dubai and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This event brought together over 200 leaders from various sectors, including the community, business, and interfaith areas, to honor and celebrate the achievements of this partnership.

The keynote speakers of the event, Elder David A. Bednar, Member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and Dr. Surender Singh Kandhari, Chairman of the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara, commended the joint efforts of both religious communities. They emphasized how the UAE has fostered an environment conducive to cooperation among people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and faiths.

The collaboration between these two faith groups has not only facilitated a deepening of mutual respect and understanding but also led to tangible acts of service. For instance, this year, the two communities united to distribute over 200 wheelchairs and thousands of water kettles, demonstrating their commitment to aiding those in need.

This partnership, initiated in 2015, has evolved into an annual tradition of service, further solidified by joint participation in various projects, including food kit distributions to Dubai's workers. Additionally, leaders and members from both groups have engaged in meaningful dialogue, participated in events promoting tolerance, and visited each other's global headquarters, fostering a greater sense of camaraderie and mutual respect.

During the celebration, cultural performances underscored the theme of unity in diversity. A highlight was a special rendition of "Mile Sur Mera Tumhara" by Team Malhaar, followed by a performance from the acclaimed pianist Jon Schmidt. These artistic expressions added a layer of cultural enrichment to the event, celebrating the beauty of coming together despite differences.

Elder Bednar shared his feelings about the event: "I have been delighted over the past decade to observe the collaboration between the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. What started ten years ago as a mutual desire to know and better understand each other gradually developed into a true interfaith friendship. I am grateful we can serve and learn together as brothers and sisters in caring for those in need."

Dr. Kandhari reflected on the significance of the partnership: “Our collaboration is rooted in compassion, unity, and service. Through our shared journey, we’ve not only uplifted others but also discovered a deeper understanding of each other. This partnership transcends differences, focusing on what unites us—our common humanity and commitment to serving others. Further, he beautifully quoted about the importance of SEWA, a Hindi-Punjabi word, that means "Serving Everybody Without Expectation of Appreciation", which he said is the true essence of selfless service and compassion."

Dr. Bubbles Kandhari, Vice Chairperson of Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara, also expressed her gratitude: “The shared spirit of service and the bond between our communities have flourished over the years. It has been a privilege to work alongside The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, inspiring future generations to carry forward this legacy of love and unity. Our journey is a testament to the power of interfaith harmony, and we remain committed to strengthening these bonds for the betterment of humanity. May this partnership continue to grow, bringing hope, peace, and light to those who need it most.”

His Excellency Mirza Al Sayegh, an esteemed figure in the community, delivered a heartfelt speech that emphasized the importance of unity and collective progress. He shared, "I am proud to be part of such a gathering today, where people of different communities come together under the Vision of Harmony. The UAE is a beacon of unity, and gatherings like this remind us that there is no divide between us and the Creator. We all share the same vision, the same purpose, and the same humanity.

"The progress we see in Dubai today is the result of hard work and collaboration. Everyone here, regardless of their background or faith, has played a role in making this city what it is—a symbol of coexistence and mutual respect. We celebrate today not only the success of these two great communities but the unity and harmony that Dubai embodies."

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Elder Adilson Parella and Sister Elaine Parella from the Middle East/Africa North Area Presidency of the Church. They acknowledged the shared commitment to service and unity, underscoring the positive impact of this interfaith partnership on the community.

This celebration not only commemorated a decade of successful collaboration but also set the stage for continued cooperation and mutual support among diverse religious communities. It stands as a testament to the power of unity and service in bridging differences and fostering a more compassionate and inclusive society.