Jagraj Singh Hundal (3 June 1979 – 20 July 2017), known as Bhai Jagraj Singh, was a British Army officer and Sikh preacher. He was the founder of Sikh organisations, ''Everything's 13, and'' the ''Sikh Press Association'' and YouTube channel ''Basics of Sikhi''. Jagraj is considered as one of the most influential British Sikhs of the 21st century. He has been described as a pioneer of digital Sikh preaching.

Early life and education

Jagraj was born on 3 June 1979, and grew up and attended secondary school in Hounslow, London. He studied Philosophy, Politics and Economics at the University of Oxford. His elder brother is journalist Sunny Hundal.

Career

After graduating from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, Singh was commissioned into the Royal Logistic Corps before finding a job in the finance and recruitment sector.

In 2012, he founded ''Everything's 13,'' a project to spread awareness of the Sikh faith both digitally and through the English language. His most notable work was YouTube channel, ''Basics of Sikhi''. The channel he founded educated the general public about the basic tenets of the Sikh religion and raised awareness about its existence using ''parchaar'' (preaching). In 2014, Singh founded the ''Sikh Press Association'' (SikhPA). In February 2017, Singh was awarded a Points of Light (United Kingdom), Point of Light Award by UK Prime Minister Theresa May. In the award letter, May wrote: "Your important work is doing much to positively engage both young Sikhs and the wider community with your faith. You are inspiring those of all faiths and none to make a difference with their lives".

Family life and death

In December 2016, he was diagnosed with stage 4 inoperable liver cancer and died on 20 July 2017. He was survived by his wife and three children.

Awards

* Points of Light, Point of Light Award in 2017

References

External links