Territorians are joining hands to help each other after a tropical cyclone caused widespread destruction in Darwin.
The category two tropical cyclone has left tens of thousands without power and drinkable water
Darwin’s local Sikh community has come to the aid of cyclone victims. They gave away free food and water to the people who needed it the most.
Satpinder Singh, Project Manager, Sikh Association of Northern Territory told SBS Punjabi that for them this was more than just a good charitable work.
“For Sikhs it’s is a religious duty enshrined by Sikh gurus in the form of ‘Langar’,” said Mr Singh.
“We’re here to serve the community. We follow the principles of share, care and Sarbat da bhala ['blessings for everyone' or literally 'may everyone prosper'].
"We had a family who was going to prepare the food anyway for the religious congregation. We had it and then everyone decided to distribute it....and that’s the way it should have been.
“In the last two-three days we’ve distributed more than 500 food containers, which mainly contained cooked rice and lentils.
Mr Singh told SBS Punjabi that their volunteers tried to reach people who needed it the most.
Satpinder Singh (L) and other members of Darwin's Sikh community at Jingili. Photo courtesy- Facebook/Indian Cultural Society NT Source: Supplied
"Social media helped to spread the word. We'd made an announcement on Facebook that we’ll distribute food containers at Jingili Water Gardens," he said.
“We also extended our helping hand to people from aboriginal community. Our volunteers went to units in Nightcliff, Ludmilla, and Stuart Park to supply food, juice and water.
“We have recently got a grant to establish a permanent place of Sikh worship, Gurdwara. Once we have this central place, we’ll commit to more charity activities.
Among the other Territorians, Sikh community’s help has also been applauded on social media.
Amber Kaur (L) and Gurmann Singh Gill (R) helped with food distribution after Cyclone Marcus. Photo courtesy - Facebook/Indian Cultural Society NT Source: Supplied
“Thank you for your generous hearts, Sikh community of Darwin.... God bless you in many ways!,” Lyn Lewis said on Facebook.
Andy Jewell said, “Thank you very much. Very kind of you in these trying times. Australia is a wonderful place with all the different people coming together and helping out."
Another Facebook user Emma Case extended her word of thanks mentioning - “Very kind and generous thing to do for our community, well done!”
Darwin has a growing Sikh community with over 250 families now calling Northern Territory their new home.
Sikh volunteers went to units in Nightcliff, Ludmilla, and Stuart Park to deliver food, juice and water. Source: Supplied
