Sri Akal Takht Jathedar Honors Melbourne Artist Bethany Cherry for Powerful Jaswant Singh Khalra Mural

Amaritsar/Daljeet Ajnoha/Dec.1
Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, the highest temporal seat of the Sikhs, today announced a special commendation for Melbourne-based artist Bethany Cherry. The honor is in recognition of her exceptional and poignant street art mural depicting the revered Sikh human rights activist, Shaheed Jaswant Singh Khalra, prominently displayed in Melbourne's iconic Hosier Lane which went viral online and helped to raise awareness about the Sikh human rights activist and the enforced disappearances on United Day.
The decision by the Jathedar Sahib, Singh Sahib Giani Kuldeep Singh ji Gargajj, underscores the global importance of the mural in bringing the story of human rights advocacy and the quest for justice to an international platform.
“The art of Bethany Cherry is not merely paint on a wall; it is a powerful message to the world about courage, sacrifice, and the enduring fight for human rights,”. “By immortalizing the image and mission of Shaheed Jaswant Singh Khalra in such a public and international space, she has become an ally to the voiceless and a torchbearer of truth. Her dedication to this project, which she undertook with profound respect and research, is a testament to the universality of the Sikh values of Miri Piri.”
The mural which was painted in Hosier Lane which is an icon in Global street art culture, depicted Jaswant Singh Khalra standing among the people he fought to protect—a key symbol noted by Ms. Cherry herself. Khalra, who disappeared three decades ago while investigating the extrajudicial killings and forced disappearances of thousands of Sikh youths in Punjab, is a symbol of resistance against oppression.
Since its unveiling, the artwork has resonated deeply with the Sikh community worldwide, transforming a celebrated art laneway into a site of profound historical and social significance. It has served as an educational and inspirational point for many, prompting global conversations on historical accountability.
The commendation from Sri Akal Takht Sahib reflects the deep gratitude of the Sikh collective for Ms. Cherry's contribution to preserving and amplifying the memory of Shaheed Khalra's vital human rights work. The honor acknowledges her artistic skill and the ethical responsibility she demonstrated in undertaking a project of such cultural and historical weight.
Harkirat Singh ,spokesperson of Gurudara Council of Victoria Inc and Australian Sikh Council Inc. was also recognised by Jathedar Sahib for his services towards the Australian Sikh Community. 
Harkirat Singh said that ‘ Receiving this honor from the highest authority of Sikhs is a significant event. We are grateful that our efforts to amplify this story of Khalra Sahab on globally have been recognized by the highest temporal seat.”