Can coding be seva? Can technology help preserve Sikh traditions rather than pull us away from them? And how do we give the next generation a meaningful role in shaping the future of our communities?
In Episode 2 of Let’s Talk About Sikhi, Dass Atma Singh speaks with Ishmeet Singh, a college student studying computer science and business analytics whose connection with Sikhi has grown through family, Gurbani, kirtan and Gurmat Sangeet.
Growing up, Sikhi was part of everyday life for Ishmeet. But for a long time, his interest in technology and his Sikhi journey existed as two separate worlds.
That began to change through the Gurmat Sangeet Research Internship.
As part of the program, Ishmeet developed a free mobile application designed to support students learning Gurmat Sangeet. Inspired by his own experience as a student, the app provides tools to help learners practice independently while complementing, rather than replacing, the traditional relationship between student and teacher.
The experience changed the way Ishmeet thought about technology.
Coding could be more than a professional skill. With the right intention, it could become a form of seva.
Giving Young Sikhs a Seat at the Table
The conversation goes beyond technology.
Ishmeet offers a young Sikh's perspective on something Sikh organisations around the world continue to wrestle with: how do we meaningfully engage the next generation?
His answer is refreshingly simple.
Don't just ask how to get young people involved. Ask young people what inspires them, what challenges they face and how they want to contribute.
When young people are trusted to help shape the conversation, participation can become ownership — and they can begin to see themselves as future leaders within the Panth.
Where Does AI Fit Into Sikhi?
Dass Atma Singh and Ishmeet also explore the rapidly growing role of artificial intelligence.
Ishmeet sees real possibilities for AI in Sikh schools, Gurdwaras and community organisations ,from supporting educational materials to making every day administrative work more efficient.
They discuss how AI should be a tool, not an authority on Sikhi.
AI systems can produce incorrect information with confidence, making human knowledge, trusted sources and careful factchecking particularly important when dealing with Gurbani, Sikh history and Sikh teachings.
Your Skills Can Become Seva
Perhaps the most powerful message from Ishmeet's journey is one for young Sikhs wondering where their own talents fit.
You don't have to choose between your professional ambitions and your Sikhi.
Coding. Music. Photography. Design. Business. Art. Social media.
Every person brings something different.
The question is what you choose to do with it.