Left to right: Professor Jagtar Singh CBE, Sunita Arora OBE, Surdarshan Singh Chana MBE
Sikhs across the UK continue to be recognised for their outstanding contributions to public life in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2025, with individuals honoured for their work in the NHS, education, charity, and cultural preservation.
Professor Jagtar Singh receives a CBE for his exceptional service to the NHS over a career spanning several decades. He led transformational change at Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust, playing a pivotal role in workforce inclusion, reducing health inequalities, and championing diversity. Previously honoured with an OBE, he has also served in the Fire Service for over 30 years and was recently made an Honorary Professor by the University of Warwick for his contributions to public service and health.
Sunita Arora receives an OBE for her services to the charitable sector and philanthropy. Through the Arora Charitable Foundation, she has supported projects in education, healthcare, and humanitarian relief in the UK and abroad. Her quiet but impactful philanthropy continues to uplift marginalised communities and reflects a deep commitment to compassion and sewa (selfless service).
Surdarshan Singh Chana is awarded an MBE for his lifelong contribution to music and Sikh culture. A master of the tabla and the rare jori instrument, he trained from the age of four under renowned percussionists and spent over a decade studying the Benares gharana style while preserving the Punjabi jori-pakhawaj tradition. He has performed internationally, accompanied leading maestros, and was recently invited to play the jori at Buckingham Palace. He also teaches students globally and volunteers regularly in Sikh temples across the UK.
Other recipients of Sikh heritage in the list include:
OBE
- Avinderjit Bhatia, Chief Nurse, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust – for services to the NHS and Nursing
- Ranjit Singh, Vice Principal, Hull College – for services to Further Education
- Captain Jagjit Singh Sohal, Chair, WW1 Sikh Memorial Fund – for services to the Commemoration of Commonwealth Soldiers
MBE
- Mohan Singh Kundi, Chair, Sefton Carers Centre – for services to Charity
- Professor Jaspal Singh Taggar, University of Nottingham – for services to General Practice and Teaching
Jasvir Singh CBE and Param Singh MBE, Co-Chairs of City Sikhs, said:
“These honours are a powerful reflection of the Sikh community’s enduring contribution to British society. Whether in health, education, music, or community activism, each individual embodies the Sikh spirit of service, excellence, and justice. We are deeply proud of their achievements, and grateful to our allies who stand with us in building a stronger, kinder society.”
We also celebrate outstanding allies who have worked closely with Sikh and interfaith communities:
- Pooja Kanda, OBE – Anti-Knife Crime Campaigner (Justice for Ronan) – for services to National Knife Crime Prevention
- Dr Sayed Ali Abbas, OBE – for services to Peacebuilding and Interfaith Dialogue
- Rita Hirani, OBE – for services to Women, the LGBTQ+ Community, and Victims of Domestic Abuse
NOTES FOR EDITORS: For further information or quotes, please email media@citysikhs.org.uk or info@citysikhs.org.uk