In a world often rushing toward individual success, Jaswinder Kumar BEM stands tall as a symbol of compassion, service, and unshakable commitment to community welfare. Honoured in the King’s 2025 New Year Honours list with the prestigious British Empire Medal (BEM), Jaswinder Kumar’s life is a testament to the power of “selfless Sewa”—a philosophy rooted in the Ravidassia principles of equality, charity, and justice.
Jaswinder Kumar: Humble Beginnings, Towering Impact
Residing in Bedford, United Kingdom, with roots stretching back to Ramgarhia Higher Secondary School and Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), Jaswinder Kumar has quietly been transforming lives for over 15 years.
As the President of the Management Committee of Sri Guru Ravidass Sabha Bedford, Kumar has turned his vision for a harmonious, inclusive society into a living reality. His weekly, free-of-charge IT surgery especially supports Black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) individuals, many of whom face barriers due to language or digital illiteracy.
But his service doesn’t stop at software updates or password recoveries—Kumar offers something much greater: hope, access, and belonging.
“I’m delighted but truly humbled with this accolade. I never expected this award,” Kumar said, his voice filled with humility. “When you do service to others, honestly, you get something back… but you never expect this to happen.”
A Warrior in the Face of Crisis
When the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, many retreated in fear—but not Jaswinder Kumar. Under his leadership, Sri Guru Ravidass Sabha Bedford became a vital support system for the region. Kumar rallied volunteers, resources, and faith into action, preparing 18,000 meals in just 103 days for frontline workers and the vulnerable.
NHS staff, care home workers, police officers, and isolated elderly individuals all benefited from this extraordinary act of community resilience. For this effort, Kumar was awarded the Bedford Independent’s Individual Covid Hero Award in 2020, with his nominator praising his “unbelievable dedication to our Bedford community.”
Even today, Kumar reflects on that time with passion and perspective:
“Sometimes I work until 2 a.m. and get up again at 5 a.m. for work. People ask me, ‘How do you do it?’ But I feel so relieved to help others. It energizes me.”
Jaswinder Kumar: Championing a Vision of Unity and Empowerment
Through the Sri Guru Ravidass Sabha Bedford, Jaswinder Kumar continues to build bridges across communities. The Centre is a vibrant hub, offering everything from cultural events and educational workshops to health awareness campaigns and poverty relief programs. Under Kumar’s leadership, the organisation is more than a religious space—it is a sanctuary for learning, connection, and support.
The centre’s mission is clear: to promote tolerance, fairness, and mutual understanding, regardless of race, religion, gender, or background. Children, the elderly, people with disabilities, and marginalised groups all find a voice and a hand of support through the Centre’s many initiatives.
“God always gives you the benefit for the service you are doing for others,” Kumar often says. His actions embody these words.
A Symbol of Hope for Generations to Come
Recognition from the Crown does not change Jaswinder Kumar’s humble heart. Instead, it strengthens his resolve. He plans to hang the British Empire Medal in his home, not as a personal trophy, but as a daily reminder to his children and future generations that service is the highest form of success.
“I am so proud,” Kumar says. “I hope this medal inspires my family and others to live with purpose and help those around them.”
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