It is not just rare, but close to impossible, to come across a man who achieves mastery in business with such royal taste of living and tops it with a compassionate heart of a giver, all while being intricately connected to the almighty. With passion written all over him and an enigmatic, powerful aura, Peter Virdee is an embodiment of what we would call a Complete Singh & a true Sikh.

A businessman and philanthropist who dons many caps with perfection and a vision, Peter is the founding partner of B&S Property that handles assets worth over £4 Billion globally and has diversified into renewable energy with PV Energy, as well as minerals trading with 3VI Ltd. He is the first Sikh to be a board member of the English National Opera, and is also on the board of philanthropy for Coutts & Co. Being a visiting professor at Manchester University and on the advisory board for Nottingham Business School, he is the one to follow his heart. However, the biggest buzz for him is his charity work with The Virdee Foundation, which is in-turn, associated with a number of causes worldwide.

Apart from all his accolades, he is a man of immaculate style with a taste for all luxuries and finesse that life has to offer; where he did share some of his collectors items with us. Team SnK, caught up with Peter Virdee and spent an entire day with him to get a glimpse of what it is like to ‘Live life king size.’ From his spiritual mornings, fitness mantras, working and personal lifestyle, and recreational activities, we bring to you an inspirational insight into Peter’s mind…

Growing Up

If I would ask the 15-year-old Peter, what does he want to do or become in life. How ambitious would the answer be back then?

When our families first came to the UK, we came as immigrants. The only aspiration they had, like many other Indians, was to earn enough money and go back to India. So growing up, there wasn’t much aspiration at all from what we knew about and what we had seen.

When I was growing up, we were told and taught, “Education, education, education – Education is power! It is the one thing that no one can take from you,” but at the time I was not so much into education, I was more like the entertainer of the class – my job was to make everyone laugh. So it goes without saying, I was a naughty child while growing up.

I remember once on parents evening, my head master said to my father, “He would be very lucky if he becomes a road-sweeper.” Naturally, my father took this as a great disappointment and took it very personally then, as he was an established businessman within his own right. A week later I actually asked my career’s teacher, “What does a road sweeper get paid?” She was surprised at my question and I think even more shocked that I was even remotely considering the job (laughs) and said, “Look, completely erase that thought from your mind, there are far better opportunities for you to grab in life!” Anyways, life went on and my aspirations started kicking in at a later stage. So growing up, I was a regular, everyday guy, just having a good laugh and enjoying life as it came.

Growing up in school, I was very tall for my class and the teachers decided to make me look more prefect, and me being who I was back in the day, I was always one to impress! I remember buying everything new - new pair of trousers, shoes, shirts everything because I had to be perfect now. Once that happened, I was given a lot of responsibilities and my role started to change. As I started to develop my character and image, it began to have a more personal effect on my life. So you see, personal development definitely makes a difference in ones life where it starts to impact your thoughts and actions, that’s when I decided if I wanted to move on to 6^th Form or if I wanted to leave. So knowing it was the same head master who thought the peak of my career was being a road sweeper, he came and said “I would like you to stay for the 6^th Form,” that’s when I said to myself, “no chance I’m still staying here... I’m leaving! I’m out of here!” So off I went… Picked a college in central Birmingham and had the time of my life.

Aspiration and ambition really kicked in when I was in college. That’s when you really open up to the real world because you start interacting with new people, developing new friendships and trying new experiences. College definitely gave me the opportunity to enjoy different experiences and gain real insight and knowledge into the real world. You know when you’re young, you just follow what your parents ask you to do. Either you’ll be a doctor, accountant or engineer or you’re kind of brainwashed into becoming one those typical roles. But I knew that wasn’t for me – I was always one to think outside the box. I had to stand out from the rest, be different from the usual stereotypes and make a difference.

Is there anything that stays with you till date that your parents said in those years that motivates you?

I had always seen my parent’s work hard, so just to watch them work and succeed was always a joy for me.  It inspired me a lot and motivated me -  it gave me the drive I needed to develop my goals and aspirations. To see them work hard and get rewarded, gave me self-confidence, a great sense of responsibility and the willpower to believe anything is possible in life. With hard work comes great reward but without dedication, drive and tenacity – it’s not achievable, and that’s what my parents instilled in me.

Did you always get what you wanted?

I have to say we were very lucky and blessed, by the grace of God we always had what we needed.

Do you think that sometimes makes children a bit late to realize their ambitions?

There is a big difference between “needs” and “wants”. If one is getting more than their needs, then yes – you lose sight of your ambitions. But our parents always made sure we never got excess of anything – that was always firm in our family, and for the right reasons. So it wasn’t about having 6 pairs of trainers - maybe just 2. Thus, we always got what we really needed, but not necessarily all that we wanted, which I’m sure is the case for all youngsters – ones ‘wish list’ never ends (laughs).

Working Style

From back then to now, over the decades, has there been a change in your working style and personality? And in which way.   

If you go back more than a decade, I was of the mindset that if we are doing business, there is only going to be one person who will win that business transaction, and that’s going to be me! I was very ruthless. There was no messing around. I had the mindset of a sharpshooter, it was more of a battle of the minds and hands down - I had to win it. However, as time progressed, I have begun to realize and appreciate that it’s important to do a fair deal, to do a fair transaction, its got to be balanced. The other person has to earn something from it as well - it’s got to be a win-win for both parties, that’s really where the reward is. These are also the teachings from my Sikh beliefs and out of the Guru Granth Sahib, that it’s important to be fair, what they say is a “Sacha Sauda,” the right transaction, the right deal to do, so that everybody is a winner and not just one person.  So that’s how my life has changed, I’ve started implementing the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib into my business which has helped me a lot in the way I conduct my work. It gives me great satisfaction personally and professionally to know that a fair deal has been done.

Has your family shaped your beliefs or is it self-realized?

Being brought up in a Sikh family or any religion for that matter, we are taught one thing for sure, and that is, being religiously inclined. But something has to trigger within you to instill that sense of feeling for you to experience that direct connection yourself. You are always told what to do, and by just doing something for the sake of doing it has no impact until you actually feel that personal connection yourself, that’s when things start to change for you – mentally and spiritually. So yes, the foundations were always there, which was the most important factor, but the cherry on the cake is when I actually felt that deep connection myself. I was so grateful to have the foundation from my parents, as this is what cemented my faith and beliefs and took it to the next level for me.

What would you say triggered you to implement these beliefs?

The feeling started to grow stronger within me during 2008-2009. Not that I didn’t have the feeling within me prior to that but I didn’t acknowledge it as much because I was being too selfish, focusing on other matters that I felt were more important. You see, when things are going good you don’t think of God, it’s our nature. Only when things go wrong, you start diverting your focus to him. So in 2008, we had a big recession and coming out of that recession… Only God knows how that happened! So going through that phase re-instilled my belief in God more than ever, it was one of my most difficult experiences in my life and overcoming such an obstacle – not thinking it was at all possible at the time, really solidified my connection with God. I felt more connected to him because I felt ‘He’ really protected me through what I would say was one of my darkest periods in life. After I overcame that phase in my life, I stopped worrying and stressing over matters which I knew I had no control over because it was that experience that made me realize there is seriously a much higher power up above taking care of everything.

Other than money, what really keeps you motivated to go on with full force?

My charity and my foundation. I enjoy earning money but for me it’s not just about earning money, it’s about earning enough money to be able to give that much away. My buzz is actually giving money to good causes, and being a part of a greater and better cause that impacts other people’s lives. I find it extremely gratifying, and personally rewarding… And in the end, that’s what I work for.

My father, through his actions, instilled in me many of my life’s values, (amongst many others) to be kind, generous and charitable, as my father was always one to give money to people in need, even at times when money was tight, he was never one to hesitate when it came to giving. So it’s always been part of my growing up, and it’s also an important part of Sikhi, that we have to give a contribution of our wealth to charity which I very much promote. Hence the reason I support a number of noble causes that are doing some amazing work in the world, and if I could be a part of it – it gives me great fulfillment to know that I was a part of that change – even if it’s in the smallest way.

Is your family involved with your work and how much importance do you give to a family working together?

When it comes to my work, indirectly my whole family is involved as I always have their good wishes, their blessings and their love. However, in the day-to-day operations, it’s more of myself. But on the same note, I believe it’s paramount for family to work together because with family you can just close your eyes and trust them. You know they’re always going to have your best interest at heart and make the right decision for you. I’m very fortunate to have a close-knit family who works together as one unit; it is bond which promotes strength, unity, and reliability – it is an amazing support system when you need it.

Are you an easy person to work with?

I wouldn’t say I’m an easy person to work with. I have a short censor to stupidity, so to speak. Anyone around me who doesn’t have the keenness to learn or develop, I really can’t deal with them. I don’t mind a person who doesn’t know what to do and requires some training,  I have no problem teaching them and spending the time with them if needed, but if I have to teach somebody the same thing repeatedly, then I’m sorry it’s just not for me. I’m an easy person to work with if you want to learn but if you’re of the mindset to just clock-in and clock-out and have no interest to develop and grow in the workplace, then there is no room for that type of person in my organization or domain for that matter. I’m only interested to work with people who want to grow with me, and who have the drive and self-motivation to aspire and develop from the work their doing. If they lack willpower then they lack the need to grow in life – willpower is like a muscle which needs to be worked, strengthened and constantly flexed. The same philosophy applies to an individual’s cognitive skills, if it stays stagnant then there is no growth, and that is not what my organization is about. I want the individual to have an experience of their lifetime, they should have an inborn desire to be self-actualized – be all that they can be and take something valuable with them, where they feel they will use this skill later on in life and develop it further within their realm, and not just sit in a boardroom meeting and switch off.

What do you look for when you decide whom to work with?

You have a sixth sense. So with respect to working with someone when it comes to doing a deal or a partnership, I always prefer to meet them in person. You can usually get a feeling or a vibe about the person through their behavior or body language.  I always believe the devil is in the detail – be it of a person’s nature or the complexity of a deal, I’ve noticed that it is often the small details that become an obstacle. However, once I’ve overcome that hurdle, that’s when I start going into contractual stages of the deal.

You know everybody plays a good story when you first meet them. They all come across amazing, honest and like their in it for your best interest. The only time you get to know somebody is when things go wrong. That’s when you really get to know their true colors… How authentic they are and just how genuine are their intentions.

I always say, when the going is good, everyone’s your friend. The music is on and the party couldn’t be better… But when the music stops - that’s when you need to stop and look - who’s in the room?

How much do you believe in taking risks?

Role of London

Great Britain is a great country, especially for Sikhs. It’s given us many opportunities and equal opportunities. I’m very grateful and blessed to be born here. I’m not saying it’s perfect but to a great degree,  compared to many other countries, it definitely sits at the top.

What would you define as a big leap in your journey?

Growth was always organic over time, along with hard work and perseverance - it’s paid off.

What do you owe your success to?

The teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib. I owe it to my religion and I owe it to my faith - that’s played a very important role in my life. I believe success in inevitable when you have the blessings from the one above.

Have there been failures and when something doesn’t go according to what you are predicting, what do you tell yourself?

Sure of course there has - you don’t always win. It’s similar to the views I expressed on ‘risks’ and with risk comes failure at times. However, I’m fine with that… I believe it’s my failures that have given me the competitive edge in life. In my opinion, failure is a learning curb; it’s compelling you to do better and to think smarter.  I recognize my failures and re-cast it into something that is more likely to succeed; and if for any reason it’s not a success, then I tell myself that it wasn’t meant to be - it just wasn’t for me. As we say in Punjabi “Meri kismat vich nahi siga” (it wasn’t written in my destiny). On the contrary, if I have something but then it’s gone, then I say ‘something better is coming…’

There are a number of successful people that have learned from their struggles and failures; i.e. Thomas Edison, J.K. Rowling, Sir James Dyson, Michael Jordan, Abraham Lincoln, Charles Darwin, Albert Einstein. Thus, it goes to show, persistence pays off… So while hindsight is 20/20, the perspective gained from failure is second to none.

So you let go of very easily?

Very easily - it’s important for me to be dispassionate if something doesn’t work out. I don’t get emotionally attached to it – if it didn’t work out forget it – move on to the next and look at the benefits of continuing from where you are. I have no time to do an autopsy. If it’s gone, its gone and better is coming…

Is this only with work or is that the kind of person you are?

You know this may sound a bit selfish or arrogant but that’s the kind of person I am. I’m not one to ponder on matters or contemplate what could have been – I would rather invest that energy into something more useful; and I apply that rule to everything. If something’s gone, let it go, and if it’s in your ‘kismat’, it will come back to you. A very simple formula I use every time for both my business and my personal life.

So you don’t stress or worry as much?

You know I used to worry. I would stress a lot about issues which I had no control over, and then I heard a verse in the Gurbani which says, “Sochiye soch na hove, je soche lakh vaar” and I didn’t understand what that meant at the time but once I looked into it, I realized circumstances won’t change by you worrying constantly, even if you think about it a hundred thousand times – it won’t make a difference. The scenario only keeps running in your mind repeatedly, taking different shapes and forms but it never actually happens! What has to happen will happen - there is no point worrying about issues that are beyond the power of our will, and I’m very comfortable with controlling my stress over it.

But when you have so much, taking care of everything is an even bigger responsibility. There has to be some amount of worrying there!

You delegate! When you delegate to a good team, then everything flows. This is why it is paramount to work with the right team as they represent your organization and operation in several aspects. As the saying goes, ‘behind every successful man is a great woman,’ while that may be true, I also believe behind every successful man is a great team.’ So when you are blessed with an amazing team, it makes life much easier to deal with.  When I have to give a job to somebody, I trust they will take on that responsibility and deliver the task efficiently. It’s important to me that I work with people who are competent of handling matters in a very pro-active and responsible manner. I should feel completely confident that they are not only capable of performing their role but are also capable to adapt to unforeseen circumstances should they arise. Thus, I’m very fortunate and privileged to work with a very diverse and experienced team led by ethics and integrity.

Leisure

What all are you passionate about in terms of leisure and recreational activities?

You know ‘leisure’ is defined as free time, which I have very limited of! (Laughs) But of course whenever I do find the time, I enjoy a number of leisure activities… I enjoy reading and believe it’s a prudent investment of leisure time. Across the board I read anything, whatever I can pick up along the way – I read books and ebooks; however, I have to say there is nothing like reading a good novel. It’s a great distraction and exercises my brain. At the same time, I like to skim the newspaper regularly to find out what’s happening around the world; this keeps me up-to-date on current local and international events. Besides reading, I also love to work out. I do a training called ‘cross-fit’, it’s brilliant in its design and purpose as it strengthens a number of muscles -  it’s a great cardiovascular workout, I love it.

When it comes to the social scene, I’m probably out 4-5 nights a week, entertaining. Meeting with friends and socializing is something I really enjoy doing but it’s the matter of finding the time to do it! I also love traveling, it’s one of my passions and I’ve been very fortunate to have travelled extensively around the world for both business and pleasure, having the opportunity to enjoy different cultures and a number of experiences. Needless to say, sports is also on top of my list. Whether its playing them or watching them – I always try to find time one way or another.

How do you make the time out for all of this?

Multiple priorties and competing responsibilities is not impossible to manage. You can get into a cycle of work, home and just that but it’s upto you on how you manage your own time so it works for you effectively. You are the master of your own destiny and you manage your diary according to your needs. Managing your time means less stress and better focus. There is no such thing as, “I’m too busy or I didn’t have time for it.” That’s the excuse you give someone when you don’t want to see them or you don’t want to deal with them. But when you want to talk to someone, you will make that time for them, even if it’s from here on the way to the restroom – you will make the time to call. So my philosophy is you make time for everything you want, when you want.

Do you socialize or network a lot?

My socializing is mostly on weekends, and that’s only if I’m not working. Otherwise during the week, I’m attending corporate dinners, charity events, or I’m a keynote speaker or things of that nature.

How important is it to network in today’s times?

Very important. With social media being such a powerful driving force, it has changed the method of how we network and the way we interact. It has significantly reduced the level of human interaction, where many have lost the flavor and charm to develop a more genuine connection.  A face-to-face interaction is much more effective then communicating via phone or messaging. If I can do a face-to-face then I’ll do it – that’s always my preferred method of communication. I’m a visiting professor at Manchester University and am on the advisory board for Nottingham School of Business, so I do a number of talks and lectures at the University which enables me to have a strong interaction with the students on many levels. This role in particular, I enjoy very much, as it gives me great gratification to know I might have been a part of that student’s development and achievements in some aspect of their life. In addition to this, I also sit on my own foundation and on other charity boards as well. I was the first Indian to sit on Coutts Bank board, and the first Indian to be on the board of the English National Opera, which I am very humbled and privileged to be a part of. So I’m fortunate to be a part of a number of different engagements, which enables me to form mutually beneficial relationships with individuals of diversity within and around my network.

Health & Fitness

What kind of sports do you enjoy?

Across the board, I love every sport. It’s definitely at the top of my list for leisure activities. As difficult as it gets sometimes for me to make time, I try to watch all the big games. England versus whomever, India versus Pakistan, any of the major league games, I will always try to make it a point of going.

You spoke about fitness but what about health? How do you take care of your health and how important is it?

I lead a healthy existence these days – no alcohol, few carbs and early nights. Health is very important to me, so when it concerns my diet, I’m very particular in what I eat. I find my nutrition to be one of the most important qualities in my life. I don’t consume meat so I’m a pescatarian. As far as liquids go, I use to be a heavy coffee drinker but I stopped that many years ago, as I much prefer to drink fresh mint tea, peppermint or lemon and ginger tea; at the same time, I also have a large intake of water on a daily basis and very much enjoy fresh fruit juices. Overall, I’m very health conscious, so I try to maintain a balanced diet as much as I can and try to consume foods that contain pure, raw and natural ingredients. Every once in a while I will have a “cheat meal.”  This is a good thing though because it keeps me sane! (Laughs) But that may be only once a month or every other month - it’s not often at all.

On Fashion

How important is style for you and what do you keep in mind while putting your looks together?

I believe it when they say, ‘first impression is the last impression’ or in Punjabi we would say, “Ek noor aadmi, hazaar noor kapda.” It’s very important to set yourself apart from everyone else. I don’t believe in wearing the typical standard blue  grey and black suits. I’m definitely not one to go for the uniform look, I like to play devil’s advocate with my style where it provokes conversation.. When you walk into a room, you should stand out. I don’t mean it in the literal sense by wearing electric colors but your appearance and style should be in-line with your personality, your character - it’s got to be in sync. I believe style is the way to say who you are without having to speak; it should exude confidence and empower you. From your shoes, socks, and cufflinks, down to your tie, belt, and your pen. If you want to push it even further, then even down to your underwear!

Your favourite designers?

In respect to designers, I would say Loro Piana and Brunello Cucinelli are my preferred choices, as their collections exude simplicity and sophistication. However, for me fashion isn’t about the labels it’s more about the style and the aesthetics of it. As Yves Saint Laurent said it, “Fashions fade, style is eternal.”  Hence the reason I have my own tailor, as I’m very particular in what I wear and how I wear it. So every fall, I design most of my own styles with my tailor, going through all the different aspects from fabrics, colors, patterns, personal touches, right down to the style of stitching! So before every season, my tailor visits me and we prepare everything for the new collection to see what we’re going to do for that season. I always say buying clothes is one thing but knowing how to wear them is completely different. So I take great pride in my sense of style, as my personal appearance is very important to me. I believe my sense of style to be very versatile yet distinctive – it speaks for itself.

This is all your own input?

Yes - all of it, and he probably hates me for that! I’m probably one of his most awkward customers because I actually go into the finer details of it; from which lining I want, number of pockets, where I want my name, how many buttons, right down to the color of thread! My preferred color is orange as this is my signature color, so I try to use orange wherever I can! So when it comes to my wardrobe, everything is customized precisely to what I want. So I’m sure you’ve gathered by now that I don’t take ‘style’ very lightly which is why I spend so much time on the design elements - it’s my passion. It not only represents my image but more so my character – it’s who I am.

Is there anyone you look up to or does anyone influence you?    

Honestly, I’ve never been one to look up to someone. I always do what suits me and makes me content. I believe myself to be a leader and not a follower - and I don’t mean that in an arrogant way but in the sense that having your own mindset and approach is what exemplifies are individuality, it’s what sets us apart from the rest. Me being inspired by what Tom Ford is doing or what Amitabh Bachchan has done or the work that any other significant figure has done for that matter, doesn’t have a direct effect on my work or my mentality. What may work for them, might not be suitable for me. I’m always striving to do bigger and better, so I can lead by example for the next generation and hope the work I accomplish in my life will impact others and inspire them significantly. That’s not to say I won’t try new things, I’m always open to new experiences but if it doesn’t suit my environment or adapts to my style of work, then I won’t do it. As they say “the difference between who you are and who you want to be… Is what you do.”

Collector’s Side

With an amazing collection of art, antiques, cars, watches, tell us what about it interests you and catches your heart to invest into so much?

I believe in the theory - you only live once. If you can afford it - then buy it.

I’m a great believer and collector of Sikh artifacts, as well as take interest in many other cultural antiques. I collect a lot of paintings and rare pieces. I’m very much into visual art, which includes creation of images and objects that are rare to find pieces or a limited collection. I also collect modern art and old masters, which is a specialist art. If you look around my office, you will also see a lot of art books lying around, as I not only enjoy collecting them but also learning about them and studying their history. Asides art, anyone who knows me will also know I’m a great admirer of watches. Buying a prestigious timepiece is more than a transaction for me. The saying “You can tell a man by his shoes,” well I believe the same is for a watch. I’m very particular with the type of watch I wear, as it should compliment my personal style. Whether it’s a rare Patek Philippe, the latest Breguet or Cartier, or the limited edition Parmigiani Fleurier Bugatti watch - I have a great collection of watches. In the same breath, I also enjoy  luxury cars and am a big collector of car registration plates (number plates). From my Phantom, to my Bugatti and G-class, I give great attention to detailing the interior and exterior of my cars – just as I do for my suiting! And I make sure they all have their unique registration plates - as your identity is key!

Did the love for all this quality start at an early age or after you accomplished so much?

You know I’m never been one to shy away from the finer things in life. When I was a child and wanted something, I would always push my father for it. I’d either cry or have a tantrum but eventually I would get it. Even as I grew older, I would ask him to buy me the more established French and Italian designer names – I was never one to settle for average, it had to be the best. Even if we couldn’t afford it and my father said it was too expensive, I was never one to back down and was always determined to get it… And my father being the generous person he is, always made it a point to buy it for me, even it meant going out of his way for it. So from a young age, I was always accustomed to quality and by the grace of God I’ve usually been able to have them.

How important is it for you to live life king size?

If you can afford living life king size, then you should do it! There are no ifs or buts, and I say that to anybody - if you can afford to do it and God has blessed you with the wealth – then enjoy it! It is important to live in the moment, and the environment in which one lives in has to be positive and to your satisfaction. It has a psychological effect on us as it is our state of mind that decides the quality of life, so if you have the means to afford it, then one shouldn’t hesitate in living it to that standard. This doesn’t just apply to materialistic possessions, it could be giving money to charity, going on a spiritual journey, trying new adventures, luxury wellness, cosmetic surgery - whatever it is! Enjoy it. I’m not saving don’t save your money for a rainy day, of course save it but to an extent. Don’t deprive yourself of the luxuries or the finer things in life if you can afford it.

Spirituality

Can you define your relationship with God?

I can say and I would say, God is my best friend. Everything you see around me, my surroundings, the environment I live and work in - this is all the blessings of God. I’m so grateful to the one above and I’m fortunate to say my relationship with ‘Him’ is very special.

Do you talk to God?

Yes very much so… I pray and talk to God regularly. When you do an Ardaas, you are talking to God.

Yes, but not just prayer form. When you say friend, do you have a conversation with God.

Yes, most definitely. There are times when I’m just randomly walking down the street and for a moment I’ll just stop, look up and thank God, saying “God thank you for everything you’ve blessed me with.” It can just be a moment of realization or when a turn of events occur, there is no specific time or place for me to express my gratification because I’m so grateful. I’m truly thankful for everything God has given to me and for unmerited favor where more than my needs have been met. It’s not just for the wealth, its for my health, my family, protection, guidance, for all the incredible experiences in my life - it’s for everything around me.  I’m thankful every breath and I can’t thank him enough. So to be honest, I feel very blessed and fortunate to be in the position where I can say ‘I’m connected to God.’

Do you feel God helping you and being with you in your journey? Any specific story you want to share where things just fell in place with divine intervention?

Everyday! Every morning when I wake up and I’m breathing, I thank God.  I always say when one door closes, the almighty opens two more doors for me - I’m a firm believer of this and I’ve said many times in my past interviews.

When my parents came to this country, they worked very hard to get to where they are now.  I’m also very hardworking as it’s in our genes, but it’s one thing to be hardworking and another thing to see the hard work materialize. So on that aspect God has blessed me graciously. So much, that I’m privileged to be in a position where I can donate money to people - that’s a blessing in itself. There are many who have money but don’t have the courage to give it out. So I’m not only thankful for all that God has blessed me with in life but even more so, for the qualities and values he has instilled in me – absolutely everything. There is no ‘one’ special moment I can sit here and say that was the one time I felt connected to God or when I remembered him. I can give you several moments where things happened that were not supposed to - I didn’t even dream of them happening but he made them happen.

What does success mean to you? How seriously do you take it?

It goes without saying, success is very important to me. I don’t believe in failure - I won’t accept it. The word ‘failure’ doesn’t exist in my vocabulary, therefore there is no alternative for me as success is paramount. Anything I do, I want to do it successfully and whole-heartedly, then I leave the rest in God’s hands. I give it my 100% - once I’ve done that, that is a success for me. Sure of course the results matter just as much but the hard work that goes into it is just as important to me because then you know you’ve done the best you could, and the outcome now lies in God’s hands.

What does money mean to you? Has all this achievement changed you in any which way? And do you ever consider success without money?

No - realistically I believe you can’t consider success without money. Money plays an important role in all our lives; it influences our thoughts and actions in ways we’re not aware of. People kid themselves when they say money isn’t everything (in terms of success) but let’s be real, they wouldn’t be doing it if it wasn’t for the money!

In today’s world we are facing some very challenging times where money is a crucial element to our success. People’s livelihood and businesses all revolve around it – it’s the universal language of the world. I’ve been in a situation where I haven’t had money and believe you me - you’re on your own. So as much as we all hate to admit it, money is important and it makes a profound difference in ones life –financially and socially, and it’s without doubt a fundamental part of any businessman. We all get up, we go to work, we do it for the money; sure of course we do it for the pleasure as well, but the money element is always there. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean it should change you as a person; one of the three cardinal virtues of Sikhism is humility and charity, which I strongly believe one should observe, as your wealth should justify your state – not your character.

When it comes to the impact it’s had on me… I believe money amplifies the kind of person you are. That doesn’t necessarily mean it has a corrupting influence on you if you have a solid set of values right from the start. My parents established the foundation of my values, and through my own personal experiences I’ve been able to cultivate them further - enabling me to grow, prosper and thrive personally and professionally. So yes, I would say money has changed me over the years to be an improved person but not a better person, as my life is influenced by success not money - you can’t put a price tag to ethics and values. In the span of my career, I’ve come to appreciate – and really value – the other attributes that define an individual’s success beyond the P&L.

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The First official Gurudwara in the whole of GULF region shines with Grandeur while exhibiting homely peace to the Dubai Sangat*. A rare piece of architecture spread over 100,000 sq. ft. of building area and opulently built spending more than AED 65 Million, makes it a historic mark for the Sikh community of the region.   

Singh & Kaur dwells into the making and existence behind the ultra modern Gurudwara, which is a blend of modern and traditional building styles.

Dubai, a city of superlatives with the biggest, tallest, grandest and the best constitutes 85% of its population as non-locals, of which Indians form the biggest majority. However, all these years the Sikh community of the region faced a spiritual void with no available place to pray as a community. It was with the vision of Mr. Surendar Singh Kandhari and Mrs. Bubbles Kandhari in 2008 that the thought process to make a stand alone Gurudwara started, after which it was supported whole heartedly by the governmental authorities and with utmost love and Sewa* from Sangat across the world.

The journey from thought to reality has indeed been a grueling one, but also the most satisfying and it gave us immense pleasure to see Bubbles Kandhari, who devotes all her time to make sure that the Gurudwara runs smoothly quoting that she is in the happiest and most satisfying phase of her life now.

The Making

It is indeed a surprising fact for a Gurudwara to harmoniously exist in an Islamic country and is the best example of religious tolerance; but many might not know that an entire translation of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib* had to be submitted to the governmental authorities to allow the same. Only when it was seen that the Guru Granth Sahib exists in full congeniality with Islam and other faiths, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, allocated free land for the Gurudwara. It was he who quoted that the Gurudwara would be made on one condition, that is, it should be the best in the world. He was then explained that for Sikhs Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), in Amritsar holds the highest regard and also all Gurudwaras where the Guru resides are the same, but the Sangat will try their best to make a Gurudwara that would make its mark.

The architects making the Gurudwara were sent on a tour to study the Gurudwaras of the world. The designers visited Golden Temple to study the frescos and wall paintings at Sri Harmandir Sahib. It took two years for the architectural firm to give form to the three-storey structure. The contractor was told the community wanted a 100-year guarantee for the building, so that the future generations will be able to utilize it. AED 65 Million was spent on making the building, which was generously contributed by Sangat from all over the world.

The construction took place from May 2008-Dec 2011 and the grand opening, which was a spectacular affair took place on Jan 17^th 2012 with over 50,000 Sangat in attendance. The Gurudwara envelops all under its warm embrace, irrespective of caste and creed bringing peace, solace and hope for one and all.

The Design

This mega structure is over 100,000 sq. feet. building area and constitutes of underground parking’s and 3 floors. On the exterior, a 54 meter Parikrama* is covered with traditional grillwork.  A tranquil water body flows around the structure which is inspired by the Sarovar* of the Golden Temple.

Moving into the interior of the Gurudwara, peace engulfs one and all. The serene white marble, profusion of design, balance of colour and variety of textures come together in a perfect synthesis.

The main hall is the biggest pillar-less structure and is carpeted in a soothing soft purple colour. The chandeliers hanging all around the centre of the hall are by Murano from Italy and along with the dome enhance the shape of the hall. While the eye is caught by the incredible detail of the Palki Sahib* and woodwork of the walls, which the gaze cannot help but linger on; it is the sum of the whole that really evokes the splendour of the Gurudwara.

The focal point of the Gurudwara is the raised platform, or the Palki Sahib where the Sri Guru Granth Sahib is kept. The Palki is made from ornate 24 ct. Gold, with 4 pillars, canopies and a dome in the shape of a lotus with petals around. Beautiful floral decorations and heavily embroidered silk cloths make the Palki look and feel royal.

All day along the sanctum reverbs with the sounds of the Gurbani* and a sense of calm descends as trails of the holy songs fill the air.

The Amenities

Apart from the main hall, there are other halls where non-stop prayers (Akhand Path*) are held. A function hall that looks heavenly and is completely designed in white has a smaller version of the same 24 ct. Gold Palki of the main hall. This hall serves for smaller-functions, marriages, and private prayers, condolence meetings or any get together prayers the community might need. Fresh floral bouquets, Iranian hand woven carpets, crystal lamps and white long roof to floor curtains give the hall a simple yet rich look.

A well-stocked library, that is home not only to umpteen number of religious, Punjabi, and Sikhism books, but also many books on other faiths. A meditation room also carpeted in white makes for a tranquil place to connect with the Almighty.

A state of the art kitchen prepares meals for the Sangat in mammoth proportions. It is one of the most modern Gurudwara kitchens in the world and consists of a walk in fridge, storage rooms and machines for every kind of work in the kitchen. From huge food processors of all kinds, dough makers and roti (bread) makers that make up to 1800 Rotis per hour, it is a sight to see. Every person working in the kitchen (Sewadaar) covers his nose and mouth with a mask, wears hand gloves, aprons and head-covers with due regard to purity, cleanliness and hygiene; which is mandatory from the ISO. The kitchen provides for atleast 10,000 meals on each Friday and above 40,000 meals on occasions such as Baisakhi and Gurupurab. Special tents are made to serve food on all occasions as the area pulsates with a distinctive fervor. A fairyland atmosphere gets created by buzzing Sangat, spiritual songs and above one million bulbs that illuminate the building.

The Vision

To develop religious values among the next generation of Sikhs in the Diasporas, special 3-hour sessions are held on Saturdays in the Gurudwara, where children are taught Punjabi, Kirtan and the Gurudwara protocol.  It is a great service to the community as the desire to connect to your roots is even stronger when you are away from home. It also eases parents to know that their children are learning all about their religion and culture even in a foreign land.

Gurbani Santhiya classes are also held for adults at the Gurudwara. Santhiya is the correct pronunciation for Gurbani, taught in the manner of how the 10^th Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji wanted all to read and pronounce the Holy shabads.

One of the best thoughts quoted by Bubbles Kandhari while talking about the Gurudwara was that, “Never think you are the best and have reached where you wanted. There is scope for improvement every single day provided we want to improve.” This thought can very well be seen in the details of way too many things at Guru Nanak Darbar that would be difficult to mention in a few pages. There have been challenges at every step but the Sewadars have learned on the go and handled the Gurudwara better by the day. Guru Nanak Darbar stands tall as an example of a vision that many may have thought isn’t possible, but with the blessings of the Almighty it is an oasis of peace and aboard of hope, truth and faith.

*Sangat: A Sikh term, which means company, fellowship and association. In Sikh vocabulary, the word has a special connotation. It stands for the body of men and women who meet religiously, especially in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib.

*Sewa: A selfless service, which is performed without any expectation of result or award for performing it.

*Parikrama: Parikrama means "the path surrounding something" in Sanskrit, and is also known as Pradakshina ("to the right"), representing circumambulation.

*Sarovar: A pool or lake, especially at a sacred place or by a holy shrine used for sacramental ablutions and other religious ceremonies.

*Palki Sahib: A Punjabi word which describes the structure housing Guru Granth Sahib and which forms part of the Guru's platform or seating.

*Gurbani: Hymns in the central text of the Sikhs, the Guru Granth Sahib.

*Akhand Path: Practice of continuous recitation (without any break) of sacred religious texts in Sikhism.

*Iftar: The meal eaten by Muslims after sunset during Ramadan to break their day long fast.

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Absolutely true to her name, the ‘queen’ of hearts, former Miss India, a Mathematics graduate, an international style icon and of course, a critically acclaimed jewellery designer, Queenie Singh’s work has adorned the likes of Hilary Clinton, the Queen of Morocco, Paris Hilton, Naomi Campbell and as well as almost All Bollywood stars.

Queenie Singh's jewellery embodies her own sensibilities and values - One of glamour, quality and an unquantifiable element of uniqueness. Wherever in the world you might be, a ‘Jewels By Queenie’ piece is as eminently recognizable as Queenie herself.

She shares some candid moments with SnK, and here is what a session of coffee with Queenie is

I want to start with knowing the story behind your name. Also why Singh and not Kaur?

My father named me as Queenie. I was born after two sons and he decided that I would be the Queen of his heart, which I was. My passport says it’s Kaur but I just want to have a direct association with my father.

You entered modeling and beauty pageants at a time when families were not as broad minded as they are today. Was it a challenge?

My father was totally against it and it was a struggle to convince my family; but I worked on it and convinced him that I will continue my studies and do my masters and keep my grades on the top. I was a Delhi girl so it was a proud moment for the capital city when I won the pageant.

How come you decided to not move towards acting in films (an expected route) and took up designing? How early on did know what your calling was?

For my family and myself, I had started designing jewellery while I was still a teenager. I loved it and was passionate about jewellery although I studied Mathematics I developed my passion into my work.

Do you recall the first piece of jewelry you designed?

My first piece was a diamond art deco bracelet which I designed for myself. My first collection was that of diamonds and colour stones (precious and semi-precious). It was a glamorous one and was an instant success as well.

Did you formally educate yourself in designing and can you share what goes on in your mind while you create such fresh designs from the mind?

Beautiful things, attractive stones, trends, glamorous women, embroidery and colour combinations are all a part of what goes in my mind while I design, I have both formal education and tremendous experience in this field.

Does it just come naturally that you have the design in mind or you explore as you go?

A bit of both, when it comes naturally in my mind I put it in action straight away. Generally good quality stones are a big inspiration.

One can always tell it’s by Queenie when they see a piece from your collections. Do youspecially try to keep a signature look?

The fact that it looks like a Queenie piece is a natural phenomenon as the design comes from Queenie’s heart and mind.
 

What would you say is your favorite piece of jewelry you designed?

I have no favourite piece of jewelry. However, I am partial towards cuffs as they make a statement yet spell importance.

Can you describe the relationship you have with your clients because you might be the only designer I’ve met who shares such a great rapport and relationship with every client.

My jewellery is one of a kind and I love to see it adorned by beautiful women and every client who buys a piece becomes a larger family of Jewels by Queenie.

Who are your favorite style icons and also your favorite designers?

Queen Rania is one of my only few style icons as she optimizes style and class. She is a women of substance. I am not partial to any designer it really depends on the collection of the season. Fashion is frivolous and so is my choice regarding it.

 The million dollar question – Your fitness mantra? How do you manage to stay so fit?

Consistency, discipline and balance. I don’t believe in diets because then you swing from high to low.

What kind of diet plans and exercise regimes do you follow?

Yoga and Pilates is a combination of both. Meditation is followed by yoga.

What would you say on the stereotype that is deep rooted in our society that women can either be high career achievers or good mothers/homemakers?

Unfortunately in our society it is the older mother in law, a women who creates problems for the younger women. Awareness and education and fairness to the fairest is what makes women more comfortable to be able to pursue a career and yet keep a healthy balance with a role of being a mother, wife and a daughter in law.

How do you manage time amongst travel, work and your children?

You always make time for whatever you love. I believe there is enough time as long as you prioritize, don’t be lazy and remain focused.

What’s the best piece ofadvise you ever received?

“Not to be petty”, my father gave me this advise about 20years ago.

Your daughter Tiara has written a book. How much of her writing skills does she imbibe from her mom?

Tiara is a bright young beautiful girl with a mind of her own and her own writing skills, which stems from emotion. I have been a columnist for 6 to 8 years and have written in The Times of India, The Asian Age, Deccan Chronicle and the Hello magazine. We both have different styles.

What are you most passionate about?

I am most passionate about my family, my friends and my work in that order. I love traveling and delving in fashion.

What do you love doing when you have time in your hands? Hobbies?

I love catching up with movies and TV shows. I love to travel. Everything else that I really enjoy I incorporate it into my routine even if it’s just a hobby.

What would you want to achieve that you haven’t achieved yet?

Seeing my children stable and successful.

*Jewels by Queenie was started in the year 2003.

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It brings me great happiness to share with you the volumes of, Singh and Kaur magazine. One among the many identities bestowed upon the Sikhs, are the names – Singh, derived from ‘Lion’, for men and Kaur, derived from ‘Princess’, for women. With millions of Sikhs spread across the globe, we are proud of all the achievements and success that Sikhs have garnered and are here; to cherish and celebrate their exuberant stories and royal lifestyles.

Singh & Kaur aims at being the platform for the most elite Sikhs of the world and discovering the hidden billionaires, collectors and their life's and business empires.It makes us proud to announce that Singh & Kaur is the ONLY magazine 'dedicated' to feature exclusively the turbaned, bearded stylish, wealthy men and the talented, successful Sikh women of the world.

To all our readers, I wish you get connected, entertained, informed and inspired...

Japinder Kaur
Signature

*Japinder Kaur is a film director, writer and producer. SnK is the concept-child of her passion towards bringing out the gems of the Sikh community to the world.

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Harry Baweja, the vision behind the historic film Chaar Sahibzaade – Heros the world must know, speaks to ‘Singh and Kaur’ about the journey behind making the film. The animation film based on the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s four sons, has received critical acclaim, love and support from all around the world.

Having given Bollywood hits for over 2 decades, Harry is now dedicated to making a series of films on Sikh history and we delve more into what it takes to do so …

When you started making films, more than two decades ago, did you ever have in mind that you would make a Punjabi film on Sikh History, such as Chaar Sahibzaade?

No! 27 years back I did not even imagine so. But yes way back in 1976 when I was just 19 hears of age, I had written and directed a play on Jesus. It was after the success of this play that I wanted to write and direct a play on the life of The Sikh Gurus, which did not happen as life took a different turn then.

I was a student of a Sikh Convent School way back in 1962 from grade 3 to 8. We had a Gurudwara in our Dagshai Public School near Kumarhatti, off Solan (Simla hills). It was compulsory for all to attend the Gurudwara every morning and evening. That is where I heard ‘Sakhis’ (real life stories) of our Gurus and learnt so much about Sikhi. When I heard the Sakhi of Chaar Sahibzaade, I never knew I would be making a film on them some day.

What was the moment when this idea/film struck your mind and you knew there was no going back?

Well I think God has his own ways. I started to think, God has been so kind to me, and there must be a way to thank him. One day I said to myself, 'what better way to thank Him than making a film on Sikh history?!' I managed to set up a meeting with the SGPC president in 2009. I proposed that I wanted to make a four part series of films on the life of all the Ten Gurus. It was instantly rejected.

That rejection made me go back more strongly with various options until three years later in 2012 I got the permission to make an Animation film on the four sons of Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Did you predict the kind of impact Chaar Sahibzaade would have?

As I mentioned earlier, the idea to do something on my religion was nurturing in my mind since I was 19 years of age but I never predicted anything about it. Yes, I did not expect that this film would have such an impact on the audience, some impact yes, that is why I wanted to make it, but the impact it had, well we all saw it was unimaginable.

How challenging was it to bring toscreen a story that is already so emotionally sensitive to so many people?

Very difficult. There is so much history, so much information but one has to keep the length of the film in mind and yet make sure you tell all that people expect, keeping the facts correct and the sanctity in place. Challenging. It took me years to write it, as I had to put in lot of research and lot of travelling to look for facts, terrains, and history to put the story together.

Then when it came to the screenplay it was even more difficult. The flow of the narrative, the emotions, the martyrdoms of all the four Sahibzaade needed to be projected rightly in the correct spirit.

And then came the writing of the dialogues, which was a huge task. The language was tricky because I had to use words which were not too 'real' Punjabi such that the commoner and the youngster of today could understand, but still not taking away the essence of the language used then.

Overall a tough task. But then I had Him with me always....

What kind of preparation process did a movie like Chaar Sahibzaade take?

Preparation had to be in a lot many ways; for example, locations- there was no ‘real’ reference. Anandpur Sahib had no reference but then a lot of reading gave you an insight of what it could have been like at the time of the Gurus. So it was then designed according to what I thought could have been then, and coordinating my thoughts with the other architecture references of that era.

Costumes and weapons etc along with many other aspects. The list can go on.....

Also, was there any different set of technical difficulties, apart from the usual where a filmmaker strives for the best quality?

Yes. It was difficult creating quality acceptable in a budget that was negligible. I just had 0.6% of the budget of a Hollywood animation film that is a minimum of $300 million, to complete this in an acceptable quality. We did the best we could keeping in mind our limitations.

The fact that we are not permitted to animate our Gurus and show them in still form only, was a challenge. Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji was an integral part of the story. A lot of thinking for months went into all the scenes that depicted Him. The ‘Pandey Khan Challenge’ scene of Guru Sahib was an addition in the script. I wanted to show Guru Sahib's strength in a battle. So I started digging into history in search of an incident that could establish this. After a lot of research, this was one scene that excited me. But the question arose how do I shoot/animate this scene? I can’t make Guru Sahib attack or defend, as I cannot animate Him, so how do I shoot it? One month of mind application and I finally found my way out!   It indeed is so satisfying now, when people declare it as their favourite scene of the film.

Tell us a bit about your spiritual journey as well throughout the years of making this film. (Example: did all the in-depth research make you more spiritually connected)

I am a very spiritual person. My childhood schooling did it for me. I still remember one incident. Our divinity teacher once told us that we must remember to take the name of Waheguru and the person who utters the name of Waheguru just before he dies goes to heaven. I was in a boarding school and in grade three then. Every night before I slept, I would remind myself to not forget that when I die I must say Waheguru, this went on until I matured enough to understand that I didn't need to remind myself anymore, as by then the 'naam' was imbedded in my spiritual system.

It indeed was a divine journey writing and working on the film, as if I was being guided by Him at every stage. I believe it is He who made the film. I was just the human- the physical self, needed to execute it.  I feel blessed.

Has the experience of making Chaar Sahibzaade, changed you as a person?

Though I wasn't a bad person before, but yes it made me a better one.

How has the response of fellow Sikhs been before and after the film?

Unbelievable! But also scary, because one needs to live up to their expectations with the next film.

Did you feel the pressure of responsibility as well? Or a threat/fear of extremists catching onto small details of the film? Or were you sure you would do justice to everything involved?

It was a huge responsibility. I had taken a task to tell a story, which each one who saw the film had heard it a dozen of times before. Each one of them had a set imagination of how the incidents in the story unfolded. I have had to outlive the mind of each one them!

Well, every Sikh thinks he knows more than anyone else and only he knows the best about the Sikh religion. I had to beat this assumption. There are about 38 million Sikhs, so it was not going to be easy and it wasn't. There were people who came up with absurd objections when the trailers were being played on Tv, but I saw myself getting through.

It was a sensitive subject. I was touching religion. I was depicting the Guru's family. I was showing history. I was showing the true side of incidents, which many were not aware. It was a difficult path, but I tried my best to do justice to all aspects, and I did try very hard.

What is the crux of the driving force for you behind making a film?

The passion to create a new world, to tell a new story.

Share with us a typical working day of yours.

Its 3 am I am still at work. There are no timings. It is as per the need of the hour. But I get my breaks. They help me recharge, to go all out again!

Your next animation film is also on Sikh history, what is that story about?

It is the sequel to the first one and starts where the first one ended. Titled Chaar Sahibzaade 2, Rise Of Banda Singh Bahadur.

Any plans for more regular masala - Bollywood films as well at the moment?

Yes! In the pipeline, at the planning stage.

Apart from films, what all are you passionate about?

Music.

What would be an ideal getaway/vacation for you?

A quiet holiday in the mountains.

What tips would you give to aspiring filmmakers?

Believe in yourself and don't be amongst the crowd. Make what YOU conceive. Don't curb your ideas. You may not find many takers to start with, but in the end you will be standing tall.

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