Amritdhari Sikh Boxer Charanpal Singh Breaks Barriers in England Boxing

Amritdhari Sikh Boxer Charanpal Singh Breaks Barriers in England Boxing

The year 2019 marked a historic moment for Sikh representation in sports, particularly in England Boxing. For the first time, Amritdhari Sikh boxers were allowed to compete without compromising their faith, thanks to the overturning of the beard ban. Among them is Charanpal Singh, an 18-year-old determined to make his mark in the boxing world while staying true to his Sikh identity.

Historic Overturn of the Boxing Beard Ban

In 2018, England Boxing overturned its long-standing ban on facial hair, which had previously prevented practicing Sikhs from competing. This ban conflicted with Sikh principles, as maintaining unshorn hair (Kes) is a vital part of the Sikh way of life. The decision to remove the ban came after consistent efforts by Sikh organizations such as Lions MMA, Budha Dal, and Sikh PA, along with notable individuals like Dr. Harbir Singh and Amandeep Singh, a lawyer and Sikh educator.

The new rule came into effect on June 1, 2018, but the first official bouts featuring Amritdhari Sikh boxers began in February 2019. This was a pivotal moment for England Boxing and the Sikh community, setting the stage for greater inclusion and diversity in sports.

The Journey of Charanpal Singh – From Training to Competition

Charanpal Singh, an Amritdhari Sikh, began his boxing journey just 18 months ago at Warley ABC, a respected amateur boxing club. Despite his early success and encouragement from coaches, Charanpal refused to compete under the old rules. He remained steadfast in his principles, knowing that his ambitions in amateur boxing would be curtailed once his beard grew.

“Some boxers mentioned that my beard hasn’t fully grown, so why not just fight,” Charanpal shared. “I explained to them it’s not about how much beard a person has; it’s about the removal of hair, which I would never support. My Kes is a part of who I am as an Amritdhari Sikh.”

With the ban lifted, Charanpal is now able to integrate boxing into his disciplined Sikh lifestyle, which emphasizes physical and mental well-being.

Balancing Sikhi Discipline and Boxing Ambitions

For Charanpal, boxing is more than a sport; it’s an extension of his Sikhi discipline. He views his training as a way to stay physically and mentally fit, embodying the values of the Khalsa—a collective of initiated Sikhs committed to compassion, justice, courage, and tolerance.

“My Sikhi requires me to maintain a healthy lifestyle, to be disciplined in both physical and mental well-being. It enables me to feel self-confident. I believe it is about self-care and compassion and promotes the importance of a Sikh being a protector of others (sant and soldier). Both work together,” he explained.

The Challenges Ahead – International Beard Ban

While the overturning of the beard ban in England is a significant milestone, the journey is far from over. The ban still exists at the international level, preventing Sikh athletes from competing on global stages like the Olympics. Lions MMA, a Sikh ethos mixed-martial-arts organization running 11 boxing clubs across the UK, is actively working to challenge the ban internationally, particularly through the AIBA and in countries like India.

Canada stands as a precedent, where the beard ban was overturned in 2001 after Ontario flyweight champion Pardeep Singh Nagra fought a legal battle. This success fuels hope for broader acceptance of Sikhs in boxing worldwide.

Charanpal’s Aspirations – The Road to the Olympics

Charanpal Singh is just beginning his journey, but his ambitions are sky-high. He aims to build a strong amateur career, climbing the ranks and eventually turning professional.

“The Olympics would be a goal to strive for, but until the international beard ban is lifted, this ambition will have to wait,” he said.

Despite these challenges, Charanpal remains optimistic, knowing that his achievements can pave the way for other Sikh athletes.

A Historic Year for Sikh Representation in Boxing

The inclusion of Amritdhari Sikh boxers like Charanpal Singh in England Boxing is a groundbreaking step toward diversity in sports. As more Sikh athletes take to the ring, their presence not only challenges outdated norms but also inspires others to pursue their dreams without compromising their faith.

The journey ahead is long, but with organizations like Lions MMA and individuals like Charanpal Singh leading the charge, the future of Sikh representation in boxing looks promising.

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