Gurpreet Singh Sarin was the First Sikh contestant in the American Idol 12-year run show, a major rallying point for Sikh-American fans. Being the first Sikh contestant, he realized it also would be good exposure for Sikhs. ,Gurpreet Singh Sarin was the brightest looking participant in ‘American Idol’ While this may have ruffled the feathers […]

Gurpreet Singh Sarin was the First Sikh contestant in the American Idol 12-year run show, a major rallying point for Sikh-American fans. Being the first Sikh contestant, he realized it also would be good exposure for Sikhs. ,Gurpreet Singh Sarin was the brightest looking participant in ‘American Idol’

While this may have ruffled the feathers of most, Singh Sarin doesn’t let that kind of thing bother him. “I’ve been getting that kind of stuff all my life,” he says, flashing his infectious smile. “I know that if I stay in the contest, people will stop focusing on how I look and start noticing my voice. The judges and viewers have started to embrace his Sikh identity and appreciate his diverse musical talents.
They nicknamed him as “The Turbanator”.

On being Interviewed about his Turbaned look he proudly adds,” I practice a religion called Sikhism, which is the fifth-largest religion in the world. Sikhs wear turbans as a sign of commitment to their values of justice, integrity, and love. The turban is almost like a police uniform—it signifies to people that I have a certain set of principles, and that I will stand up for them.”

Gurpreet Sarin, first Sikh on American idol and first Sikh to make it to top 40, has released his first single, “Compassionate Father”. The theme of this song is religious bigotry – something that we in the Sikh community have experienced. The central message is that we can never judge another person’s relationship with God, and that all spiritual paths lead to the same ONE.

He has opened new doors for Sikhs to follow their passions without being offended for their looks and identity.

~ Source: http://www.washingtonpost.com/