Radio Haanji Podcast

Voice: Ranjodh Singh | Genre: ਨੈਤਿਕ ਕਹਾਣੀ (Moral Story) | Format: Punjabi Audio Story | Series: Kitaab Kahani
Is Your Success Blinded by Your Own Ego?
I’ve often wondered why some people reach a certain level of success and then simply stop growing. It usually isn't a lack of talent or opportunity; it is something much more internal. In this episode of Kitaab Kahani, Ranjodh Singh narrates a gripping story of a master archer who learns a hard lesson about the thin line between confidence and arrogance. It is a story that stays with you, especially when you realize how often we let our own pride stand in the way of our potential.
About the Story
The narrative follows a young archer who has mastered his craft so thoroughly that he believes no one else on earth can match him. This belief, however, is not a source of strength but a prison. Driven by a restless ego, he seeks out a legendary guru living in the deep forest—a man who has retired from archery but whose skill remains a mythic standard.
The guru does not challenge the boy to shoot targets. Instead, he challenges his mind. Through a series of intense and terrifying focus exercises, the archer is forced to confront the reality that his technical skill is nothing without a humble heart. The climax of the story occurs when the student's ego turns into a deadly betrayal, leading to a moment of mastery so impossible it will leave you questioning what is truly achievable when the mind is clear.
ਕਹਾਣੀ ਦੀ ਝਲਕ
ਜਦੋਂ ਆਪਾਂ ਊਣੇ ਹੁੰਦੇ ਹਾਂ ਉਦੋਂ ਸਾਨੂੰ ਲੱਗਦਾ ਕਿ ਆਪਾਂ ਪੂਰੇ ਭਰੇ ਹਾਂ। ਜਦੋਂ ਤੂੰ ਮੇਰੇ ਕੋਲ ਆਇਆ ਸੀ ਤੇ ਉਦੋਂ ਤੈਨੂੰ ਲੱਗਦਾ ਸੀ ਕਿ ਤੂੰ ਬਹੁਤ ਵਧੀਆ ਤੀਰਅੰਦਾਜ਼ ਹੈਂ। ਇਹ ਇੱਕ ਜ਼ਿੰਦਗੀ ਦਾ ਲੈਸਨ ਹੈ। ਇਨਸਾਨ ਸਾਰੀ ਜ਼ਿੰਦਗੀ ਆਪਣੇ ਆਪ ਨੂੰ ਤਰਾਸ਼ਦਾ ਰਹੇ ਤੇ ਸਾਰੀ ਉਮਰ ਦਾ ਸਫ਼ਰ ਵੀ ਥੋੜ੍ਹਾ।
Listen to the full story on Radio Haanji Kitaab Kahani — free on all platforms.
The Message of the Story
For the Punjabi community living in cities like Melbourne, Sydney, or Singapore, the drive for professional excellence is a daily reality. This story is a mirror for all of us. It teaches that mastery is a journey without a destination. The moment you believe you are the best, you become "full," and a full vessel can no longer accept new wisdom.
The guru's final act—catching a lethal arrow in his teeth—is a metaphor for the ultimate power of focus. It suggests that when we conquer our ego, our focus becomes so sharp that the impossible becomes effortless. True greatness is found in staying "empty" and humble, always ready to learn from the next moment.
About Kitaab Kahani
Kitaab Kahani is Radio Haanji 1674 AM's daily Punjabi audio story series, where stories — motivational, emotional, moral, philosophical and spiritual — come alive through the voice of Radio Haanji's narrators. Every story is chosen for its ability to say something real to the Punjabi community in Australia, Singapore and worldwide. New stories every weekday morning — free on all platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central theme of this Punjabi moral story?
This story focuses on the destructive nature of ego and the necessity of humility for true mastery. It illustrates how a skilled individual can stop growing once they believe they are the best. The narrative teaches that constant learning and a humble mind are the keys to professional and spiritual greatness.
Who is the narrator of this episode of Kitaab Kahani?
This episode is narrated by Ranjodh Singh, a prominent voice on Radio Haanji. He uses his expressive storytelling style to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and the modern diaspora audience. His narration helps listeners deeply connect with the emotional and philosophical weight of the archer's journey.
What does the "full vessel" metaphor mean in this story?
The "full vessel" represents a person whose ego has convinced them they have nothing left to learn. Just as you cannot add water to a full cup, you cannot add wisdom to a person who thinks they are already superior. Staying "empty" means maintaining the curiosity and humility to continue growing.
How does the story define true focus and concentration?
The story defines focus as the ability to see the smallest detail as something immense, such as seeing a louse as large as an elephant. This level of concentration is only possible when the mind is free from the distractions of pride and ego, allowing for absolute precision in one's craft.
Listen Now
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Radio Haanji 1674 AM is Austalia's Punjabi community radio station.Listen free at haanji.com.au | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iOS App | Android AppServing the Punjabi community in Australia, Canada, Singapore and world wide.

Punjab’s wheat procurement season begins with a major standoff. Commission agents (arhtiyas) have launched a statewide strike, demanding fairer commissions as the grain markets open today.
Understand the economic ripple effects and the government’s response in today’s analysis with Ranjodh Singh and Senior Journalist Pritam Singh Rupal. We also break down the Himachal Pradesh tax U-turn and the launch of new safety vehicles in Punjab.
Listen now on Radio Haanji 1674 AM. 🎙️
#RadioHaanji #IndianUpdates #PunjabNews #IndiaNews #PritamSinghRupal #PunjabiPodcast #NRIPodcast #IndianDiasporaAustralia #HaaanjiAU #IndianPolitics #PunjabFarming

The world is changing fast, and today’s episode of Today Updates on Radio Haanji gets you up to speed. From the halls of global power to the growing streets of Melbourne, host Ranjodh Singh brings you a clear and factual look at the headlines that matter most to the Punjabi diaspora. 
In this episode, we explore:
Global Energy Security: Why Donald Trump is telling allies to secure their own oil in the Gulf of Hormuz and what it means for U.S. relations. 
Melbourne’s Growth Spurt: New data confirms Melbourne is growing much faster than Sydney. We look at the 2032 projections that will make Melbourne Australia’s largest city. 
Community Alerts: A disturbing charity fraud case in Sydney and the rising threat of AI deepfakes in the Victorian state elections. 
International Defense: Japan’s major shift in military strategy with the deployment of long-range missiles. 
Whether you are in Australia or Singapore, staying informed is your best defense. Join us for trusted analysis every weekday. 
Listen now on Radio Haanji 1674 AM or stream us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Visit haanji.com.au for more updates. 
#RadioHaanji #TodayUpdates #MelbourneGrowth #RanjodhSingh #PunjabiPodcast #HaaanjiAU #GlobalNews

Brighten your morning with the clever pranks and joyful laughter of Laughter Therapy. Hosted by Ranjodh Singh, today's episode features April Fool's stories and Punjabi chutkule (jokes) from our young callers.
The studio was full of mischief this morning as kids called in to share their best April Fool’s tricks. From clever nightsuit pranks to hilarious chutkule about prisoners, the children brought an incredible energy to the show. We also enjoyed traditional bolian (folk couplets) and brain-teasing bujaratan (riddles) that kept everyone thinking and smiling.
Laughter Therapy is more than just a comedy show; it is a way for the Punjabi diaspora in Australia and Singapore to stay connected through humor and language. Whether you are a parent listening with your children or just looking for a positive start to your workday, this episode offers the perfect blend of tradition and modern fun.
Listen to Laughter Therapy free every weekday morning on Radio Haanji 1674 AM — Melbourne's Punjabi community radio.haanji.com.auRadio Haanji App: iOS and Android
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ਜਦੋਂ ਚੋਰ ਆਇਆ, ਭਿਖਸ਼ੂ ਨੇ ਕਿਹਾ — ਲੈ ਜਾ ਜੋ ਤੈਨੂੰ ਚਾਹੀਦਾ।In a quiet hut in Japan, a Zen monk named Shijiri is lying at peace when athief arrives in the dead of night — knife drawn, demanding the gold coins hisfollowers had donated to build a temple. What happens next is not what thethief — or the listener — expects.This Punjabi spiritual story explores fearlessness, compassion, and thetransforming power of seeing goodness in others before they can see itin themselves. Narrated by Ranjodh Singh.🎧 Listen free on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and the Radio Haanji app.📖 Full Story: https://haanji.com.au/shijiri-punjabi-spiritual-kahani-kitaab-kahani
Kitaab Kahani — Daily Punjabi Audio Stories | Radio Haanji 1674 AMNew story every weekday. For the Punjabi community in Australia, Singapore and worldwide.Radio Haanji App: iOS and Android
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Is India truly Naxal-free, or is this a political narrative for the upcoming cycle? In the latest episode of Indian Updateson Radio Haanji 1674 AM, host Ranjodh Singh and veteran analyst Pritam Singh Rupal dive deep into Home Minister Amit Shah's bold claims in the Lok Sabha. From the changing face of internal security to the reality of Punjab’s "Schools of Eminence," this discussion brings much-needed clarity to the headlines.
Readers will gain insight into the current security landscape of India, the upcoming census data privacy measures, and a grounded comparison between the education models of Punjab and Delhi. Sat Sri Akal to our listeners across Melbourne and Singapore; let's unpack these updates.
Listen to more Indian news analysis → https://https://www.google.com/search?q=haanji.com.au/podcast
The Claim of a Naxal-Free India
The Home Minister recently declared that the government has successfully made India Naxal-free, placing the historical blame for the insurgency on past Congress administrations. Pritam Singh Rupal provides a necessary historical perspective, tracing Naxalism back to the 1967 peasant uprising in Naxalbari, West Bengal. While the government highlights high surrender rates and reduced violence in 2025, questions remain about the "ground reality" in dense forest regions like Bastar.
The dialogue shifts to the political utility of such statements. Both speakers note that while the "urban Naxal" tag is frequently used against dissenters, the actual insurgency has faced intense military and social pressure over the last decade.
Punjab's Education: Model vs. Reality
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann recently touted four years of "exemplary" work in the education sector, specifically claiming that not a single paper leak has occurred under his watch. Ranjodh Singh queries the sentiment on the ground, where many parents still feel the "Schools of Eminence" are more about infrastructure than deep pedagogical shifts.
Pritam Singh Rupal notes that while buildings have been painted and facilities improved, the real test is whether leaders are sending their own children to these public schools. In Punjab, most officials and affluent families still prefer elite private institutions, suggesting a lingering gap between political rhetoric and public trust.
Key Episode Highlights
Census Privacy: The Registrar General of India has assured that all data for the upcoming census will remain strictly confidential.
Wheat Procurement: Punjab’s wheat purchase begins tomorrow with a target of 122 lakh tons, though procurement may be slightly delayed this season.
Tax Evasion: The Finance Minister revealed a ₹200 crore tax theft involving 239 dhabas and restaurants across Punjab.
Rahul Gandhi in Kerala: A discussion on Gandhi’s claim of a "secret alliance" between the BJP and the Left in Kerala.
Deeper Insight: The Delhi Model in Punjab
The AAP government's attempt to port the "Delhi Model" of healthcare and education to Punjab faces unique challenges. Unlike the compact, urban landscape of Delhi, Punjab’s rural expanse requires a different logistical approach. The "Mohalla Clinic" initiative has seen success in urban clusters, but rural residents are still waiting for consistent, high-quality medical access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Amit Shah's statement on Naxalism in India?
Home Minister Amit Shah stated in the Lok Sabha that the current government has effectively made India Naxal-free. He set a deadline for remaining insurgents to surrender or face elimination, while blaming past administrations for the growth of the movement. Analysts note that while violence is down, forest insurgencies persist.
When does wheat procurement begin in Punjab for 2026?
Wheat procurement in Punjab is scheduled to begin on 1 April 2026. The government has set a significant target of 122 lakh tons for the season. However, due to seasonal variations, experts like Pritam Singh Rupal suggest that the actual arrival of wheat in the mandis might be slightly delayed.
What are the "Schools of Eminence" in Punjab?
The "Schools of Eminence" are a flagship education project by the Bhagwant Mann government, aimed at upgrading infrastructure and learning standards in state-run schools. While the government claims these schools provide a competitive alternative to private education, critics argue the focus remains heavily on building aesthetics rather than teacher-student ratios.
Is census data in India confidential?
According to the Registrar General of India, all data collected during the upcoming national census will be kept strictly confidential. The government emphasizes that these figures are used for administrative planning and resource allocation, though privacy advocates continue to monitor how digital data storage will be managed in 2026.
What is the current tax evasion issue in Punjab's hospitality sector?
The Punjab Finance Ministry recently identified widespread tax evasion amounting to approximately ₹200 crore. Investigations into 239 major restaurants and dhabas revealed significant discrepancies in reported earnings and GST filings. The government plans to intensify audits to recover these lost revenues and ensure industry-wide compliance.
Conclusion
This episode of Indian Updates highlights the tension between government data and the daily experiences of the diaspora. Whether it is the safety of our borders or the quality of our schools, the analysis by Pritam Singh Rupal and Ranjodh Singh reminds us to look beyond the headlines.
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Radio Haanji 1674 AM is Austalia's Punjabi community radio station.Listen free at haanji.com.au | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iOS App | Android AppServing the Punjabi community in Australia, Canada, Singapore and world wide.
 
#RadioHaanji #IndianUpdates #PunjabNews #AmitShah #BhagwantMann #PunjabiPodcast #HaaanjiAU #PritamSinghRupal

The global landscape is shifting rapidly this week. From the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran to significant political upheavals in Nepal and local relief for Victorians, there is much to unpack. In today’s episode of Today Updates on Radio Haanji, we dive deep into the headlines that are shaping our world and our local community.
Whether you are concerned about rising oil prices or looking for updates on the latest IPL matches, this recap covers the essential stories from 31 March 2026. Let's look at the major events discussed by the Radio Haanji News Desk.
US-Iran Tensions: The Kharg Island Threat
The most pressing international story involves American President Donald Trump’s direct warning to Iran. A deadline of 6 April has been set for a resolution, with the U.S. indicating a readiness to target Iran's critical oil infrastructure. The primary focus of this potential action is Kharg Island, which serves as the backbone of Iran's economy, handling nearly 90% of the country’s crude oil exports.
This tension has already sent ripples through global markets. With the Hormuz Strait seeing restricted movement, the "oil war" is no longer a distant possibility but a looming reality. Interestingly, reports suggest that Iran is bypassing the U.S. Dollar by trading oil with China in Yuan, a move that significantly challenges global economic norms.
Nepal’s Political Crisis: KP Sharma Oli Arrested
In a shocking turn of events in Nepal, former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli was arrested on 28 March 2026. This arrest is linked to the "Gen Z" protests of September 2025, which resulted in 76 deaths. The new Prime Minister, Balendra Shah—a former rapper who has captured the nation's attention—ordered the action within 24 hours of taking his oath.
Despite Oli's legal team requesting leniency due to his ongoing health struggles, including past kidney transplants, the government is proceeding with the investigation. This marks a massive shift in Nepal's political trajectory and a demand for accountability for past unrest.
Victoria Local News: Police Operation and Fuel Relief
Closer to home, Victoria Police concluded a major seven-month manhunt. Desi Freeman, wanted for the tragic killing of two police officers, was killed during a high-stakes operation in Northern Victoria on 30 March. This brings a close to a long period of uncertainty for the families involved and the police force.
To combat the rising cost of living, the Federal Government has announced a significant 3-month reduction in the fuel excise tax. This is expected to save motorists approximately 26 cents per litre. Additionally, the Victorian government has made all public transport—including trains, trams, and buses—free from 31 March to 30 April. While this is a welcome relief, commuters on the V-Line have already reported significant crowding, highlighting the strain on our infrastructure.
Sports Update: IPL Results
The IPL continues to surprise fans. In the latest clash, the Rajasthan Royals secured a convincing victory over the Chennai Super Kings. While veteran stars like Sanju Samson and Ruturaj Gaikwad struggled, scoring only 6 runs each, the younger talent shone brightly. Yashasvi Jaiswal contributed a solid 38, while Vaibhav Suryavanshi stole the show with a lightning-fast 52 off just 17 balls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for the US-Iran conflict mentioned on 31 March 2026?
The United States, under President Donald Trump, has issued a deadline of 6 April 2026 for Iran to reach an agreement or face severe consequences. The U.S. military is reportedly prepared to target Iran’s oil infrastructure, specifically Kharg Island, which is vital for the nation’s crude oil exports.
Why was former Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli arrested in March 2026?
Former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli was arrested regarding his government’s handling of the 2025 Gen Z protests.The protests resulted in 76 deaths and widespread unrest. The new Prime Minister, Balendra Shah, initiated the arrest to ensure accountability for the violence that occurred during that period.
How much can Australians save on fuel with the new March 2026 excise cut?
With the Federal Government halving the fuel excise tax for three months starting in late March 2026, motorists can expect to save about 26 cents per litre. For an average 65-litre tank, this equates to a saving of roughly $19 per fill-up, providing relief against global oil price hikes.
Is public transport free in Victoria during April 2026?
Yes, the Victorian government has announced free travel on all public transport, including V-Line, Metro trains, trams, and buses, from 31 March to 30 April 2026. This initiative aims to provide financial relief to residents amidst the rising cost of living and high fuel prices across Australia.
Who won the IPL match between Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings in March 2026?
The Rajasthan Royals defeated the Chennai Super Kings in their recent IPL encounter. Despite low scores from the captains, the Royals were propelled to victory by Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s explosive 52 runs from 17 balls and Yashasvi Jaiswal’s 38 runs, making it a comfortable chase for the team.
Conclusion
The news cycle of late March 2026 reminds us how interconnected our world has become. From the geopolitical shifts in the Middle East to the very practical cost-of-living relief here in Melbourne, staying informed is the first step in navigating these changes. Radio Haanji remains committed to bringing you these updates with a focus on our community's interests.
For more detailed discussions on these topics, make sure to tune into our daily podcasts. We bring you the latest analysis and community voices that you won't find anywhere else.
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Radio Haanji 1674 AM is Austalia's Punjabi community radio station.Listen free at haanji.com.au | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iOS App | Android AppServing the Punjabi community in Australia, Canada, Singapore and world wide.

Start your morning by shaking off the weight of yesterday’s stress. On this episode of Laughter Therapy on Radio Haanji, hosts Ranjodh Singh and Balkirat Singh remind us that a simple laugh is often the best medicine for the mind. Whether it is cultural riddles or sharp "pension jokes," this session is all about keeping the Punjabi spirit high and the community connected.
Why Laughter Therapy Punjabi Podcast is Your Daily Essential
Life in the diaspora can be fast-paced, but taking a moment for "hasse-thate" (laughter and fun) is crucial for our mental well-being. Ranjodh and Balkirat bring a warm, family-focused energy to the airwaves, inviting callers of all ages to share their best jokes. It isn't just about entertainment; it is about building a space where we can forget our worries and bond over shared cultural humor.
Key Highlights: Samosas, Riddles, and Wisdom
The energy shifted when the kids joined the conversation. Fateh and Amber challenged the listeners with classic Punjabi Bujharats. One standout moment was the riddle of the "three-legged butterfly" (tin pairan wali titli) that emerges after a dip in hot oil. The answer? A delicious Punjabi Samosa!
We also shared a laugh over the "Pension Joke," where an elderly lady decides that staying old and keeping her pension is far better than a doctor’s medicine that promises to make her young again. It’s this kind of relatable, light-hearted wit that makes the Punjabi Laughter Therapy Podcast a favorite for families across Australia and Singapore.
Community Spirit and the Sikh Games
Beyond the jokes, the show stays grounded in community care. The hosts took a moment to check on Shreya, who has been feeling under the weather, offering prayers for her health. With the Sikh Games approaching this weekend, the excitement is building. It is a reminder that whether we are laughing together on the radio or competing on the field, our strength lies in our unity.
Listen to more episodes → https://https://www.google.com/url?sa=E&source=gmail&q=haanji.com.au/podcast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Laughter Therapy show on Radio Haanji?
Laughter Therapy is a popular comedy and variety segment on Radio Haanji 1674 AM. Hosted by Ranjodh Singh and Balkirat Singh, the show focuses on Punjabi humor, chutkule (jokes), and riddles to promote mental wellness and community bonding among the Punjabi diaspora in Australia and worldwide.
What was the Samosa riddle in this episode?
The riddle was "Tin pairan wali titli, naha ke bahar nikli" (A three-legged butterfly that comes out after a bath). The answer is a Samosa, referring to its three-cornered shape and the process of deep-frying it in oil, a classic example of traditional Punjabi Bujharats used for entertainment.
Who are the hosts of Laughter Therapy?
The primary hosts for this session were Ranjodh Singh and Balkirat Singh. They are well-known figures on Radio Haanji, recognized for their engaging storytelling and ability to connect with listeners of all ages, from children sharing riddles to elders enjoying classic Punjabi wit and cultural nostalgia.
How can I participate in the Laughter Therapy podcast?
Listeners can participate by calling into the Radio Haanji live studio during the broadcast. The show encourages families and children to share their favorite riddles and jokes. You can also listen to recorded episodes anytime on the Radio Haanji website or mobile app for your daily dose of humor.
Where can I listen to the Punjabi Laughter Therapy Podcast?
You can stream the Laughter Therapy podcast for free on the official Radio Haanji website at https://www.google.com/url?sa=E&source=gmail&q=haanji.com.au. The show is also available on major platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and the Radio Haanji mobile app, making it accessible for the Punjabi community in Australia and Singapore.
Conclusion
Laughter truly is the shortest distance between two people. By sharing a joke or solving a riddle, we stay connected to our roots and each other. Join Ranjodh Singh and Balkirat Singh every morning to start your day with a smile and a lighter heart.
Listen free:
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Radio Haanji 1674 AM is Austalia's Punjabi community radio station.Listen free at haanji.com.au | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iOS App | Android AppServing the Punjabi community in Australia, Canada, Singapore and world wide.

Hockey isn't just a sport for the Punjabi community; it’s a rhythm that has pulsed through Melbourne’s suburbs since the late 80s. As the city gears up for the 38th Australian Sikh Games, host Harprit Shergill sat down with Narinderbir Singh on Radio Haanji 1674 AM to discuss the club that started it all: the Victorian Sikh Association (VSA).
What emerged wasn't just a story of trophies and matches, but a deep look into a culture where the Club President is just as likely to be found vacuuming the kitchen as he is leading a board meeting. This is the story of the VSA—Melbourne’s first Sikh club—and its journey from 1988 to the present day.
The 1988 Connection: Where it All Began
The history of the Victorian Sikh Association is inextricably linked to the birth of the Australian Sikh Games. Both were established in 1988. Before the mega-festivals we see today, a group of founding members in Melbourne saw a need for a space where the community could bond through their shared love of hockey.
Narinderbir Singh explains that hockey is "in the blood" of Punjabis. While the club has since expanded into soccer, badminton, basketball, and netball, that original connection to the 1988 Games remains the cornerstone of their identity. Today, the VSA is a powerhouse, sending roughly 20 teams and 200 athletes to compete in various sports, making it one of the largest single-club participations in the country.
More Than a Club: An Inclusive Family Culture
One of the most striking parts of the VSA is its shift from a sports club to a family institution. Harprit Shergill noted the visible respect and inclusivity within the club, particularly regarding women’s participation. The VSA doesn't just "allow" women's teams; they are an essential part of the club’s fabric, treated with equal respect and priority.
This grounded culture comes from the top. Narinderbir shared a telling anecdote about the current President, Manjit Singh Sidhu. In many organizations, titles come with a sense of distance. At the VSA, positions are viewed as "work, not titles." Narinderbir recounted how the President himself takes responsibility for cleaning the kitchen and vacuuming the halls after events. This servant-leadership model—Seva in its truest form—is what keeps the nearly 500 membersconnected.
The Future: Building a Permanent Home
While the VSA currently calls Ashwood Reserve home—sharing facilities with the Waverley Hockey Club under the Monash Council—their vision is outgrowing their current boundaries. As Melbourne’s Punjabi community grows, the need for dedicated "green space" becomes more urgent.
The club is currently looking toward a future where they can establish their own grounds. This isn't just about having a private clubhouse; it's about having the space for multiple hockey and soccer pitches that the community can use without the constraints of shared council scheduling. For the VSA, the goal is simple: to ensure the next generation has the space to keep the traditions of 1988 alive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Victorian Sikh Association (VSA)?
The Victorian Sikh Association is Melbourne’s first Sikh sports and cultural club, established in 1988. It serves nearly 500 members and is a key participant in the Australian Sikh Games. The club focuses on hockey, soccer, and other sports while promoting community service, gender inclusivity, and Punjabi cultural heritage across Victoria.
When was the Victorian Sikh Association founded?
The Victorian Sikh Association was founded in 1988, the same year as the inaugural Australian Sikh Games. Since its inception, the club has been a pillar of the Melbourne Punjabi community, growing from a small hockey group into a multi-sport organization that supports hundreds of local athletes and their families.
How many teams does VSA send to the Australian Sikh Games?
The Victorian Sikh Association typically sends approximately 20 teams across various sports to the Australian Sikh Games. These include hockey, soccer, badminton, basketball, netball, and golf. With nearly 200 athletes participating, the VSA is often one of the largest and most successful clubs at the national tournament.
What are the core values of the VSA club?
The core values of the Victorian Sikh Association include inclusivity, diversity, and the spirit of volunteerism. The club is renowned for its gender-equal approach, supporting strong women’s sports programs. It operates on a "Seva" model where leaders and members work together equally to maintain facilities and support the community.
Where is the Victorian Sikh Association located?
The Victorian Sikh Association is currently based at Ashwood Reserve within the Monash Council area in Melbourne. They share these facilities with the Waverley Hockey Club. However, the club is actively seeking to acquire a larger block of land to build dedicated pitches and community spaces for their growing membership.
Conclusion
The Victorian Sikh Association is a living link to the history of Sikhs in Australia. By staying true to the humble, hardworking values of their 1988 founders, they’ve built a home for 500 members that feels less like a gym and more like a family.
Whether you're a hockey veteran or a newcomer to Melbourne, the VSA offers a space to belong. To hear the full story of their 1988 roots and their big plans for the future, listen to the latest episode on Radio Haanji.

The Sikh Games are almost here, and if you’ve been around the Parkville State Sports Centre lately, you can feel the energy building for the 38th edition. Radio Haanji host Harpreet Shergill recently caught up with Paramjot Singh and Bhupinder Kaur from the Craigieburn Falcons to discuss how a local club became a second home for hundreds of Punjabi families.
Why the Craigieburn Falcons Matter
Paramjot Singh notes that the club kicked off in 2017, playing its first full season in 2018. It wasn’t always the massive organization it is now. It started with one men's team and a simple love for the game. Today, they have nearly 200 players. They’ve built a pathway that takes kids from their first time holding a stick at Under-10 level all the way to Vic League 1.
The Power of Women in Sport
One of the most inspiring parts of the Falcons' story is the growth of the women's teams. Bhupinder Kaur, who represented Australia in New Zealand for the Masters World Cup, is a big reason for that shift. She didn't just want a team; she wanted to empower mothers and daughters. Bhupinder noticed that when the "Mummy" of the house joins in for fitness or a game, the rest of the family naturally follows. This year is particularly special because the Sikh Games will feature a full-field women's hockey competition.
Our Future Stars
The Falcons were recently named Junior Club of the Year by Hockey Victoria, and you can see why when you look at their roster. Kids like Jagat Kuar are already representing Victoria at the U21 level, while players like Harbarik Singh and Angad Viraj are pushing for national spots. Seeing these "Dastar-bound" (turbaned) kids playing in mainstream Victorian clubs is a proud moment for the entire community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Craigieburn Falcons Hockey Club?
The Craigieburn Falcons Hockey Club is a Melbourne-based sports organization founded in 2017 to promote hockey within the Punjabi community. It fields nearly 200 players across various divisions, including Men’s Vic League 1, Women’s teams, and Juniors from U10 to U18, focusing on family involvement and elite skill development.
When are the 38th Sikh Games in Melbourne?
The 38th Australian Sikh Games are scheduled to take place from 3 April to 5 April 2026 in Melbourne, Victoria. The event primarily uses the State Sports Centre in Parkville and attracts thousands of athletes competing in sports like hockey, kabaddi, and soccer alongside vibrant cultural programs.
Who is Bhupinder Kaur in Australian hockey?
Bhupinder Kaur is a professional hockey player and mentor at the Craigieburn Falcons. After a 15-year break from the sport, she made a successful comeback in Melbourne, eventually representing Australia at the 2024 International Masters Hockey Cup in New Zealand and advocating for women's participation in Punjabi sports.
How do the Craigieburn Falcons support junior players?
The Falcons provide structured coaching for age groups ranging from Under-10 to Under-18. Their success includes being named Hockey Victoria's Junior Club of the Year and producing athletes who compete at the state and national levels, such as Jagat Kuar and Mansirat Gill.
Is women's hockey part of the Sikh Games?
Yes, women’s hockey is a key component of the 38th Sikh Games in Melbourne. For the first time, the competition will include a full-field women's hockey category, reflecting the significant growth of female participation in the sport across the Australian and New Zealand Punjabi diaspora.
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Radio Haanji 1674 AM is Austalia's Punjabi community radio station.Listen free at haanji.com.au | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iOS App | Android AppServing the Punjabi community in Australia, Canada, Singapore and world wide.