RICHFIELD, Ohio — The sound of spiritual songs accompanied by the sight of sacred scripture signals feelings of oneness for Ratanjit Sondhe. It’s one of the major pieces of wisdom that the Sikh religion teaches him to appreciate.

What You Need To Know

  • April is Sikh Heritage Month in some states around the country

  • In Ohio, members of the Sikh community are working with state leaders to get a similar recognition passed

  • Ratanjit Sondhe said some Sikhs have become targets of racist acts due to their turban uniform

“That wisdom basically is what guides us in living the way we live our life,” Sondhe said.

Sondhe serves as the chairman of the Guru Nanak Foundation and said the value of oneness is why he considers Sikhism to be so special. 

“It’s like joining the school of spirituality,” Sondhe said.

Ohio does not yet recognize Sikh Heritage Month. Sondhe said he’s still using the month to spread awareness about who they are as a faith.

“This turban is merely in uniform,” Sondhe said.

The turban uniform represents Sikh faith and brotherhood. Sondhe said after the Sept. 11 attacks, some Sikhs who wear turbans became targets of racist acts.

“They do not understand that this is a universal serving community,” Sondhe said.

Sharing the customs of his religion is something that Sondhe said he does frequently. He recently spoke at an event hosted by his temple, Gurdwara Guru Nanak Foundation, to further understanding of Sikhism.

“Hi. How are you?” Sondhe asked State Representative Bill Roemer, who attended the event alongside other government leaders.

Taking part in crucial conversations with community leaders is one way Sondhe said he is building these connections. He explained that state Sen. Kristina Roegner, R-Hudson, is working with them to introduce a bill at the state level that would recognize Sikh heritage and awareness in April.

“They’re the fifth largest religion in the world and they’re the kindest, sweetest, nicest people you’re ever going to meet,” Roegner said. “And so, I think it’s important that we continue to recognize that.”

Sondhe said this recognition will contribute to the feeling of oneness that he desires.

“The main community have [sic] to have understanding with each other and see the strengths and weaknesses of both sides and complement that,” Sondhe said.

Members at Sondhe’s temple said they hope the bill gets passed at the next General Assembly meeting.