Ajmer Singh Gill, a teacher-to-be from Malaysia, embodied the enduring message of “All you need is love,” inspired by The Beatles. Ajmer’s life journey was deeply intertwined with his passion for education and community, leaving an indelible mark on his adopted homeland, Australia. In 2002, he founded the National Sikh Council of Australia, fostering a spirit of generosity and unity among Sikhs, regardless of background.
During times of crisis, Sikhs exemplified selflessness, offering aid irrespective of color or creed. This commitment to charity, rooted in Sikh principles dating back to Guru Nanak, is evident in their communal meals where all are welcome, reflecting their inclusive values.
Ajmer’s connection to The Beatles and Liverpool emerged during his time at the Malayan Teacher Training College in Kirkby, a short distance from the band’s hometown. He developed a fondness for The Beatles, alongside a deep-rooted passion for Liverpool FC, blending cultural influences into his life’s tapestry.
“All You Need Is Love,” released by The Beatles in 1967, resonated globally during the Summer of Love. Its message of unity mirrored Ajmer’s philosophy, even if he didn’t sport flowers in his turban. This anthem adorned his funeral service in 2024, celebrating a life dedicated to education and community service.
Born Swaran Singh in Singapore during World War II, Ajmer’s early years were marked by upheaval and migration due to the partition of Punjab. His father’s career in the British-Indian Police led them across Southeast Asia, instilling in Ajmer a sense of adventure and resilience.
Ajmer’s education journey took him to Kirkby on a scholarship, a transformative experience despite its early conclusion. His subsequent career in Malaysia, followed by migration to Australia with his wife Kalwant, underscored his commitment to education and community service. They settled in various Australian states, contributing to Sikh youth camps and community initiatives.
Recognized for his advocacy and community leadership, Ajmer’s contributions extended beyond education to human rights and interfaith dialogue. His legacy lives on through his family and the communities he enriched.
Ajmer’s life was a testament to resilience and service, epitomizing the Sikh values of compassion and inclusivity. His passing in 2024 marked the end of an era, yet his spirit continues through the lives he touched and the values he instilled.
Ajmer’s influence extended far beyond his immediate family. As a founding member of Sikh Youth Camps Australia (SYA), he helped shape the lives of countless Sikh youth through annual summer camps, seen as a rite of passage and a pathway to community service. His dedication to nurturing the next generation was reflected in his role in developing the Punjabi syllabus for NSW Community Language Schools, a testament to his commitment to preserving cultural heritage.
Throughout his life, Ajmer received numerous awards for his contributions, including recognition from the Centre of Melbourne Multifaith and Others Network on International Human Rights Day. This accolade acknowledged his tireless efforts in advancing and defending human rights in Australia.
Ajmer’s early experiences in Singapore and Malaysia shaped his worldview, fostering a deep appreciation for diversity and cultural exchange. His fluency in multiple languages—English, Malay, Punjabi, and conversational Chinese and Tamil—reflected his commitment to connecting with people from all walks of life.
In 1981, Ajmer and Kalwant settled in Perth, drawn by Australia’s temperate climate and proximity to Asia. Their journey across Australia—from Darwin to Sydney and eventually Ballarat—mirrored their commitment to community and education. Ajmer’s role as an industrial arts teacher and later as an assistant principal at Darwin High School highlighted his dedication to fostering learning environments that nurtured students’ potential.
Ajmer’s passion for food, a legacy from his days in Kirkby where he learned to cook under street lamps, underscored his love for communal sharing. Chinese cuisine, including favorites like bak-kut-teh, hor fun, and siu yoke, held a special place in his heart, reflecting his diverse culinary interests.
In 2020, Ajmer and Kalwant relocated to Ballarat to be closer to their grandchildren, further enriching their community ties. Despite his illness, Ajmer remained actively involved in community activities, continuing to inspire others with his unwavering positivity and zest for life.
Ajmer’s legacy endures through his wife Kalwant, children Sietel and Taren, son-in-law Hartaj, grandchildren Joravar and Gyaan, and a large extended family within the Sikh and broader Australian community. His influence transcends borders and generations, leaving an indelible imprint on those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Ajmer Singh Gill’s life journey is a testament to the transformative power of love, education, and community service. His legacy continues to inspire future generations to embrace compassion, inclusivity, and the pursuit of knowledge—a fitting tribute to a man who lived his life according to the belief that “All you need is love.”
