Sikhs recognised in the Birthday Honours List 2026

Sikhs and people of Sikh heritage from across healthcare, fashion, community service, national security, policing and foster care are amongst those recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2026.

Amongst the recipients is Jagjivan Singh Khangura, who becomes a Member of the Royal Victorian Order (MVO) for services to Royalty and Specialist Protection. He is a former Metropolitan Police officer who spent years protecting Charles III, first as Prince of Wales and later as King, and he is popularly known as ‘the King’s bodyguard’, although his name was kept private for many years. Working within the Royalty Protection Command, he served in near-total anonymity while escorting the royal family on major public and international engagements. Admired for his professionalism, leadership, and discretion, he became widely noted for his impeccable style and polished appearance. His final major assignment came during the royal visit to the United States and Bermuda in 2026, after which he retired following an extraordinary career. 

When asked about his honour, Jagjivan said “It has been an honour and a privilege representing my community in seva to His Majesty the King, and for a boy born in Ludhiana this has been a career that I would never have imagined.“

Another recipient is Dr Inderpal Singh, National Clinical Lead for Falls and Frailty, who receives an OBE for services to Osteoporosis Care in Wales. Based in Cardiff, Dr Singh has played an important role in improving care for older people, particularly in relation to falls, frailty, bone health and osteoporosis. His recognition reflects the vital contribution of clinicians working to improve patient outcomes and quality of life across the NHS.

In the world of fashion, Parvinder Kaur Matharu and Ravinder Singh Matharu, Co-Founders of clothsurgeon, are each awarded an MBE for services to Men’s Fashion and Tailoring. Based in Slough, their work has helped bring bespoke tailoring, streetwear and luxury menswear together in a distinctive and innovative way, contributing to British fashion and creative entrepreneurship. Their joint recognition is a rare and powerful moment for the Sikh community, celebrating not only individual excellence but also a shared creative and entrepreneurial contribution to British fashion. They become the first Sikh husband and wife to receive an honour at the same time. 

Nirmal Singh, Community Cook at Eastside Community Trust in Bristol, receives a British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to the community in Bristol. Her work reflects the Sikh tradition of sewa, or selfless service, through practical support, food and community care.

Other recipients of Sikh heritage in the list include:

Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG)

• Sarbjit Singh UPPAL – Director, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. For services to National Security. 

MBE

• Satbinder BAINS – Foster Carer, City of Wolverhampton Council. For services to Foster Care.

Jasvir Singh CBE and Param Singh MBE, Co-Chairs of City Sikhs, said:

“Our heartfelt congratulations go to all those recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2026. It is wonderful to see Sikhs and people of Sikh heritage honoured for their contributions across such a wide range of fields, from healthcare, fashion and community service to national security, policing and foster care.

These honours reflect the Sikh values of sewa, courage, excellence and commitment to the wider good. Each recipient has made a meaningful contribution to British society, and their achievements will inspire others across our community and beyond.”

Notable allies of City Sikhs who have received honours from the King include: 

• Professor Sir Patrick Philip VERNON OBE – Campaigner for Racial Equality and Social Justice. For services to Racial Equality (London, Greater London) 
• Leah Rani CHOWDHRY MBE – Philanthropist. For services to Charitable Fundraising (Slough, Berkshire)
• Alpa RAJA BEM – Member, Veterans Advisory and Pensions Committee. For services to Veterans’ Welfare (London, Greater London)