Sir Mota Singh (pictured) was awarded the prestigious ‘Pride of India’ award by India’s High Commissioner to the UK, Nalin Surie at the Marriott Hotel in London on September 20, 2010.

The award which was started by an organization that looks to promote the culture and sciences of India has seen some big name recipients in the past like Lord Swraj Paul among others.

Singh was raised and educated in Nairobi, Kenya. In 1954, he shifted to England to complete the remaining part of his studies of law. He joined the English Bar in 1967 and within months developed a successful practice in civil law. He made headlines with his appointment to the bench in 1982 when he wore a white turban in court instead of a wig. His decision to wear a turban in court came to be seen as a sign of a multicultural Britain.

Mota Singh has held various positions in the UK in the legal fields such as Secretary, Law Society, and Disciplinary Committee. At the end of 2009, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II which is the highest UK civilian honour that can be bestowed.

Speaking on the occasion to news reporters, he said, “India, which was considered as a third world country only a few years ago, is now on the brink of being a Super Power." He also added on to say, “The UK has been a good host country and India-UK relations which has been good, has now moved into a higher trajectory - a strategic partnership at higher level".

Singh has also been in the news recently when he supported the carrying of ‘kirpans’ to schools and other public places in the country in accordance with Sikh religious beliefs. On the topic he has said, “I wear my kirpan and I've always worn it for the last 35 to 40 years, even when I was sitting in court or visiting public buildings, including Buckingham Palace".

Picture Courtesy: Hindu