Night Time Walk on the River Thames

I was listening to Katha (discourse on Gurbaani) at Park Ave Gurdwara a few weeks ago. Giani Ji said that Gurbaani refers to the world as “BHAV-SAGAR”, an ocean. Why has Guru Ji used the metaphor of on ocean with the world? In water you can either SWIM or you can DROWN. Similarly in MAYA (the illusionary world) we can either drown it or we can swim across it and use the world in a positive way in our soul journey.

The Guru Ji is described in Gurbaani as being the boat. Satguru Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji says:

ਗੁਰੁ ਜਹਾਜੁ ਖੇਵਟੁ ਗੁਰੂ ਗੁਰ ਬਿਨੁ ਤਰਿਆ ਨ ਕੋਇ ॥
gur jahaaj khevatt guroo, gur bin tari-aa na ko-e.
The Guru is the Boat, and the Guru is the Boatman (to ferry across this world-ocean). Without the (help of the) Guru, no one can cross over.

ਗੁਰ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਪਾਈਐ ਗੁਰ ਬਿਨੁ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਨ ਹੋਇ ॥
gur parsaad prabh paa-ee-ai, gur bin mukat na ho-e.
By Guru's Grace, one experiences Waheguru. Without the Guru, no one is liberated.
(Ang 1401)

ਗੁਰੁ ਬੋਹਿਥੁ ਗੁਰੁ ਬੇੜੀ ਤੁਲਹਾ ਮਨ ਹਰਿ ਜਪਿ ਪਾਰਿ ਲੰਘਾਇਆ ॥੧॥
gur bohith gur beRee tulhaa, man har jap paar langhaa-i-aa. ||1||
O mind! The Guru is the boat, the ship, the raft (to fery across the world-ocean); (taking refuge in the Guru) meditate on Waheguru, (whoever meditates and chants Waheguru) shall be carried across to the other side. ||1||
(Ang 1040)

On Tuesday night after doing some revision I thought I would for a walk across the Thames and get some fresh air. I put on my iPod and listened and sang along to Gurbani Kirtan while walking. I had the Shabad “Gur Jaisaa Naahee Ko Dev” (which translates as, "There is no deity equal to the Guru.") playing on repeat. I was walking alongside the river going towards the Tower of London and singing “Gur Jaisaa Naahee Ko Dev”. I paused and looked the flowing river. It reminded me of Giani Ji’s Katha. The river flowing looked beautiful. It seemed to flow quite fast; I suppose that’s bit like life. Life rushes along so fast and we get SWEPT AWAY without enjoying the moment and making EACH SWAAS (breath) fruitful.

It was about 10.15pm and so there were quite a few people out eating at restaurants on the riverside or drinking in the pub. While walking I noticed people smoking, drinking, couples engrossed in Kaam and a drunken man staggering. As I walked further up the riverside there was a HUGE SHIP (looked like a war ship) near the Tower Bridge. I have lived in London for three years. However, this was the first time I have walked down that side of the river since starting university. I didn’t even know where the London Dungeons were until Tuesday! Waheguru.


I looked at the huge ship and thought “ਸੱਚੇ ਪਾਤਸ਼ਾਹ, ਤੂੰ ਕਮਾਲ ਹੈਂ! O God, Amazing!” I was in awe looking at the ship. It reminded me of the Shabad that the GURU IS THE BOAT. I thought how wonderful. If you put IRON in water, it will sink to the bottom. Look at this ship! It’s huge, made of metal, and carries a heavy load and yet STILL FLOATING.

A boat can carry so much weight and not sink. A car will sink in a river with its weight. However, a car in a ferry will not sink. How amazing is this. We are imperfect and are full of AUGUNS (demerits). However, even with the weight of past paaps (sins) we can ferry across the world ocean on the boat of the Guru. Look at the Grace Sahib has done on us by offering us NAAM & GURMAT, however it is up to us to get up and take benefit of this gift. We have to commit ourselves to the Guru. As Bhai Gurdaas Jee (the contemporary of the first 6 Guru Sahibs and maternal uncle of Guru Arjan Dev Sahib Ji) says: "Take the one step towards the Guru and the Guru will take millions of steps forward to welcome you."

As I walked back from Tower Bridge, I looked at the drunkards, the couples engrossed in Kaam and people smoking etc and I thought the whole world is drowning in vikaars, the whole world is drowning in KAAM (desires), KRODH (anger), LOBH (greed), MOH (attachment) and HANKAAR (ego). However, does anyone realise this? If you are drowning you need to call for help, but what does one do when he or she doesn’t know they are drowning. Rab Rakha.

“Dhan Satguru Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee” and “Aise Gur Ko Bal Bal Jaaee-ai, Aap Mukt Mohe Taare” kept ringing through my ears while seeing the boat and then seeing all these people around me. I thought how lucky are we to be blessed with such a huge boat, such a magnificent ferry, the SHABAD GURU, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Anyone who wishes to grasp hold of Guru Ji’s feet through reading, contemplating and following Gurbaani is ferried across this world ocean. Just as hundreds of cars can be loaded on a ferry and take across the channel to France, anyone who does NAAM JAPNAA and holds onto the Guru's Path will ferry across regarldess of the weight and mistakes they made in our past.

However, it is so sad when we are born as Sikhs, we are drowning in this world-ocean and not knowing that the LIFE-JACKET (i.e. Gurbaani) is right near us. Perhaps it’s so near that we don’t appreciate it. Waheguru. Guru Sahib says:

ਬਿਨੁ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਭੇਟੇ ਕੰਚਨੁ ਨਾ ਥੀਐ ਮਨਮੁਖੁ ਲੋਹੁ ਬੂਡਾ ਬੇੜੀ ਪਾਸਿ ॥੩॥
bin satgur bhette kanchan naa thee-ai, manmukh lohu booddaa beRee paas. ||3||
The Manmukh, the self-willed person who follows their mind, is (like) iron, which without meeting with the True Guru - The Philosopher's Stone, cannot become transformed into gold. The boat of the Guru is very close to the iron like person, but he sinks (in the river of vikaars, corruption & wickedness). ||3||
(Ang 40)

ਸਤਿਗੁਰੂ ਹੈ ਬੋਹਿਥਾ ਵਿਰਲੈ ਕਿਨੈ ਵੀਚਾਰਿਆ ॥
satguroo hai bohithaa, virlai kinai veechaari-aa.
The True Guru is the boat, but few are those who realize this.

ਕਰਿ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਪਾਰਿ ਉਤਾਰਿਆ ॥੧੩॥
kar kirpaa paar utaari-aa. ||13||
Granting His Grace, He carries them across. ||13||
(Ang 470)

Feeling Hungry, Then Guess What Happens...

Today I went to the library in the morning. I took some apples with me, so that I can eat them if I got hungry. Late afternoon time I started to feel peckish and thought I would go back to Halls and cook some frozen Mehte Wale Parotay.

I arrive back at halls and open the flat door. Waheguru! Suddenly a strong bacon smell hit me! I could barely breathe! I quickly rushed to my room door and tried to open the door (avoiding breathing in the bacon smell which had filled the whole corridor). Waheguru! I thought I would do some work and wait till the bacon smell dies down before I go to the kitchen.

After an hour, I look around my room looking for my frying pan. Where is it? I realized that I forgot the frying pan in the kitchen last night when I made something to eat. In my mind I was hoping "Hope no one has used it." Then I thought "Why would they use my frying pan when there are two or three frying pans lying around for them to use." Obviously not the case!

I got in the Kitchen and the bacon smell was still strong. For someone who doesn't eat meat it's a really sickening smell. Even when I used to eat meat I found bacon and pork sickening and I would find Beef smell disgusting also. People would tease me and say "You are half Muslim and half Hindu". Waheguru. Rab Bhalla Kare.

I found my frying pan laying on the cooker. I picked it up and was about to wash it. Then I stopped and looked down into it. I could see some OIL in it. I said to mind, "I can't remember putting oil in my frying pan?" I looked slightly up and there was something red in the frying pan (like a small long scrap). It was a scrap of BACON. Waheguru. I put the frying pan down and thought "This means NO Parotay for lunch". Waheguru.

I couldn't believe why people would want to use my frying pan to cook BACON! A girl in our corridor complained to me three months ago that someone stole her FRYING WOCK. Then another girl complained to me a month ago that someone uses her frying pan and then leaves it dirty for her to clean up. Rab Hee Rakhaa!

For someone who is Vegetarian it’s difficult to use cooking utensils when someone has cooked meat in them, despite however many times one washes it. I had nothing else to eat other than 2 or 3 yoghurt tubs and Parotay. So I thought what can I do? Instead I ended up cooking frozen Parotay in the Mini-Cooker which I have in my room. With Guru’s Kirpaa it turned out okay! :)

The Parotay were okay. But then the SMOKE ALARM went off. Sat Naam. Perhaps Waheguru was telling me to keep off the Parotay. I prayed that the security guard doesn’t come to my room and find Parotay, smoke and a Mini-Oven! I quickly opened the windows and after a few minutes the smoke alarm stopped. Rab Da Shukar!

Student life is very CHALLENGING and I can't WAIT to move out of Halls and move back home! It really makes you appreciate the simple things in life which Guru Sahib has blessed us with.

Moral from Story: Appreciate what you have. Don’t take anything for granted.

Photos of Sikh Inter-Faith Smaagam in Scotland

I have kindly been sent some photos by bhaji Hari Singh of a four day Inter-Faith Smaagam (event) in Scotland organised by the Nishkam Sevak Jatha (Birmingham, UK). The event was held at Strathclyde Police Recreational ground at Pollok Park from 27th - 30th April 2006.

Representatives from different religions such as Muslim, Jewish, Catholic and Protestant attended the Inter-faith Smaagam where there were talks, seminars, exhibitions, and a Diwaan with Satguru Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.


Marquees being assembled for the Smagam.


Sevadaars having Langar during constructing Marquees.


Guru Sahib's Diwaan.


Bhai Mohinder Singh Ji (of Guru Nanak Nishkam Sevak Jatha) giving a talk.


Kirtan by Bhai Gursharan Singh Ji from London.


Exhibition area - a small replica model of Sri Darbaar Sahib, Amritsar.


Exhibition area - small replica of Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib.


Bhai Sahib talking to guests.


Glasglow students being given a talk on Sikhi by Bhai Sahib.

ਸਰਬ ਧਰਮ ਮਹਿ ਸ੍ਰੇਸਟ ਧਰਮੁ ॥ ਹਰਿ ਕੋ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪਿ ਨਿਰਮਲ ਕਰਮੁ ॥
sarab Dharam mehi srestt Dharam.
har ko naam jap nirmal karam.
Of all religions, the best religion is to chant the Name of Waheguru and maintain pure conduct.

ਸਗਲ ਕ੍ਰਿਆ ਮਹਿ ਊਤਮ ਕਿਰਿਆ ॥ ਸਾਧਸੰਗਿ ਦੁਰਮਤਿ ਮਲੁ ਹਿਰਿਆ ॥
sagal kir-aa mehi ootam kiri-aa.
saaDhsang durmat mal hiri-aa.
Of all religious rituals, the most sublime ritual is to erase the filth of the dirty mind in the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy.

ਸਗਲ ਉਦਮ ਮਹਿ ਉਦਮੁ ਭਲਾ ॥ ਹਰਿ ਕਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪਹੁ ਜੀਅ ਸਦਾ ॥
sagal udam mehi udam bhalaa.
har kaa naam japhu jee-a sadaa.
Of all efforts, the best effort is to chant the Name of Waheguru in the heart, forever.

ਸਗਲ ਬਾਨੀ ਮਹਿ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਬਾਨੀ ॥ ਹਰਿ ਕੋ ਜਸੁ ਸੁਨਿ ਰਸਨ ਬਖਾਨੀ ॥
sagal baanee mehi amrit baanee.
har ko jas sun rasan bakhaanee.
Of all speech, the most spiritual-life giving speech is to hear Waheguru's Praise and chant it with the tongue.

ਸਗਲ ਥਾਨ ਤੇ ਓਹੁ ਊਤਮ ਥਾਨੁ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਜਿਹ ਘਟਿ ਵਸੈ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ॥੮॥੩॥
sagal thaan te ohu ootam thaan.
naanak jih ghat vasai har naam. ||8||3||
O Nanak! Of all places, the most sublime place is that heart in which the Name of Waheguru abides. ||8||3||
(Sukhmani Sahib, Ang 266)

Click here for Audios from the Smaagam

Desi Health Tips from Radio

On Mondays 12pm-2pm it is the Health Show on radio. I was listening to it while doing my work. There's some really useful alternative medicine and health advice shared by the presenter and by the listeners. I thought I would share some things which I learnt from last week's show.

Advice on Hair-loss (from caller-in):
Hair loss is a result of LOW BLOOD CIRCULATION on the head/ scalp area. If you have a good blood circulation in your head/ scalp area then you will less likely lose your hair. To increase blood circulation, a person should get a Kangha (wooden comb) and COMB OVER THE SCALP about 50 times.


Advice on Dandruff:

When having a shower/bath, get YOGHURT (if its not ਖੱਟਾ sour/acidic, then squeeze some fresh lemon juice in it) and use this to clean the scalp. (You can also use this to clean your body).

Also you buy NIZROLA hair shampoo from the chemist. It’s a pink colour about £6 or £7 to buy. Place a little in your head and wait for 2-4 minutes before washing your hair. Ensure that the shampoo doesn't go into the eyes. It’s guaranteed that after 1-2 weeks that the dandruff should go away.


Advice on Upset Stomach and Gas in Stomach after eating :

Get a little bit of JAWAIN ਜਵੈਣ ("Trachyspermum ammi" in English) and put it into an empty jar. Get some fresh LEMONS and squeeze out the juice and it into the jar with the Jawain. Once the Jawain absorbs all the juice, then put some BLACK SALT (kala namak) and shake it around.

Once the Jawain has ABSORBED all the lemon juice then you can eat it either after a meal with a glass of luke warm water, or you can crush it down (into a powder) and eat it in this way.


Advice on continuing upset stomach and gastric problem with stomach after trip to India:
Get HAJMOLA (from any Indian store) and take 2 tablets. Add a little JAWAIN and then crush/grind it. Once it’s a powder then you eat a teaspoon with luke warm water. If possible squeeze a little lemon in the mixture. Only take ONCE A DAY (as Jawain is garam for the body).


Advice on spots ("fainsee-aa" in Panjabi) on scalp or face:
Get HALF A LEMON and scrub the spot(s) with the lemon. (Those who dye their hair are more likely to getting spots on the scalp because hair dye contains Ammonia - so if you dye your hair then follows Guru Ji's advice and put their hair dye in the bin and let your hair and body grow and age in grace and dignity, plus it’s healthier for you!).

ਨਾਨਕ ਨਾਮ ਚੜ੍ਹ੍ਹਦੀ ਕਲਾ । ਤੇਰੇ ਭਾਣੇ ਸਰਬੱਤ ਦਾ ਭਲਾ ।
naanak naam chaRdee kalaa. tere bhaaNe sarbat da bhalaa.
O Nanak! With Naam comes Chardi Kala and with your blessings, Peace for Everyone.

Reflection on Fast Pace of Life

On Tuesday I had three courseworks to hand in, which were part of my finals. I was so RELIEVED and glad to hand them in. After handing in the essays I went to the library to return loads of books which I had borrowed. On the way to the library I bumped into Mathew, my flatmate during the first year of university.

In my first year at university I lived in a flat with 7 people. There were 4 girls and 3 boys (including myself). They were a nice group of people and everyone looked out for one another. They were very courteous of my Sikhi. Looking back now it was like living with brothers and sisters.

One of the boys, I never saw much of. Most of the time he spent in his room and you could smell an AWFUL SMELL, which I can tell you it wasn’t TOOF (incense!). The other boy who I lived with was a very good character person. He didn’t go out too much and wasn’t keen on drinking everyday.

I would ask him “Why do you smoke?” He would tell me “Manvir, I want to give up. I know that it is bad for my body.” He would give up for a few weeks or sometimes days. He would say "I feel healthier now and I don't get out of breath as fast as before." I would give him encouragement and ask him whether he has kept his word. Unfortunately his will-power was not strong enough. However, when I saw him this Tuesday and I asked “Have you kept off cigarettes?” He smiled and said, “Manvir, you will be glad to know that I have not smoked a cigarette since October 2005.” I was very pleased for him.

While standing at the traffic lights on the edge of the Strand and Fleet Street we chatted about future plans. He told me how he has applied for law school and I told him my plans for next year. We then said to one another how LIFE PASSES SO QUICKLY. I said to him that I remember when I finished secondary school. On the last day of my GCSE exam, I walked home thinking, “O Waheguru! This is it! A NEW CHAPTER of my life begins.” (Not realising that actually our life is also only a chapter of many lives!). Mathew felt felt the same way about the fast pace of life.

Reflecting back on my school days, I remember on the last day of school Gurdaas Maan’s song called "BACHPAN" was ringing in my ears. The song goes: “Bachpan Chalaa Gayiaa, Jawaanee Chalee Gayee. Zindagee Dee Keematee Nishaanee Chalee Gayee” (ਬਚਪਨ ਚਲਾ ਗਿਅਾ, ਜਵਾਨੀ ਚਲੀ ਗੲੀ, ਜ਼ਿੰਦਿਗੀ ਦੀ ਕੀਮਤੀ ਨਿਸ਼ਾਨੀ ਚਲੀ ਗੲੀ). The song is about life. It talks about how childhood (Bachpan) has passed and now youth (Jawaanee) has passed, and how the most precious (Keematee) years of life have passed away. At the time, that song made me think “O Waheguru! How much have I served you and thanked you? How much Simran have I done? Have you followed the Guru? Have you given your life to the Guru by taking Amrit?" My soul told my mind “O mind! What have you accomplished in life? If you don’t meditate and walk the path of the Guru while you are young then when will you do it? When you are old and walking with a walking stick?”


Chalo! My flatmate from first year and I talked and reflected on the PHASES OF LIFE we have passed - From secondary school to college; Then college to university; And how now from university to further education or world of work. It is a scary thought to realise how FAST life is! We laughed and said one day we will meet up and I will have white hairs in my beard and he will be old and we will reflect on university. This reminded me of a Shabad from Gurbaani which we did a workshop on last year in the Sweden and in France summer Gurmat camps:

ਮ: ੧ ॥
mehlaa 1.
First Mehl (Revealed through the voice of Guru Nanak Sahib Ji):

ਦਸ ਬਾਲਤਣਿ ਬੀਸ ਰਵਣਿ ਤੀਸਾ ਕਾ ਸੁੰਦਰੁ ਕਹਾਵੈ ॥
das baaltaN, bees raven, teesaa kaa sundar kahaavai.
At the age of ten, a person is in childhood; at twenty, the person reaches youth, and at thirty, the person calls themselves handsome.

ਚਾਲੀਸੀ ਪੁਰੁ ਹੋਇ ਪਚਾਸੀ ਪਗੁ ਖਿਸੈ ਸਠੀ ਕੇ ਬੋਢੇਪਾ ਆਵੈ ॥
chaaleesee pur ho-e, pachaasee pag khisai, sathee ke bodhepaa aavai.
At forty, the person is full of life; at fifty, his foot slips (away from youthfulness), and at sixty, old age is upon him.

ਸਤਰਿ ਕਾ ਮਤਿਹੀਣੁ ਅਸੀਹਾਂ ਕਾ ਵਿਉਹਾਰੁ ਨ ਪਾਵੈ ॥
satar kaa matheeN, aseehaaN kaa viohaar na paavai.
At seventy, a person loses their intellect, and at eighty, a person is not fit for work or to perform their duties.

ਨਵੈ ਕਾ ਸਿਹਜਾਸਣੀ ਮੂਲਿ ਨ ਜਾਣੈ ਅਪ ਬਲੁ ॥
navai kaa sihjaasNee. mool na jaanai ap bal.
At ninety, a person lies in their bed, and cannot look after themselves or understand their weakness.

ਢੰਢੋਲਿਮੁ ਢੂਢਿਮੁ ਡਿਠੁ ਮੈ ਨਾਨਕ ਜਗੁ ਧੂਏ ਕਾ ਧਵਲਹਰੁ ॥੩॥
dhandholim dhoodhim dith mai, naanak jag Dhoo-e kaa Dhavalhar. ||3||
O Nanak! I have sought and searched for a long time, and I have seen that the world is a mansion (meaning it is nice to look at) but it is of smoke (meaning that it will not last forever). ||3||

MAKE THE MOST OF LIFE. Don't wait for tomorrow to do Simran (to remember) and thank Waheguru. Don't wait for the weekend to do sewa of Waheguru through selflessly serving others (which can be as simple as sharing a smile, being kind to others and sharing positive energy). Don't wait till the end of the month to connect with Guru through reading and contemplating on Gurbaani. Don't wait till you are old to say "Here Guru Sahib! I sacrifice my head to you. I give you my mind, body and wealth, which belonged to you anyway. Please lead and guide me in life."

My Ardaas is that may Guru Sahib do Kirpaa (Grace) on Daas and everyone that not only every day, but may every SWAAS (breath) be fruitful and be in the consciousness and remembrance of my Beloved Waheguru, who will one day take away the gift He is has given us, which we are now enjoying.

Dhan Guru Arjan Dev Sahib Ji - Happy Gurpurb!

Sariaa Nu Lakh Lakh Vadhaaee Hove on today's Gurpurb. Today is the Parkaash Diwas (Birth Day) of Guru Arjan Dev Ji Sahib, the 5th Guru of the Sikhs. Guru Arjan Dev Ji Sahib, the youngest son of Guru Raam Daas Sahib Ji (the fourth Guru) and Mata Bhani Ji who was born at Goindwal Sahib on 2nd May, 1563.

A GLIMPSE AT THE LIFE OF GURU ARJAN DEV JI SAHIB

Compilation of Aad Granth Sahib Ji

Guru Arjan Dev Sahib Ji compiled the 'Aad Granth' Sahib Ji, which was scribed by Bhai Gurdaas Ji (the maternal uncle of Guru Arjan Dev Ji). The 'Aad Granth' Sahib Ji was an earlier version of today's Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, which has the Baani (the revealed Divine Word) of the first four Guru Sahibs, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the Bhagats (Devotees of God), and Bhatts (spiritual Bards). The Aad Granth Sahib Ji was completed and installed in Sri Harmandar Sahib (Amritsar) in 1604. This re-emphasised that the Shabad (the Infinite Divine Wisdom) is the Guru.

Establishment of Sri Darbaar Sahib

Sri Harmandar Sahib, Amritsar was established as the centre of the Sikh People. Baba Sai Mian Mir Ji, a Sufi mystic (from the Naqshbandi Sufi Order), was asked by Guru Arjan Dev Sahib Ji to lay the foundation stone for Sri Harmandar Sahib. This was a symbolic act which demonstrated that a Sikh shouldn't look at a non-Sikh in terms of his/her laws but instead consider their values and value system. Baba Sai Mir Ji and other Sufi mystics close to the Guru Sahibs had the values and value system of Gurmat and Naam.

Establishing Taran TaaranThe city of Tarn Taaran was founded by Guru Arjan Dev Sahib Ji. This was a big city on a big road. This was a declaration to the world and the Mughal authorities that "The Sikhs are here to stay!" The city had the largest Sarowar (water pool) for the Sangat to bathe. Guru Sahib took special care of people suffering sickness and disease. A Leper Home was made near the Sarovar of Taran Taaran Sahib. Guru Sahib personally looked after the lepers by providing them with medicines, dresses and showering them with Divine Grace.

Developing an Economic Centre
Amritsar was developed as an economic centre. Amritsar was next to Lahore (the capital of Panjab). Amritsar becoming an economic and social centre of the Sikhs was a strategic move by Guru Ji for the Sikhs to have their own state. Sikhs from far and wide would come and have darshan (audience) with Guru Sahib and also engage in trade and business, which led to the growing prosperity of the Sikh Nation.

MartyrdomGuru Arjan Dev Sahib Ji was the first Sikh Guru to be shaheed (martyred). The Shaheedi of Guru Arjan Dev Ji started a tradition which carried on throughout history, and will continue to carry on. Guru Arjan Dev Ji said that he can accept Shaheedi (martyrdom) but he cannot accept insult. The way a leader or prophet lives becomes the character of the followers. Guru Sahib showed that a Sikh should live in dignity and die with honour, and that a Sikh should never tolerate insult. Father Xavia, a Christian missionary from Spain, who was in India the time of Guru Ji's Shaheedi, wrote back to Queen Isabella of Spain and described Guru Arjan Dev Ji as embracing martyrdom.

Summary

Bhai Nand Lal [Singh] Ji writes in his poetry that if one word could describe and summarise Guru Arjan Dev Ji's life, that word be "Self-Sacrifice."

DHAN GURU ARJAN DEV SAHIB JI.

Bhul Chuk maaf karnee jee.

Related Links:

Katha (Panjabi) - Giani Sant Singh Maskeen Ji

Katha (English - Bhai Parminder Singh Ji

Shabad: ਮੂਰਤਿ ਪੰਚ ਪ੍ਰਮਾਣ ਪੁਰਖੁ ਗੁਰੁ ਅਰਜੁਨੁ ਪਿਖਹੁ ਨਯਣ ॥੧॥ - Audio / Translation

Two Friends...

I recieved this email, which I thought I would share:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Author: Unknown

A story tells that two friends were walking through the desert. During some point of the journey they had an argument, and one friend slapped the other one in the face.

The one who got slapped was hurt, but without saying anything, wrote in the sand:

TODAY MY BEST FRIEND
SLAPPED ME IN THE FACE.

They kept on walking until they found an oasis, where they decided to take a bath. The one who had been slapped got stuck in the mire and started drowning, but the friend saved him. After he recovered from the near drowning, he wrote on a stone:

TODAY MY BEST FRIEND SAVED MY LIFE.

The friend who had slapped and saved his best friend asked him, "After I hurt you, you wrote in the sand and now, you write on a stone, why?" The other friend replied "When someone hurts us we should write it down in sand where winds of forgiveness can erase it away. But, when someone does something good for us, we must engrave it in stone where no wind can ever erase it."

LEARN TO WRITE YOUR HURTS IN THE SAND
AND TO CARVE YOUR BENEFITS IN STONE.

They say it takes a minute to find a special person,
an hour to appreciate them,
a day to love them,
but then an entire life to forget them.

Do not value the THINGS you have in your life..
But value WHO you have in your life!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Episode 9 of India Travels: "Khalsa Sweet Centre" (Part 3)

Monday 4th August 2003, day 40 of my India trip. Today I continued with Sukhmani Sahib santhiyaa (which I started on Sunday). My stomach was not feeling right. I could feel there was a problem. I told Giani Ji when doing Santhiya that I had an upset stomach. After santhiya he got his nephew to bring me some HAJMOLA (which is natural digestive medicine, which STINKS and tastes AWFUL, but it works!). I felt better after eating Hajmola.

I felt like eating DEHEE (yoghurt) because I love Dehee but hadn’t eaten any since I had come to stay at Sri Damdama Sahib, also it would perhaps help my stomach. So I asked Giani Ji if he knew a shop where I could get some Dehee. He asked me to come to his house but I didn’t want to trouble him. He said that I should be able to get some Dehee from the Bazaar near the Takht Sahib.

Chalo, so I walked to the Bazaar (left hand side of the Takht Sahib). I asked a Singh walking in the Bazaar that does he know where I can get some Dehee? He told me that if I go to the Hotel, they sell Dehee. I said, “Are they Amritdhari? I prefer to eat from Amritdharis” (considering my previous food problems, I ASSUMED that Amritdharis would be cautious of HYGIENE and take care with handling food). He said “Bhai Sahib you can either go the Hotel or to the Khalsa Sweet Centre.” Okay – “Hotel” or “Khalsa Sweet Centre”. Ermm…. I thought “KHALSA SWEET CENTRE”. He said “Are you sure? Go to the Hotel jee.” I replied, “I prefer to eat from the Khalsa.”

So I walk down the road and look up at the shop boards looking for “Khalsa Sweet Centre.” At last! I found it. The shop was EMPTY. A Sardaar was standing there with a Kesri Keski (short Saffron coloured turban) wrapped around his head. I asked “Do you sell Dehee?” “Hanji, sit down, sit down.” So I sat down.

WAHEGURU. The tables and benches were made out of WOOD. I look to the side and these two boys (who looked Bihari) were sitting there MAKING SANDWICHES with Ahloo stuffing. I felt SICK! Rab Maaf Kare, don't want to sound rude, but the poor kids didn't look like they had ISHNAAN (a bath) and their clothes looked dirty. On top of that they were touching their face and wiping their sweat and using the SAME HANDS to shove Ahloo Mixture and spread it with their HANDS on the bread. Then they put the sandwiches on the BENCH where people had been SITTING DOWN. Waheguru! My mind said to me, “Perhaps you would have been better off going to the Hotel.”

Chalo I told myself, “Manvir Singh you are in India. Don’t be fussy. Just say ‘WAHEGURU’ and quietly eat the Dehee.” The Sardaar (thinking back now, I don’t even think he was even Amritdhari!) came up to me and brought me a steel bowl and spoon and placed it in front of me. I told him that the bowl looked unclean. He said, “No problem.” He picked up the plate and WIPED HIS SWEATY HANDS over the bowl. I felt SICK. However my mind said, “Okay. Its sickening but O well, you are in INDIA. Don’t worry the man is Amritdhari!” Chalo, I kept quiet (as I was feeling ill and needed something to help my stomach ache).

He then brought the Dehee from the fridge. He poured it in the bowl. There was a FLY or a BUG (basically something black and small!) in the Dehee which could be seen from the top of the bowl. I told the man and he said, “Koyee nehee jee, no problem.” Waheguru. Guess what happens? He comes over and with HIS HANDS he shoves it in the Dehee which I am supposed to eat and picks out the bug. At this point I am crying from inside and thinking “WHAT IS HAPPENING”.


I quietly ate the Dehee not knowing whether to throw up or what. Worst thing the man was standing near me so I couldn’t walk away. I paid 5 Rupees for the Dehee and walked off FEELING SICKER than before.


I went to “KHALSA SWEET CENTRE” but I don’t know where the “KHALSA” part of the shop was! Rab Rakha. Moral of the story – “Don’t be fooled by labels or shop boards!”

Fire Fox - Improve Internet Browsing

A while ago I upgraded my Internet browser to Mozilla Firefox. Its better than what I had before, and I recommend it to others. With Firefox you can read blogs without some of the problems which one faces with other Internet browsers (e.g. Internet Explorer).


Advantages of using Firefox for your Internet browser:

• You can read blogs easier.
  
• You can view webpages faster.
• You can open links in different tabs all in one window.
  
• You can get loads of different skins and themes for it.
  
• It understands all new things about style sheets and other webdesigning features.
• It has integrated search.
  
• And more...

Episode 9 of India Travels: Treating Myself to Ahloo Tikkian (Part 2)

Saturday 2nd August 2003, day 38 of India trip. In a week I had completed Santhiya (Gurbani lessons) on Japji Sahib, Jaap Sahib, Tva Prasaad Svaiye, Benti Chaupayee Sahib, Anand Sahib and Sodar Rehraas Sahib. Today Giani Ji who was teaching me (Giani Balbir Singh, Head Granthi of Gurdwara Damdama Sahib) gave me a day off.

On my day off I thought I would treat myself to some nice Ahloo Tikkian. I walked to the main road outside of the Takht Sahib. I walked up and down the road “trying” to find the cleanest place possible to enjoy Ahloo Tikkian with some Sholay. Eventually I got to a place where it was “fairly” clean and the man serving looked “fairly” presentable (thinking back I can't believe I ate there! O well!).

I sat down inside the shop and the man asked what I would like to eat. He was preparing Ahloo for Ahloo wale parotay. I said “I would like to have some Ahloo Tikkian with some Sholay.” He said, “No problem, please wait while I finish off these ahloo for Ahloo wale parotay.” He asked, “Do you like MIRCHAA (chillies)?” I replied, “I eat Mirch, but NOT TOO MUCH and nor do I eat SAABAT MIRCH (full chilli).” He asked “You want big Mirch pieces or small?” “SMALL, please” I replied.


Chalo, I wait and then arrives a plate of Ahloo Tikkian and Sholay. SAT NAAM, WAHEGURU. I did Ardaas and got stuck in. Very tasty! However, it was bit KORAA (hot). O well, I finished it off, thanked Waheguru and then paid the man for the Tikkian and Sholay.

I walked back to the Takht Sahib and thought I would go and see the Jathedaar Sahib. As I was walking I was feeling ILL. It felt like I was been STRANGLED. I didn’t think much and thought “it’s a passing pain and will go soon.”

I arrived at Jathedaar Sahib’s house and he asked me if I would like some milk to drink. So I drank milk. My throat was a little better however I still felt a SHARP PAIN in my throat like someone was throttling me or someone had stabbed me in the throat. Waheguru!

Afterwards I went to the JoRa Ghar (where the shoes are deposited and looked after). I told the Sewadaars that my throat is BURNING and I feel pain. They said “Drink water. Drink lots of water.” So that’s what I did, however the pain did not go away. When I went to the water tank to get more water, I bumped into one of the Hazoori Raagi Singh’s who do Kirtan at the Takht Sahib. He asked me to come with him to his room because he wanted me to read to him some letters he had received which were in English.

So I went with him to his room. He asked me “Bhaji, would you like some Chaa (tea)?” I said “Okay.” Next thing I know I FEEL LIKE VOMMITING and ask Bhaji where the bathroom is. I vomited in the bathroom sink. WAHEGURU.

Now my throat FELT FINE. I look down in the sink and all I could see was a HUGE MIRCH (chilli) laying there (NOTHING ELSE – just water and a Mirch lying there!). SAT NAAM, WAHEGURU. I couldn’t believe it! I had told the Ahloo Tikki man to keep the Mirch SMALL, but instead it was so HUGE (i.e. it wasn’t EVEN CUT) that it got stuck in my throat.


Rab Bhalla Kare!

Afterwards all the Gurdwara Sewadaars were relieved that my throat was back to normal and advised me not to eat Ahloo Tikki again from the Bazaar.


More stories from Sri Damdama Sahib to be continued...

The Bliss from Rainsabaaee Keertan

Bhai Manjeet Singh (Glasgow) doing Keertan at April 2001 Rainsabaaee Keertan in Southall

Yesterday was the International Akhand Keertan Rainsabaaee which happened at Singh Sabha Gurdwara, Derby. "Akhand" (ਅਖੰਡ) means "NON-STOP". "Rain" (ਰੈਣ), meaning NIGHT. "Rainsabaaee" (ਰੈਣਸਬਾੲੀ) means "NIGHT LONG." So Akhand Keertan Rainsabaaee is where the Saadh Sangat gathers and does continuous non-stop Keertan throughout the night till Amrit-Vela (the early hours of the next day).

Unfortunately I was unable to go to the Rainsbaaee because of university work. However, there was a live video broadcast on the internet. It was great watching the live broadcast video. The Kirtan was CHARDIKALA. It’s great to see Sangat SINGING ALONG (something which sometimes is lacking in normal Sunday Gurdwara diwaans).

I remember my first Akhand Keertan Rainsbaaee which I attended. It was a few months after I started to keep my Kesh and tie a Dastaar. It was Vaisakhi 2001 International UK Smaagam at Singh Sabha Gurdwara, Park Avenue in Southall. I never knew what a Rainsbaaee Keertan was nor had I been exposed to any large numbers of Gursikhs.

The Rainsbaaee Keertan was advertised in the newspaper and my two Bhua Jees (paternal aunts) said "that sounds like a nice programme. We have never been to a Rainsbaaee Keertan in this country perhaps we should go." So they asked me to come along. The three of us went to Southall in the car.

SAT NAAM, WAHEGURU. We arrived and the Gurdwara was PACKED with Singhs and Singhnees, young and old, adorned with beautiful Dastaars and Bana (Sikh attire). It was the first time I was fortunate to have the pleasure of having darshan of so many Gursikhs.

I sat down near the front where the Keertan was happening. One word to describe it was "WAHEGURU". Everyone was singing along and it helped that the Shabad being sung was being displayed on a projector screen. This was the first time I had ever seen Sikhi To The Max or a projector screen in a Gurdwara. I sang along with the Shabads. Everyone was singing really loudly like when someone is in love and shouts "I LOVE YOU!!" the loudest they can from their heart.

Here some photos from the Southall Rainsabaaee Keertan April 2001 (You may spot me in the Sangat in a few photos!):

Bhai Harsevak Singh Ji (UK) doing Keertan.


Saadh Sangat.


Bhai Niranjan Singh (Jawadi Kala Wale) doing Keertan.


Dhan Satguru Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee. You can also see the projector screen near Guru Sahib. I was amazed at seeing Sikhi To The Max.


Saadh Sangat.


Bhai Apardeep Singh Ji (Derby) doing Keertan.

The Panj Piaare doing Keertan. I remember that there was an Amrit Sanchaar. After the Amrit Sanchaar had finished, all those who had taken Amrit walked behind the Panj Piaare and entered the Diwaan hall. It was heart moving to see such a beautiful site!
You can hear some of the Keertan from that night here.


My Bhua Jees also enjoyed the Rainsbaaee and were pleasantly surprised at seeing so many Gursikhs (as they had not even had experience of so many Amritdharis). The RAS (taste) of AMRIT BAANI (spiritual-life giving Word of God) was UNBELIEVABLE. I realised here that Gurbaani was not just for reading but to EXPERIENCE!

I remember that night there was an Amrit Sanchaar. My Bhua Jees couldn't find me and when they found me and got ready to go home, they said, "We thought you may have gone to take Amrit - we were worried where you were." I wished I had taken Amrit there! It was amazing.

The next day I wished to experience the same experience. I could still feel the vibration of "WAAHE-GUROO" and Baani inside me. I wished I could be like the Gursikhs in the Rainsbaaee and enjoy the blessings of Guru Sahib.


I recommend that if you haven't been to a Rainsbaaee Keertan before, try going to one and sit there and allow yourself to become ONE with the Sangat and SING ALONG with the Keertan and allow your soul to enjoy the bliss of Amrit Baani :)

Find out about future Rainsabaaee and other Keertan programmes here.

Brother Off to Iraq

Photo taken last week of my brother before he left to go to Iraq. Waheguru.

He is a Lieutenant Officer in the British Army. He's been based in Germany with his regiment for the past 6 months. On Tuesday he travelled from Germany to Iraq, where he will be based in Basrah (Southern Iraq) for 6 months (I think its 6 months!).

Rab Rakha! Guru Sahib ang sang sahaa-ee hovan.


Some photos of my brother training at Sandhurst here.

The Turban - Pride, Glory & Honour

I came across this song video sung by Ravinder Grewal. The song is called 'PAGH' (meaning 'Turban'). Click on the image to view the video:

The video has a very uplifting message of what the Pagh represents. Although the song is very good, the men in the video wearing Dastaars (turbans) all have TRIMMED BEARDS. It's sad to see a man with a beautiful turban crowned on his head but his beard mowed over with scissors. (But still at least they have Pagh on their head).

The Pagh is a Sikh's SHAAN (glory), MAAN (honour) and SARDAARI (leadership). It is so sad to see youngsters and even elderly men nowadays swapping their MAJESTIC CROWN for CAPS, HATS and small PATKAS. Rab Rakha! A Sikh man and woman lives in the GRACE and GLORY of the Almighty through maintaining FULL APPEARANCE and crowned with a TURBAN.

Let us thank our Great Guru for having such Grace upon us and uplifting us with such a beautiful roop (image) of angelic prince and princesses.


Related links:
Article: "Who are Sikhs?"
Audio: Khalsa Jo Roop (Jazzy B/ Sikhi Khandiyon Tikhi)

Episode 9 of India Travels: Arriving at Sri Damdama Sahib (Part 1)

I wanted to learn how to correctly read Gurbaani, so I decided to spend a few weeks at Takht Sri Damdama Sahib in Sabo Ki Talwandi, district Bathinda (South Panjab), which is one of the Five Takhts (seats of authority in the Sikh Panth), which is where Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji stayed for about a year and compiled Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. At this place Guru Ji started "Damdami Taksal," literally meaning a "minting factory", where the Sikhs would mint and prepare weapons, and mint the mind with the Shabad through teaching the correct meanings and pronunciations of Gurbaani.


On Sunday 27th July 2003, day 32 of my India trip, my cousin and I set off to go to Sri Damdama Sahib. We set off at 7.45am on the bus. It was a long and BUMPY journey! Throughout the whole journey I could feel the bus shaking (I was just hoping the bus doesn't fall apart on the way). We arrived at the Takht Sahib at 2pm.


We did Matha Tekh and then went to meet the Singh Sahib Balwant Singh Nandgarh, the Jathedaar (head) of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib. His family and he were very friendly and he assured me that my stay would be welcoming. I was given a room with a bathroom, which was very nice.

Afterwards we listened to Keertan and Sodar Rehraas and then ate Langar. My cousin left the next day to go back home at 7.15am. I went to see the Singh Sahib and enjoyed a nice cup of chaa (tea). He gave me a book to read about the history of the Takht Sahib and arranged for my Gurbaani Santhiyaa (class to learn Gurbani pronunciation and grammar) with the Granthi Singh in charge of teaching Gurbaani.

In the afternoon I went for a walk and found a cyber-café (well I am not too sure about the café part because there was nothing there apart from computers!). The man in charge of the internet shop was a clean shaven young man who was studying at the local college. His friends and he were SURPRISED firstly that I was BORN ABROAD (from my appearance of wearing traditional dress and being Amritdhari) and secondly, that I was ABLE TO USE A COMPUTER and INTERNET! lol.


On the way back I thought I would buy some FLIP-FLOPS as it would be more easier to move around especially as I would be taking my shoes off and on frequently while my stay at the Gurdwara Sahib. So I went to the shop and bought a pair. When I got back to the Gurdwara I went to listen to Keertan. It was a good day and met loads of Sewadaars and introduced myself. The local Sangat who are regulars in doing Sewa in the Langar Hall and JoRa Ghar (where the shoes are deposited) were very friendly and became my friends. We chatted for a long time and they ensured I had everything I needed.

I thought I would nip back to my room, so I go to find my shoes. However, I couldn’t find my NEW FLIP FLOPS. O deary me! I looked everywhere. All the Sewadaars started looking around for my flip-flops. I thought “O well! They are only flip-flops.” So I walked back to my room BARE-FOOTED and went back to the shop wearing my normal shoes to buy another pair of flip-flops.

Just as I was coming back from the shop, the Pehredaar (guard) of the Gurdwara asked me what I had been up to. I explained that my flip-flops had been STOLEN or LOST and so I had to buy some new ones. The Pehredaar smiled and said that he placed my flip-flops in a SAFE PLACE as I was from abroad and he didn’t want anyone to walk off with them. Lol. What drama!

I thought “What am I going to do with TWO PAIRS of flip-flops”. The Pehredaar (guard) kindly walked with me to the shop and he asked the man to return the flip-flops. The shopkeeper was happy to return them and gave me the money back. On the way he took me to his friends shop to have a cup of chaa (tea). (You will notice that there are a lot of TEA BREAKS in India!).


More about what happened at Sri Damdama Sahib coming soon…
(Stories from Sri Damdama Sahib include how I choked on an Ahloo Tikki).

True Story of Cancer Patient

I came across this video on khalsa.tv. It features story of Vasu Bhardwaj whose last stage cancer was cured with the grace of the Shabad Guru, Satguru Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. In this video, Vasu Bhardwaj tells his own story and talks about the greatness of Guru Sahib.

ਤੀਰਥਿ ਨਾਵਣ ਜਾਉ ਤੀਰਥੁ ਨਾਮੁ ਹੈ ॥
teerath naavan jaa-o teerath naam hai.
Why should I bathe at sacred shrines of pilgrimage? Naam, the Name of Waheguru, is the sacred shrine of pilgrimage.

ਤੀਰਥੁ ਸਬਦ ਬੀਚਾਰੁ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਗਿਆਨੁ ਹੈ ॥
teerath shabad beechaar antar gi-aan hai.
My sacred shrine of pilgrimage is spiritual wisdom within, and contemplation on the Word of the Shabad (the Divine Infinite Wisdom).
(Ang 687)

Dhan Dhan Satguru Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji!

Happy Vaisakhi! - 307 years of Guru Khalsa Panth

On 1st Vaisaakh (Panjabi Month), 14th April, the Sikh Nation celebrates the festival of "VAISAKHI". Vaisakhi is "historically" Guru Nanak Sahib Ji's birth day. Guru Amar Daas Sahib Ji institutionalized the day of Vaisakhi in 1567 for the Sikhs to gather to receive the Guru's blessings at Goindwal Sahib, and learn the basic tenets of the Sikh faith as well as do sewa (selfless service) of the Sangat.

In 1699 Guru Gobind Singh Ji gathered thousands at Anandpur Sahib on the day of Vaisakhi and physically MANIFESTED the KHALSA by initiating 5 Sikhs and conferring Guruship to the KHALSA PANTH (the corporate Sikh community), completing the revelation commenced by Guru Nanak Sahib Ji and the successive Guru Sahibaans. The 5 Sikhs (Panj Piaare) in turn initiated Guru Gobind Singh Ji into the Khalsa.

Guru jee's Hukam (instruction) to us on commencing of the month of Vaisaakh (mid April - mid May):

ਵੈਸਾਖਿ ਧੀਰਨਿ ਕਿਉ ਵਾਢੀਆ ਜਿਨਾ ਪ੍ਰੇਮ ਬਿਛੋਹੁ ॥
ਹਰਿ ਸਾਜਨੁ ਪੁਰਖੁ ਵਿਸਾਰਿ ਕੈ ਲਗੀ ਮਾਇਆ ਧੋਹੁ ॥
ਪੁਤ੍ਰ ਕਲਤ੍ਰ ਨ ਸੰਗਿ ਧਨਾ ਹਰਿ ਅਵਿਨਾਸੀ ਓਹੁ ॥
ਪਲਚਿ ਪਲਚਿ ਸਗਲੀ ਮੁਈ ਝੂਠੈ ਧੰਧੈ ਮੋਹੁ ॥
ਇਕਸੁ ਹਰਿ ਕੇ ਨਾਮ ਬਿਨੁ ਅਗੈ ਲਈਅਹਿ ਖੋਹਿ ॥
ਦਯੁ ਵਿਸਾਰਿ ਵਿਗੁਚਣਾ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਬਿਨੁ ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਕੋਇ ॥
ਪ੍ਰੀਤਮ ਚਰਣੀ ਜੋ ਲਗੇ ਤਿਨ ਕੀ ਨਿਰਮਲ ਸੋਇ ॥
ਨਾਨਕ ਕੀ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਬੇਨਤੀ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਮਿਲਹੁ ਪਰਾਪਤਿ ਹੋਇ ॥
ਵੈਸਾਖੁ ਸੁਹਾਵਾ ਤਾਂ ਲਗੈ ਜਾ ਸੰਤੁ ਭੇਟੈ ਹਰਿ ਸੋਇ ॥੩॥
In the month of Vaisaakh, how can the bride be patient, who is separated from her Beloved. She has forgotten the Lord Waheguru, her Life-companion, her Master; she has become attached to Maya (the material illusionary world), the deceitful one. Neither son, nor spouse, nor wealth shall go along with you-only the Eternal Waheguru. Entangled and enmeshed in the love of false occupations, the whole world is perishing. Without the Naam, the Name of the One Lord, they lose their (spiritual) lives in the hereafter. Forgetting the Merciful Lord, they are ruined. Without Waheguru, there is no other at all. Pure is the reputation of those who are attached to the Feet of the Beloved Lord. O Waheguru! Nanak makes this prayer (at Your Door): "Please, come and unite me with Yourself." (In this season all around the trees and plants are becoming beautiful, but) the month of Vaisaakh will only be beautiful and pleasant for the soul when I meet the Saints and Waheguru. 3.

A few years ago the BBC broadcasted several programmes reflecting on the MEANING OF VAISAKHI for Sikhs. 'In Praise of God' broadcast by the BBC World Service included an interview with Bhai Sahib Mohinder Singh Ji of Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (Birmingham). During the interview Bhai Sahib Ji described the receiving of Amrit to be "akin to a SPIRITUAL MARRIAGE" with the Almighty, where our pledges of COMMITMENT are like our MARRIAGE VOWS and the Guru's gift of Panj Kakkaar (5 Articles of Faith) are the signs of our marriage bond.

Bhai Sahib Ji also quoted the Hukam for the month of Vaisaakh from Sri Granth Sahib Ji, explaining how as people we become so 'MESMERISED' and consumed by the material world that we 'DIVORCE' ourselves from our Beloved Lord Waheguru. Vaisakhi is an occasion for us to REMEMBER and RENEW our spiritual bond, as well as to make our COMMITMENT through the blessing of Amrit.


You can download the Sikh Calendar with all the Gurpurbs and other Sikh dates on http://www.nanakshahi.org/

Short Kids Play on 'Fake Holy Men' (ਪਾਖੰਡੀ ਬਾਬੇ)

In the beginning of April 2006, sevadaars from UK organized a Gurmat camp for Norwegian kids, similar to camps organised in Sweden and France. Approximately 100 children attended the camp.

The groups were divided into two. The older youngsters were in one group, and young children were in a separate group. The younger children participated in putting together a play which illustrated a deep issue affect the Sikh community worldwide, which is how vulnerable ignorant Sikhs are being cheated by fake holy men and self-proclaimed "Sants" (which has become a profession for people who can't find a job and want to make quick money!). The children beautifully highlight the moral as being that we should seek the support of Guru ji and do Ardaas to Waheguru, and save ourselves from becoming the victim of fake greedy men who call themselves "Sant" and "Baba".

May Guru Sahib keep the children in Chardikala and may we all learn from these young children that when our Guru is the Greatest of the Great then why do we falter and allow ourselves to made mugs out of by men posing as holy men.

I Want to Take Amrit, But MY PARENTS!

Below is a post from a forum from a young person who wants to take Amrit but he doesn't know how to tell his parents, fearing they will say 'No':

Author: 123
Date: 03-08-06 13:43

I have not taken Amrit yet and am planning too but have not told my parents and I don't think they even think/suspect anything...

When should I tell them - a week before Amrit Sanchaar or when I'm asking to get the Kirpan?

How would I break it out to them (tell them)?

I'm only 14 1/2 so I feel very strange on how I should ask or tell them.

I'm planning to take Amrit in April, so I got a month left. I can do Nitnem Banian in 1 hour for morning and 15 mins for evening, so no problem with that. It's just that no one is Amritdhari in my family, except my grandparents (on my father's side).

So please help on how I can ask or tell and the questions about.

My response:

SIT DOWN AND DISCUSS
I suggest you sit down with your parents and DISCUSS the ADVANTAGES of taking Amrit. Make sure you sit down when your parents are relaxed and free to chat. Then be OPEN with them.

Ask them “If a young person wishes to take Amrit then WHAT ARE YOUR VIEWS?” Put the ball in THEIR court. Then you need to have POSITIVE illustrations and ROLE MODELS who can show to make your point, i.e.
* Guru HarKrishan Ji was 5 YRS OLD when he received Guruship.
* The YOUNGER SAHIBZAADEY were 5 and 7 years old (or perhaps slightly younger) when receiving Amrit.


Explain what taking Amrit MEANS TO YOU. No parent wants their child to be unhappy. Every parent wants the SUKH (happiness) for their child.


POSSIBLE OPPOSITION
Usually parents who are not into Sikhi themselves find Amritdhari way of life ALIEN. Also sometimes parents have not seen any POSITIVE Amritdhari ROLE MODELS and instead the only Amritdhari they know is a dodgy Gurdwara Pardhaan.

From my personal experience parents think keeping Kesh or taking Amrit will CREATE PROBLEMS which will CAUSE YOU PAIN and SUFFERING. What you have to do is to PROVE THEM WRONG and show them the TRUE REALITY.


COMMON ISSUES PARENTS WILL BE TROUBLED BY
* "If you take Amrit, who will you marry! We don't know any Amritdhari girl/boy. Finding partners is hard enough nowadays, without you taking Amrit!"

Response:
"I understand. However, our circle of people which we know is not Amritdharis. If you start going to Rainsbayees, camps, Gurdwaras and Sikhi events you will realise that THERE ARE FELLOW AMRITDHARI YOUTH and you make your circle of friends with them. If you go to pub, you make those circle of friends. If you go to Gurdwara, you make those circle of friends.

End of the day, WHY WILL MARRIAGE BE A PROBLEM? 1) I want to marry someone who is LIKE-MINDED (i.e. religious), and 2) the Guru's who's path I have chosen the Guru's path who will LOOK AFTER ME - You have nothing to worry about. Leave it to Guru Ji. [Pose the question:] "Do have Faith in Guru Ji?


* "You will find it hard to keep Rehat. We don't want you taking Amrit and then next day taking off your Kirpaan and cutting your hair. Taking Amrit is BIG commitment."

Response:
"Thank you for valuing Amrit and understanding the importance of Rehat. I totally agree with you. I have tried to keep Rehat for "x" amount of time. I can do Nitnem, I can wear my 5 Ks, and I have the SANGAT to SUPPORT me. On top of that I will have the STRENGTH of GURU Ji. I know it’s a commitment and I am willing to make it. I want my life to be of Guru Ji. [Pose the question to them:] "Guru Ji has done so much for us, don't you think it is good that we should do what Guru Ji asks from us and become Guru-Wale?"


CONCLUSION
End of the day your parents are NOT your ENEMIES. They want the BEST for you. You have to demonstrate and explain with SINCERETY, PYAAR and HUMILITY that TAKING AMRIT is the BEST THING for you. Its best if you get them to share their feelings, concerns and worries and you should have the CONFIDENCE to answer those and show them that all you want to do is HOLD ON to Guru Ji's hand and have GURU SAHIB's KIRPAA in your life - that is SUKH and MORE SUKH... Isn't that what all parent's want?

ਅਨਦ ਮੰਗਲ ਗੁਰ ਚਰਣੀ ਲਾਗੇ ਪਾਏ ਸੂਖ ਘਨੇਰੇ ਰਾਮ ॥
anand mangal gur charNee laage, paa-e sookh ghanere raam.
Ecstasy, bliss and great happiness are obtained by grasping hold of the Guru's feet.
(Ang 925)

ਜੋ ਹਮਰੀ ਬਿਧਿ ਹੋਤੀ ਮੇਰੇ ਸਤਿਗੁਰਾ ਸਾ ਬਿਧਿ ਤੁਮ ਹਰਿ ਜਾਣਹੁ ਆਪੇ ॥
jo hamree biDh hotee mere satiguraa, saa biDh tum har jaaNhu aape.
My condition, O my True Guru - that condition, O Lord, is known only to You.

ਹਮ ਰੁਲਤੇ ਫਿਰਤੇ ਕੋਈ ਬਾਤ ਨ ਪੂਛਤਾ ਗੁਰ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸੰਗਿ ਕੀਰੇ ਹਮ ਥਾਪੇ ॥
ham rulte phirte ko-ee baat na poochh-taa, gur satgur sang keere ham thaape.
I was rolling around in the dirt, and no one cared for me at all. In the Company of the Guru, the True Guru, I, the worm, have been raised up and exalted.

ਧੰਨੁ ਧੰਨੁ ਗੁਰੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਜਨ ਕੇਰਾ ਜਿਤੁ ਮਿਲਿਐ ਚੂਕੇ ਸਭਿ ਸੋਗ ਸੰਤਾਪੇ ॥੪॥੫॥੧੧॥੪੯॥
Dhan Dhan guroo naanak jan keraa, jit mili-ai chooke sabh sog santaape. 451149
Blessed, blessed is the Guru of servant Nanak; meeting Him, all my sorrows and troubles have come to an end. 451149
(Ang 167)