Foxes in Lions Skin

Last weekend was very Chardikala. However, on Saturday night I had a very UPSETTING and DEPRESSING experience. I don’t wish to name names however I wish to share the gist of the experience and what happened so that we can become conscious of issues and learn something about Gurmat.

At the Monthly Youth Keertan Darbaar at Park Avenue Gurdwara I met someone who takes active role in organising the Sikh Student Camp and other events (as I have said, I don’t wish to name names as the purpose of this post is not to name and shame but to bring awareness of Gurmat). I shared my concerns with this Bhaji regarding a certain middle-aged individual in London who is propagating MANMAT (ideas contrary to the Guru’s way) and steering youngsters AWAY from REHIT (discipline), GUR-MARYADA (code of conduct) and GURBAANI.

Before I came to University I believed that anyone who had uncut hair and wore a Dastaar (turban) was great and I had HIGH EXPECTATIONS. I had even MORE RESPECT for those that were Amritdhari and I felt like touching their feet, as I believed that all Amritdharis woke up at Amrit-vela (early hours before dawn), read Nitnem and Gurbaani, didn’t swear, followed basic Sikh Rehit Maryada, and spoke the truth. When I came to University I had encounters with certain NEGATIVE INDIVIDUALS which shattered my hopes and reality came crashing.

Somebody once said to respected Baba Nihaal Singh jee, "Some Nihangs have become thieves." Baba jee answered: "It is not that Nihangs have become thieves, it’s that THIEVES HAVE BECOME NIHANGS." Similarly we should be conscious and aware that we do not brandish Amritdharis or Singhs as “bad” or “Manmukh”. Rather realise that Manmukhs have taking the GUISE (appearance) of Gursikhs, like a FOX wearing the skin of a LION.

I told the Bhaji at the Keertan Darbaar that I cannot tolerate any camp or event where this controversial character is involved in organising or is present there. I explained that this person preaches to youngsters and has said to me in front of other students that “Sikhs can drink alcohol (liquor) for Dutch courage”, “You shouldn’t read Nitnem or wake up Amrit-Vela as it increases one’s ego”, (and my tongue burns to say that he has also said that) “Gurdas Maan’s songs are more spiritual than Shabad Keertan” and that “Why did Guru Arjan Dev Ji compose Sukhmani Sahib? Its boring Paath. Who wants listen to 2 hours of paath. I suppose it’s good to go sleep to.”

I was shocked that Bhaji responded “Manvir Singh YOU CAN'T TAKE A JOKE. You should know he’s joking.” JOKING? Rab Bhalla Kare. I told Bhaji that, “There are two things which we can NEVER joke about. 1) We can NEVER joke about RAB (God), and 2) we can NEVER joke about Guru Sahib." The depressing thing was that Bhaji replied, “You are WRONG! We can joke about God and Guru jee.” I feel my tongue burning just reiterating what I heard. Waheguru. He said, “Look at the world this is God’s play. He has made a joke out of you… he has made a joke out of us. Why can’t we make a joke out of God?” This showed the painful truth of how people's thoughts and ideas change according to their company.

ਮਾਇਆ ਮੋਹਿ ਵਿਸਾਰਿਆ ਗੁਰ ਕਾ ਭਉ ਹੇਤੁ ਅਪਾਰੁ ॥
maa-i-aa mohi visaari-aa gur kaa bha-o het apaar.
Attached to Maya, the mortal forgets the Fear of God and Guru, and love for the Infinite Lord.
(Ang 1250)

ਨਾਨਕ ਜਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਮਨਿ ਭਉ ਤਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹਾ ਮਨਿ ਭਾਉ ॥੨॥
naanak jinH man bha-o tinHaa man bhaa-o. ||2||
O Nanak, those whose minds are filled with the Fear of God, have the love of God in their minds as well. ||2||
(Ang 465)

Then I asked, “Is telling students that its okay to drink sharaab, go clubbing, don’t read Nitnem and don’t do Amritvela and to insult Gurbaani right?” He said that I am NARROW MINDED and that I need to “expand my mind and THINK OUT OF THE BOX.” I asked twice, “Do you think you can do ‘kentoo prentoo’, question and undermine, the Guru.” He replied, “YES”. Isn’t one showing that they are higher than the Guru? “Can we do ‘Kentoo Prentoo’, question, Amrit and Kesh?” The reply he gave was “YES”, and he also said, “How do you know your interpretation of Sikhi is the right one?” Waheguru. There is one Waheguru, one Guru, one Panth, one Guru's Rehit. There is no doubt about Guru’s Hukam. Guru Ji says:

Kesh (unshorn hair):

ਸਾਬਤ ਸੂਰਤ ਰੱਬ ਦੀ, ਭੰਨੇ ਬੇਈਮਾਨ।
ਦਰਗਹਿ ਢੋਈ ਨਾ ਮਿਲੇ, ਕਾਫ਼ਰ, ਕੁੱਤਾ, ਸ਼ੈਤਾਨ।

saabat soorat rab dee, bhanne be-eemaan.
dargehi dhoee na mile, kaafar, kuthaa, shaithaan.
"God has made the human perfect, but the dishonourable destroy it. They will find no place in the Court of God, like the unbeliever, dog and Satanist."
(Guru Nanak, Janam Saakhi)

Alcohol:

ਜਿਤੁ ਪੀਤੈ ਖਸਮੁ ਵਿਸਰੈ ਦਰਗਹ ਮਿਲੈ ਸਜਾਇ ॥
jit peetai khasam visrai dargeh milai sajaa-e.
Drinking alcohol, one forgets their Lord and Master Waheguru, and is punished in the Court of the Lord.
(Ang 554)

Reading Nitnem (daily prayers):

ਨਿਤ ਉਠਿ ਗਾਵਹੁ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਕੀ ਬਾਣੀ ॥
nit uth gaavhu prabh kee baaNee.
Rise early, and sing the Glorious Word of Waheguru's Baani.
(Ang 1340)

Waking up Amrit-Vela:

ਫਰੀਦਾ ਪਿਛਲ ਰਾਤਿ ਨ ਜਾਗਿਓਹਿ ਜੀਵਦੜੋ ਮੁਇਓਹਿ ॥
ਜੇ ਤੈ ਰਬੁ ਵਿਸਾਰਿਆ ਤ ਰਬਿ ਨ ਵਿਸਰਿਓਹਿ ॥੧੦੭॥
fareedaa pichhal raat na jaagi-ohi jeevad-Ro mu-i-ohi.
je tai rab visaari-aa ta rab na visari-ohi. ||107||
Fareed, if you do not awaken in the early hours before dawn, you are dead while yet alive. Although you have forgotten God, God has not forgotten you. ||107||
(Ang 1383)

“Manvir Singh didn’t you question the Guru when you came into Sikhi.” My answer was, “No. I PUT A QUESTION with faith to Guru Sahib and Guru Ji gave me an answer. I never questioned and undermined my Guru or Gurbaani.” How can we undermine and QUESTION the Guru's Hukam and yet do Matha Tekh (bow) in front of Satguru Sri Granth Sahib Ji? HYPOCRISY? Analysing and trying understand the Guru's Hukam is different from 'questioning' and 'kentoo prentoo'. Waheguru.

Then I asked “Is it right for a person who considers themselves as a Parchaarik (Sikh preacher) to go CLUBBING?” He responded “There is more than one approach to Sikhi, how do you know your approach is right?... Quality is good but you NEED TO GET NUMBERS also...” Rab Bhalla Kare. In order to attract more people to "Sikhi" and Sikh Student events, programmes and the camp we are willing to WASH DOWN SIKHI.


Do we not fear Waheguru, and realise that we have to PAY FOR EACH AND EVERY ACTION. Sat Naam. I was very upset that standing in the Gurdwara this person could defend Manmat and speak such hurtful things about Guru Sahib and Waheguru and yet this person along with others are doing so called seva of organising the Sikh Student Camp as well as other events and youth programmes. The Giani jee from the Gurdwara was standing nearby and overheard the poisonous words being uttered and asked me I was okay. Rab Sabhnaa Nu Sumat Bakshe.

ਕੂੜੁ ਕਮਾਈਐ ਗੁਰ ਨਿੰਦਾ ਪਚੈ ਪਚਾਨੁ
kookar kooR kamaa-ee-ai gur nindaa pachai pachaan.
Those who practice falsehood are dogs; those who slander the Guru shall burn in their own fire.

ਭਰਮੇ ਭੂਲਾ ਦੁਖੁ ਘਣੋ ਜਮੁ ਮਾਰਿ ਕਰੈ ਖੁਲਹਾਨੁ ॥
bharme bhoolaa dukh ghaNo jam maar karai khulhaan.
They wander lost and confused, deceived by doubt, suffering in terrible pain. The Messenger of Death shall beat them to a pulp.

ਮਨਮੁਖਿ ਸੁਖੁ ਨ ਪਾਈਐ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਸੁਖੁ ਸੁਭਾਨੁ ॥੩॥
manmukh sukh na paa-ee-ai gurmukh sukh subhaan. ||3||
The self-willed manmukhs find no peace, while the Gurmukhs are wondrously joyful. ||3||
(Ang 21)

Benti:- This is NOT Nindiyaa (slander). The purpose of the post is to highlight GURMAT ISSUE rather than becoming personal and naming & shaming people. I just wish to share the thought that people are POSING as Gursikhs and in the GUISE of Gursikhs but there intentions and actions are the contrary.

Guru Ang Sang Sahaa-ee Hovan. Rab Rakha.

Busy Weekend

This weekend was very busy. I was very fortunate that I was blessed with darshan of Satguru Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Sangat of great Gursikhs and opportunity to listen to beautiful Kirtan. On Friday it was the monthly World Sikh Network Simran programme. This week Bhai Anoop Singh Ji (Una Sahib Wale) performed Kirtan. Bhai Sahib does nice Keertan and always involves the youth in the Keertan.

ਮਿਲੁ ਮਿਲੁ ਸਖੀ ਗੁਣ ਕਹੁ ਮੇਰੇ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਕੇ ਲੇ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਮਤਿ ਧੀਰ ॥੩॥
mil mil sakhee guN kaho mere prabh ke le satgur kee mat Dheer. ||3||
Come, and join together, O my companions; let's sing the Glorious Praises of my Waheguru, and follow the comforting advice of the True Guru. ||3||
(Ang 862)

On Saturday morning, Bhaji Mandeep Singh took me to Amrit-vela Simran programme at Park Avenue Gurdwara. Again, what can I say? Pure ANAND (bliss). After Simran Bhai Taar-Balbir Singh (Hazoori Raagi Amritsar) sung Aasa Di Vaar. Waheguru. ਲੰਗਰ ਪਾਣੀ ਛੱਕ ਕੇ (after having Langar) we went to Bhaji Ravinderpal Singh's house for Sukhmani Sahib da Paath. Every week at 7am Bhaji has Sukhmani Sahib da Paath at his house. Everyone reads one Asttpadee (chapter) each. I was slightly tired but it was great to do Sukhmani Sahib with the sangat.

ਸੁਖਮਨੀ ਸਹਜ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਗੁਨ ਨਾਮ ॥
sukhmanee sehaj gobind gun naam.
Sukhmani is the peaceful ease, the Glory of God and Naam.

ਜਿਸੁ ਮਨਿ ਬਸੈ ਸੁ ਹੋਤ ਨਿਧਾਨ ॥
jis man basai so hot niDhaan.
When it abides in the mind, one becomes wealthy.
(Sukhmani Sahib, Ang 295)

Then I had to go to an Inter-faith programme near Tottenham Court Road. There wasn't much inter-faith happening. There were Muslim representatives from the "Somali Youth Forum", one Chinese Christian girl, and I was represen ting Sikhi. When I stood up to talk about Sikhi they all got scared at my Kirpaan. O well, Guru Kirpaa Karan. By the end of my talk they were all smiling and everyone felt relaxed. The Somalis never knew that Sikhs don't consume intoxicants. The atmosphere was nice. Afterwards Ravjeet Singh and Raghbir Singh turned up.

By lunch time the smell of Chicken was everywhere! I felt sick. The organisers had made special Halaal chicken for the Muslims. The organiser offered to cook me some food and asked whether Sikhs have any dietry requirements however I told him that I only eat what I have cooked myself and that Sikhs have to pray when preparing food. After lunch break they asked us to get into groups and conduct a survey on Tottenham Court road. Not surprisingly people were either too BUSY or got SCARED at looking at me in my Kurta and Kirpaan, the Muslim girl wearing her hijaab and wearing a Palestinian style scarf and a tall Gora who didn't speak. Waheguru.

ਕਲਜੁਗ ਮਹਿ ਕੀਰਤਨੁ ਪਰਧਾਨਾ ॥
kaljug meh keertan parDhaanaa.
In Kaljug, this Dark Age, the Kirtan of the Waheguru's Praises are most sublime and exalted.

ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਜਪੀਐ ਲਾਇ ਧਿਆਨਾ ॥
gurmukh japee-ai laa-ay Dhi-aanaa.
Become Gurmukh, chant and focus your meditation.
(Ang 1075)

In the evening we went to Southall for the Monthly Youth Keertan Darbaar. On Sunday morning Amrit-vela programme again. Then Sunday afternoon listened to Bhai Anoop Singh at Havelock Road then listened to Keertan by Bibi Snaatam Kaur at Park Avenue. The Gurdwara was packed. In the evening there was an Aatam Ras Keertan darbaar. We met some Chardikala little children in the Langar Hall. One 5 years old Afghani Sikh girl took Amrit with her family. She knows all of Japji Sahib off by heart. Not many Afghani Sikh ladies wear Keskis (Dastaars) however, this girl's mother wears one. Very chardikala family. Here's a pic of the young girl another Afghani Sikh boy talking to Bhaji Mandeep Singh:

So the weekend was JAM PACKED with Anand and more Anand of Baani and Sangat. It really reminds you that we have been sent here on Earth to do Naam Japnaa and how this world is a DHARAM-SAAL.

ਹੁਕਮੇ ਧਰਤੀ ਸਾਜੀਅਨੁ ਸਚੀ ਧਰਮ ਸਾਲਾ ॥
hukme Dhartee saajee-an sachee Dharam saalaa.
By the Hukam of His Command, Waheguru created the earth, the true home of Dharma.
(Ang 785)

On Saturday night I was doing Chaur Sahib Di Seva and noticed that a group of ladies sitting at the end of the Darbaar Sahib were talking very loudly. Bhenji Gurbinder Kaur (Accapella Jatha) was doing such nice Keertan and these ladies were laughing and talking amongst themselves. It made me think how when sitting in the Saadh Sangat some realize we are sitting in Heaven and others waste the golden opportunity. We fail to realize how precious this life is and how difficult it was obtain this life. We have been insects, trees, plants, animals, dogs, cats and countless other beings before becoming human. Why waste this? May Guru Sahib do Kirpaa that we realize the value of this life and not waste it in the ethos of "khaa-o pee-o aish karo mitro - ਖਾਓ ਪੀਓ ਐਸ਼ ਕਰੋ ਮਿਤਰੋ" (drink, eat and be merry). Rab Bhalla Kare.

ਰੈਣਿ ਗਵਾਈ ਸੋਇ ਕੈ ਦਿਵਸੁ ਗਵਾਇਆ ਖਾਇ ॥
raiN gavaa-ee so-e kai, divas gavaa-i-aa khaa-e.
The nights are wasted sleeping, and the days are wasted eating.

ਹੀਰੇ ਜੈਸਾ ਜਨਮੁ ਹੈ ਕਉਡੀ ਬਦਲੇ ਜਾਇ ॥੧॥
heere jaisaa janam hai, kauddee badle jaa-e. ||1||
Human life is such a precious jewel, but it is being lost in exchange for a mere shell. ||1||
(Ang 156)

Final Uni Exam followed by an Eventful Day

Yesterday I sat my last final exam for my degree. It’s hard to believe that three years have gone past so quickly. I am so glad to have today’s exam over and done with. Waheguru has done loads of Kirpaa, I don’t know where I would be without Waheguru and the support of Guru Ji. Sometimes I think I would go insane or worst without Waheguru, Guru Sahib and the Path of Gursikhi Jeevan.

After my exam I wanted to see Guru Jee and personally say thanks for everything and for always offering guidance, support and inspiration. I got to Southall and there was beautiful Keertan sung by a Hazoori Raagi from Amritsar. The Shabad was:

ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਗੁਣੀ ਨਿਧਾਨੁ ਹੈ ਗੁਣ ਕਿਰ ਬਖਸੈ ਅਵਗੁਣਿਆਰੇ॥
satgur guNee niDhaan hai, guN kar bakhshe avguNiaare
The True Guru is the Treasure of Virtures, bestowing His Virtues the unvirtuous are blessed.
(Bhai Gurdaas - Vaar 25, PauRee 29)

It was beautifully sung Simran in between the Shabad. I won’t try to explain the taste of Gurbaani, you have to try it for yourself.

Afterwards the day was bit of a DOWN HILL SPIRAL. I came across two incidents (one at Park Avenue Gurdwara, then at Havelock Road Gurdwara) which made me feel very depressed. I don’t wish to go into the details, however, I wish to share with you the general “issue”.

The first issue was our elderly people. An elderly Panjabi Sikh lady (about 70 years old) who had lost her memory had come to the Gurdwara and it made me think “One day you will be old and your mind will slow down – NAAM JAP, NAAM JAP” kept going through my head. I felt very sorry for this lady. Good news – her daughter was contacted by the Police and the lady was taken home.


The second issue was youngsters showing "ATTTITUDE" in the Gurdwara. Wearing big KaRe, trimmed or shaven faces, their God given appearance badly disfigured and cut into pieces, wearing bandanas instead of a pagh and acting very gang-like in the Gurdwara. It made me think about how the youth are straying away and their idea of Sikhi is wearing BIG KHANDA rather than keeping GURSIKHI JEEVAN. Knowledge of Gurbaani is ALIEN thought for these youngsters and they are influenced by the Gangester and Macho culture portrayed by modern Bhangra artists and Black Rap artists. Some of the actions of these youngsters yesterday were disheartening to see. Rab Sumat Bakshe.

Chalo let’s say the both incidents made me feel very sad. I did Rehraas Sahib on the train to Paddington, followed by Ardaas. In the Ardaas I said “You have blessed me with a wonderful day….” Then I stopped and I thought. “WONDERFUL?” I failed to realise the LESSON what Waheguru wished to teach me. I did Ardaas that “Waheguru please help me to understand what I should learn from today’s experiences or please give me some inspiration. I know you are Wonderful and your Works are Wonderful - but we fail to realise this.”


At Paddington Station I stood to the side talking to a friend on the phone. A man wearing shirt and suite, eating KFC Fries was walking down. He looked like he had a few drinks but wasn’t overly drunk. He came up and put his hand out to shake my hand. I didn’t know what he wanted. I smiled and then hand shook him. He said, “GOOD LUCK”. He said it twice and I said, “Good luck for what?” He said, “You are part of the people whose MISSION is to make the world A BETTER PLACE, isn’t it?” I was taken aback by this man’s comment. He said, “I want to wish you all the best and say good luck in making the world a better place.” He shook my hand again and walked off. I smiled and thought - wow, thanks Waheguru for reminding me of the mission of a Sikh and reminding me what I should learn from my experiences during the day:

ਨਾਨਕ ਨਾਮ ਚੜ੍ਹਦੀ ਕਲਾ, ਤੇਰੇ ਭਾਣੇ. ਸਰਬੱਤ ਦਾ ਭਲਾ।
naanak naam chaRdee kalaa, tere bhaaNe sarbat da bhalla.
Through Guru Nanak Sahib Ji may Naam, the Name of the Lord, be exalted; May all Humanity prosper according to Your Will.
(Sikh Ardaas)

In the tube journey home I realise that the following moral lessons had been illustrated in what I had seen and experienced at the Gurdwara Sahib:

1. Never mistreat or abandon your parents. LOOK AFTER YOUR PARENTS just like they took care of you when you were a child.

2. Always stay committed to HELPING someone, even if everyone else says don’t.

3. LIFE IS SHORT and don’t take your body for granted – do NAAM JAPNAA and SEVA as much as possible, your body clock is ticking away.

4. Remain HUMBLE and GRACEFUL and conquer people’s mind through the power of the SHABAD.

5. Always STAND UP for the Truth, SPEAK against injustice, and REPRESENT the Guru’s message with dignity.

Chalo, Rab gave me the inspiration which I was looking for. A depressing and heavy day ended with a SMILE.

Dhan Guru Amar Daas Sahib Ji - Happy Gurpurb!

ਭਲੇ ਅਮਰਦਾਸ ਗੁਣ ਤੇਰੇ ਤੇਰੀ ਉਪਮਾ ਤੋਹਿ ਬਨਿ ਆਵੈ ॥੧॥੨੨॥
bhale amardaas gun tere, teree upmaa tohi ban aavai.
O Guru Amar Daas Ji, Your Glorious Virtues are so sublime; Your Praises belong only to You.
(Ang 1396)

Sariaa Nu Lakh Lakh Vadhaaee Hove on today's Gurpurb. Today is the 527th Parkaash Diwas (Birth Day) of GURU AMAR DAAS SAHIB JI, the 3rd Jyot (Light) of Guru Nanak Sahib Ji, who was born at BASARKE, a small village in Amritsar district in 1479.


A GLIMPSE AT THE LIFE OF GURU AMAR DAAS SAHIB JI SAHIB


Need of Guru
Baba Amar Daas Sahib Ji was introduced to Path of Gurmat and Naam through Bibi Amro Ji, the daughter in-law of Baba Amar Daas Ji’s younger brother. Bibi Amro Ji was the daughter of the Second Nanak, Guru Angad Dev Sahib Ji. Through HEARING the Divine SHABAD being sung by Bibi Amro Ji, Baba Amar Daas Ji was introduced to the House of Guru Nanak Sahib Ji.

Despite being THIRTY YEARS OLDER, Baba Amar Daas Ji bowed to Guru Angad Dev Ji Sahib. This illustrated that AGE or RELATIONSHIPS (ਰਿਸ਼ਤੇ) have NO RELEVANCE.


Guruship
Baba Amar Daas Sahib Ji served Guru Angad Dev Sahib Ji with utmost devotion and dedication. Besides fetching water from the river Beas for Guru Sahib's daily bath, he would serve in the Guru Ka Langar. Every year Guru Angad Dev Sahib Ji acknowledged his services by conferring upon him a SIROPA (a robe of honour) which the Great Guru wrapped around his head. Baba Amar Daas Ji was honoured with a Siropa seven times. SEVA (selfless service) is one of the main tenets of the House of Guru Nanak Sahib Ji, exemplified through the lives of the Gurus. Guru Amar Daas Sahib Ji was the OLDEST aged Guru. This illustrated that EVEN THE OLD CAN MAKE CHANGE.


Responding to Hostility with Humility
Bhai Datu Ji, son of Guru Angad Dev Sahib Ji, considered himself to be the claimant of 'Gurgaddi' (the seat of Guruship), which he however could not ascend to. Deeply frustrated, Bhai Datu Ji KICKED Guru Amar Daas Sahib Ji with his foot while Guru Ji was seated on the throne. With a rare display of SWEETNESS and HUMILITY, Guru Sahib kept seated and did not utter a word of anguish. Rather, he grabbed Bhai Datu Ji’s foot and said, “Your foot must have been hurt by my hard bones.” Guru Sahib did not respond with a REACTION rather through displaying his compassion. The Guru showed that each situation requires a UNIQUE RESPONSE depending on the circumstances.


Rejection of Sati and Pardah
The reality of India at the time of the Guru Sahibs was that the author of Ramayan (Hindu mythological epic) had written that “The drum, Shudar (low caste) and woman are to beaten.” Guru Amar Daas Sahib Ji rejected the old age practice and tradition of women BURNING THEMSELVES in the funeral pyres of their husbands and women VEILING their faces. Guru Sahib taught that women are NOT a COMMODITY and implemented SOCIAL CHANGE.

Furthermore, Guru Amar Daas Sahib Ji promoted and propagated that WIDOW REMARRIAGE was acceptable. This was underlined by the principle that every single person is DIVINE (Man Too Jyot Saroop Hai, Apnaa Mool Pachhaan). However, we do not recognise this! Guru Sahib emphasised that why should we WASTE LIFE by committing Sati.


Established Manjees
Guru Sahib POLITICALLY developed the Sikh community. Four Sikh women were appointed as the RELIGIOUS HEADS of Sikh education centres. Districts under the charge of men were known as Manjeeaa(n), from manjee or string-bed. Those in the charge of women were known as PeeReeaa(n), form peehee or sitting-stools on which they sat to minister to the disciples. Their selection for this important task indicated the faith of the Guru in the capacity of women for ORGANISATIONAL WORK.


Founded Goindval
Guru Amar Daas Sahib Ji followed the steps of the earlier Gurus in CONSTRUCTING CITIES. This was part of the VISION of the Gurus to broaden the horizons of the Sikh People and show them that Sikhs should not confine themselves to thinking small but to THINK BIG. The Guru Sahibs were FORWARD THINKERS. Realising that the water of the River Beas was becoming not fit for human consumption, (which later become polluted) Guru Amar Daas Sahib Ji constructed a BAOLI (well) at Goindwal Sahib, covering the entire area with trees. This not only provided SAFE DRINKING WATER to the people but also helped to create an ECO-FRIENDLY environment.


Summary

ਗੁਰ ਅਮਰਦਾਸ ਕੀ ਅਕਥ ਕਥਾ ਹੈ ਇਕ ਜੀਹ ਕਛੁ ਕਹੀ ਨ ਜਾਈ ॥
gur amardaas kee akath kathaa hai ik jeeh kachh kahee na jaa-ee.
The Unspoken Speech of Guru Amar Daas Ji cannot be expressed with only one tongue.
(Ang 1406)

Bhai Nand Lal Singh Ji writes in his poetry that if one word could describe and summarise Guru Amar Daas Sahib Ji's life, that word be "EQUALITY."

Bhul Chuk Maaf.

DHAN GURU AMAR DAAS SAHIB JI.

Remembering the Shaheeds of Paonta Sahib

On this day, on March 22nd 1964, 11 GurSikhs were gunned down at Gurdwara Paonta Sahib (Himachal Pradesh) by the henchmen of the Mahant (caretaker) occupying the Gurdwara Sahib.

The Sangat of PAONTA SAHIB GURDWARA had requested head of TARNA DAL to visit the Gurdwara (this is before Baba Nihaal Singh Ji became leader of Tarna Dal). They complained that the residing MASAND (corrupt caretaker) was ABUSING the GURDWARA PREMISES through drinking, raping women that came alone, and making prostitutes dance inside. After several such requests Baba Ji decided to visit Paonta Sahib accompanied by 13 GurSikhs. They left from Gurdwara Haria Welaa(n) Hoshiarpur riding horses and horse drawn carts. When they arrived near Gurdwara Paonta Sahib two GurSikhs carried Baba Ji's message for the Masand, which requested initiation of a AKHAND PAATH at the Gurdwara Sahib. The Masand did not give a definitive answer, instead he assured to respond before the next morning. Meanwhile the Masand confided with the LOCAL POLICE CHIEF, one of his corrupt friends who ENDORSED and PERMITTED his evil and sacrilegous acts.


Baba Ji started the Akhand Paath next morning which proceeded uninterrupted for 2 days. On the 2nd day, the Masand came with the police. They ARRESTED Baba Ji who was outside at that time and FIRED at the GurSikhs inside who were conducting the Akhand Paath. The GurSikhs had NO GUNS. For they had not come with the intent to fight, but rather to hear the Sangat's concerns. As a result they were BRUTALLY MASSACRED. Eleven died and two survived. As each Paathi (Scriptural Reader) was shot WHILE RECITING Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, another simply pushed his body and CONINTUED the UNINTERRUPTED recitation of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Baba Nihaal Singh Ji, who was 21 years old at the time, continued with his CHAUR SAHIB DI SEVA (even when he had been shot 3 times) until the last GurSikh was shot. As the Akhand Paath was interrupted, Baba Nihaal Singh Ji finally fell. The ONLY SURVIVOR was the youngest GurSikh, a 11 year old, who was found hiding behind a NAGARA (drums). Besides him all others were PRESUMED DEAD.


Baba Nihaal Singh Ji (1973) - Photo from MrSikhNet.com

It wasn't until the bodies were being loaded up in a cart that a small child saw Baba Nihaal Singh Ji breathe and informed the local sikhs. The local sikhs who had gathered by now, screamed to get him some medical attention. Fortunately they succeeded in their efforts. He received medical attention and survived with Vaheguru's grace. He was subsequently honoured by many gurdwaras as "JINDA-SHAHEED" (a Living Martyr) Jathedar. The Masand was finally removed. Akhand Paaths are held each year in the commemoration of this event.

May we remember our history and honour those who LIVED with DIGNITY and DIED with HONOUR. Shaheedaa(n) Nu Lakh Lakh Parnaam. Dhan Guru, Dhan Guru Piyaare.

Episode 9 of India Travels: Getting Ready to Leave (Part 4)

Tuesday 5th August 2003, day 41 of India trip. I had a really HEAVY head. My head was thumping and I could not walk without feeling I was going to fall over. I slowly made my way to the SGPC Accommodation Office and told the Sewadaar (attendant) that I felt extremely ill and requested him to buy me some fruit like apples and bananas from the Bazaar (market). I went to back to my room and the Sewadaars kindly brought me a bag packed with fruit. I didn’t eat any roti that day. The day before I had only eaten ONE ROTI for the whole day (even that one roti, I found difficult to eat).

Eventually I went to the Gurdwara Pharmacy Dispensary and the doctor gave me some medication. Erm, I can’t remember what he gave me, but I can remember it was pink colour and white colour. He gave me two three medicines and said take these. I had to hold my head with my hands as I walked because my head felt so heavy. One of the older SGPC staff saw me and asked me if I was okay. He said that I most likely got DEHYDRATED and suffering SUN STROKE. He told me to go to my room and to keep my head under the running tap of COLD WATER. I did this and with Guru’s Kirpaa I felt MUCH BETTER. My heavy head went and now I could move around with ease.

As my health was not good I decided I should head back home (to Jalandhar) now and cancelled my programme to go to Mehta Chownk (in Amritsar district). I went over to the Singh Sahib’s house to say good-bye. His family were very nice. Everyone joked around and said I should get married in India and make sure not to forget to give them a wedding invite. Afterwards I said good-bye to all the local Sangat who help with Sewa at the Gurdwara. Quite a few people asked me whether I can take them with me to England. I felt sorry for them, some people genuinely wished to escape and just hop on the aeroplane with me back to England.


I remember one day I went to do Ishnaan in the Sarovar at Amrit-vela. Some Nihang Singhs came to do Ishnaan as well. The Nihung Singh’s son followed me to the Takht Sahib and then followed me to my Santhiyaa class. Afterwards he asked me whether I was from England. I said, “Yes.” He said, “We thought you were from England by THE WAY YOU DID ISHNAAN in the Sarowar.” Lol. He said “Can you please take my father with you to England. He has sent me to ask you whether he can come with you. Can he go with you on your aeroplane ticket?” The son sounded serious. Waheguru.

Everyone assumed that I had a BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE airline ticket to go back to England or that they could squeeze into my luggage. I had to explain that one ticket means one person and that unless I am travelling on NANAK NAAM JAHAAJ it wouldn’t be possible to take all Sangat with me back to UK. Waheguru.

I met Giani Balbir Singh, who had given me Santhiyaa. I asked him whether he recommended any audios with Shud Uchaaran (correctly pronounced) Paath. He walked with me to the nearby religious shops and recommended that I use Nitnem audio by Bhai Jarnail Singh (Damdami Taksal Wale) to keep up with my pronunciation. The audio was very good. Its clear and Bhai Sahib emphasises on all the sounds so that the person listening becomes consciousness of all the lagaa maatraa (grammar). You can download the audios here (on Nitnem section).

The next morning I met Granthi Nirmal Singh Ji who asked me to have a family photo with him. He took some photos and asked me to keep in contact with him. (He still keeps in contact with me and writes letters).


At 7.30a.m. I did Matha Tekh at the Takht Sahib and did Ardaas for a safe journey back. 7.45a.m. the bus had arrived at the bus station and I got on to go to Nakodar (district Jalandhar).


To be continued… (Last and concluding part of Sri Damdama Sahib trip – "Bus Journey back Home")

The Story of Kurbani Kaur (Part 2)

Continued from Part 1...


The next week they had driven a long way to reach another camp to be on time to be included among those receiving Amrit. Something profound had happened and her life had begun to change.

But she made mistakes. Right away she couldn't stop removing hair from her face. Little by little in stages she had first let her eyebrows grow in, then hairs came in under her chin. Surely there were many more than had ever been there before. Lastly she got the courage to let the hair above her lip grow. It wasn't easy. The morning after Keertan Smaagam, she had pulled out every one with her fingers. While driving home from the Rainsbayee, something had happened there as they sang the last Shabad. Something like when she took Amrit, yet still, she pulled out every hair.

She wept into the rumaalas (the draperies covering Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji), begging Guru ji to forgive her and help her have courage. She sat with her fists clenched into tight balls, sitting on her hands, while something like a cactus patch, sprouted on her face. Then she went before Guru-Roop Panj Pyaare once more and confessed her mistakes.

Still she wasn't happy, she looked so disfigured, and the bleach didn't help, instead it just made her appear more bizarre. How could she try to hide something from the world, and yet show that she was a Sikh at the same time? She felt so ugly, how could anyone love her, how could she love herself? Her best friend told her "You look good! You look like a Singhni," and that helped a little. But it wasn't anything she could talk about to any one, only Guru ji, and to Guru ji she wept copiously, wetting the rumaalas with her tears.

She made up her mind to stop with the bleach. The make-up aswell, as it just made her feel dirty and ashamed. She went to the store and tried on a bathing suit. The top looked really attractive, but her Kachhera come out from underneath the bottom part, and then she saw her face. It just didn't match. She never wore that kind of suit for bathing again. Sometimes she felt proud when she secretly noticed other ladies sitting on the stage who looked like they had bleached their facial-hair.


Then one day she had an attack of nerves and started pulling at her whiskers. Yes, that's what they were, rough and coarse whiskers. In better moments, she remembered that kittens have whiskers, and that every one loves kittens. Even, she saw a lady horse once that had long whiskers, and everyone petted her affectionately. But this day, she couldn't help herself and pulled out whisker after whisker. O there were plenty left. Just a few around the edges were missing, no one else would ever know. And they would grow back!!! No doubt about that, they had always grown back. She even went to doctor, and he told her they could only be removed surgically. They always would grow back otherwise.

Sometimes they got wet when she drank, she shuddered. Just like a man’s. But she couldn't complain because after all men had so many more, and much longer. Sometimes, every once in a while it made her feel like a smaller version of a Singh, but more often she looked at the smooth, beautiful, glowing, radiant faces of other women and wept inside with shame. When she looked in the mirror, sometimes she felt like she was looking at Guru Sahib’s face. So she could not protest, yet still she wept.

Then one day her beloved brother was in an industrial accident at work. His beard was caught in machinery, and nearly half was yanked out. He suffered, pain and shame. He sat behind Baba ji, and read from the new Siri Guru Granth Sahib, this one had just one line. She wanted to try to read it, but didn't dare. As she watched her brother’s lips moving, while he recited Gurbaani, a glow lighted him. Looking at his face with half his beard missing, suddenly she saw herself, how she looked when she pulled out half her whiskers.

All this time she had thought she was disfigured when her hair grew, yet it dawned on her consciousness now that actually all these years she had been disfiguring herself by removing her hair and painting her face. Even some other ladies in the community had followed her mistakes.

She went to her room and wept some more. She had tried so hard, and it had all ended in failure. She had taken off her tight white knits, and started wearing Salvaar Kameez over her Kachhera, wearing black to reserve her inner strength. Removing the white turban she had grown up in, in favour of a Keski (small under-turban), she tied a black one and had worn it day and night, despite many protests from the children’s father. She slept in her Kirpaan, and Kachhera, and kept all 5 of her Kakkaars (articles of faith), even during ishnaan (bathing), and had never ever removed her KaRa since the first day she put it on, 20 years ago. And still she failed. She had struggled to learn her nitnem, gotten up at 3:30am every morning for Amrit-vela, and done Naam Simran for at least an hour, for the past year or two. She carefully never ate outside and did all her cooking in her own utensils, yet still she failed miserably.

She failed because she hadn't understood. But now she did understand, and she firmed her resolve never to make foolish mistakes again.

Vaisakhi day came and she went alone to the Guru-Roop Panj Pyaare weeping. They would not allow her without the children's father. She wept harder, "He is fed up with me." She wept so piteously that they accepted her but with restrictions until the children's father came also before Panj Pyaare. She was so grateful. They gave her some instructions to recite Baani (prayers) and told her "Do not touch your face, it is poison."

She wore the Kesri Keski (saffron colour small turban) that she received in the Amrit Sanchaar for nearly a year after, day and night as her Chunni (scarf) and touched her face only with the Kesri Kapraa (cloth) covering her hands between it and face until her hands could be trusted to touch with love rather than remorse.

The children's father had been completely fed up with her and had threatened her security. But she knew that just as she had struggled with change; he also was going through incredible adjustments. Of course that didn't really make it any easier to deal with the flares of anger, but it drove her closer to Guru Sahib, her shelter, her honour, as she frequently wet the rumaalas flooding them with her tears.

Something had happened, she changed. Everybody said so. It was true. She had changed. Now she was a Singhni for real. Maybe she wasn't beautiful, or perhaps she didn't even know what beauty was. Her daughter always told her she was beautiful, but that was just love wasn't it? She knew now though that she was loved. Loved by Guru Sahib, and loved by Saadh Sangat (the Company of the Holy). She knew “Waahe” (amazement and awe) too... because inside she had “Guroo” (the Light, which dispels Darkness)... WaaheGuroo WaaheGuroo WaaheGuroo WaaheGuroo WaaheGuroo WaaheGuroo... Because rather then being apart from, she now was a part of ~ ONE body of Khalsa ~ ONE Waheguru ~

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The Story of Kurbani Kaur (Part 1)

Moving article which I came across on the Discover Sikhi Forum:
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Author: Unknown


Kurbani kaur peered into the mirror, a tear slid down her cheek, smudging the make-up a bit in the corner of her eye. Another threatened to follow. She blinked it back and swallowed hard. She mixed up a little more of the bleaching powder into the bleaching creme, 'extra strength for dark or heavy hair' it read on the package.


It burned as she applied it over her lip and just under her chin.
She fought the urge to pick up the tweezers and shape her brows.
She felt like she was turning into some sort of hideous monster.

Carefully she walked to the edge of her bed, and picked up the translation of Anand Sahib... She had a 10-15 minute wait for the bleach to do it's work.

ਅਨੰਦੁ ਭਇਆ ਮੇਰੀ ਮਾਏ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੂ ਮੈ ਪਾਇਆ ॥
anand bhe-eiaa meree maa-e satguroo mai paa-i-aa
I am in ecstasy o my mother, for i have found my True Guru.

ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਤ ਪਾਇਆ ਸਹਜ ਸੇਤੀ ਮਨਿ ਵਜੀਆ ਵਾਧਾਈਆ ॥
satgur ta paa-i-aa sahj saytee man vajee-aa vaaDhaa-ee-aa.
I have found the True Guru with such natural ease, and my mind resound with the Music of Divine bliss.

ਰਾਗ ਰਤਨ ਪਰਵਾਰ ਪਰੀਆ ਸਬਦ ਗਾਵਣ ਆਈਆ ॥
raag ratan parvaar paree-aa shabad gaavan aa-ee-aa.
The jeweled melodies and celestial harmonies have come to sing the Shabad, the Word of God.

ਸਬਦੋ ਤ ਗਾਵਹੁ ਹਰੀ ਕੇਰਾ ਮਨਿ ਜਿਨੀ ਵਸਾਇਆ ॥
shabdo ta gaavhu haree keraa man jinee vasaa-i-aa.
The Lord dwells within the minds of those who sing the Shabad.

ਕਹੈ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਅਨੰਦੁ ਹੋਆ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੂ ਮੈ ਪਾਇਆ ॥੧॥
kehai naanak anand ho-aa satguroo mai paa-i-aa. ||1||
Says Nanak, I am in bliss, for I have found my True Guru. ||1||
(Ang 917)

She fell back on the bed in transports of ecstatic bliss, was there anything more beautiful. She lay there for many minutes washed in waves of inner dimension, until she heard the alarm on her watch sound.

It brought her back to the present.

As she washed the bleach away, a pale, light, burned stubble remained. It felt sharp and dry and looked unnatural against the dark of her brows and hair. She sighed deeply.

It had taken so many years for her to be able to find the courage to receive Amrit. When ever she would hear that Amrit was to be given, she would head away from the camp, or Gurdwara.

She didn't want to make a commitment she couldn't keep. Still she tied a white turban, when ever she went to the Gurdwara dressed in her tight white knit dresses and leggings. One day as she told herself how devoted she was to Guru and how much love she had, a voice replied, "Yes devoted, but not enough to take Amrit, or learn to read Nitnem (daily prayers), or get up early in the morning for saaDhnah."

Finally, a Singh asked her point blank at camp one night while she was tucking in her sons. Have you been initiated? When she said "No", it was as though no one would believe her. When she returned home, she went to her Siri Guru Granth Sahib, English, Romanization and Gurmukhi all in one. She wept and agonized. Should she take Amrit. Was she worthy? Could she keep the commitments? At the next camp, a Singh came to her and asked if her younger son could take Amrit, the older son asked if he could too. She asked a lot of questions about the commitments.

She was given a set of Kachhere (specially tailored undergarments, which is one of the five articles of faith) and told to take a bath and wash her hair. She put on the Kachhera. It felt so strange, she was overwhelmed. She felt like weeping, she lay down on her bedroll, and closed her eyes and went to sleep. She wasn't ready; the children’s father came late from work. During the ceremony, while they were waiting sitting on the stage with other campers singing Keertan, the youngest came running out from a trip to the bathroom, his face was wet and his eyes glowing. "They put water in my eyes," he whispered excitedly. And then ran back to where the others were taking Amrit.


To be continued...

New Month Begins...

Today is the first day of the month of JETH in the Sikh Nanakshahi Calendar. Guru Arjan Dev Sahib Ji has given us a HUKAM (Order) for the beginning of each month, which is recorded in "BARAAH-MAAHAA". Sikhs don't "celebrate" the first day of the month (known as SANGRAAND) nor do Sikhs see it as a "more special day" compared to other days. Instead Guru Sahib has given us a Hukam which relates with the season and month and is intended to REMIND the soul-bride that she is SEPARATED from the Lord Waheguru and that she should make every EFFORT to unite and attach herself to the Lord Waheguru. So each month Guru Sahib reminds us of re-uniting with Waheguru.


Hukam for the month of Jeth (May 15th - June 15th):

ਹਰਿ ਜੇਠਿ ਜੁੜੰਦਾ ਲੋੜੀਐ ਜਿਸੁ ਅਗੈ ਸਭਿ ਨਿਵੰਨਿ ॥ ਹਰਿ ਸਜਣ ਦਾਵਣਿ ਲਗਿਆ ਕਿਸੈ ਨ ਦੇਈ ਬੰਨਿ ॥ ਮਾਣਕ ਮੋਤੀ ਨਾਮੁ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਉਨ ਲਗੈ ਨਾਹੀ ਸੰਨਿ ॥ ਰੰਗ ਸਭੇ ਨਾਰਾਇਣੈ ਜੇਤੇ ਮਨਿ ਭਾਵੰਨਿ ॥ ਜੋ ਹਰਿ ਲੋੜੇ ਸੋ ਕਰੇ ਸੋਈ ਜੀਅ ਕਰੰਨਿ ॥ ਜੋ ਪ੍ਰਭਿ ਕੀਤੇ ਆਪਣੇ ਸੇਈ ਕਹੀਅਹਿ ਧੰਨਿ ॥ ਆਪਣ ਲੀਆ ਜੇ ਮਿਲੈ ਵਿਛੁੜਿ ਕਿਉ ਰੋਵੰਨਿ ॥ ਸਾਧੂ ਸੰਗੁ ਪਰਾਪਤੇ ਨਾਨਕ ਰੰਗ ਮਾਣੰਨਿ ॥ ਹਰਿ ਜੇਠੁ ਰੰਗੀਲਾ ਤਿਸੁ ਧਣੀ ਜਿਸ ਕੈ ਭਾਗੁ ਮਥੰਨਿ ॥੪॥

In the month of Jeth, one should bind themselves to the Lord Waheguru, whom all bow in humility before. One who has grasped the hem of the robe of Waheguru, the True Friend - no one (i.e. Messengers of Death etc) can keep him in bondage (meaning, attaching ourselves to Waheguru the fear of death does not remain). (People run around to collect jewels, pearls etc and other valuable wealth, but there is a chance for that wealth to be robbed by a thief;) Waheguru's Name is the Jewel, the Pearl etc, the most valuable wealth, that cannot be stolen or taken away. In Waheguru are all pleasures which please the mind (with the blessing of the wealth of Naam). (This understanding arrives that) as the Lord wishes, so He acts, and so His creatures act.

They alone are called blessed (in the world), whom Waheguru has made His Own (through giving the gift of praising Him). (But Waheguru cannot be obtained by a person's own efforts;) If people could meet Waheguru by their own efforts then why would they be crying out in the pain of separation? O Nanak! Meeting Waheguru in the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy, anand (celestial bliss) is enjoyed. The month of Jeth is pleasing for those whose forehead such good destiny awakens, that person meets the playful Husband Waheguru. ||4||
(Ang 134)

Wedding Invitation

The summer season is here and this means wedding season is here. I came home for the weekend and found some wedding cards lying around. I have noticed that every single wedding card has Gurbaani printed on them. Popular lines from Gurbaani used in cards is:

ਲਖ ਖੁਸੀਆ ਪਾਤਿਸਾਹੀਆ ਜੇ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਨਦਰਿ ਕਰੇਇ ॥
lakh khushee-aa paatshaahee-aa, je satgur nadar kare-i.
Hundreds of thousands of princely pleasures are enjoyed, if the True Guru bestows His Glance of Grace.
(Ang 44)

ਨਾਨਕ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਤਿਨਾ ਮਿਲਾਇਆ ਜਿਨਾ ਧੁਰੇ ਪਇਆ ਸੰਜੋਗੁ ॥੧॥
naanak satgur tinaa milaa-i-aa jinaa Dhure pa-i-aa sanjog. ||1||
(Guru) Nanak (Ji) says- they alone meet the True Guru, who has such union pre-ordained. ||1||
(Ang 957)

I remember last summer we received a wedding card, which advertised the Anand Kaaraj and the reception party on the same piece of card. It was ironic that a few lines up it had Gurbaani and few lines down it said, “cocktails will be served” and “beer bar will be open”. Sat Naam, Waheguru. Have we lost the plot? Can you imagine a Muslim advertising a Muslim wedding and just underneath writing “Pork scratchings will be served with refreshments”? ...I don't think so! Nor can you imagine a Hindu wedding card saying “Beef kebabs will be served with chutney in the lunch.” However, “Sikhs” advertise boozing and Anand Kaaraj on the same card. (Just the fact that people distribute sharaab (alcohol) after having Anand Kaaraj, which is taking an oath to Waheguru with Guru Jee as the witness makes a mockery of the "vows"). Very depressing thought! Rab Bhalla Kare. Gurbaani is the revealed Word of God.

ਬਾਣੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗੁਰੂ ਹੈ ਬਾਣੀ ਵਿਚਿ ਬਾਣੀ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਸਾਰੇ ॥
baaNee guroo, guroo hai baaNee, vich baaNee amrit saare.
The Word, the Baani is Guru, and Guru is the Baani. Within the Baani, the Spiritual-life giving Nectar is contained.
(Ang 982)

However, how much respect do we show Gurbaani? To make a card “look nice” we risk the beadbi (violation of sanctity) of Gurbaani. Most, if not all, wedding cards in UK and the West are thrown in the bins once the wedding has happened (unless you are Gursikh and show respect to Gurbaani or for some reason you have a hobby to collect and archive wedding cards!). I am shocked that no one realizes this and year on year every card has Gurbaani printed on them. How can we expect Sukh (peace and happiness) when we treat Gurbaani in such an intolerable (and sorry to say) cheap way. Rab Rakha!

Newspapers, for example Des Pardes and others, have Gurbaani printed in articles relating to Sikhi or on a top of an event poster printed. However, the same newspapers advertise Jaadoo-Toonay (black-magic) and other wacky and silly stuff. Newspapers are generally thrown in the bin and sometimes while the newspaper is on the table people put their chaa da cup (cup of tea) on top of the newspaper) or some Auntian (aunties) use newspaper pages for covering the bottom of cupboards to keep the cupboards clean. Where is the Satkaar (respect) for the Word of God printed on those pages? We conveniently do Matha Tekh and say “Guru Jee, Guru Jee…” at the Gurdwara, but at home we print Gurbaani on cards, throw newspapers with Gurbaani in it in the bins etc. Is this not hyprocrisy?

So, what can we do about it? … I think firstly if someone in your family is getting married then make them aware of the abuse of Gurbaani and kindly ask them to print a card without any Gurbaani. End of the day a simple card with adequate information is enough. Secondly, create awareness of the issue in your community. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of printing and simply make people stop and think about the issue. Hopefully when someone sees Gurbaani on a wedding card, newspaper and calendar, they will think and realise not to put it on the floor, throw it in the bin or use it as a table mat. “Bhai Manvir Singh”, “Bhai Manvir Singh”, “Bhai Manvir Singh”.

“Bhai Manvir Singh”, “Bhai Manvir Singh”, “Bhai Manvir Singh”. “Bhai Manvir Singh UK”, “Bhai Manvir Singh UK”, “Bhai Manvir Singh UK”. “Manvir Singh Khalsa”, “Manvir Singh Khalsa”, “Manvir Singh Khalsa”. “Manvir Singh”, “Manvir Singh”, “Manvir Singh”.

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.