Shaheedi Diwas - Remembering the Dark Holocaust

Today, June 6th, marks the 22nd anniversary of the attack on Sri Harmandar Sahib, Amritsar, when military tanks stormed Sri Harmandar Sahib, and the Shaheedi Diwas (Martyrdom day) of the twentieth century's greatest Sikh Saint-Warrior, Mahapurakh Baba Giani Jarnail Singh jee BhindraN wale alongside thousands of brave Sikhs became immortal martyrs. Shaheedaa Nu Lakh Lakh Parnaam.

A GLIMPSE AT THE LIFE OF AMAR SHAHEED BABA JARNAIL SINGH JEE BHINDRANWALE


Childhood & Education
Baba Jarnail Singh jee Khalsa, Bhindranwale, was born in 1947 in the village RODE, in Panjab. He was the YOUNGEST of seven brothers. At the age of seven years Baba jee was entrusted to Mahapurakh Baba Giani Gurbachan Singh jee Bhindranwale, the then Jathedar of DAMDAMI TAKSAL BHINDRAN, which was a Gurmat Centre for Gurbaani and Shastar (weaponry) training. Baba jee received Gurmat education and training at MEHTA CHOWNK, Jatha BhindraN through Baba Giani Gurbachan Singh jee and his successor Baba Giani Kartar Singh jee. Baba Jarnail Singh jee was married to Mata Preetam Kaur, and had two sons.


Becoming Jathedaar (head) of Damdami Taksal
In 1977 Baba Giani Kartar Singh Ji passed away as a result of a car accident. Baba Jarnail Singh Khalsa was chosen as the successor of Baba Giani Kartar Singh Ji before Giani jee passed away. So, in August 1977 Baba Jarnail Singh Ji became appointed as the head of Damdami Taksal Bhindran.


Propagation of Gurmat through Panjab & India
For five years Baba Jarnail Singh jee toured Panjab and other parts of India in spreading the message of Sikhi and preaching Gurmat. Young Sikhs had fallen away from the path of Sikhi, disregarded their Sikh appearance and resorted to ALCOHOL and DRUGS. Baba Ji’s message appealed especially to the Sikh Naujawaan (youngsters) who in their thousands began KEEPING KESH (unshorn hair) again, DONNING DASTAARS (turbans) on their heads, stopped taking intoxicants and begged to be blessed with AMRIT by the Guru-Roop Panj Piaare. Baba jee’s message was SIMPLE but POWERFUL. He urged Sikhs to become AMRITDHARI, disregard drugs and alcohol, NOT to kill innocent people and to live in accordance to the Guru’s teachings and principles.


Speaking up and Demanding Rights
Being a true Gursikh and one who does not fear to speak the truth, Baba Jarnail Singh Ji fearlessly exposed the HYPOCRISY of the AKALI LEADERS of the time and fought against anti-Sikh cults and movements. Baba Ji not only preached Gurmat but PRACTICALLY LIVED the message of the Guru’s. People sought his advice and intercession for personal problems and conflict resolution. Khushwant Singh reports :

'On a later visit to Amritsar I got an inkling into the reasons of Bhindranwale's popularity. I will narrate two incidents to illustrate this. One day a young girl came to see Bhindranwale. ..... She clutched his feet and sobbed out her story of how she was maltreated by her husband's family for failing to extract more money from her parents and of her husband's unwillingness to take her side. Bhindranwale asked her name and where she lived. "So you are a daughter of the Hindus," he said. "Are you willing to become the daughter of a Sikh?" She nodded. Bhindranwale sent a couple of his armed guards to fetch the girl's family. An hour later a very frightened trio consisting of the girl's husband and his parents were brought to his presence. "Is this girl a daughter of your household?", he demanded. They admitted she was. "She tells me that you want money from her father. I am her father." He placed a tray full of currency notes before them and told them: "Take whatever you want". The three fell at his feet and craved forgiveness.'

Tension with the then Government
Indira Gandhi, the then Indian Prime Minister, considered the Sikhs as her enemy and wanted to punish them after the Sikhs protested against the 1979 state of emergency. She saw Baba jee’s growing popularity and movement within the Sikh Youth as a THREAT to her dictatorship style rule. As a result this she started using FALSE and DISTORTED propaganda to brand Baba Jarnail Singh jee Bhindranwale as an 'EXTREMIST' and 'MILITANT'. Government agents infiltrated the Sikh movement and committed crimes in order to DISCREDIT the Sikh movement and help to justify Indira Gandhi’s plans to attack the Sikh religion.


Operation Bluestar
On June 1st 1984, Indira Gandhi ordered a full-scale attack on the holiest of all Sikh shrines, Sri Harmandar Sahib. This army attack was code named 'OPERATION BLUESTAR'. Indira Gandhi used the EXCUSE that she wanted to flush out "EXTREMIST MILITANTS" led by Baba Jarnail Singh jee who were apparently "HIDING" in Sri Akaal Takht Sahib Ji. However, the truth was that Mrs Gandhi ordered a full-scale army attack on Sri Harmandar Sahib during the SHAHEEDI GURPURB (Martyrdom day) of GURU ARJAN DEV JEE. This is one of the busiest times in Amritsar when Sri Harmandar Sahib has large gatherings of Sikhs travelling different parts of Panjab, India and the world to pay their respects.


Shaheedi (Martyrdom)
The army mercilessly massacred nearly 3,000 innocent Sikh pilgrims. Sri Akaal Takht Sahib, the Sikh’s Supreme Seat of Authority, was attacked with bullets and fire from Army tanks, to be reduced to rubble. During the attack on Sri Harmandar Sahib, Baba Jarnail Singh jee and 300 chardikala Gursikhs freedom fighters laid down their lives and became SHAHEEDS (martyrs) fighting till their last breath to upkeep the sanctity and dignity of Sri Akaal Takht Sahib Ji and for Sikhs to have justice and freedom.


Summary

"Physical death I don't fear, death of conscience, is a sure death"
- Baba Jarnail Singh jee Khalsa

Young and old were inspired by Baba Ji’s love for the TRUTH, FEARLESSNESS to speak the truth, and his CHARACTER of living the Guru's teachings. Today we should remember and honour Amar Shaheed Baba Jarnail Singh Ji and the other great Shaheeds who lived and died for Guru jee and the Panth. Let us all be inspired and strive to implement the qualities of FEARLESSNESS, COURAGE and their GURSIKHI JEEVAN into our lives.

ਧੰਨ ਉਹ ਧਰਤੀ ਧੰਨ ਉਹ ਬਾਪੂ, ਧੰਨ ਵਡਭਾਗੀ ਮਾਈ ।
ਢੰਗ ਜਿਉਣ ਦਾ ਜਿਸਦਾ ਪੁੱਤਰ, ਦੱਸ ਗਿਆ ਸਦੀਆ ਤਾਈਂ।
Blessed is that land, blessed is that father, blessed is the great mother. Who's son has shown the way to live, for centuries to come.

Bhul Chuk Maaf.

Parnaam Shaheedaa Nu.

Mind, Body and Health

Trust reverses our disease
an article by Dr. Amrit Vallabh


The religious scriptures keep saying, "Life comes from the mind." But until a foreigner comes along with empirical data, we can't believe it.

Louis L. Hay, after in-depth study has documented mental causes and remedies for each and every disease.

The fact is, while we avoid toxins through food or water we're oblivious to when we let dangerous poisons into our minds. Criticism, anger, resentment and guilt are some of the most dangerous negative patterns.

For instance, criticism indulged in long enough will often lead to diseases such as arthritis. Long-held resentment festers and eats away at the self and can lead to tumors and cancer. Guilt always seeks punishment and leads to pain.


The good news is that we can choose to take part in our own healing process. It does not matter how long we have had negative patterns, illness, a rotten relationship or money worries, we can begin to make a change today.

The mental causes for some diseases are interesting:

Disease	Mental Causes
Lower back pain	Fear of money shortage
High blood pressure	Longstanding emotional problem unsolved
Headaches	Self-criticism, fear
Heart problems	Long-standing emotional problems, lack of joy, stress and strain
Knee problems	Stubborn ego and pride, inability to adjust
Neck problems	Refusing to see other sides of a question
Thyroid	Humiliation, "I never get to do what I want to do"
Tumours	Nursing old hurts and shocks
Ulcer	Fear that you are not good enough
Diabetes	Longing for what might have been, deep sorrow
Fibroids, cysts	Nursing a hurt from a partner, a blow to feminine ego

The best cure that can be prescribed for most of these diseases?


"FORGIVENESS"!
It releases our toxins and heals us.


Courtesy:
The Kalgidhar Society, Baru Sahib

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ਨਾਨਕ ਫਿਕੈ ਬੋਲਿਐ ਤਨੁ ਮਨੁ ਫਿਕਾ ਹੋਇ ॥
naanak fikai boli-ai tan man fikaa ho-e.
O Nanak! Speaking insipid words, the body and mind become insipid.
(Ang 473)

ਨਿਵਣੁ ਸੁ ਅਖਰੁ ਖਵਣੁ ਗੁਣੁ ਜਿਹਬਾ ਮਣੀਆ ਮੰਤੁ ॥
nivaN so akhar khavaN gun jihbaa maNee-aa mant.
Humility is the word, forgiveness is the virtue, and sweet speech is the magic mantra.

ਏ ਤ੍ਰੈ ਭੈਣੇ ਵੇਸ ਕਰਿ ਤਾਂ ਵਸਿ ਆਵੀ ਕੰਤੁ ॥੧੨੭॥
eh trai bhaiNe ves kar taaN vas aavee kant. 127
Wear these three robes, O sister, and you will captivate your Husband Lord Waheguru. 127
(Ang 1384)

Episode 9 of India Travels: Bus Journey (Part 5)

The bus left Sabo Ki Talwandi at 7.45am. The bus was CROWDED. I sat right at the front near the driver. I was surprised how the driver can drive with so many people sitting around him!

From Sabo Ki Talwandi the bus went to Moga. If someone paid me every time I saw a RADHA SOAMI Satsang Centre on the road going to Moga, let’s just say I would be a VERY RICH person! Rab Bhalla Kare. The world has made religion into a business and everywhere you go in Panjab people are claiming themselves to be the Gurus. People WANDER from door to door looking for HOPE and ESCAPE - one Pakhandi "Sant" to the next, one self-proclaimed "Guru" to the next, Radha Soami to Naqli Nirankari - the list goes on! People fail to realise the SHABD GURU (the Infinite Divine Wisdom contained in Gurbaani) and NAAM. The concept of GURU GRANTH-GURU PANTH is being forgotten by people. I suppose it’s no different to the times of the 10 Guru Sahibaans. During Guru Tegh Bahadar Jee's life 22 people claimed to be “TRUE GURU” however Makhan Shah recognised the True Guru and shouted “LADO RE, LADO RE… GURU LADO RE” (I found him, I found him… I have found the Guru).

Gurbaani describes those who sway from door to door, Master to Master as:

ਦੁਆਰਹਿ ਦੁਆਰਿ ਸੁਆਨ ਜਿਉ ਡੋਲਤ ਨਹ ਸੁਧ ਰਾਮ ਭਜਨ ਕੀ ॥੧॥
du-aareh du-aar su-aan ji-o dolat neh suDh raam bhajan kee. 1
You wander from door to door like a dog, unconscious of the Waheguru's meditation. 1
(Ang 411)

On the way to Moga I sat next to a Baba Jee who thought I was a Granthi Singh and was pleasantly shocked when I said I was born in UK. Eventually we arrived in Nakodar Bus Station. It was hot, I mean VERY HOT. I was looking for the bus to go Jandiaala. I saw one bus, which said “JANDIAALA” so I went on the bus but the bus driver was sleeping. He said “Find another bus.” So I looked around, but there were no buses to Jandiaala. I would ask one person and they would tell me to go in one direction. Ask another person and they tell me the opposite direction. It was CRAZY!

Eventually a bus conductor told me that the bus to Jandiaala would be coming at the far side of the bus station, which did not have any shelter area. Either I could stay in the bus shelter and protect myself from sun but possibly miss the bus as I couldn’t see the bus from where I was standing. Or I could wait for the bus nearby by standing in the boiling heat. Chalo, I didn’t want to take any risks so I stood near the area where the bus was to arrive.

It was HOT. I didn’t know where to sit or stand. The sun was full beam in my face. Waheguru. I got out my MINI FAN which my mum kindly got me for the trip. I put it on and sat on the backside of a TEMPU (3 wheeler transport). As I was standing I met so many RANDOM people.


First of all a lady came up to me and asked me “Where are you going?” I told her. And then she said, “So what Gurdwara do you live at?” I said “Erm… I don’t live in a Gurdwara. I live in a house.” She said, “O really? I thought you do sewa in a Gurdwara.” Then she said, “So which Baba jee, Sant or Jatha do you do sewa with?” Waheguru. I told her that I am a Gursikh who came to India for a visit, I am not with any Sant or Baba. Waheguru. Then her husband came and he wasn’t too interested to talk about religion, then both of them walked off.

Then as I was sitting there with my mini fan on I noticed two GUJARS (Muslim nomads from Kashmir who travel across Panjab) who were sitting in front of me facing me near a bus. I could hear them. One Gujar said to the other, “Look at the Giani Jee’s fan. Look's like the Giani Jee is a Valaytee Giani Jee.” The other one agreed and said, “Yes, looks like Giani Jee is from abroad. Look at his fan.”


Then this young clean shaven college student came up to me with his friends. The young man said, “Giani Jee can I ask you a question.” “Hanjee, please ask.” “How many batteries does your fan take?” Waheguru. I told him “One battery.” His friends and he were astonished and then he asked, “Can I hold and feel your fan.” Bechaara (Poor chap!). I let him hold it. He used it on his face and was impressed and smiled and his friends were excited then he gave it me back and they walked off talking about the fan.

Then the bus arrives ONE AND HALF HOURS later! Yes! I stood in the heat, exposed to the sun for ONE AND HALF HOURS. Waheguru. I was the first person on the bus. The young bus driver had a few young men with him. As I sat down they started teasing the bus driver, “Look at Giani Jee’s fan. Look at yours! Yours is a big ugly fan, look at Giani Ji’s small and better fan.” Waheguru.

Then when the bus was about to leave, a mother and her children sat next to me. I knew they wanted to have some air from my fan. So I waved my arm sideways to give the Aunty jee and her kids some air. They didn’t say anything but I could tell they were thankful.

Eventful journey! I then realised that the two Gujars were actually coming to our house to ask for work! Bit of a coincidence.

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”.