Sacrifice for Humanity

24th November marks the Shaheedi Diwas (martyrdom day) of Dhan Guru Tegh Bahadar Sahib jee and his great Sikhs - Bhai Mati Daas jee, Bhai Dayal Daas jee and Bhai Sati Daas jee, who gave Shaheedi at Chandni Chownk standing up for justice for not just Sikhs, but for all of humanity. 

 

A GLIMPSE AT THE MARTYDOM OF GURU TEGH BAHADAR SAHIB JEE

 

 

The Cries of Oppression 

Emperor Aurangzeb was a barbaric ruler of the Mughal Dynasty who came to power in 1658 and ruled for 49 painful years until his death in 1707. When he came to power in 1658, he killed all his three brothers and imprisoned his father and forcibly converted 100,000 Hindus to Islam. In early 1675, the Kashmiri Pandits (the elite scholars and most revered sages of India) approached Guru Tegh Bahadar Sahib jee to seek his assistance in their hour of need. Pandit Kripa Ram with his delegation of 50 Brahman Pandits met Guru Sahib at Sri Anandpur Sahib. The Brahmans cried and desperately described their pity state of being looted, oppressed, killed, taxed extra, their daughters being kidnapped and their temples being destroyed. They begged Guru Sahib for his mercy to save them as they heard that anyone who comes to the House of Guru Nanak never goes empty and that the Great Guru will give them shelter and support. 

 

Need of Supreme Sacrifice 

The young 9-year-old Sri Gobind Rai (Guru Gobind Singh Sahib jee) asked his father what was happening and why everyone was sad. Hearing the distressing plight of the Brahmans Guru jee said to this father, "Some well-known Great Soul will have to make a sacrifice to stop this butchery. We have to find a supreme soul who will die so as to awaken the sleeping consciousness of humanity... who is greater than you father to fulfil this task". Guru Tegh Bahadar Sahib jee addressed the Pandits, "Go and tell Aurangzeb that if he can convert the Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadar, to Islam, they will all convert. Otherwise he should leave them alone." The Pandits were delighted that a solution was found and immediately informed Emperor Aurangzeb of the decision. Aurangzeb was overjoyed that by converting one person, he would without any further delay have the conversion of many thousands to Islam. Accordingly he summoned his officers to arrest Guru Sahib.

 

 

Arrest & Torture 

Guru Sahib with the five Sikhs made their way towards Delhi and was arrested on the journey. Aurangzeb asked Guru Sahib that he thought he was a Man of God then he should perform miracles like the Prophets of Islam. Guru Sahib replied that miracles are a cheap way of pleasing others and that he is only interested in pleasing God. One should live and accept the Will of God. Guru Sahib was then asked to convert to Islam. Guru Sahib refused. When the allurement of greed and fear of death failed to move the Guru, the 3 Sikhs of the Guru that remained with the Guru were barbarically tortured one by one so that the Guru will succumb and plead for mercy. The Guru began smiling when the Sikh's were sawn alive, boiled alive, and burnt alive. Aurangzeb asked, "O Guru of the Sikhs, why are smiling? What is there to be happy about?" Guru Sahib replied, "Today is the great test of my Sikhs. They enrolled in the school of Sikhi and today they have passed their test and graduated in the Guru's School - they have lived Sikhi till their last breath and hair on their body. For this reason I am smiling in joy." 

 

Martyrdom of Guru Sahib 

Finally, the Guru himself was beheaded, under imperial warrant, in broad daylight, in the middle of a public square, the most prominent public place in India, called Chandni Chownk, of Delhi, on the charge that he was a stumbling block preventing the spread of Islam in the Indian subcontinent. Guru Sahib's martyrdom made the world realise that one should live in dignity and die with honour, which infused new hope, inspiration and courage into the people of India. Guru Tegh Bahadar Sahib jee earned the affectionate title of "Dharam-di-Chaadar" or the Shield of Righteousness. Guru Sahib didn’t die for the Hindus. Guru Sahib sacrificed himself for the principle that ‘Even if I disagree with you, I believe in your right to LIVE PEACEFULLY’.

 

Cremation of the Body and Head 

Khushwaqt Rai who was employed as an intelligencer in the Punjab was asked by Colonel Ochterlony to collect information on the history of the Sikhs, wrote The Tawarikh-i-Sikhan. His account was completed in 1811-12 CE at Batala in the upper Bari Doab. According to him Bhai Jaita jee caught the Guru's head in his lap the moment it fell from the body. Running day and night he carried the head to Guru Gobind Singh Sahib jee at Anandpur Sahib. It was cremated with fragrant wood. The sky suddenly became dark and cloudy and none dared remove the body of Guru Tegh Bahadar Sahib jee from the Chandni Chownk for cremation without explicit orders from the Emperor. A Vanjaara follower of Guru Nanak, who was bringing his grain-laden bullocks from that side, put the body of Guru Sahib in a sack, took it out of the city and respectfully cremated it. 

 

Guruship Passed On 

The Tenth Guru received Bhai Jaita jee who had travelled all the way from Delhi to Anandpur Sahib with Guru Sahib's severed head. The Tenth Guru embraced him and said, "Rangretta Guru Ka Betta". Bhai Jaita told the young Guru and his family how Guru Tegh Bahadar Sahib jee had said that his son was the next Guru and bowed to his son, infusing the Guru-Jyot (Divine Light) into the Tenth Master. Sri Gobind Rai jee (Guru Gobind Singh jee) became the Tenth and final Guru in human form. 

 

 

Summary 

The Guru by this act has set a yardstick by which the Sikh must gauge their devotion to their religion. It is now not acceptable to say that: "I believe in the right of others to live in peace and dignity" - this does not even get near the level of awareness required for the followers of Gurmat. Guru Sahib has by his example taught Sikhs to maintain a high level of morality and always pray and act towards "Sarbat Da Bhalaa," the goodness and betterment of all humanity.

Answer to Questions...

I'm sitting in the library and came across an interesting article on DiscoverSikhi.com. Definitely worth a read!

...The website www.sikhs2islam.tk has posted a list of questions to Sikhs about so-called “flaws” in the Sikh religion. For believing Sikhs this is of course an absurdity as Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee, the word of God, tells us:

“There is only one true Dharma (faith). Gurmat (Sikhi) is complete and perfect through the ages.”
(Ang 1188)

Through this attempt to answer the questions posed, we will show that Gurmat is indeed the perfect and eternal faith. The website has the motto “you can’t hide from the truth forever.” Indeed, the truth is that Gurmat is the only complete path and this truth is one that cannot be denied....


Read Full Article Here

Today has been a busy day. When walking to uni I could hear as if I had dropped something. I looked around to see where the noise came from but couldn't see anything. I carried on walking and I heard another noise that sounded like something has fell on the floor. Chalo, I carried on walking. When I got to sit down and I put my rucksack bag on my lap I realised that the top of the bag had a huge RIP and the bottom of the bag had a RIP in it. O dear me! What a mess! The lesson I learnt - NEVER buy a bag from the market! Even if it did cost £3. Vaheguru!

I stopped off on Bull Street (I think that's the name - the main high street in Birmingham) and went to Millets (by coincidence they had a sale on!). I bought the new bag and asked the lady if she didn't mind if I empty my bag out on the counter-desk and put it into my new bag. She said okay. So I had to take my clothes, books, papers, and bits and bobs out of the bag and into the new. Although the shop lady didn't mind I think the customers behind me weren't too impressed as they I had to wait for me till they were served.

I realised that the noise that I heard earlier came from my PENS dropping out of the bag! The hole was getting quite big! Today I was going to stay at the Gurdwara Sahib so I thought thank God my spare Kachhera and towel didn't fall out of the bag! Imagine finding a Kachhera lying in the middle of the High Street! Worst still - Missing Property report going out! Vaheguru.

After buying a new bag I went to lectures. I felt SO SLEEPY! Worst thing - I was sitting on the FRONT ROW. A few times my eyes closed. I tried to look at the ceiling - that didn't help. Then I tried pinching myself - that didn't help other than leave red marks on my hand! When I woke up I made it look like that I had my head down reading the handout sheet. I don't think it worked! The lecturer probably saw me but he didn't say anything. When the boy next to me looked at me I said, "Yeah its because there's no air in the room - my eyes feel heavy!" He looked at me in a puzzled way. Rab Bhalla Kare.

"What is Naam?" - Midlands Sikhi Week

Midlands Sikhi Week started on Wednesday 8th November and finished last Wednesday. I had opportunity to attend the first event, which was titled "WHAT IS NAAM?" at UCE (University Central England) in Perry Barr. The train I was going to get to go to Birmingham was late so I took the train to Snow Hill. I didn't have a clue where I was but realised the Birmingham New Street train station was nearby (a 5 minute walk). I was in rush and knew I was getting LATE. My mind kept saying to Vaheguru, "Please Vaheguru may I get there on time. Don't want to miss a good talk by Bhaji Kuljeet Singh :)"

I arrived at Perry Barr and eventually found the building. Sadly I couldn't see any signs or boards. Felt like being a HEADLESS CHICKEN (obviously not literally!). Another person was trying to find the room as well however eventually got there. Although 30 minutes late the programme had just started. Bhaji Kuljeet Singh had dividedaa everyone into four groups to discuss different aspects of Naam - "WHAT is Naam?" "WHERE is Naam?" "HOW to get Naam?" and "DIFFICULTIES of Naam".

Daas joined the group who discussed and shared thoughts on "What is Naam?" Some really good points were made. Really, no one can define Naam and Naam is beyond description. Naam is something one has to experience like eating a sweet dish one cannot explain the sweetness. We looked at the GURMANTAR ("VaahiGuroo") and general reflections on Naam.

Some points that were made - Just as WATER has different forms (LIQUID, VAPOUR and ICE) but yet it's still water. Similarly there is NO difference between Vaheguru and Naam. Vaheguru's presence is everywhere, supporting all things at all times – in today’s language we could say the energy structure or power of the whole Universe. The Indian mystics and Sikh Gurus call that presence of Vaheguru, of the Supreme Light Power Energy Being – 'NAAM'. Other people call it by different names and don’t always associate it with Vaheguru. Essentially it is the presence of Vaheguru, which is inside us, and supporting absolutely everything.

ਜਲਿ ਥਲਿ ਸਭ ਮਹਿ ਨਾਮੋ ਡੀਠਾ ॥੨॥
jal thal sabh mehi naamo deethaa. ||2||
In the water, on the land, and everywhere, I see Naam. ||2||
(Ang 863)

The Power of Naam holds the whole creation together, including the elements of Nature. All the universes stand projected and are held together by the Power of Naam. Naam is the support of all beings; Naam is the support of the whole universe. Naam unites the devotee with the Lord. Naam cements the bond, the true relationship of the worshipper with the Worshipped. In Sukhmani Sahib it says:

ਨਾਮ ਕੇ ਧਾਰੇ ਪੁਰੀਆ ਸਭ ਭਵਨ ॥
naam kay Dhaaray puree-aa sabh bhavan.
Naam is the Support of all worlds and realms.

ਨਾਮ ਕੈ ਸੰਗਿ ਉਧਰੇ ਸੁਨਿ ਸ੍ਰਵਨ ॥
naam kai sang uDhray sun sravan.
Associating with Naam, listening to it with the ears, one is saved.

ਕਰਿ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਜਿਸੁ ਆਪਨੈ ਨਾਮਿ ਲਾਏ ॥
kar kirpaa jis aapnai naam laa-ay.
Those whom the Lord mercifully attaches to His Naam -

ਨਾਨਕ ਚਉਥੇ ਪਦ ਮਹਿ ਸੋ ਜਨੁ ਗਤਿ ਪਾਏ ॥੫॥
naanak cha-uthay pad mehi so jan gat paa-ay. ||5||
O Nanak! (Rising above Maya, the illusionary world,) in the fourth state, those humble servants attain salvation. ||5||
(Ang 284)

Naam is manifested in the form of the GurMantar, which Guru Nanak Sahib jee blessed his Sikhs.

ਅਖਰੀ ਨਾਮੁ ਅਖਰੀ ਸਾਲਾਹ ॥

akhree naam akhree saalaah.
From the Word, comes Naam; from the Word, comes Your Praise.
(Japji Sahib, 19th PauRee - Ang 4)

Gurmat Naam, is bestowed to the Sikh when one receives Amrit from the Panj Piyaare and Naam is instilled within the devotee through the Panj Piyaare making the devotee repeat Naam and the Guru placing his Hand over the Sikh.

ਮਹਾ ਮੰਤ੍ਰੁ ਗੁਰ ਹਿਰਦੈ ਬਸਿਓ ਅਚਰਜ ਨਾਮੁ ਸੁਨਿਓ ਰੀ ॥੩॥
mahaa mantr gur hirdai basi-o achraj naam suni-o ree. ||3||
The Guru has implanted the Maha Mantra, the Great Mantra, within my heart, and I have heard the wondrous Naam. ||3||
(Ang 384)

Naam is something to Jap (chant), reflect and contemplate through which Naam becomes woven in the heart of the devotee and Vaheguru becomes imprinted on the heart of the devotee. There is nothing in this world, which equals the value of the Divine Name. The Lord and His Name are identical. They are one.

ਤੁਧੁ ਬਿਨੁ ਦੂਜਾ ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਕੋਈ ॥
tuDh bin doojaa avar na ko-ee.
Without You, there is no other at all.

ਗੁਰੁ ਪਰਸਾਦੁ ਕਰੇ ਨਾਮੁ ਦੇਵੈ ਨਾਮੇ ਨਾਮਿ ਸਮਾਵਣਿਆ ॥੨॥
gur parsaad karay naam dayvai naamay naam samaavaNi-aa. ||2||
When the Guru showers His Grace upon us, He blesses us with Naam; through Naam, we merge in Naam. ||2||
(Ang 130)

Bhaji Amandeep Singh made a really nice contribution. He said that he heard Katha by a Giani jee which analysed the word "Naam" (ਨਾਮ). In Gurmukhi the two syllables, which make up the word are "N" (ਨ) and "M" (ਮ). Giani jee said that this comes from "Naa Mai" (ਨਾ ਮੈ). Naam in essence helps the devotee lose their ego and achieve a state of "Naa Mai" (when ""I" does not exist"). Other points made use the analogy of the FORCE in Star Wars to be bit like Naam :)

Here's some photos taken from www.telkhalsa.co.uk by Bhenji:


Discussing difficulties faced when trying to Naam Jap


Discussing how to Naam Jap.


Discussing what is Naam.


Discussing where is Naam.


Here's some photos of the presentations:

I must say that the Samosay and Spring rolls were very tasty! (Quick note: just to clarify they were from an Amritdhari shop). Probably had one two many. Chalo, all in the name of Sikhi Week.

Last Sunday's Programme

On Sunday Daas was invited to do Keertan Katha at Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara Sahib in South Gate, North London. Daas spoke about why youngsters are drifting away from Sikhi and how can this be possible when Sikhi and Gurmat is the religion and way of life of the TRUTH. Some examples from Sikh history were given and some anecdotes where shared with the Sangat. One anecdote shared was the story of a JAMAICAN MAN I met in DENMARK. This story exemplifies the Gursikh's mission of NAAM JAPNAA and LIVING GURMAT and INSPIRING OTHERS to Naam Jap and implement Gursikhi Jeevan to better the other person's lifestyle.

It was Monday morning and the Gurmat Camp in Copenhagen hadn't yet started. Giani jee had quickly popped out and the only people at the Gurdwara were three youngsters from India and Daas. The three boys from India knocked on the door (of Giani jee's room where I was staying) and said, "Bhai Sahib a Kaalaa has come to the Gurdwara." I said okay and asked, "Is he a Kaalaa Gursikh or just a normal Kaalaa." They looked baffled and said, "He is a Negro" (not in a bad way). Vaheguru. The poor boys from India couldn't comprehend that anyone other than Panjabis were Sikh!

I got up and went to talk to the man. He was wearing a small Dastaar (Keski) and had a beard. I smiled and we shared Guru's Fateh together. We sat down in Giani jee's room and got chatting. By this time Giani jee came back and both of them looked at each other and smiled and then shared Guru's Fateh.

I asked the man "How did you find out about Sikhi? How did you come to know of the Gurdwara Sahib?" He replied that he is born and brought up in Jamaica and that he came to Denmark to work. One day he was in the town centre and came across Sikhs from the Gurdwara Sahib who had set up a stall and were distributing literature and invited the public to come and visit the Gurdwara Sahib. He said that he was interested and so decided to come to the Gurdwara. That was his FIRST STEP.

He then met Giani Harkeerat Singh, the local Granthi Singh at the Gurdwara Sahib who is from Jalandhar. I asked if he has learnt Keertan and he replied that he started to learn that Tablaa from Giani jee. I asked “How do you learn the Tablaa from Giani jee when he doesn’t know English or Danish?” He smiled and both Giani jee and the Kaalaa started to laugh. He replied, “We communicate through the LANGUAGE OF LOVE. Giani jee knows what I am thinking and I know what he is thinking.” I was taken aback by this PYAAR (love) and SHARDAA (devotion) shared by both the Kaalaa and Giani jee. BEAUTIFUL!

I asked whether he does Simran or Nitnem etc. He replied, “I came to the Gurdwara and the Giani jee said to me one thing, “You WALK, you WORK, you ON BUS, you AT HOME, you anywhere – SAY: “VaahiGuroo, VaahiGuroo…”” He said, “I did what Giani jee said and man its great. The amount of PEACE, BLISS and HAPPINESS I get is indescribable. You start to see God EVERYWHERE and in EVERYONE. You appreciate life and see everything in God’s perspective. All one is to do is walk in His Will and know that God is there and to thank him, pray to him and be with him.” Vaheguru! I was taken aback again. The GLOW on the man’s face and his beaming SMILE made my day.

Guru Nanak Sahib jee says:

ਜਨੁ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਧੂੜਿ ਮੰਗੈ ਤਿਸੁ ਗੁਰਸਿਖ ਕੀ ਜੋ ਆਪਿ ਜਪੈ ਅਵਰਹ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪਾਵੈ ॥੨॥
jan naanak DhooR mangai tis gursikh kee, jo aap japai avreh naam japaavai. ||2||
Servant Nanak begs for the dust of the feet of that GurSikh, who himself chants Naam, and inspires others to chant it. ||2||
(Ang 306)

Later on Giani jee told me that last time when Bhaji Sukhwinder Singh (Sukhi) from Midlands came to Denmark he met the man and tied a Keski (short turban) on his head. Ever since that day he has kept wearing a turban on his head and stopped cutting his Kesh. Chardikalaa!

On Sunday Daas also covered the ROLE and RESPONSIBLITY of the MOTHER to inspire the child, give her BLESSINGS to her child and for her to have high hopes for her child to become successful life and become a proud and bold Sikh of the Guru. The mother's support and blessings are the FOUNDATION for our children, the FUTURE of Sikhi.

ਪੂਤਾ ਮਾਤਾ ਕੀ ਆਸੀਸ ॥

pootaa maataa kee aasees.
O son, this is your mother's hope and prayer,

ਨਿਮਖ ਨ ਬਿਸਰਉ ਤੁਮ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਕਉ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਸਦਾ ਭਜਹੁ ਜਗਦੀਸ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥

nimakh na bisrau tumH kau har har sadaa bhajahu jagdees. ||1|| rahaa-o.
that you may never forget Vaheguru even for an instant. May you ever vibrate upon the Lord of the Universe. ||1||Pause||
(Ang 496)

After the programme I was sitting in the Langar Hall and I saw an elderly Bibi jee walk past me. She looked at me as if she wished to say something to me, however walked pass. A few minutes later she walked back to where I was sitting in the Langar Hall and shared the Guru’s Fateh. She said that she had listen to the agreed of the important role of mothers but said that she tries her best to pass her duties. She explained that she looks after her grandchildren. Their father passed away when they were young and their mother wasn’t around and so the elderly lady took them into her care. The children told their grandmother that didn’t want to cut their hair because they wished to LOOK LIKE THEIR FATHER who used to be a Mona (clean shaven) but kept his Kesh and took Amrit after the attack on Sri Harmandar Sahib in Amritsar in June 1984.

I was happy that children were adamant on keeping Sikhi Saroop and pursuing Sikhi. She then showed me her HANDS. Vaheguru! I think she was suffering arthritis or something similar. Her hands had CURLED UP and were not straight. She said, "With these hands I COMB my grand children’s hair and maintained their Kesh."

She said that she wanted to show me her hands and share her story so that I know that even in today’s times mothers exist who will do ANYTHING for their children to keep the Guru’s Saroop (identity) and follow in the footsteps of Gurmat. Hearing Mata jee speak and show her hands I felt emotional and moved. Blessed are those mothers who make SACRIFICES and endure pain and suffering to NURTURE their children to become PROUD and WONDERFUL Sikhs.

ਪੁੱਤਰ ਨਿਸ਼ਾਨ ਹੈ, ਪੈਸਾ ਗੁਜ਼ਰਾਨ ਹੈ, ਔਰਤ ਈਮਾਨ ਹੈ ॥
putar nishaan hai, paisaa guzraan hai, aurat eemaan hai.
Children are our gift to the world, money is for sustenance, and a woman is our conscience.
(Guru Hargobind Sahib jee)

A Long Saturday

On Saturday I was at work and sitting at the cashier desk. One of the members of staff came to the cashier till and asked me "HOW LONG IS YOUR HAIR?" So I said, "I think it comes up to here". I explained that before I used to cut my hair and used to be a NON-PRACTICING Sikh and now I am a PRACTICING Sikh. The Gora repeated what I said, "So you're saying before you were a non-practicing Sikh and had cut hair? Right? And now you are wearing a turban and have long hair and are a practicing Sikh?" I said, "Yes". Just as I said that I hear a loud voice "You are either A SIKH or NOT a Sikh - there is NO SUCH THING as practicing Sikh or non-practicing Sikh." I was SHOCKED. I turned around (to where the customer stands to be served) and saw a middle-aged Gora standing there. He was dressed in worn work overalls and wearing a baseball cap.

He said to me, "What are you saying mate? Either you are a Sikh - keep the hair, wear the turban and follow the Path, or you are not a Sikh. There is NO INBETWEEN. A SIKH IS A SIKH." I felt overwhelmed and was gob smacked like I have seen a GHOST! The small town I live there are about 65 Panjabi families out of which only about 5 or so elderly people are Keshdhari. I was taken aback about how he knew about Sikhi. The customer's interruption to the conversation made my mind keep on contemplating on the words of Guru Gobind Singh jee in Bhai Desa Singh jee's Rehitnaamaa:

ਰਹਿਣੀ ਰਹੈ ਸੋਈ ਸਿਖ ਮੇਰਾ ॥ ਉਹ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਮੈ ਉਸ ਕਾ ਚੇਰਾ ॥
rehiNee rehai soee sikh meraa.
ouh saahib mai us kaa cheeraa.
One who lives Rehit (the way of life) is my Sikh.
That person is my Master and I am his disciple.

ਰਹਿਤ ਬਿਨਾਂ ਨਿਹ ਸਿਖ ਕਹਾਵੈ ॥ ਰਹਿਤ ਬਿਨਾਂ ਦਰ ਚੋਟਾਂ ਖਾਵੈ ॥
rehit binaa(n) neh sikh kahaavai.
rehit binaa(n) dar chottaa(n) khaavai.
Without Rehit (the way of life) one cannot be called a Sikh.
Without Rehit (the way of life) one will struggle (in life).
(Rehitnaama - Bhai Desa Singh jee)

I felt very shameful that I had to be reminded by a random customer that a Sikh is one who walks the walk, talks the talk and is someone who is striving to live Sikhi. I accepted the man's statement and told him that he was right. The customer stood there talking to me for about HALF AN HOUR. I asked him how he knew about Singhs and he said, "If you have a thirst for knowledge then you will find out some how." The poor man was so caught up in the conversation that he forgot his credit card in the shop! (I tried going after him but couldn't see him the dark!).

Afterwards the young boy working with me said, "Manvir, Manvir... I can show off what I know about Sikhism... Let me tell you what you are wearing on your hands." I said, "Go for it." He said, "You are wearing a GURDWARA on your hands." I couldn't stop but laugh! lol. I explained that the Gurdwara is a building, bit like a place of worship and that I was wearing a KaRaa. He said, "O Gosh! Yeah, yeah... I knew that" (with an embarrassed face) :)

In the evening I was going to go to Southall but had a problem with the car. The Road Recovery people had to be phoned and within 20 or 30 minutes a young man arrived with his recovery truck. Although it was cold and frustrating, but seeing this man was very inspirational. He was someone who exemplifies KIRAT KAMAAYEE ( honest livelihood).

The man was GENUINELY trying to help us rather than thinking of money. The way he was working reflected the respect he had for the customer. I was very impressed by his work attitude, genuine concern and honest nature. The man told us that he lived with his wife, children and his DISABLED FATHER. Him and his wife care for their father. I was pleasantly surprised to see a Gora living with his parents and selflessly caring for his disabled parent rather than choose the option of leaving his disabled parent in nursing care as one would generally perceive the attitude of wider society to be. He said his wife always has food ready on the table and that his children go to a Church School and that he tries his best to live an honest and hardworking life. Out of a bad situation Vaheguru caused us to meet a GOOD SOUL.

Funny Video!

Sikhi Week...

From Monday LONDON SIKHI WEEK began, which finished this Friday. Sikhi Week is a week of interesting talks and fun events across various universities. The first Sikhi Week takes place in NOVEMBER and the second Sikhi Week takes place in MARCH. It is an opportunity to build friendships with like-minded people from different universities and across the country, as well as take advantage of enjoying and learning from talks.

Daas was invited to talk yesterday at Westminster University to talk about "CHALLENGES TO SIKHI." There was a nice crowd of people. About 50 people or so attended the event. There was a presentation about the basics of Sikhi followed by what are the challenges facing Sikhs, i.e. media, fashion, television, society etc. Afterwards there was time for questions and answers.

The GURSEVA PROJECT team were also there and organised a “FEED THE HOMELESS” food run after the talk. Everyone nibbled on their SAMOSAY and PAKORAY and downed some orange juice and water. Afterwards most of the people who attended the Sikhi Week talk went along to help with Seva to distribute food to those in London who, for whatever reason, would not normally have food on that night. It was nice to see students take one step towards the Guru through doing hands on SELFLESS SEVA.

Here are some photos:


Here's the EAGER one's who turned up early (according to Panjabi timing!)




Bhenji making an announcement about the annual AKHAND JAAP, which is 24 hours of Vaheguru Simran by youngsters. This year it's at Soho Road Gurdwara in Birmingham in end of November time (forgotten the date!).


Bhenji Tazvinder Kaur waiting to do an announcement.






Today Bhaji Sukhwinder Singh jee (Sukhi) from Midlands will be doing the London Sikhi Week talk at IMPERIAL UNI. You may think I have forgotten about the Midlands. Don't worry! MIDLANDS SIKHI WEEK is starting TODAY with a talk by Bhaji Kuljeet Singh about "WHAT IS NAAM", and finishing next Wednesday. I am sure today's talk will be very interesting and inspiring. Below is the poster for Midlands Sikhi Week. For further info, details or more events, check out www.boss-uk.org

Gurpurb Weekend!

This weekend has been busy. On Saturday Daas was invited to Gravesend to do a Sikhi workshop with the local youngsters. It was a two and half train journey to Gravesend. On the train I was surprised to see that Gravesend is right next to the SEASIDE! (I've done AS Level Geography - however as you can imagine I didn't pursue it further!).

About 40 youngsters took part in the workshop. It started off with Keertan by Bhenji Jaskaran Kaur and Bhenji Ramandeep Kaur. Then there was an ICEBREAKER ACTIVITY that had a link to Japji Sahib and Simran. Everyone enjoyed the icebreaker and it was funny. Below are some photos of the small groups doing icebreaker activity:

Afterwards everyone broke up into small groups to have DISCUSSIONS and later on feedback with their thoughts and views. Here's some photos from the various discussions:

Daas then talked about ROOTS, HISTORY, BASICS OF SIKHI and KNOWING WHO YOU ARE.

Gurpurb day was Chardikalaa. Started off Amrit-vela programme at Uncle jee's house in Gravesend, then went to Park Avenue Gurdwara in Southall. Bibi Baljeet Kaur Khalsa did Chardikalaa keertan and sang the Shabads:

ਬਾਝ ਗੁਰੂ ਡੁੱਬਾ ਜਗ ਸਾਰਾ ॥29॥
baajh guroo ddubaa jag saaraa ||29||
Without Guru the world is getting drowned.
(Bhai Gurdaas jee - Vaar 1, PauRee 29)

and:

ਪ੍ਰਗਟ ਭਈ ਸਗਲੇ ਜੁਗ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਗੁਰ ਨਾਨਕ ਕੀ ਵਡਿਆਈ ॥੪॥੧੧॥
pragatt bhe-ee sagle jug antar, gur naanak kee vaddi-aa-ee. ||4||11||
The glorious greatness of Guru Nanak is manifest, throughout all the ages.
(Ang 611)

The Gurdwara is PACKED. The line to do Matha Tekh went all the way outside and the queue to for Langar stretch right out. It was great to see so much Sangat pay their respects to the Greatest of Great, Satguru Nanak Sahib jee.

-- HAPPY GURPURB TO EVERYONE --
Dhan Satguru Sri Guru Nanak Sahib jee, the Greatest of Great, who revealed the TRUTH to humanity and showed the world how to live, breathe and walk the Path of Truth!

Trip to Oxford & Work Conversation

On Tuesday I received G. S. Sidhu's new book called "SIKH RELIGION AND WOMEN", which Bhai Sahib kindly posted to me. I read the book going to university and on the way back from university the next day. I couldn't put the book down. It was very interesting, educational and eye opening as well as being written in a way that is easy to read and easy to digest. Something that should be shared with the wider public! If anyone would like to obtain a copy or would like to support the Seva of Sikhi Parchaar through giving their Daswand (one tenth of their earnings in accordancing to Gurmat) towards the work Bhai Sahib is doing then the address and details are below:

G.S.Sidhu
116 Waltham Close,
Abbey Park, West Bridgford,
Nottingham, NG2 6LE.
gssidhu116@ntlworld.com OR gssidhu30@yahoo.co.uk
Tel+Fax: 00(44) 115 9743423

On Wednesday Daas was invited to Oxford University to do a talk at the Sikh Society. My cousin drove me down. There was a nice group of twenty students there. They were all a good bunch of people. Though there are not many Sikhs in Oxford they come together on a weekly basis and do Gurmat Vichaar and Simran. The topic Daas chose to talk or do a workshop on was "WHY ARE YOU PROUD TO BE SIKH". Everyone broke off into groups to discuss and share thoughts, which they fed back to everyone else afterwards. This was followed by a talk about Sikh History and the basic fundamentals of Sikhi, which make Sikhi unique and priceless. By the end of the day I had lost my voice and the flu symptoms Daas caught on the weekend I went to Bradford got the better of me!

But in the morning I had to go to work. Compared to last week it was better! In the morning I met a lady who was a Team Leader on the shop floor. I introduced myself and said "Hi" and she smiled and in a warming voice said to me, "Aaah... You are a Sikh? Isn't that right?" I smiled back and said, "Yes...". She was very interested and happy seeing a Sikh. She had lots of questions, which passed the time well.

She asked, "Do you smoke?" "Do you drink?" "Are you allowed relationships?" etc. Sadly she was shocked when she heard Sikhs don't eat meat or drink alcohol because she said she said had "Sikh" friends who had shown her their wedding video. I replied that they are non-practicing Sikhs. I explained the four Bajjar Kurehats (Four Cardinal Sins) and explained that a Sikh seeks to live a life, which makes him or her a better person. A Sikh lives a balanced healthy and holy lifestyle, which is brings happiness, mental peace and contentment.

The lady was taken aback and overjoyed to hear that a Sikh doesn't drink, smoke, take drugs, have relationships outside or before marriage and that we don't eat meat, fish, eggs or kill or torture animals for our appetite. She said,  "I am really impressed by the self-control and discipline of Sikhs", especially regarding meat and alcohol. I said to her, "If I were to get a dog and tie it up and then decide to kill and eat it then I would be arrested and people would most probably feel sickened. If I were to kidnap a chicken and keep it hostage for a few days without food and water or freedom to move I would be arrested by RSPCA. However, no one sees it is wrong to keep animals locked and then kill them for our appetite?... We eat animals over Christmas then feel the need to detox the body, when you can avoid all the toxins in the first place."She said it is the first time she has ever met someone who does not drink, smoke, doesn't eat meat or have girl friends etc. She said she felt proud to know such people that live such pure and perfect lifestyle. I explained that this is the basic Rehit (discipline) for a Sikh given to us by our Guru.

I thought to myself how amazing that people are pleasantly shocked, amazed, and taken aback by just hearing about basic Rehat (discipline) of the Bajjar Kurehats. Yet I had not explained the 5 Kakaars (Articles of Faith), about why we keep Kesh, or about Naam or Baani! Through finding about a small part of the basics of Sikhi the lady got so much inspiration! We have so much to be grateful to Guru Sahib. We have been blessed with religion of Truth, the perfect and complete lifestyle with the love of loving everyone and praying for the well being of all humanity. May Vaheguru bless us that we recognise the value of what we have and be able to share these gifts with the world.

19-10-2006 Keertan - Denmark Gurmat Camp

If you look carefully you will notice that sitting in the corner near Bhaji doing Keertan is a Danish Gora. He came to visit the Gora because a young Sikh who he helps with schoolwork etc. invited him to the camp. The Gora was a very nice chap and enjoyed the Gurdwara Sahib. I was surprised that he agreed to sit and listen to the Keertan despite he felt uncomfortable sitting down cross-legged and also he had been at the Gurdwara since morning.

You can watch more videos from the Denmark Gurmat camp, which Daas has uploaded on Goodle Video if you search "Denmark Gurmat Camp" or "Denmark Keertan".

A Yorkshire Weekend

Last weekend was the annual Singh Sabha Gurdwara Bradford's Sikh Youth Camp. Daas was invited to come to the camp. It was one the best organised camps I have seen with a great atmosphere and nice cosy feel.

On Friday I set off from home. It was a 3-hour train journey! The train was PACKED. With Guru's Kirpaa I got a seat to sit on after one hour. Near 6 o'clock I started Rehraas Sahib (the evening prayer). Because I took my shoes off I felt a cold draught catching my feet. This led to what turned out to be the FLU! Near Derby it was announced that there was a SIGNAL FAILURE so the train was delayed. So I had to change train. It was crazy! Everyone was running trying to get on the other train, which was packed again! Reminded me of India!

The camp started Saturday morning with an assembly led by Bhai Roop Singh jee. Anyone who's met Bhai Roop Singh jee will know that he has a great connection with kids, is a great laugh and is very INSPIRATIONAL. Over 200 children attended the camp. The morning diwaan ended with Ardaas and Hukamnaama.

The camp was divided in five zones, which the youngsters rotated around. The zones were SPIRITUALITY, HISTORY, WARRIOR, OPEN and INSPIRATIONAL. Some of the sevadaars who led the zones included Bhai Roop Singh jee, Bhaji Sukhraj Singh jee, Bhaji Jagjit Singh jee, Bhaji Gurvinder Singh jee and others (my mind's gone blank!). Daas was in the History with Bhaji Jagjit Singh jee where we mainly covered History contained in the Ardaas and the Uniqueness of Sikhi.

The Langar at the camp was great. It's the first the Gurdwara Sahib I have seen where there is HOT-MILK (ਸੌਂਫ ਵਾਲਾ ਧੁੱਧ) as well as Chaa available for Sangat to drink. Usually it's just tea. So it was a pleasant surprise and very tasty! And thanks to everyone who provided Daas with cold & flu tablets, Beechams, and Lemsip - May Vaheguru bless you all.

The youngsters of Bradford are Chardikalaa and a GREAT BUNCH. They worked together to put together the camp and tirelessly did seva. May Guru Sahib keep them in Chardikalaa.

Bhaji Novtej Singh jee has some short video clips from the camp on his blog.


Ps. if anyone has photos of the camp then could you kindly email some to Daas (manvir.khalsa@gmail.com) to share on here. Thanks.

Hectic Training Day

Well today was a CRAZY day at work (it's a part time job while I study). It was the first day at work – the TRAINING DAY. First of all I was given FOUR VIDEOS and THREE CDs to watch. 3 hours of STARING at the screen! Vaheguru. Rab bhallaa kare! My eyes went BLURRY! Then someone saw me and said "Mate! You should have a break". I thought, “Rab Da Shukar! Manager Sahib has forgotten about me!” I went to the Office and the manager said to have a break and have lunch.

For lunch I brought 4 BANANAS and bottle of WATER (I would have brought Roti and Sabjee but got late in the morning). After eating one banana i thought "Vaheguru! Baksh Leho Saano... I don’t want any more bananas!" Then I went to Tesco. Other than fruit the closest thing to I could find to eat was (factory made) TEA-CAKES (p.s. they are eggless – just for clarification). So I bought them. I was so hungry from the TRAUMA of watching 4 videos one after another that I ate ALL FOUR tea-cakes. I felt queasy afterwards!

Coming back from break I was asked to go and stand next to the cash till and that the Manager would be there in a bit. I stood there for TWO AND HALF HOURS. I didn’t receive no password so couldn’t log into the till. I just watched the other cashier. But there wasn’t much to watch as there weren’t many customers. Vaheguru!

I thought to myself, “He mannaa – mai kehtey fas gayaa” (O mind! Where have I got stuck!). Even the bechaaree (poor) cashier showing me the ropes said she is bored and looked fed up. My ears have become sore with my Dastaar (turban) (I don’t know how! It’s a recent problem). Today my Dastaar was feeling tight. I tried to push my Dastaar up but didn’t want to push it up too much. So my eyes were aching; my stomach was feeling weird; my ears were sore; and the whole day my head ached.

10 minutes before the end of the day the Manager did a staff announcement on the speakers. He said, "Can Manvir please come to the Office." Vaheguru. Gore pronounce my name as "Man-vi-er". It was pretty funny that after the announcement the other workers said, "Andrea has gone out? She's just come from the Office? That's strange." I told them, "He didn't say "Andrea" - he said "Manvir" (or "Man-vi-er")." Sometimes I had this same problem at school when people in a hurry shouted Andrea in the playground I thought they said "Manvir" and vice versa. When I first started King's College university I thought to myself I am going to get everyone to pronounce my name as "Man-veer" (as in Panjabi). In the lecture I put my hand up to answer a question and the lecturer said, "What's your name?" I said "Manveer" and he said "Munver?" I said no "Manveer." He then said, "Manvee?" O deary me! Rab Bhalla Kare. I thought forget it (chhad parey!) Gore can't pronounce my name properly - so "Man-vi-er" (as Gore pronounce) is fine. lol.

Going back home I got peace of mind through reciting Rehraas Sahib da Paath (the evening daily prayer). After a long day I relaxed with a nice cup of Chaa.