Coventry Christmas Camp (Part 1)

From Thursday 25th to Sunday 28th December 2008, the annual Winter Coventry Sikhi Camp was held at Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara, Cross Road. It was the second Coventry camp I've attended, and like last year it was superb! Chardi Kalaa Gursikhs, sevadaars and children! Three words to sum up the camp are - pyaar, inspiration and fun! Every year the number of children attending increases. It was great to see lots of families and children attend even on Christmas day (when most people are at home enjoying the holiday or day off).

The camp was divided into two. Children aged from 6 to 13 were divided into age groups and rotated around different zones throughout the day (i.e. history zone, media zone, seva zone, simran zone etc). The elder youngsters (14+) had separate talks and discussions throughout the day.

The local sevadaars, families and youngsters put a lot of effort into the camp. It was inspiring to see the camp have such a positive influence on the children. So many children since last year's camp have started to keep their Kesh, stop eating meat, doing daily Simran, or taken Amrit. May Guru jee bless everyone and may the success of the camp increase year by year :)

Some photos from the camp (from www.SevaToTheMax.com):



Christmas day - morning assembly.


Christmas Day. Veer Preetam Singh being in the festive spirit, he is practicing some Christmas carols. (note: don't take my seriously!)


Bhenji Sonia Kaur's group.


Veer Navdeep Singh leading a zone with younger children.


Bhai Hardeep Singh (Leicester)


Veer Hardeep Singh's class on the basics of Sikhi and the daily life of a Gursikh.


Media zone with Veer Tarnjeet Singh (TJ). Children had to make short videos on different Sikh related themes and topics.


Bhaji Jasveer Singh with 13 year olds.


14+ group.


Bhai Joginder Singh jee did talks for the elder group! As usual very colourful and inspiring talks :)

Bhenjis who did Langar sevaa throughout the camp:




Langar.



The effect of Cross Road Gurdwara's tasty Langar! (just joking! Children wearing Sumo suits!)


Gladiators.



Adults/parents session with Bhai Onkar Singh jee



Highlight of the camp - the "Bittu Show" :)


Later the police turned up after a tip off that "Bittu" had no passport.


When the police went to arrest "Bittu", the children went wild and began a riot. Consequently a group 6 year olds were picked up by the local police. (note: I am just joking - please don't take me serious! Waheguru).


On Saturday afternoon two guests came to talk to the campers. One was a lady from an animal shop who brought a reptile, snakes, and a tortuise to show to everyone. The other was the local police who explained about the different things they do and showed their sniffer dog.





Why on earth would you want a reptile climbing up your arm! (Navdeep Singh looks really comfortable - NOT! And Bhai Tarunjeet Singh is checking to see if the reptile is still alive and kicking!).


Ravjeet Singh introducing his new friend (it looks like he has the snake shoved down his top!). Waheguru.


To end with, a photo of creme topped cheese cake! As always the cakes and desserts were Chardi Kalaa :)

More photos on www.SevaToTheMax.com.

To be continued...

Happy Gurpurb!

Today is the Parkaash Divas (birth date) of the Tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Jee. Happy Gurpurb to everyone.

Hail Hail Guru Gobind Singh Ji!
Dhan Dhan Guru Gobind Singh Ji

To the hearts of the masses, such a great Guru,
To the battle field, such a great victorious warrior,
On the journey, such a great guider,
To this world, such a great inspirational man,
To all his children, such a great father,
To the Khalsa, such a great leader,
Hail Hail Guru Gobind Singh Ji
The Rider Of The Blue Horse, 'Neelay Ghoray Teh Swaar'
The Keeper Of The White Falcon, 'Chittay Baaja Wala'
The True King, 'Sachey Patshah'
The King Of All Kings, 'Shah–Eh–Shehanshah'
The Wearer Of The True Crest, 'Kalgiya Waleh Patshah'
The Tenth Great One, 'Dasam Pitah'
The Father Of All Fathers, 'Dashmesh Pittaa'
The Great Sacrificing Saint, 'Badshaah Darvesh'
The True Creator Of The Khalsa, 'Panth De Wali'
The True Family Giver and Sacrificer, 'Sarbans Daanee'
The True Saint Soldier, 'Sant Sipahee'
The True Father of The People, 'Jagat Pittaa'
A Great Writer And Poet, 'Maha Kavee'

Hail Hail Guru Gobind Singh Ji!
Dhan Dhan Guru Gobind Singh Ji


Poem by Gurpreet Singh (Hounslow)

Remembering Bhai Surat Singh Jee

On Monday 22nd December 2008, Gurmukh Pyaare Bhai Surat Singh jee (known as 'Pooran Jee') left this earthly abode. I wished that when I next go to India I would have the opportunity to have darshan of Bhai Sahib and other Chardi Kalaa Gurmukh Pyaare. Sadly, that's another Mahapursh gone that I haven't had the good fortune of meeting. However, with Guru Sahib's Kirpaa I have heard a lot about Bhai Sahib's jeevan (life) from other Gursikhs who have met him. Waheguru. It seems that 'Pooran Jee' was the embodiment of humility and kindness and had great pyaar for Naam & Baani.

A SHORT GLIMPSE AT THE LIFE OF BHAI SURAT SINGH JEE

Taken from posts from www.AKJ.org forum

Background

Bhai Surat Singh jee was born on 24th December 1924 in Mitha Tiwana (now in Pakistan). He devoted himself completely to Akaal Purakh after receiving the gift of Amrit at a very young age. His spiritual status became very high when he started doing Sangat with Bhai Sahib Randheer Singh jee, Bau Mal Singh jee, and other Naam-imbued members of the Akhand Kirtani Jatha. Bhai Sahib Randheer Singh jee named Bhai Surat Singh jee as "Pooran jee" (meaning "complete") due to his high Gursikh character and lifestyle.

Sevaa through Amrit Sanchaars

Due to his pious nature, he was blessed with the sevaa of Panj Pyaare. Bhai Sahib did sevaa in Amrit Sanchaars in India and abroad. By profession, he was a government officer, and therefore he would get transferred to different cities. Bhai Sahib used this an opportunity to do Gurmat Parchaar and encouraged others to take the gift of Amrit and become loving devotees of Waheguru. Later in life he got married to Bibi Bhupinder Kaur jee who would serve the Sangat through singing Gurbani Shabads in Keertan.

Accepting the Divine-Will Sweetly

Sadly, in 1982 Bhai Surat Singh jee's two sons (Bhai Rupinder Singh "Rupi" and Bhai Varinder Singh "Vinny") passed away in a motor-cycle accident (Bhai Manjit Singh from Glasgow survived the accident). Bhai Sahib accepted the Divine-Will sweetly and did not allow the death of his beloved children to steer away his dedication and love for Waheguru. The day he heard of the accident, even then Bhai Sahib did not miss his Amrit-vela. During the Bhog (funeral) programme Bibi jee (Bhai Sahib's wife) was so badly distraught that she could not walk on her own into the Guru's Darbaar. She was helped along by the Sangat as they had requested her to do Keertan. She sat down and the Sangat took over from there. Later Bhai Sahib jee talked to Bibi jee about being strong, and accepting Guru Sahib's Divine-Will. He said to her, “Do you think I am not upset that I have lost both of my arms in this tragedy?” (relating to his sons) Bhai Sahib exemplified what it meant to lead the Gursikh way of life. He said to his wife, "Waheguru gave his two gifts, and now the Giver has decided to take them back."

Moving to Amritsar

In 1982, after the death of his 2 sons, Bhai Sahib shifted to Amritsar. Here his daily routine was entirely connected to Sri Harmander Sahib, Amrit-vela and Keertan Samaagams. Having reached a high spiritual state, he treated every individual with love and affection. Bhai Sahib was full of love for everyone and hugged one and all whenever he met in Sangat, such that every individual thought that Bhai Sahib loved him the most. He never ever had any negativity towards anyone in his entire life. He encouraged every individual in Sangat to learn and recite Gurbani and explained how this would make a positive difference in their lives.

"Cats and Dogs are Awake by Now"
In 1998 Bhai Surat Singh jee visited Toronto. A group of Sangat went from UK to Canada for a Keertan Smaagam (event). When Bhai Surat Singh jee saw the sangat, he literally lied down and rolled towards the Sangat from UK. The Singhs from UK obviously grasped Bhai Sahib and lifted him up and he was smiling as always. The Singhs heard that Amrit-velaa would start early but were left shocked when Pooran Jee came inside the room where the Singhs were staying at 12am precisely. He said, "Cat's and dogs are awake by now!". (In India dogs never start barking during the night). It was so comical, everyone just jumped up grabbed their towels and kachhere and went to do ishnaan.


Do Simran from Within
During the Toronto visit in 1998, Amritvela started and the josh (enthusiasm) of the youth in doing Naam Abhiyaas (Practice of the Divine-Name) was somewhat too loud for the liking of Pooran Jee. During Naam Abhiyaas, Pooran Jee would recite Sukhmani Sahib and some of the UK Sangat were not aware that the sound level of the Abhiyaas should lower than the volume of Sukhmani Sahib da paatth. Pooran Jee in a loving way said "Andhro karo" (do it from within). Some of the Singhs thought what is happening as they were used to repeating Naam loudly and fast. But then they began to all listen and learnt. The experience was something different and enjoyable. A Gursikh explained that when Pooran Jee said do Simran from within, he was referring to the sound and how it should resound through the whole body. He said it was hard to explain but gave an example. He asked the Singh to put his fingers in his ears and then listen to the Naam Simran. He said when you do Amrit-vela in the morning alone, you won't hear the goonj (echoes) of Sangat. The emphasis is that Naam Simran is strong inside as well as out. He also said that doesn't mean you sit there with your fingers in your ears :), the more you do Amrit-vela with the emphasis on listening to the sound the more it will vibrate through your body, and thus when walking, talking or sleeping it will continue.

Appointed Jathedaar of the Jatha

On 2nd March 2006, after the passing away of Jathedaar Bhai Raam Singh jee, Bhai Surat Singh jee was selected as the next Jathedaar (chief) of the Akhand Kirtani Jatha. Singh Sahib Bhai Ranjeet Singh, former Jathedaar of Sri Akaal Takht Sahib, bestowed a Siropa to Bhai Sahib.

Undying Love for Amrit-Velaa

Despite his physical condition, Bhai Sahib didn’t make his sitting much comfortable. Even in the weakest of his conditions he never stopped his Amrit-velaa programmes. Everday Bhai Sahib would have full keshi ishnaan (bath of body and hair) and be ready at 12:00am to join the Saadh Sangat at the Parkarma of Sri Hamandir Sahib, Amritsar. Bhai Sahib would lead Sukhmani Sahib and Naam Abhiyaas (repetition of Naam) programme within the Parkarmaa of Sri Harmandir Sahib. Till his late, Guru Sahib never let his Pyaar (love) for Amrit-Velaa and Sukhmani Sahib slacken, till his last breath!

Final Moments

For the last few days Bhai Sahib's health was weak and Amrit-vela was held at their residence in Amritsar instead of the parkarmaa at Sri Darbaar Sahib. On the last day, the Amrit-vela at their residence was attended by a lot Gursikhs. As always Bhai Sahib gave pyaar to everyone. During the day Bhai Sahib was feeling unwell. While being looked after by 2 Gursikhs in his room at aprox 5.30pm (India Time), accoriding Guru's Sahibs Hukam this earthly abode.

ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਜਨਮੁ ਸਵਾਰਿ ਦਰਗਹ ਚਿਲਆ ॥
gurmukh janam savaar dargeh chaliaa||
Spending this life fruitfully Gurmukh goes to the other world.
(Bhai Gurdaas jee)

Rainsbaaee Keertan & Amrit Sanchaar in Loving Memory of Bhai Surat Singh Jee ('Puran Jee')

A message from the Akhand Kirtani Jatha that was emailed out to everyone:


Saadh Sangat Jee,
Vaheguru Jee Kaa Khalsa Vahgeuru Jee Kee Fateh,

The Akhand Kirtani Jatha UK welcomes you to join in with the Saadh-Sangat to sing the praises of Vaheguru in a Rainsbaaee (from night to dawn) Kirtan Darbaar. The Rainsbaaee is in commemoration of Panth-Ratan, Jathedar Giani Surat Singh Jee "Puran Daar Jee" who passed away last Monday morning. There is also an Amrit Sanchaar taking place during the Rainsbaee.

A benti to everyone to attend the Rainsbaaee Keertan and immerse yourselves in with the benefit of Gurbani. Please also let others know of the program and Amrit Sanchar by forwarding this e-mail.


Rainsbaaee Keertan

Rainsbaaee will be taking place on Saturday 27th December at Guru Nanak Gurdwara, 128-130 High Street, Smethwick, Birmingham, West Midlands, B66 3AP, from 7pm till 4am


Amrit Sanchar

The Amrit Sinchaar will be on Saturday 27th December starting at 8pm sharp at Guru Nanak Gurdwara, Smethwick. Can all abhlakhyees contact Bhai Taranjeet Singh (Coventry) – 07877888874, to provide their names for the Amrit Sanchar. If you have any questions, you can contact Jathedhar Bhai Raghbir Singh (01926 740160). If any persons do not have full Kakars, then AKJ UK will provide them as part of the seva.


It will be our great fortune to attain your blessed Darshan at the Rainsbaaee. Please also let your family and friends know and if possible circulate this email within your groups.

Vaheguru Jee Kaa Khalsa Vaheguru Jee Kee Fateh


---

Leamington Youth Sehaj Paath

With Satguru's Kirpaa, at the end of last Monday's weekly Simran programme at Leamington Gurdwara, a Youth Sehaj Paath was started. A Sehaj Paath (also known as 'Sadhaaran Paath') is the complete reading of Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee from beginning to end, with no time-limit for completion. The Youth Sehaj Paath is being done for the Chardi Kalaa of the local Sangat and in celebration of the 300 years Gurgaddi Diwas of Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee. It is a unique opportunity for the youth, together with their families to get involved, build on their relationship with Guru jee, and gain confidence in reading Gurbani. Each person who participates (and their family) will be assigned 60 Angs (respected word for pages) for one week, at a time suited to them. Hopefully with Satguru's kirpaa, the bhog (completion) of the Paath should take place in early June 2009.

Photos from last Monday's Simran and Arambh (start) of Sehaj Paath:


Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee Maharaaj.


Veer Bikram Singh


Bhenji Kirathpal Kaur


Bhenji Kamalpreet Kaur


Young Veer jee


Bhaji Preetam Singh


Veer Amritpal Singh


Veer Beant Singh


Hukamnama (sacred edict) before commencing Sehaj Paath.


Saadh Sangat.


Arambh (start) of Sehaj Paath.


Degh.




Sukhaasan Sevaa by Bhenjis.


Children reciting Sohila Sahib da Paath during Sukhaasan Sevaa.


Guru jee's Swaaree being taken to Nijj-Asthaan (place of rest).


Dhan Hai Guru, Dhan Hai Teree Sikhee.


Related Links:
- What is the proceedure for a Sehaj Paath?
- Read Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee online:
www.SriGranth.org
www.SikhToTheMax.com

Remembering Baba Thakur Singh Jee

24th December marks the Barsee (death anniversary) of Gurmukh Pyaare, Baba Thakur Singh jee, who passed away in 2004. I haven't had the good fortune of meeting Baba jee, however I have read about his Jeevan on the Internet and heard things from Gursikhs. From all I have read on various websites, forums and things I have heard from Gursikhs it seems Baba Thakur Singh jee's life was dedicated to humble Sevaa of Gurbani and Langar. Baba jee spoke very little but has left fond memories in the hearts of those who had the good fortune to see him.

A SHORT GLIMPSE AT THE LIFE OF BABA THAKUR SINGH JEE

Childhood
Baba Thakur Singh jee was born in 1915 in village Eechogill, District Lahore (now in Pakistan). Both his parents, Baba Bahadur Singh jee and Mata Prem Kaur jee, were Amritdhari Gursikhs, who had great devotion and faith in Gurbani. After the 1947 partition they came to India and settled in the Sadaruala , near Makhu, District Ferozepur. From birth, Baba jee was religious hearted, had a peaceful and loving nature, and firm faith in Guru jee. Baba Jee used to share his earnings, food, and belongings with others and inspired others to pursue sewa and simran.


Joining Jatha Bhindran
Baba jee always sought the Sangat of Mahapursh (an elevated soul). One day Baba jee heard from someone that Baba Gurbachan Singh Jee along with the other Jatha Bhindran Singhs were doing Sikhi Parchaar. Baba jee left his home and went to village Bhindra in Dist Moga to meet the Jatha Bhindran Singhs, where he was blessed with the gift of Amrit from the Guru-roop Panj Pyaare. Baba Gurbachan Singh jee was pleased with Baba Thakur Singh jee and made him in charge of Langar. After two and half years of tireless sevaa, Baba Thakur Singh was accepted as a member of Jatha Bhindran. Everyday without fail, Baba jee would wake up early at Amrit-Velaa (around 2am), do Naam Abhiyaas (repetition of the Divine-Name, recite Nitnem of Panj Granthi, and then they would begin to start preparing Langar for all the Singhs.


Sevaa with Baba Kartar Singh Jee
Up until Baba Gurbachan Singh jee passing away, Baba Thakur Singh jee did seva of Garveye (close associate) for 22 years. There after, Baba jee carried on seva of the Sangat and Langar with Baba Kartar Singh jee whilst imbued with Naam and Baani. During the political hard times when Baba Kartar Singh jee was doing sevaa of awakening the Sikh Sangat through Sikhi Parchaar, he had said, "If the government arrest me, then after me Baba Thakur Singh jee will be responsible for Damdami Taksaal. They can give the sevaa of leadership to whom they please." After Baba Kartar Singh jee passed away, Baba Thakur Singh jee appointed Baba Jarnail Singh jee the Jathedaar (leader) of Jatha Bhindran.


Sevaa of Gurdwara Gurdarshan Parkaash, Mehtaa
In July 1982 Baba Jarnail Singh jee began the Dharam Yudh Morcha and made Amritsar their permanent residence. During this time, Baba Thakur Singh jee was given the sevaa of managing Gurdawara Gurdarshan Parkaash Mehtaa. In June 1984, Sri Akaal Takht Sahib and Sri Harmandir Sahib were attacked by the forces and countless Guru Ke Singh and Singhnian became Shaheed (martyrs). After Operation Bluestar, the Damdami Taksaal seva was given to Baba Thakur Singh jee by the Sangat. Under the guidance of Baba Thakur Singh jee, Jatha Bhindran continued with their Sikhi Parchaar through Santheaa (teaching Gurbani) and Amrit Sanchaars, as well as helping Gursikhs in jails and Shaheed families.


Arranging the Sarbat Khalsa
The Gurmat institution of Sarbat Khalsa, whereby all the Khalsa gathers to discuss Panthic affairs and deliver decisions with the consent of the Panth based on the guidance of Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee, was stopped by Maharaja Ranjeet Singh. However, the old tradition of Sarbat Khalsa was revived for the first time in the 20th century in 1986, under the sevaa of Baba Thakur Singh jee. Thereafter, the reconstruction of Sri Akaal Takht Sahib was begun by the Khalsa Panth.


Damdami Taksaal & Akhand Kirtani Jatha
Baba Thakur Singh jee was strong in his beliefs, however at the same time he had the utmost respect for Abhiyaasi (practicing) Gursikhs. Baba Thakur Singh jee met up with (late) Bhai Sahib Raam Singh jee, the former Jathedaar of Akhand Kirtani Jatha and they shared great pyaar. Baba Thakur Singh would make Gursikhs sit on his manjaa (bed) and he would do their sevaa. Baba jee showed respect and love for other Gurumukh Pyaare and their Jeevans (spirituality) regardless of small differences in vichaar


Importance of Amrit-Velaa
Some of the students at Taksaal sometimes got lazy and would miss waking up Amrit-velaa. Baba Thakur Singh jee found out about this. He would lovingly tell the Singhs about the importance of Amrit-velaa and he would beg them never to miss it. If those Singhs still missed Amrit-Velaa, Baba jee would go to their rooms and start to massage their feet and legs. When the Singhs who were asleep felt Baba jee massaging their feet they would immediately jump out of bed. They would sees Baba jee standing with his hands folded together begging them to get up and do their Nitnem. Baba jee would say to the Singhs, "What else could an ‘old man’ do to get you Singhs up for Amrit-velaa?"


Malaysia Visit
In the Summer of 1998, Baba Thakur Singh jee and the Jatha Bhindran Singhs travelled to Malaysia. Baba jee talked very little and talked only if necessary. The Jatha Singhs told Baba jee that (the now late) Bhai Sahib Rajinder Singh jee (Dudley), from the Jathedaar of Chalda Vaheer Jatha (and a member of Akhand Kirtani Jatha), who was also visiting Malaysia for Sikhi Parchaar, had come to meet him. As soon as Baba jee heard this he rushed to the door to greet Bhai Sahib. Baba jee had a long conversation with Bhai Sahib, which was quite unusual for him as he talked littled.


Last Moments
On 24th December 2004, at the age of 89, Baba jee passed away at a private hospital in Amritsar. There was an audio recording online of Bhai Baljeet Singh, who was by the side of Baba jee when he passed away. I remember listening to the recording (I can't find the link now) and Bhai Sahib said that Baba jee was slowly Japping Naam and repeating "Waheguru" as he breathed his last. Waheguru.

ਵਿਚਿ ਦੁਨੀਆ ਸੇਵ ਕਮਾਈਐ ॥ ਤਾ ਦਰਗਹ ਬੈਸਣੁ ਪਾਈਐ ॥
vich duneeaa seva kamaaeeai. ta dargeh baaisan paaeeai.
"In the midst of this world, do seva (selfless service), and you shall be given a place of honour in the Court of Waheguru."
(Ang 26)

Sad Story of an Elderly Man (Part 2)

...Continued.

I had a chat with Baba jee. He seemed content and didn't expect much. He talked a bit about his family. I asked how many children he had. Baba jee replied that he had three sons who lived in London and that he has family elsewhere in other countries. I asked, "How old are your children?" He replied, "They are all grown-up. They came to this country and got married. I have many grandchildren as well." I was happy to know that he had large family.

But then Baba jee said, "They came to see me when I was in hospital (one and half years ago). Their wives said that they did not like their husbands to visit me. They said they had jobs and businesses and it was too much hassle to visit me." I didn't wish to intrude on his family issues so I changed the topic. However, it made think about something Bhai Sahib Bhai Gurdaas jee writes in his Vaars:

ਨੂੰਹ ਨਿਤ ਮੰਤ ਕੁਮੰਤ ਦੇਇ ਮਾਂ ਪਿਉ ਛਡਿ ਵਡੇ ਹਿਤਆਰੇ ॥
nooh nit mant kumant de-e maa pio shhadd vadde hatiaare||
The daughter-inlaw then started continuously advising her husband to desert his parents instigating that they had been tyrants.

ਵਖ ਹੋਵੈ ਪੁਤੁ ਰੰਨਿ ਲੈ ਮਾਂ ਪਿਉ ਦੇ ਉਪਕਾਰੁ ਵਿਸਾਰੇ ॥
vakh hovai put rann lai maa pio de upkaar visaare||
Forgetting the love and help of the parents, the son along with his wife got separated from them.

ਲੋਕਾਚਾਰਿ ਹੋਇ ਵਡੇ ਕੁਚਾਰੇ ॥੧੨॥
lokaachaar hoe vadde kuchaare ||12||
Now the way of the way of the world has become grossly immoral.(12)
(Vaar 37: Pauree 12)

Bhai Gurdaas jee in another Pauree writes:

ਮਾਂ ਪਿਉ ਪਰਹਰਿ ਕਰੈ ਦਾਨ ਬੇਈਮਾਨ ਅਗਿਆਨ ਪਰਾਣੀ ॥
maa pio parhar karai daan be-eemaan agiaan paraanee ||
The person who having deserted his parents performs charities, is corrupt and ignorant.
(Vaar 37: Pauree 13)

He said that when he was fit and well he used to go by train to London and visit his family. However, since he became ill, he has been unable to travel anywhere. One day he was at home and collapsed and there was no one else to help him. Thankfully a social-worker came to visit him and looked through the window because he didn't answer the door. The social-worker realised that Baba jee had collapsed on the floor and couldn't get help so the fire-service had to smash the front window and get him out. Since then he had to sell his house and move into a nursing home.

The nursing home staff were very nice. It is great to see that there are places where elderly people with no families can go and live with people to care for them. However, it is also sad that people with families also end up in nursing homes.


When I went to see Baba jee, his hair was in a mess. There was a Keski (short under-turban) loosely wrapped over his head, with his hairs poking out everywhere. Because Baba jee had suffered numerous strokes, he struggled to move his hands and could not comb his own hair or tie his own dastaar. So, I offered to teach the staff how to tie a Dastaar. Some of the nurses said that it is too difficult. But there is one senior nurse who was very caring for all the patients and she said she will not rest until she learns how to tie a Dastaar. It was inspiring to see the nurse's spirit and attitude.

After learning how to tie a Dastaar, the senior nurse tied a Keski and then a Dastaar on Baba jee's head. He was very happy. The nursing home people were so pleased that they took photographs of Baba jee wearing his newly tied Dastaar. The other patients at the nursing home complimented him as well.

I shortly left the nursing home and I promised the nursing home manager that I would let other members of the local community know about Baba jee is living at the nursing home so that they could come and visit him.



Last week, my dad received a phone call from one of the volunteers who cared for Baba jee. She said he had passed away. His funeral was yesterday. The staff said that Baba jee felt very lonely for the past one and half years but still made the most of what he had. Another person who visited him a few times before passing away said that he asked Baba jee, "Do you do Paatth and Simran? Do you need a Gutka Sahib?" Baba jee replied, "I have a Gutka Sahib. However, I know Sukhmani Sahib da Paath and Nitnem off by heart." The volunteer care worker said that she was by his side when he passed away. She said, "He was holding a prayer book (Gutka Sahib) in his hands and he was reciting prayers (paatth) when hen breathed his last breath."

Guru jee says in Salok Mehlaa Nauvaa:

ਸੁਖ ਮੈ ਬਹੁ ਸੰਗੀ ਭਏ ਦੁਖ ਮੈ ਸੰਗਿ ਨ ਕੋਇ ॥
Sukẖ mai bahu sangī bẖe-e ḏukẖ mai sang na koe.
In good times, there are many companions around, but in bad times, there is no one at all.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਹਰਿ ਭਜੁ ਮਨਾ ਅੰਤਿ ਸਹਾਈ ਹੋਇ ॥੩੨॥
Kahu Nānak har bẖaj manaa anṯ sahaaee hoe. ||32||
Says Nanak! Vibrate and meditate on Waheguru; He shall be your only Help and Support in the end. ||32|| (Ang 1428)

Guru Raakhaa

Sad Story of an Elderly Man (Part 1)

Three months ago, I was going for my usual evening walk. As I walking on the main road, I saw a taxi slow down when it passed me and then it pulled over in the small side road in front of me. A middle-aged Pakistani man got out of the car and waited for me to come near him. As I walked by he said "Hello" and I said "Hello" back.

The taxi driver said, "Sorry, I stopped my car when I saw you walking." I was slightly confused why the taxi driver had stopped when he saw me! I thought perhaps he needs help in finding a road or something. He said, "I have been waiting to find a Sardar and today I was lucky." He explained further, "I have a customer who is a volunteer at a nursing home in a nearby village. She was telling me that they have an elderly Sikh man with no family living in the nursing home and that no one knows how to tie his turban. She asked me for help. Although I am a Muslim, I believe that we belong to religion of love for fellow humanity. I saw you and was happy to find a Sikh who could help this lady who works at the nursing home." Waheguru. The taxi driver gave me the lady's phone number and I said I would be happy to ring her and see how I can help.

I got in touch with the volunteer worker and she was happy to find someone who could tie a dastaar for this elderly man. I was baffled who this elderly man in a village nursing home could be considering that are not many Sikhs in the local area, and everyone knows everyone else in the community. She told me the name of the man and I realised it was an elderly man who lived by his own and who had separated from his family for a long long time ago.

We arranged to go to the nursing home and meet the elderly Baba jee. I took a spare Keski (short under-turban), Dastaar (turban) and a Kangha (wooden comb) with me. The volunteer worker was very nice. She was a retired lady and decided to dedicate her spare time to caring for the elderly and sick as part of sevaa. She said that her mother was a devout Christian and used to do sevaa of visiting the sick and elderly in hospital and try and help them out with odd jobs and listen to their problems. Similarly, she has the urge to help others. Waheguru.

ਅਠਸਠਿ ਤੀਰਥ ਸਗਲ ਪੁੰਨ ਜੀਅ ਦਇਆ ਪਰਵਾਨੁ ॥
Aṯẖsaṯẖ ṯeerath sagal punn jeea ḏe-i-aa parvaan.
Being kind to all beings is more meritorious than bathing at the sixty-eight sacred shrines of pilgrimage and the giving of charity.
(Ang 136)

The nursing home was in a nice village in the countryside. We parked up and went inside. On arrival the nursing home staff were happy that Mr. Singh had visitors. Apparently he has been in the nursing home for one and a half years and he never had any visitors since his arrival at the nursing home. Because the elderly Baba jee kept himself to himself and only now and again visited the Gurdwara, no one realised he had gone to a nursing home. Some people assumed he had passed away.

ਛਿਨੁ ਛਿਨੁ ਤਨੁ ਛੀਜੈ ਜਰਾ ਜਨਾਵੈ ॥
Cẖẖin cẖẖin ṯan cẖẖeejai jaraa janaavai.
Moment by moment, the body is wearing away, and old age is asserting itself.

ਤਬ ਤੇਰੀ ਓਕ ਕੋਈ ਪਾਨੀਓ ਨ ਪਾਵੈ ॥੨॥
Ŧab ṯeree ouk koee paaneeo na paavai. ||2||
And then, when you are old (and unable to move), no one shall pour water into your cup. ||2||
(Ang 656)

I haven't really chatted to him before. I have only seen him sitting in the Sangat a few times. When I met Baba jee he looked really happy to have visitors and had a big smile on his face.


To be continued...

Pizza Anyone?

Yesterday, there was a Sikh Society talk at University of Birmingham. Afterwards there were samosay to eat. A Singh offered me a plate with two samosay. I told him to take one out because I am not great fan of samosay now (last time I had three samosay and felt drugged up and sleepy afterwards!). So I had one samosa. The other Singhs and Bhenjees didn't eat any samosay. So I asked them why they are not eating any. They said that they were saving themselves to have Pizza afterwards at Chamkaurs (an Amritdhari restaurant)! (Yet no one told me to hold back on the samosay!). Waheguru.

Two cars went to Chamkaurs afterwards. The way some Singhs were going on about Chamkaurs and eating Pizzas was like they have never seen food in their life (no names mentioned!). During the journey as well the conversation was revolved around pizza toppings and pizza slice sizes. Waheguru. I wondered whether some of these Singhs were doing Pizza Studies at college and university or something. Rab Jaane.

Getting through all the peak-time traffic, we eventually got to Chamkaurs. But when we got there the shop lights were off! I thought we have driven all this long way to find the shop closed! Then a Singh got of the car and checked the sign. The shop was to open in 10 minutes. So we waited in the car. By that time the other car arrived.

To be honest I didn't want to eat Pizza. I prefer eating Daal and Rotee. Due to pressure of Sangat I got sucked into ordering pizza as well. All the Singhs and Bhenjees were excited and were behaving like they had reached Sach Khand or something! Waheguru. Really, there were really excited and behaving like the most important thing in the world is Pizza and nothing else. So everyone ordered. I wasn't really hungry and could have nicely done with a bit of Daal and a Parshaadaa, but due to pressure I ordered. Everyone else ordered large pizzas per person! I thought it was slightly excessive considering some of the Singhs aren't exactly very big (no names mentioned)! I decided to order a regular size pizza despite the pressure to order a large pizza. hehe.

Everyone got their pizzas and I even ordered a regular fries because I was told my pizza size is quite small. Waheguru. When I got the pizza I couldn't believe that I could barely eat it. Yes it was tasty! But how much Pizza can you eat? On the other hand the other Singhs and even Bhenjees were eating Pizza like this was the first they had seen Pizza! Amongst this hyper-activity and excitement for Pizza, it was inspiring to see a Gursikh who was not eating anything sitting amongst the chaos very calmly and not affected by this Pizza frenzy. I felt bit embarrassed and wished that I had just stuck my simple Daal and Roti!

ਏ ਰਸਨਾ ਤੂ ਅਨ ਰਸਿ ਰਾਚਿ ਰਹੀ ਤੇਰੀ ਪਿਆਸ ਨ ਜਾਇ ॥
Ėh rasnā ṯū an ras rācẖ rahī ṯerī pi▫ās na jā▫e.
O my tongue! You are engrossed in other tastes, but your thirsty desire is not quenched.
(Ang 921)

By the end of it, everyone looked stuffed. I could barely breathe. Another Singh (no names mentioned) looked like he was barely alive! He said he was okay but he looked knocked out after eating a full large pizza by himself! I was so stuffed that I didn't even eat my regular fries. I just about got home okay. Driving a car when you are feeling stuffed is not safe! With Guru's Kirpaa got home okay. One thing I can say is that I will not be eating Pizza again for a long long time!! When I woke up at Amrit-vela I still felt bloated and stuffed (which is not good!). Guru Raakhaa.

ਖੰਡਿਤ ਨਿਦ੍ਰਾ ਅਲਪ ਅਹਾਰੰ ਨਾਨਕ ਤਤੁ ਬੀਚਾਰੋ ॥੮॥
Kẖandiṯ niḏrā alap ahāraʼn Nānak ṯaṯ bīcẖāro. ||8||
Sleep little, and eat little; O Nanak, this is the essence of wisdom. ||8||
(Ang 939)