Blessings of Guru Jee - A True Story...

Today marks the Parkaash Divas (birth date) of Guru Har Krishan Sahib jee, the eighth Guru. On this happy occasion I would like to share the story of how my grandfather was pulled towards Sikhi and the blessings of Guru jee...

My late grand-father was not that serious about Sikhi. Although he was Keshdhari, being in the army he drank alcohol, ate meat and recited no daily Paatth (prayers). I am going to narrate an incident which occurred in the 1957 in Delhi that changed my grandfather's life and made him a faithful devotee of Guru Jee.

My grandfather's best friend was called Bhai Manohar Singh. Both of them worked together in the army in India. Bhai Manohar Singh had one daughter. She is described to have been very beautiful and was a teacher in a school in Delhi.

One day during 1954 Bhai Sahib's daughter (Gurmeet Kaur) was arguing with another work colleague at school. The argument made Gurmeet Kaur angry and whilst shouting in rage she lost her eye-sight. She couldn't see anything, everything had gone black.


Bhai Manohar Singh was notified about his daughter. He took her to the doctors immediately. The doctor said, "I cannot do anything, I don't know what caused it, nor do I know how to cure it. Sorry Sardaar Ji." Bhai Sahib took her to different hospitals. All the hospitals gave the same response, "Sorry Sardaar Ji, we can't help your daughter. Her eye-sight seems permanently damaged by something which we cannot find out. We are sorry, but we cannot do anything now."

In desperation, Manohar Singh took his daughter to the army hospitals, with the thought that perhaps the army hospitals would have more specialist doctors which might be able to help his daughter. However, unfortunately Manohar Singh and his daughter were destroyed to find out that even they said, "Sorry, we cannot do anything."

Everyone had said "we can't help you." Where should they go? Who should they ask for help? Who will listen to the cries of despair?

Guru jee says:

ਸਗਲ ਦੁਆਰ ਕਉ ਛਾਡਿ ਕੈ ਗਹਿਓ ਤੁਹਾਰੋ ਦੁਆਰ ||

sagal dhuaar kau chhaad kai, gaheoh thuhaaro dhuaar.
Having abandoned all other doors, I have come to Your door for protection and help.

ਬਾਂਹਿ ਗਹੇ ਕੀ ਲਾਜ ਅਸ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਦਾਸ ਤੁਹਾਰ ||

baa(n)he gahey kee laaj as Gobind daas thuhaar.
O Lord! I have held Your arm, I am Your servant a devotee.
(Dasam Granth)

Bhai Manohar Singh thought, "O well if everything else has failed, then why not go to Guru Nanak's Darbaar." Many people advised Bhai Sahib to go to different Sadhus, Babas and other places but he had made his mind that he will place his hope and faith no other than the Guru jee. Bhai Sahib would go to work during the week and then every Sunday without fail he would take his daughter to Gurdwara Sri Bangla Sahib on his cycle. Gurdwara Sri Bangla Sahib is a historical Guru Ghar built in the memory of Sri Guru Har Krishan Sahib jee. Originally it had been the house of Raja Jai Raam, a devotee of Guru jee. When Guru jee travelled to Delhi Guru jee cured the pains of the ill and sick, and hit the ground with his toe to reveal a fountain of water which was used to relieve the disease of small pox that hit the local citizens of the time. Guru Gobind Singh Jee says:

ਸ੍ਰੀ ਹਰਿ ਕ੍ਰਿਸਨ ਧਿਆਈਐ ਜਿਸੁ ਡਿਠੇ ਸਭ ਦੁਖਿ ਜਾਇ||

sree har-krishan dhiaaeeai, jis ditthai sabh dukh jaai.
Remembering Guru Harkrishan Sahib Ji, all pains and suffering vanish.
(Dasam Granth)

Every Sunday, despite any family programmes or special occasions, Bhai Sahib would without fail go to the Gurdwara Sahib with his daughter and do sevaa from early morning to evening. Both father and daughter would clean the floors and clean the Sangat's shoes. In the evening they would sit in the evening Divaan and listen to Keertan before going back home.

3 years had passed and now, both Manohar Singh and his daughter had got used to the thought of Gurmeet Kaur being permanently blind. Accepting Vaheguru's Will, both father and daughter continued serving Guru jee through devoting their lives to doing seva at the Gurdwara.

One Sunday during 1957, after having done seva, both Manohar Singh and his daughter went to the Guru's Darbaar to listen to Keertan, as they usually did. The Raagi Singhs were singing this particular shabad:

ਜੋ ਮਾਗਹਿ ਠਾਕੁਰ ਅਪੁਨੇ ਤੇ ਸੋਈ ਸੋਈ ਦੇਵੈ ॥

jo maangėh thaakur apune ṯe soee see ḏevai.
Whatever I ask for from my Lord and Master, he gives that to me.

ਨਾਨਕ ਦਾਸੁ ਮੁਖ ਤੇ ਜੋ ਬੋਲੈ ਈਹਾ ਊਹਾ ਸਚੁ ਹੋਵੈ ॥੨॥੧੪॥੪੫॥

naanak ḏaas mukẖ ṯe jo bolai eehaa oohaa sacẖ hovai. ||2||14||45||
Whatever the Lord's slave Nanak utters with his mouth, proves to be true, here and hereafter. ||2||14||45||
(Ang 681)

While the shabad was being sung by the Hazoori Raagi Jatha, Gurmeet Kaur experienced something strange. She used to sit next to her father in the Diwaan Hall. She nudged her father and said, "Papa Jee, I can see Guru Nanak Dev Jee in front of me." Her father, with a tear in his eye, thought "O Vaheguru, she is blind and now she is going mad now as well. Maharaaj do Kirpaa on her, bless her."
Guru jee says:

ਜਿਸ ਕੇ ਸਿਰ ਊਪਰਿ ਤੂੰ ਸੁਆਮੀ ਸੋ ਦੁਖੁ ਕੈਸਾ ਪਾਵੈ ||

jis ke sir oopar thoon suaamee so dukh kaisaa paavai
When You stand over our heads, O Lord and Master, how can we suffer in pain?
(Ang 749)

She now grabbed her father's hand and said, "Papa jee, I am scared. I can see a Jyot (light) coming from Guru jee's hand and coming towards the direction of my forehead. I don't know what to do!" Manohar Singh now believed that perhaps his daughter is not going mad and that there may be a chance that this is a miracle happening. He held her hand and said, "Daughter! Tell me what is happening." "Papa jee, the Jyot is getting closer and closer," she said. She then described that the Jyot had entered her forehead.

"Open your eyes, open your eyes my child!" His daughter replied, "No! I can't. I am scared that if I open my eyes and I can't see then I will lose all hope." Manohar Singh convinced his daughter to open her eyes slowly. As she opened her eyes, everything was black. As she opened them slightly more, she could see a blur. Then when she opened them fully, she could see Dhan Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee and the Guru Pyaaree Saadh Sangat sitting the holy presence of Guru jee listening to the Shabad Kirtan.

"Papa jee, I can see, I can see. Guru jee has given me back my vision! Guru jee has given back my vision!" Bhai Manohar Singh stood up in the Sangat and starting make a commotion and shouted, "My daughter can see, my daughter can see". A Sevadaar came up to Bhai Manohar Singh and asked what all the commotion was about. Hearing what happened, the Gurdwara Sevadaars performed an Ardaas (prayer) of thanks and the whole story was narrated in front of the entire Sangat.

That day Bhai Manohar Singh went straight from the Gurdwara Sahib to the sweet shop and brought huge box of laddoos. The first place Bhai Sahib went to tell his good news was my grandfather's house. When Bhai Sahib came shouting outside the house, my Baba jee asked what has happened. My Baba jee heard what had happened to Bhai Manohar Singh's daughter and was wonder struck and realised the greatness of Guru Nanak's House. From that day on my grandfather gave up drinking alcohol and eating meat, and began to put full faith in Baani and Simran. He would recite Sukhmani Sahib, do keertan and recite regular Sehaj-paatths of Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee. If anyone would ask my granddad for help with paper work (as he could read and write during the time when most Panjabi villagers were illiterate), he would tell every person to first wake up every morning and do Mool Mantar da Abhiaas or Japji Sahib and then their work will become successful.

Dhan Hai Guru, Dhan Hai Teree Sikhee!

Story of a Visitor to the Gurdwara Sahib...

Last January during the Monday evening Simran programme at Leamington Gurdwara Sahib, Daas was asked by a member of the Sangat to speak to a non-Sikh visitor who had some questions she wanted answering. I approached the Gori and asked her what made her come to the Gurdwara Sahib. She replied, "I have been driving pass this place for a while and I have always felt like going in. Last week I decided to come in and I found it so peaceful that I decided to come back again. I really like what the children sing and find peace when they do their singing (i.e. Vaheguru Simran)." Looking at the lady she seemed to have something on her mind and didn't seem at peace. So I asked, "Please don't mind, but you don't look right. Is there something bothering you which we can help with?" The Gori replied, "You have all been kind enough to welcome me to the Gurdwara, I don't want to bother you with my problems." I said, "Coming here, you a member of the Sangat, congregation, so we regard you as a sister and we are your family. It doesn't matter that you a Christian, you are still part of our family here, so please share your problems." The lady's face lit up and she was so grateful that the Sangat was so kind to her.

She sat in the Langar hall and ate langar with the rest of the Sangat. Whilst sitting down she shared her problems. She stated that is a Christian but feels drawn to coming to the Gurdwara and sitting in Guru jee's Darbaar. She said that she feels depressed with the world and that when she sees and hears suffering in the world she gets saddened and it affects her mind. Bhai Gurdaas Jee's bachan (words) come to my mind and shared it with the lady:

ਦਰਪਣ ਵਾਂਗ ਧਿਆਨ ਧਰ ਆਪ ਆਪ ਨਿਹਾਲੈ ॥
"Humans are reflected (in the mirror of the world) in exactly the same way as their inner nature."
(Vaar 9, PauRee 6 - Bhai Gurdaas jee)

Similarly Guru Arjan Dev jee says:

ਸੁਖੀਏ ਕਉ ਪੇਖੈ ਸਭ ਸੁਖੀਆ ਰੋਗੀ ਕੈ ਭਾਣੈ ਸਭ ਰੋਗੀ ||
sukheeeae ko paekhai sabh sukheeaa rogee kai bhaanai sabh rogee ||
To the happy person, everyone seems happy; to the sick person, everyone seems sick.
(Ang 610)

Daas attempted to explain what Guru jee says to the lady and how if one is peaceful and happy inside then they will see the world as happy and peaceful. Hearing this lady started to think and she said "That makes sense to me. It is true, I am not happy inside. I don't have peace inside of me... How can I do that?"

Daas asked the lady, "Please don't mind, do you drink alcohol? Because alcohol affects the mind, body and spirit and is bad for you." She smiled and said, "No I don't drink alcohol. I used to - but I decided to give it up 6 months ago. I don't go to nightclubs anymore either." Then I asked, "Do you eat meat? Because the body is the temple of God and not a graveyard. Meat disturbs one's spiritual energy." Again, the lady smile and said, "I used to eat meat but I am now a vegetarian. My father is ill and he cannot process meat, so I have to give him vegetarian food. 6 months ago I stopped eating meat." I thought this is really strange and how this lady is following basic Rehat already. The lady added that she hasn't cut her hair for a long time also.

Daas explained Mool Mantar to the lady and advised that it may help to wake up early, do ishnaan (bathe) and then practice Mool Mantar for 10 or 15 minutes. I realised that there was nothing to write down Mool Mantar so that the lady could keep it with her so I asked her to practice one word till next week and then I would give her a print out of Mool Mantar. She said that she found "Sat Naam" easy to remember and say. So Daas said anytime you feel sad or down just say "Sat Naam" and think God.

A week later, the same lady attended the Monday Simran programme. She sat listening to the children doing Simran on the Vaaja from the beginning to end. After sukhaasan aand smaaptee the lady approached Daas and was smiling. She seemed to look very happy and her faced seemed to have colour now. She said, "I am sorry, I didn't wake up early like you said and do meditation however I recited 'Sat Naam' every time I felt low and it worked wonders. When I said 'Sat Naam' I began to feel happy." I don't know much about Guru Nanak, but whenever I hear his name or read his name I get an inner peace and happiness."

Dhan Hai Guru, Dhan Hai Teree Sikhee.

Unique Home - a refuge for abandoned girls...

Video about the Unique Home from 'Dateline Punjab' (11th May 2009):

The address to visit:

Unique Home
Bhai Ghanaiya Ji Charitable Trust (Regd.)
1082-B, Model House,
Jalandhar.

The Sangat is requested to ring the Unique Home before visiting as they would like to know who is visiting as they have to be cautious for the children's sake. Also by ringing you can arrange to meet Mata Parkash Kaur jee (the main sevadaar) who can show you around:

Phone: 0181-2276066/ 2274005
Mobile: 98721-20664

Some of the Sangat members have asked for the bank details of the Unique Home so that they can transfer and donate money. There is an outside charity in UK that has made an account for the Unique Home however the details of this charity are not known 100% and therefore it is suggested that you send money directly yourself or via family and friends visiting Panjab.

Inspirational Sister...

A daughter of Mata Bhaag Kaur jee awakening the Sangat:

Inspiring story of Sikhi Sidq (faith) from Italy...

Bhai Jagtar Singh Jee

In April 2008 I went to Italy to a Gurdwara Sahib in Sabaudia, near Rome. The local voluntary Granthi Singh of the Gurdwara was Bhai Jagtar Singh from Gurdaspur, a former student of Damdami Taksaal. One night I was speaking to Bhai Sahib and asked him about the difficulties he or others have faced in keeping their Sikhi Saroop (identity) and wearing their Kakaars whilst living and working in Italy. Bhai Sahib first shared the story of his friends who lived in North Italy and then he shared his own personal story. In this post I will share the account of his friends who lived and worked in North Italy. The story dates back to 2006.

Bologna and it's farmland

Bhai Sahib's friends were two brothers from Gurdaspur. One brother was in his late twenties and the the younger brother was perhaps in his late teens or twenty years old. They got a job in a farm in northern Italy in a place called Bologna. Both brothers were Amritdharis and knew Bhai Jagtar Singh jee from India and they had studied together.

Due to the lack of awareness and education about Sikhs, many of the illiterate or poorer Italians who run the farms do not know who Sikhs are. They usually mistake Sikhs for Muslims and therefore harbour ill-feeling towards the Kesh (unshorn hair) and Dastaar (turban). The Singhs worked for a few days on the farm. One Friday, whilst the Singhs were at work, the owner of the farm called them over. The Italian man said in English to them, "Look! I do not like the look of you two. Take off this beard and material you have on your head." The Singhs replied with the little English they knew, "The beard and turban are our religion. We cannot remove them." The Italian man said, "I do not wish people wearing a turban and beard working for me. You have a choice. If you wish to come back to work on Monday then you must come back as clean-shaved and cut your long hair. If you do not do this then do not bother to come back to work. This is final."

The Singhs went home very upset. Their parents had sacrificed large sums of money to give to agents so that they could come abroad and build better lives for themselves. Their family was living on the hope that their two sons would earn money in Italy and sent it back and help rid their debt and support them. What could they do now? The elder Singh went to the bathroom looking in the mirror asked for forgiveness from Sri Gobind Singh jee and whilst feeling emotional he removed his dastaar layer by layer. He then reluctantly picked up a pair of scissors and cut his Kesh which he had never cut in his life before. Once he had cut the hair on the top of his head he then waved the scissors over his long flowing beard. Feeling sad but hopeless he removed his Kirpaan he was wearing placed it in a cupboard with his dastaar. He came downstairs. His younger brother looked at him and in horror said, "What have you done?" His brother said, "We have no choice. If we want work we must sacrifice our Sikhi. I know it is wrong, but may Sri Guru Gobind Singh Jee forgive us for we have no choice. I don't wish to do this but how will we stay alive and how will we survive?"

The now clean-shaven man told his Amritdhari brother, "Are you not going to cut your hair. If you want work then we have to do it. It is not our choice but out of desperation and survival. You cannot rely on others for food because they will get fedup feeding you for free after a while and then what would you do?" The younger brother refused to remove his dastaar and have his hair cut. "I cannot turn my back on Kalgi-dhar Paatshaah! I will not go to work if that is the price to pay! You go. I cannot commit this sin. My Waheguru will provide me with food and shelter. I will not beg food from anyone - Waheguru will protect and provide for me!"

The now clean-shaven man went to work. The Italian boss said, "Wow. You have cut your flowing beard and removed your turban." Feeling sad he replied, "Yes, because you would not employ us otherwise." "Where is your brother? Why is he not at work?" "He refused to remove his turban or touch any of his hair." The Italian boss was very annoyed at hearing this and couldn't understand why his worker could not obey a simple order. In frustration he told the now clean-shaven man "Come with me. Sit in my car and take me to where you live. I want to talk to your brother." So they got in the car and drove to the house where they were staying.

The Italian man knocked on the door and the young Amritdhari Singh answered the door. Angrily the man said, "Why are you not at work?" "Sir, you did not want my turban or beard. You said not to come to work if you were unwilling to shave and remove your turban." The Italian man got really annoyed and said, "What's the big issue with this hair and piece of cloth? I don't understand! Are you seriously telling me you are willing to lose your job over that?" Humbly the Singh replied, "My religion is more precious to me than anything in this world. I have made a promise to God that I will never cut my hair and never remove my turban!I cannot turn my back to my God and religion, if losing my job is the price to pay then so be it! I am willing to go hungry or even die, but I cannot break my promise to my God and turn my back to my religion." Hearing this, the Italian man was left shocked. Feeling moved by the Singh's words he said, "You have impressed me young man. I believe in God also, but I have never met someone like you who has so much faith in God that they willing to lose their job, go hungry or even die! You have shown so much dedication, commitment and faith in your religion and your God."

The mesmerised Italian man pulled out a bunch of keys from his pocket and placed them in the hands of the Amritdhari Singh and said, "You have not turned your back on your God and religion.You are loyal and faithful person! If you are so loyal and faithful to your religion and God then you will definitely be loyal and faithful to me as well. I have full respect and faith in you. Please forgive me for my mistake I have made. From now on you are in charge of these keys to my factory. If you accept, you will no longer work in the fields, you will become the manager of the factory and look after everything for me." Waheguru, Waheguru!

After hearing this story we had to go sleep but I kept wondering what happened to the elder brother. So in the morning I asked Bhai Jagtar Singh jee what happened to the elder brother. Bhai Sahib smiled and said that the brother who became a Patit (apostate) felt like an idiot. He was so ashamed of himself. For the sake of a job, food and clothes he turned his back on Satguru and blackened his own face. But with Satguru's Grace he didn't cut his hair again and kept his Sikhi Saroop again. I was told that in August, when Singhs from UK went over to do Amrit Sanchaar sevaa, he went pesh (presented himself) before the Panj Pyaare at Reggio Emilia Gurdwara. The Panj Pyaare gave him a 'thankhaah' (punishment) and the Singh retook Amrit.

Dhan Hai Guru, Dhan Hai Teree Sikhee.

"Sri Harmandir Sahib De Darshan Ishnaan..."

A few weeks ago I was at school going to my Form group. I had seen a new Hindu Indian teacher at the school. That morning, just before registration I saw the Indian teacher and we said hello to one another. He came up to me and shook my hand and introduced himself.

The man had white hair and seemed quite old. He smiled and said, "I am going to Punjab in the summer holidays." I asked him if he was born in East Africa or Gujrat, because he seemed to know about Sikhs and Panjabis. He said he was born in India but in another state (think it was Madhya Pardesh). He said that his family moved to Mombasa in Kenya for short while before moving to England.

He said, "I have never been to Panjab before, but I have had a great desire to visit the Golden Temple for many years." I said, "Do you have Panjabi friends whom you will be staying with?" He replied, "I have many Panjabi friends who have asked me to stay with their families in Jalandhar and other places but I want my trip to India to visit the Golden Temple to be special. I don't want to be around anyone else when visiting the Golden Temple. I want my visit to be a special experience - just go there and enjoy the peace. I have looked so long for a chance to visit the Golden Temple that I don't want to be distracted by any people." The gentleman seemed really excited to go to Sri Harimandar Sahib and he shared how he has always had a pull towards Sri Harimandir Sahib and how he must go and visit.

It was very inspiring to meet such a humbling individual who valued the Darshan of Harimandir Sahib and meeting Guru jee with so much respect and devotion.

Guru Arjan Dev Jee Paatshaah writes in Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee:

ਡਿਠੇ ਸਭੇ ਥਾਵ ਨਹੀ ਤੁਧੁ ਜੇਹਿਆ ॥
Diṯẖe sabẖe thāv nahī ṯuḏẖ jehi▫ā.
I have seen all places, but none can compare to You.

ਬਧੋਹੁ ਪੁਰਖਿ ਬਿਧਾਤੈ ਤਾਂ ਤੂ ਸੋਹਿਆ ॥
Baḏẖohu purakẖ biḏẖāṯai ṯāʼn ṯū sohi▫ā.
The Primal Lord, the Architect of Destiny, has established You; thus You are adorned and embellished.

ਵਸਦੀ ਸਘਨ ਅਪਾਰ ਅਨੂਪ ਰਾਮਦਾਸ ਪੁਰ ॥
vasḏī sagẖan apār anūp Rāmḏās pur.
Ramdaspur (now known as 'Amritsar') is prosperous and thickly populated, and incomparably beautiful.

ਹਰਿਹਾਂ ਨਾਨਕ ਕਸਮਲ ਜਾਹਿ ਨਾਇਐ ਰਾਮਦਾਸ ਸਰ ॥੧੦॥
Harihāʼn Nānak kasmal jāhi nā▫i▫ai Rāmḏās sar. ||10||
O Lord! Bathing in the Sacred Pool of Raam Daas, the sins are washed away, O Nanak. ||10||
(Ang 1361)

Dhan Guru Raam Daas jee.

When Lions Roar...

An inspiring and innovation video made by a group of veer jees and bhenjis in remembrance of the martyrs and victims of 1984:

16th June... Shaheedi Divas

ਜਾਂ ਡੁੱਲ੍ਹਦਾ ਖ਼ੂਨ ਸ਼ਹੀਦਾਂ ਦਾ, ਤਸਵੀਰ ਬਦਲਦੀ ਕੌਮਾਂ ਦੀ।
ਰੰਬੀਆਂ ਨਾਲ ਖੋਪਰ ਲਹਿੰਦੇ ਜਾਂ, ਤਕਦੀਰ ਬਦਲਦੀ ਕੌਮਾਂ ਦੀ।
ਕੋਈ ਦੇਗਾਂ ਦੇ ਵਿਚ ਉਬਲੇ ਜਾਂ ਸ਼ਾਂਤੀ ਦੇ ਸੋਮੇ ਵਗ ਪੈਂਦੇ।
ਜਾਂ ਚਰਬੀ ਢਲੇ ਸ਼ਹੀਦਾਂ ਦੀ ਆਸਾਂ ਦੇ ਦੀਵੇ ਜਗ ਪੈਂਦੇ।
ਜਾਂ ਟੁਟਦੇ ਤਾਰੇ ਅੱਖੀਆਂ ਦੇ ਰੂਹਾਂ ਵਿਚ ਚਾਨਣ ਹੋ ਜਾਵੇ।
ਉਸਰੇ ਜਾਂ ਕੰਧ ਮਸੂਮਾਂ ਦੀ ਢਠੀ ਹੋਈ ਕੌਮ ਖਲੋ ਜਾਵੇ। (ਕੁੰਦਨ ਕਵੀ)

Today marks the Shaheedi Divas (martyrdom day) of Guru Arjan Dev Jee. Guru Jee showed the Sikh nation that one should never accept defeat and be willing to endure pain and death to uphold one's faith, principles and honour. Dhan Guru Arjan Dev Jee Maharaaj.

Bhai Gurdaas Jee writes about Guru jee's Shaheedi as follows:

ਰਹਿਦੇ ਗੁਰੁ ਦਰੀਆਉ ਵਿਚਿ ਮੀਨ ਕੁਲੀਨ ਹੇਤੁ ਨਿਰਬਾਣੀ
rehinde gur dareeaao vich meen kuleen heth nirbaanee
Liberating the soul from the body, Guru (Arjan Dev) stabilised himself in the water of the river as the fish remains in water.

ਦਰਸਨੁ ਦੇਖਿ ਪਤੰਗ ਜਿਉ ਜੋਤੀ ਅੰਦਰਿ ਜੋਤਿ ਸਮਾਣੀ
darshan dekh patang jio jotee andar jot smaanee
As the moth throws itself into the flame, his light mingled with light of Vaheguru.

ਸਬਦ ਸੁਰਤਿ ਲਿਵ ਮਿਰਗ ਜਿਉ ਭੀੜ ਪਈ ਚਿਤਿ ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਆਣੀ
shabad surat liv mirag jio bheerh pe-ee chit avar na aanee
Caring not for life, as the deer keeps its consciousness concentrated when in peril, the Guru also, when undergoing suffering kept none else except Vaheguru in his consciousness.

ਚਰਣਕਵਲ ਮਿਲਿ ਭਵਰ ਜਿਉ ਸੁਖ ਸੰਪਟ ਵਿਚਿ ਰੈਣਿ ਵਿਹਾਣੀ
charan-kaval mil bhavar jio sukh sampatt vich rain vihaanee
As the black bee remains enrapt in the petals of flower to enjoy fragrance, the Guru also spent night of suffering by keeping joyfully his concentration on the feet of Vaheguru.

ਗੁਰੁ ਉਪਦੇਸੁ ਨ ਵਿਸਰੈ ਬਾਬੀਹੇ ਜਿਉ ਆਖ ਵਖਾਣੀ
gur updesh na visrai baabeehe jio aakh vakhaanee
The Guru like a rain bird spoke to his disciples that the teachings of the Guru should not be forgotten.

ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਸੁਖ ਫਲੁ ਪਿਰਮ ਰਸੁ ਸਹਜ ਸਮਾਧਿ ਸਾਧ ਸੰਗਿ ਜਾਣੀ
gurmukh sukh phal piram ras sehaj samaadh saadh sang jaanee
The pleasure fruit of the Gurmukh (Guru Arjan Dev) is the delight of Love and he accepts the Saadh Sangat as the natural state of meditation.

ਗੁਰ ਅਰਜਨ ਵਿਟਹੁ ਕੁਰਬਾਣੀ ੨੩
gur arjan vitthu kurbaanee 23
I am sacrifice unto Guru Arjan Dev.(23)
(Vaar 24, Pauree 23)

Sunday 13th June...

JUNE 1984 REMEMBRANCE MARCH & FREEDOM RALLY
– Join thousands of other Sikhs on Sunday 13 June from 11am in North Carriage Drive , outside Hyde Park . Followed by massive rally in Trafalgar Square ending at 4.30pm .



Please contact your local Gurdwara and join the many thousands of Sikhs in London on Sunday 13 June 2010 for the Remembrance March & Freedom Rally to remember those massacred in June 1984.

Remembering the Great Martyrs of Operation Bluestar...

ਮਰਣੁ ਮੁਣਸਾ ਸੂਰਿਆ ਹਕੁ ਹੈ ਜੋ ਹੋਇ ਮਰਨਿ ਪਰਵਾਣੋ ॥
Maraṇ muṇsaa sooriaa hak hai jo hoe maran parvaaṇo.
The death of brave heroes is blessed, if it is approved by God.

ਸੂਰੇ ਸੇਈ ਆਗੈ ਆਖੀਅਹਿ ਦਰਗਹ ਪਾਵਹਿ ਸਾਚੀ ਮਾਣੋ ॥
Soore se-ee aagai aakẖeeahi ḏargėh paavehi saacẖee maaṇo.
They alone are acclaimed as brave warriors in the world hereafter, who receive true honour in the Court of the Lord.
(Guru Nanak Dev Jee - Ang 579)

Shaheed General Subegh Singh jee.

General Subegh Singh jee's shaheedi saroop (martyred body). The pictures shows how Bhai Sahib's scalp was removed, perhaps as a trophy prize. Tight wires are visible digging into the arms and a steel rod protrudes from his rib cage. Indications of torture prior to death or desecration of the body the Army troops after death. Vaheguru.

Shaheed Baba Jarnail Singh jee Bhindranwale. This photo was taken on the morning of the day of the attack. Baba jee dressed in a Kesri (saffron) colour dastaar and a white cholaa in preparation for martyrdom.

Shaheedi saroop (martyred body) of Baba Jarnail Singh jee Bhindranwale.


The above pictures shows Baba Jarnail Singh jee Bhindranwale's body sitting on a block of ice to prevent the body deteriorating in the heat. It was reported that Baba jee's body had 72 bullet wounds and the right part of the face was missing. Vaheguru.

ਸੂਰਾ ਸੋ ਪਹਿਚਾਨੀਐ ਜੁ ਲਰੈ ਦੀਨ ਕੇ ਹੇਤ ॥
Sooraa so pahicẖaaneeai jo larai ḏeen ke heṯ.
They alone are known as a spiritual hero, who fight in defense of religion.

ਪੁਰਜਾ ਪੁਰਜਾ ਕਟਿ ਮਰੈ ਕਬਹੂ ਨ ਛਾਡੈ ਖੇਤੁ ॥੨॥੨॥
Purjaa purjaa katt marai kabhoo na cẖẖaadai kẖeṯ. 22
They may be cut apart, piece by piece, but they never leave the field of battle. 22
(Bhagat Kabeer Jee - Ang 1105)

Related posts:
- The First Martyr of the 1984 Sikh Holocaust
- Some books on 1984
- 1984 - Myth & Reality
- Independent Sources on the 1984 Sikh Holocaust
- The Third Sikh Holocaust
- Shaheedi Diwas - Remembering the Dark Holocaust

Inspirational news story...

News taken from Transmission:

The Noble 'Servant' Of Peshawar

Khurshid Khan (in yellow head-covering) shining shoes to help show brotherhood with the Sikh community in Peshawar.

June 02, 2010

Khurshid Khan, an eminent 60-year-old lawyer and deputy attorney general of Pakistan, wants to "heal the wounds" of the terror-stricken minority Sikh community in that country.

So he does an extraordinary thing at a temple in the northwestern city of Peshawar.

Every day when he handles his work as a legal expert, Khan visits a Sikh temple in the center of the city, wraps a piece of cloth around his head to show his respect, and sits in the doorway to shine the shoes of Sikhs, whose community has come under frequent attack by Taliban militants over the last few years.

Two months back, militants in Khyber Agency abducted three Sikhs and demanded a huge ransom for their release. Two were eventually freed. But one, Jispal Singh, was killed in brutal fashion and his corpse left on the roadside in the tribal area.

"I went to offer my condolences to the family of Jispal Singh and that was a turning point in my life," Khan tells RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal. "I realized that as a Pashtun I should work to 'heal their wounds' by becoming their sewadar (servant). I want to give them a message of love and brotherhood, and that's why every day I am here to shine their shoes."

Khan says he is himself a landlord and doesn't even shine his own shoes at his home. But his cause inspires him to sit on the ground on a daily basis and shine 70 to 80 pairs of shoes.

"I can see the light of love in their eyes for me and my people," he maintains.

He adds that Sikhs have lived in the area with the dominant Pashtun communities for centuries, pay taxes, and play an important role in the economic progress of the region. But still, he laments, we fail to protect their lives and property.

They are being killed and kidnapped by the Taliban in Orakzai, Kurrum, and Khyber tribal regions, Khan says, adding that other Pakistanis must stand by them in these critical hours and give them a sense of oneness and brotherhood.

An estimated 28,000 Sikhs live in Pakistan, including about 10,000 who live in the tribal region and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of the conflict-ridden country. In May 2009, Taliban militants destroyed 11 Sikh homes in the Orakzai tribal district after accusing them of failing to pay "taxes." The ongoing conflict in the Buner and Swat districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has displaced more than 200 families.

-- Shaheen Buneri

http://www.rferl.org/content/The_Noble_Servant_Of_Peshawar/2060044.html

The First Martyr of the 1984 Sikh Holocaust...

“True Lord, may my body be a sacrifice unto your feet, Guru, father, may I not show my back in the field of battle, and may I be martyred battling the enemies of the faith. Guru, Father, have mercy on me, may the enemy’s bullets not hit my back, may I take them upon my chest. Satguru, do not think of my faults, please let me embrace your feet.”
This was Bhai Mengha Singh jee's daily prayer before the Guru.

On 1st June 1984 at around 12pm, Bhai Kulwant Singh, known as 'Bhai Mengha Singh Babbar', became the first martyr of the Sikh holocaust. The CRPF and the BSF opened a rain of fire upon the Singhs at Sri Darbaar Sahib, Darshani Deeorhi (the gates leading to Sri Darbaar Sahib), Langar Building and Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib. Bhai Sahib was at Gurdwara Baba Atal Sahib tower and took up a position there, killing three attacking soldiers. This warrior’s confidence increased and he went up to the top most floor of Baba Atal. A sniper fired at Bhai Sahib and the bullet hit him in the forehead. Bhai Sahib fell to the ground, but when a nearby Singh asked “Mengha Singh!!! How are you??” he replied “Chardi Kalaa!!! ("in rising spirits!")”

The Singhs were informed that Bhai Sahib had been hit and Bhai Manmohan Singh and others were sent to retrieve him. The Singhs with great effort in the rain of bullets brought Bhai Mengha Singh down from the top most floor of Baba Atal and carried him to Guru Nanak Nivaas. There were no medical facilities or doctors, but the Singhs cleaned the wound and dressed it. Around this warrior Gurbani began to be recited and only after the completion of Sukhmani Sahib did he go and take his place at the feet of the Guru.

All the Jathebandis in the complex, upon hearing the news of the Shaheedi did a final Ardaas for Bhai Mengha Singh, and upon seeing the Shaheed for the final time, heaped praise upon his bravery. Whoever meditates upon the Guru with a pure heart, for certain, gets the reward. May we be a sacrifice unto this first Shaheed, this blessed soul. This was the first Shaheed who’s body was cremated in the Darbaar Sahib complex, despite the protestations of the SGPC president. Bhai Sahib was cremated close to Sri Manji Sahib.

Caption reads: "The last "Waheguru Jee Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Jee Kee Fateh" to her beloved son from his mother."

Information taken from NeverForget84.com website.


Dhan Guru, Dhan Guru Pyaare

The Journey of a French Sikh...

Jaap Sahib...

Taken from book "Se Kinehya", a biography of Baba Harnam Singh jee (Rampur Kera) written by Bhai Seva Singh jee:

Chapter 11: Guru Gobind Singh Ji
The family had built a small hut in the fields to watch over the crops and to occasionally stay over in. Whenever Baba ji had time he would come and sit in this hut to do his meditation. Baba ji told us of one June when it was very hot. He was doing Mool Mantr jaap in the hut. The door suddenly opened and a Gursikh with very glowing features entered. They both greeted each other with Guru Ji's blessed Fateh.

The Gursikh then said that the Tenth King is on his way to bless you. Harnam Singh was overjoyed. They both rushed outside. At a distance, Guru Ji approached on his horse along with four other Gursikhs. Guru Ji got close and His horse stood still. With great humility, Harnam Singh bowed down at Guru Ji's feet. Satguru Ji smiled very slightly and then continued walking further on and then suddenly disappeared. Harnam Singh was astonished.

The 'mysterious' Gursikh remained standing next to him all the way through this experience. He said "Harnam Singh Ji! You should be absolutely ecstatic but you seem dismayed. What's the matter?" He replied that Satguru Ji had blessed him with Darshan but he said nothing. The Gursikh told him that Satguru Ji was very happy with his spirituality which is why he blessed him. But, he remained silent because when you do Nitnem, you don't recite Jaap Sahib. Baba ji replied that he found it difficult that's why he didn't do it. He did Sukhmani Sahib and Aasa Di Vaar every day. But the Gursikh said that it is Guru Ji's COMMAND to a Gursikh; it is imperative.

Gursikhs who do not do their full Nitnem can do as many other prayers and Baanis as they wish, but they will never be granted with Guru Ji' s full happiness. However, Sikhs who do as the Panj Pyaaray have told them and then do more prayers/Paath/Baani on top will obtain Guru Ji's true happiness. Those who remain sluggish and negligent towards Guru Ji's command will fall short of his full blessing.

From that day, he made sure he did his Jaap Sahib daily, no matter how long it took. And slowly he memorised it. Gurbani tells us over and over again about accepting and implementing GurBani into our lives:

ਹੁਕਮਿਮੰਨਿਐਹੋਵੈਪਰਵਾਣੁਤਾਖਸਮੈਕਾਮਹਲੁਪਾਇਸੀ||
hukam manniai hovai parvaan taa khasmai kaa mehal paaisee||
Obeying the Order of His Will, he becomes acceptable, and then, he obtains the Mansion of the Lord's Presence.
(Ang 471)

and

ਹੁਕਮਿਰਜਾਈਜੋਚਲੈਸੋਪਵੈਖਜਾਨੈ||
hukam rajaaee jo chalai so pavai khajaanai ||
One who follows the Command of the Lord's Will is taken into the Lord's Treasury.
(Ang 421)

It is quite clear. As our third Guru Ji states:

ਸੋਸਿਖੁਸਖਾਬੰਧਪੁਹੈਭਾਈਜਿਗੁਰਕੇਭਾਣੇਵਿਚਿਆਵੈ||
ਆਪਣੈਭਾਣੈਜੋਚਲੈਭਾਈਵਿਛੁੜਿਚੋਟਾਖਾਵੈ||
so sikh sakhaa ba(n)dhhap hai bhaaee j gur kae bhaanae vich aavai || aapanai bhaanai jo chalai bhaaee vishhurr chottaa khaavai ||
He alone is a Sikh, a friend, a relative and a sibling, who walks in the Way of the Guru's Will. One who walks according to his own will, O Siblings of Destiny, suffers separation from the Lord, and shall be punished.
(Ang 601)

Guru Ji's teachings give supreme precedence to obeying the command. Those who listen to it and follow it will rise to great heights. The whole essence of the religion is to obey:

ਹੁਕਮੁਮੰਨੇਸੋਜਨੁਪਰਵਾਣੁ||
hukam ma(n)ne so jan parvaan ||
That humble being who obeys the Hukam of the Lord's Command is accepted.
(Ang 1175)

ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿਹੁਕਮੁਮੰਨੇਸਹਕੇਰਾਹੁਕਮੇਹੀਸੁਖੁਪਾਏ||
ਹੁਕਮੋਸੇਵੇਹੁਕਮੁਅਰਾਧੇਹੁਕਮੇਸਮੈਸਮਾਏ||
gurmukh hukam ma(n)nae seh keraa hukame hee sukh paae-e || hukamo seve hukam araadhhe hukame samai samaae-e ||
The Gurmukh obeys the Order of her Husband Lord God; through the Hukam of His Command, she finds peace. In His Will, she serves; in His Will, she worship and adores Him.
(Ang 1423)

Just like Lehnaa Ji followed Guru Nanak Dev Ji's command. Anything Satguru Ji commanded he obeyed heart and soul. After doing that Satguru Guru Nanak Dev Ji infused His own Light into Baba Lehnaa Ji and made him Guru Angad Dev Ji. Guru Ji' s whole history is our perfect example. Those who obeyed were (and will be) raised to great heights:

ਹੁਕਮੁਮੰਨੇਸੋਈਸੁਖੁਪਾਏਹੁਕਮੁਸਿਰਿਸਾਹਾਪਾਤਿਸਾਹਾਹੇ||੩||
hukam ma(n)ne soee sukh paa-e hukam sir shaahaa paatishaahaa he ||3||
Whoever submits to His Command, finds peace; His Command is above the heads of kings and emperors. ||3||
(Ang 1055)

ਹੁਕਮੁਮੰਨਹਿਤਾਹਰਿਮਿਲੈਤਾਵਿਚਹੁਹਉਮੈਜਾਇ||ਰਹਾਉ||
hukam ma(n)nehi taa har milai taa vichahu houmai jaae || rehaao ||
If you submit to the Hukam of the Lord's Command, then you shall meet with the Lord; only then will your ego depart from within. ||Pause||
(Ang 560)

For a Gursikh, the instructions he/she receives from the Panj Pyaaray at the Amrit Ceremony are Guru Ji's command. Any laziness/lethargy in practicing will leave an individual wanting and they will never obtain Guru Ji's happiness.
----



Vaheguru

Khalsa Camp 2010...

Below is the recently released promo video for Khalsa Camp 2010:

Khalsa Camp 2010 from Video Singh on Vimeo.

Khalsa Camp 2010
Sunday 22nd August to Thursday 26th August

For more info and to register online, visit:
www.KhalsaCamp.com

Video diaries of a campers from previous UK Khalsa Camps:





For more video diaries click here.


Note: B.O.S.S. Sikhi Camp 2010 promo coming soon...

Fateh Divas - Celebrating the Khalsa Raaj

This year marks the 300 years of the 'Fateh' (victory) of Sirhind and the establishment of the first Khalsa Raaj. Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Jee (1670 – 1716) is one the greatest heroes in Sikh history who in 1710 with the Khalsa uprooted the Mughal imperial rule in the Panjab and established the Khalsa Raaj. Baba Jee lived and died like a lion, whose faith in the Guru led to five-years of the Khalsa ruling Panjab.

A GLIMPSE OF THE VICTORY OF SIRHIND AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE KHALSA RAAJ

Background
Baba Jee, was born in a Rajput family in Jammu (Northern India) and named Lachman Dev. As a young man, he shot a deer and was shocked to watch the female deer and her unborn child die painfully, which emotionally moved him and made him become a Saadhu (recluse) and changing his name to Maadho Daas. In the company of Saadhus he finally arrived in Nander (Southern India) where through extreme meditation he gained occult powers (ridhia sidhia). However, after meeting Guru Gobind Singh Jee, Maadho Daas became a changed person and declared himself as the “Bandaa” (slave) of the Guru and hence became known as “Banda Singh”. After receiving the Amrit of the double-edged sword and becoming a Sikh of the Guru, he was blessed with the name "Bhai Gurbaksh Singh".


Mission
Despite promising Guru Gobind Singh Jee, Bahadur Shah, the Mughal Emperor, failed to deliver justice to punish those incharge of murdering Mata Gujar Kaur Jee, Guru Jee's elderly mother, and Guru Jee’s two young sons – aged 6 and 9. Guru Jee blessed Bhai Gurbaksh Singh Jee with the mission of ending the Mughal rule of oppression and persecution and restore justice in the land of Panjab. Bhai Gurbaksh Singh Jee was conferred the title of ‘Banda Singh Bahadur’. Supplied with five gold tipped arrows, a ‘nagara’ (war drum), a Nishaan Sahib (flag), a Hukamnama (letter of instruction from Guru jee), an advisory council of Panj Singhs (five devout Sikhs), and twenty-five soldiers, Baba Jee was sent to conquer the tyrant rule in Panjab.


Conquering Samana
Over a few months of marching through various villages and towns, Baba Jee’s army grew with an overflow of volunteers who wanted to join the Sikh army. When entering Panjab, Baba jee first marched to the town of ‘Samana’ where Saiyid Jalal-ud-Din, the executioner of Ninth Guru, and Bashal Beg, who had volunteered to decapitate the younger Sahibzaade, lived. Early on the morning of the 26th November 1709, Baba Jee and his army fauj Banda Singh and his men attacked Samana and overtook its control the town and it’s treasury. Baba Jee and his men carried on marching towards Sirhind. On the way they conquered Kurham, Thaska, Shahabad and Mustafabad, which all fell without much resistance.


Conquering Kapuri
The Mughal commander in charge of Kanpuri Qadam-ud-din was an evil person who was known for molesting, kidnapping and raping the local non-Muslim women. There was hardly any handsome Hindu woman in the area who had not been dishonoured by the evil tyrant. Hearing of this immoral rule that had been terrorising the innocent public, Baba Jee and the Singhs attacked Kapuri to punish the Mughal commander. The stronghold of Qadam-ud-din's immoral rule was reduced to ashes.


Conquering Sadhaura
Baba Jee next turned his attention to Sadhaura which was a notorious centre of oppression. The Hindus of this place were not allowed to cremate (burn) their dead. Osman Khan, the local ruler, was a fanatic and he had tortured to death the great Muslim saint Saiyid Badar-ud-din Shah, popularly known as Peer Budhu Shah, simply because he helped Guru Gobind Singh Jee in the battle of Bhangani. The tyrant was punished and justice was restored by the Khalsa’s conquest.


Joining of the Khalsa forces
Baba Banda Singh Jee was following this particular route so that the Sikhs from the regional areas of Doaba and Majha, whose passage across the River Satluj had been blocked by Sher Mohammad Khan of Maler-Kotla, could join his force before his attack upon Sirhind. While Baba jee occupied the Chhat, the Sikhs from the north defeated the Maler Kotla contingent near Ropar and joined him between Kharar and Banur on the Ambala-Ropar road.


Victory of Sirhind
Fearing defeat from the Sikhs, Wazir Khan's Hindu courtier, 'Sucha Nand', sent his nephew to betray the Sikhs by joining them and to later flee the battlefield. Although doubtful, Baba jee gave the benefit of doubt and allowed him to join the Sikh camp. On 12th May 1710 Wazir Khand and his army entered the battlefield and the battle began. As suspected, the traitor and his army fled the battle hoping to cause confusion, however through Baba Jee’s leadership and tactful strategy the Khalsa army was brought under control and led on to a bold attack. Wazir Khan fell under the sword of Bhai Fateh Singh Jee and the battle was won. On 14th May 1710 the city was entered and occupied by the Khalsa. Baba jee gave strict orders not to kill a single animal there and not to attack any place of worship.


Conferring power in the different territories
Other places of importance offered no resistance and the whole of the province of Sirhind fell into the hands of Bab Banda Singh Jee. Bhai Baj Singh Jee, a member of the Khalsa Panchayat (council of five), was appointed the Subedar (head) of Sirhind, with Bhai Ali Singh Jee as his Naib (deputy). Using the Khalsa tradition of ruling under the authority of Panj Singh (five devout Sikhs), the Khalsa Raaj was estalished in the Punjab. Baba Jee ensured that the power structure of the past was overturned. After taking Amrit and becoming Sikhs, the lowest people in the feudal system became empowered as the rulers of the land. Hearing of the Khalsa's glory and power, the wealthy and higher classes accepted the common people becoming the master's of the land. No person dared to disobey Baba Banda Singh jee or any of the Sikhs.


Gurmat Parchaar and conversion to Sikhi
While at Sirhind and other places, Baba Banda Singh Jee inspired many Hindus and Muslims into becoming Gursikhs. Seeing the Khalsa’s high ideals, character and compassion, many Muslims abandoned Islam and embraced Sikhi. The Mughal writers of the time write that the the hearts and minds of many Hindus and Muslims were captivated by Baba Jee, which led to them receiving Amrit of the double-edged sword, adopting the name ‘Singh’ and embracing the Khalsa way of life.


Establishment of the Khalsa Raaj
With the establishment of the Khalsa Raaj, Baba Banda Singh Jee assumed something of a regal state. He repaired the old Imperial fort of Mukhlispur in Sadhaura and gave it the name of ‘Lohgarh’ (Iron Fort) and established the Khalsa Raaj’s capital there. Although he was like a king, in accordance to Gurmat Baba Jee gave all credit of his victory to Guru Jee and ruled through the system of the Panj (Five) and set up Panchayats (authority rested in five) in villages and towns across Panjab. A Sarpanch, (representative of the five) would be the forefront. Just as there are calendars based on emperors and rulers, Baba Banda Singh Jee introduced his own calendar that starts in the year of the Khalsa’s victory at Sirhind. As a firm declaration of the Sikh sovereignty, coins were struck in the name of the Sikh Gurus and used throughout thr Raaj. The ‘Nanak-Gobind Singh’ coin has inscribed in Persian:

Sikka zad bar har do alam Tegh-.i-Nanak wahib ast, Fateh Gobind Singh Shah-i-Shahan Fazal-i-Sacha Sahib ast.
'Struck coin in the two worlds, by the grace of the true Lord, Victory to Gobind Singh, the King of Kings; The sword of Nanak is the granter of desires.'

On the reverse were the words:

Zarb ba aman-ud-dahar, masawwrat shahar, Zina t- u- takht-i-mubarak-bakht.
'Coined at the refuge of the world, Model (painting) of city, the Ornament of the Fortunate Throne.'

These were the titles and epithets assigned by him to Lohgarh, just as each imperial city had its appropriate honorific name. He also introduced an official seal for his Hukamnamas (letters) and Furmans (orders). It bore the inscription.

Deg-o-Tegh- o-Fateh Nusrat-i-bedirang, Yaft az Nanak Guru Gobind Singh.
'Kettle (the means to feed the poor), Sword (the power to protect the weak and helpless), Victory and Unhesitating Patronage (are) obtained from Nanak Guru Gobind Singh.

Dhan Hai Guru, Dhan Hai Teree Sikhee!

Purpose of life?

Last week we had a special class on the government elections. Someone in the class said to me, "Sir, what is the point? The world is going to end in 2012." She said she had watched a film in which it said the world was going to end. I told her that she doesn't need to worry and be a bit positive about life. Then her friend said, "It's on google. The world is going to end in 2012." I was surprised that these 15 year old students were so gullible and genuinely thought the world was going to end.

One of the girls said, "I don't understand why we're alive. We live to just die. The only thing we have to look forward to is death. What's the point? I wish I was not born." Her friend, who sounded really frustrated, said, "Sir, when we feel hungry we eat, but then we get hungry again! When we feel thirsty, we drink something - but then we feel thirsty again! We can never be satisfied. I don't see the point of life."

The other teacher in the classroom and I were shocked that young adults in the class felt this way and were genuinely pessimistic about life and didn't understand what the purpose of their life is or know any reason why their life is worth living for. Surprisingly, when the other teacher asked, "Do you believe in God?" One of the girl's replied, "Yeah - but it doesn't make a difference that we all going to die and that all we are doing is waiting till we die." Waheguru.

Hearing this conversation I was thinking of the shabad by Bhai Sahib Bhai Gurdaas jee:

ਅਖੀ ਵੇਖਿ ਨ ਰਜੀਆ ਬਹੁ ਰੰਗ ਤਮਾਸੇ ।
akhee vekh n rajeeaa bahu rang tamaashe.
The eyes are not satisfied with beholding sights and exhibitions;

ਉਸਤਤਿ ਨਿਦਾ ਕੰਨਿ ਸੁਣਿ ਰੋਵਣਿ ਤੈ ਹਾਸੇ ।
ustat nindaa kann sunn rovan tai haase
the ears are not satisfied with hearing praise or blame, mourning or rejoicing;

ਸਾਦੀਂ ਜੀਭ ਨ ਰਜੀਆ ਕਰਿ ਭੋਗ ਬਿਲਾਸੇ ।
saadee(n) jeebh na rajeeaa kar bhog bilaase
the tongue is not satisfied with eating what affords pleasure and delight;

ਨਕ ਨ ਰਜਾ ਵਾਸੁ ਲੈ ਦੁਰਗੰਧ ਸੁਵਾਸੇ ।
nak na rajaa vaasai durgandh suvaase
the nose is not contented with good or evil odour;

ਰਜਿ ਨ ਕੋਈ ਜੀਵਿਆ ਕੂੜੇ ਭਰਵਾਸੇ ।
raj na koee jeeviaa koorhe bharvaase
nobody is satisfied with their span of life, and everyone entertains false hopes.

ਪੀਰ ਮੁਰੀਦਾਂ ਪਿਰਹੜੀ ਸਚੀ ਰਹਰਾਸੇ ॥੯॥
peer mureedaa(n) pirharree sachee rehraase ॥9॥
But the Sikhs are satisfied with the Guru and theirs is the true love and delight.

The Sikh of the True Guru is fortunate and immensely blessed that they have been blessed with amazing gifts of Amrit, Rehat, and Gurbani; placed on a Path (maarag); shown the true purpose of life; and a way of life and faith that is not only worth dieing for but for living for.

ਭੂਲੇ ਮਾਰਗੁ ਜਿਨਹਿ ਬਤਾਇਆ ॥ ਐਸਾ ਗੁਰੁ ਵਡਭਾਗੀ ਪਾਇਆ ॥੧॥
bhoole maarag jinhi bataaeiaa.
aisaa gur vadbhaagee paaeiaa. 1
He places the one who strays back on the Path; such a Guru is found by great good fortune. 1
(Ang 803)

Reflection on how we value our Sikhi...

Kathaa by Bhai Paramjeet Singh Khalsa, Anandpur Sahib vale:

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3


Dhan Guru, Dhan Teree Sikhee!

Power of Gurbani...

Subject: The Paaras Kaala Of GurbaNee crushed the hate.
Author: Bhai Sahib Kulbir Singh Jee (Tapoban wale)
Loose translation from a book by Giani Amar Singh jee

During the times of Sikhs Misls, the Sikhs were badly disunited. They successfully destroyed the aggressors but now they were fighting amongst themselves. All Sardaars (chieftains) were trying to destroy each other to extend their kingdoms. After the death of Sardar Gurbaksh Singh in a fight with one of the misls, his wife, Sardarni Sada Kaur took over the reins of her misl. The Singhpuria Misl had great enmity with Sardar Gurbaksh Singh. After his death, his wife Sardarni Sada Kaur like a warrior kept her position fortified thus resulting in the Singhpuriya Misl Sardar becoming her sworn enemy. He always looked for an opportunity to win over Sardarni Sada Kaur. His intelligence agents were always behind Sardarni Sada Kaur to watch her activities. On the other side Sardarni Sada Kaur was no less vigilant than the Singhpuriya Sardar. She always ensured that she was well-protected and always went out with no less than few hundred soldiers protecting her. The history stands witness to the fact that not only she was able to save her honour and position but she played a leading role in boosting the power of her son-in-law Raja Ranjit Singh. She fought along with Raja Ranjit Singh in all his big battles.


This incident that we are going to narrate is long before she become a relative of Raja Ranjit Singh. Once Sardarni Sada Kaur decided to visit Siri Darbar Sahib – Amritsar Sahib. She took her guards and a small army and reached Siri Amritsar Sahib. At the same time as a coincidence the Singhpuriya Sardar too reached Siri Amritsar Sahib at the same time as Sardarni Sada Kaur. Both had similar aim of visiting Siri Darbar Sahib i.e. to do ishnaan in the sacred sarovar – Ramdas Sarovar and to pay obeisance at Siri Harmandir Sahib. The Singhpuria Sardar after doing ishnaan went inside Siri Darbar Sahib to matha tek and listen to kirtan. Right at that time, Sardarni Sada Kaur reached the Parkarma of Sarovar and went inside the ladies section to do ishnaan. While she was taking ishnaan (ablutions) her maids were standing outside and the Singhpuria agents realized quickly that Sardarni Sada Kaur was inside the ishnaan porch all alone. The agents whispered in ears about the presence of Sardarni jee and by then the maids standing outside too realized that the Singhpuriya sardaar was here and that his agents had found out that Sardarni Sada Kaur was all by herself and defenceless at Darbar Sahib. As the agents rushed to inform the Sardar about Sada Kaur being present at Darbar Sahib totally defenceless, the maids dashed inside the ladies area of sarovar to tell Sardarni jee about the possible danger from the Singhpuriya Sardaar. Sardarni Sada Kaur at that time was in some other mood. When the maids informed her of the Singhpuriya Sardar and the imminent danger from him, Sardarni jee with total faith in Guru Sahib responded, “Look, at this time I am sitting in the heavenly lap of my father Guru Ramdass jee and I am pretty sure that the Singhpuriya sardar will not make the mistake of attacking me in such position. But if he does attack me, then I will not fight and will readily get arrested by him but will not fight back in the premises of Siri Darbar Sahib.” Then Sardarni told one of her maids to go outside Darbar Sahib and inform her soldiers that they should not be prepared for a possible fight outside Darbar Sahib. After such bold answer, she became oblivious of her surrounding and started doing ishnaan again. On the other hand, the intelligence agent went to inform the Sardar about Sardarni Sada Kaur being alone and how it was a great opportunity to capture or kill her. The Singhpuriya Sardar was listening to kirtan very keenly. The kirtanees were singing a very bairaagmai shabad that stated the futility of our efforts to collect worldly wealth. Sardaar’s mind had become purified as it was one with shabad.


The soohiya (agent) unaware of the spiritual and mental state of the Sardar, went dashing in Darbar Sahib and even forgot to do matha tek. The only thing in his mind was to get reward for telling the whereabouts of Sardarni Sada Kaur. He did not care about keeping respect of the sangat present there, nor did he realize the message of the shabad being sung. He hurriedly went over to the Sardar and in his ear whispered, “Sardar jee, Rani Sada Kaur at this time is taking ishnaan in the ladies area of the sarovar. She is totally unprotected. This is a great opportunity to kill her or capture her alive”. Sardar’s mann (mind) at that time was totally engrossed in Gurbani and had become pure. He got upset at the action of the soohiya and how he had not cared about keeping respect of Guru and sangat. He thought if this soohiya was only a soohiya and not a Sikh. The soohiya in the meantime was standing by waiting for the Sardar to respond. The sardar keeping fear of Guru whisperingly said, “Go away from here. You are not fit to stand here in Siri Harmandir Sahib. You did not even care about Guru, Sangat and Siri Harmandir Sahib. You did not care that this was not the right time and place to talk about such lowly thing. You are not a Sikh of Guru. Get away from my eyes”. Saying this the Sardar came out and ordered one of his soldiers to arrest the soohiya. The sardar came back and started meditating on the shabad of Guru. After some time the Sardar got up and started walking out of Siri Harmandir Sahib.


In the meantime, Sardarni Sada Kaur after finishing her ishnaan, started walking towards Siri Harmandir Sahib. She was standing by Darshani DeoRi and the Sardar came out. Both Sardarni and Sardar were engrossed in baani. There were sworn enemies of each other. When they saw each other, both stopped. The sardar made the first move. He had Degh (parshaad) in his hands and said fateh to Sardarni jee, “Bhain jee please accept parshaad of Guru Ramdas jee. I had thought that when I come out of Darbar Sahib, I will wait for you to come and give you parshaad. It is my honour and good fortune that you came right at the time I came out of Darbar Sahib. Now please accept parshaad from me”. Sardarni jee was moved by the humility of the Sardar and said fateh back to him and responded, “It is my big fortune (Dhan bhaag) that I am receiving parshaad from that veer’s hands whose hands only handle sword. Well! My visit in the hazoor of Guru Ramdas jee has been successful”. Sardar got emotional and said, “After listening to the great gift of Guru Sahib to us – Gurbani – I can only derive that we are doing is futile. Only his naam is true and rest is false. Listening to Gurbani brings peace to mind. How foolish are we who indulge in petty enmities and ignore the message of Guru”. “What you are saying is so true Veer jeeo. For so long we foolishly kept enmity between us. Now Satguru himself has done kirpa on us and we have realized the true path.” “If you too are thinking along these lines, then Bhain jeeo, let us bury our enmities right now and perform an ardaas before Guru Ramdass jee. Let us make up for the past and from now on live like real brother and sister. Let us reconcile and finish off these problems and enmities created by maaiya”. “Veer jeeo, you and I are both children of Guru Gobind Singh jee and at this time we are standing in the house of Guru Ramdass jee. If our problems and enmities are not going to get eliminated here, then where would they?” After this they both sent a message to one of the greatest Granthi of Siri Darbar Sahib – Bhai Sahib Chanchal Singh jee to perform an ardaas for their unity. While they were waiting for Granthi jee to come, they both closed their eyes in Anand of Gurbani and felt immense love and thankfulness for Guru Sahib. From that day onwards, they stayed like real brother and sister for rest of their lives. Ones who were thirsty for each other’s blood developed so much love for each other that even real biological brother sister cannot do. Such is the shakti of Gurbani and Naam. It is my ardaas before Satguru to do such miracle on the Sikh panth at this time. We are totally disunited. We need a miracle to get united again. Guru Sahib jeeo, kirpa karo.

Daas, Kulbir Singh
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>. The Paaras Kaala Of GurbaNee crushed the hate.
Dhan Siree Guroo Granth Sahib Jee
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Dhan Guru, Dhan Hai Teree Sikhee