The History of Vaisakhi...

ਵੈਸਾਖੁ ਭਲਾ ਸਾਖਾ ਵੇਸ ਕਰੇ ॥
"(The month of) Vaisakhi is so pleasant; the branches blossom with new leaves."

(Ang 1108) 

Vaisakhi is the second month of the Panjabi/Sikh calendar. Vaisakhi is a traditional harvest festival when the community rejoices. For the Sikhs, Vaisakhi is a special time which is linked to various historical events.

Vaisakhi is a time when nature is blossoming with new life, similarly, on Vaisakhi the Guru brought new life to society. Guru Nanak Dev jee came to this earth to bring new life to the world through Shaastar (knowledge) revealed through the Shabad (Divine-Word of God). Guru Gobind Singh jee, the tenth Guru, revealed that when people do not reform through wisdom or knowledge, it is righteous to bring reform to society and benefit humanity through Shastar (weapons). On Vaisakhi 1699, the tenth Guru raised the naked sword and brought new life to the society by infusing a new spirit in the people and baptising them with the Amrit (Divine-Nectar) of the double-edged sword.

 VAISAKHI IN HISTORY

"There is no Hindu, nor Muslim"

Whilst staying at Sultanpur, Guru Nanak Dev jee went to bathe in River Vein and disappeared for three days. In those three days Guru Nanak Dev jee went to Sach Khand and received the gifts of Amrit, Naam and Humility and was given the mission by Vaheguru to spread the Path of Truth in the world. When Guru Nanak Dev jee returned out of the river, it was Vaisakhi day. According to the Janam Saakhis, Guru Nanak Dev jee proclaimed, "There is no Hindu, nor Muslim." Meaning that in the eyes of Vaheguru, our actions and life will be judged, not our religious labels.

Hardwar

On Vaisakhi day Guru Nanak Dev jee visited Hardwar and witnessed Hindu Brahmins throwing water towards the sun. Guru jee asked them what are they doing. The Brahmins replied, "We are throwing water to the sun to quench the thirst of our dead ancestors."  Guru jee began throwing water in the opposite direction. When the Brahmins asked Guru jee what he is doing, Guru jee replied, "I am throwing water to my fields in Panjab." The Brahmins asked, "How can you water reach Panjab?" Guru jee replied, "How can your water reach the sun?" On Vaisakhi day Guru jee turned around the hearts and minds of the ritualistic people and showed them the Path of God.

Guru Amardaas Jee's Parkaash Divas

On Vaisakhi 1479 Guru Amardaas jee, third Guru, was born in village Basarke in Amritsar. Guru jee's parents were Baba Siree Tej Bhaan jee and Mata Lachhmi jee. On Vaisakhi day Guru Amar Daas jee prepared the boali sahib (well) at Goindwal Sahib. The well was made to eradicate the caste system, where high and low can all bathe together.

 

Dukhbhanjani Sahib Tree

Bibi Rajni was the youngster of seven daughters of Rai Duni Chand. The father summoned all the daughters and asked, "Whose salt do you eat?" All the daughters replied, "Yours." Bibi Rajni jee replied, "I eat the salt given by Waheguru." In anger, the father married Bibi Rajni jee to a leper. Bibi jee accepted Waheguru's Will. Once she left her husband next to the lake of Amritsar and went to get something. Her husband, Bhai Mohan jee, saw black crows go in the lake and come out white. Having faith in Waheguru he dips his body in the lake but leave one finger our so that his wife can he recognise him. He becomes cured and Bibi Rajni comes back and sees the miracle. This happened on Vaisakhi day. Guru Ramdas jee blessed the couple. Guru jee named their son, Bhai Gurmukh jee.

 

Guru Arjan Dev Jee's Parkaash Divas

On Vaisakhi 1563 Guru Arjan Dev jee was born in village Goindwal Sahib in the home of Guru Ram Daas jee and Bibi Bhaani jee.

"Baba Bakaale"

On 3rd day of Vaisaakh in 1664, Guru Harkrishan Sahib jee, the eighth Guru, physically passed away and the jyot (light) was carried to Guru Tegh Bahadur jee. In his last moments, Guru jee said that the next Guru is "Baba Bakaale." Guru jee's grandfather (Baba) was Guru Tegh Bahadur jee, who lived in the village Bakaala.

 

Bhai Nand Lal jee

On Vaisakhi day in 1707 Bhai Nand Lal jee came to the sanctuary of Guru Gobind Singh jee. During his early life he was trained in Arabic, Persian, and Mathematics. At the age of 12 he started writing poetry in Persian under the pen name Goya. At the age of 17 he lost his mother, and two years later his father. In 1652, he went to Multan and settled over there, and was married to a Sikh girl. Thereafter, he became inclined towards Sikhism, met Guru Gobind Singh in 1682 and later became Amritdhari. In 1707, he finally left his job with Prince Muazzam and appeared before Guru Gobind Singh. He came to Multan again in 1712 after the death of Bahadur Shah I and started a school of Arabic & Persian. He died in 1713 when in Multan.

Damdami Beerh

During Guru Gobind Singh jee's guruship, Dheer Mal refused to return the Kartarpur Beerh of Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee over to Guru Gobind Singh jee when Baba Deep Singh jee along with 24 other Singhs went to visit him. Instead Dheer Mal said, "If your Guru is the same roop (form) as the first and fifth Guru Sahibs, then why doesn't he fashion Gurbaani from memory?" On Vaisakhi day of 1706 Guru Gobind Singh jee completed the Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee, including Guru Tegh Bahadur jee's revelations, which he dictated to Bhai Mani Sahib jee at at Talwandi Sabo (known as Sri Damdama Sahib today). The task took nine months and nine days. As this Bir (Volume) was compiled at Sri Damdama Sahib, this final form of Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee became known as the 'Damdami Beerh'.

Dal Khalsa

In the post Baba Banda Singh jee Bahadur period, the Khalsa became engaged in guerilla warfare and were divided into small groups (jathe). There were approximately 83 jathe (groups). On Vaisakhi 1739, Nawaab Kapoor Singh called for a Sarbat Khalsa (meeting of the all the Khalsa). A Gurmatta (resolution) was passed that small leaderships would be removed and instead there would be a supreme power and that every attack on Panjab should be considered an attack on Sikhi. The Dal Khalsa made Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, who was an orphan, the supreme leader and was honoured Sultan-e-kaum. 

Freeing a Hindu lady from captivity

On Vaisakhi 1763, a Hindu Brahmin comes to Sri Akal Takht Sahib and complains to the Khalsa that Usmaan Khan has abducted his wife. The Khalsa does Ardaas whether to attack Usmaan Khan because they were few in number. Guru jee blessed Basant Ki Vaar as the Hukamnama. The line "ਪੰਜੇ ਬਧੇ ਮਹਾਬਲੀ ਕਰਿ ਸਚਾ ਢੋਆ ||... " ( The five powerful enemies are bound down, when you lean on the True Lord...") gave the Khalsa strength that they have Guru jee's blessings. The Khalsa returned the Hindu Brahmin's wife.

Jallianwala Bagh Massacre

On Vaisakhi 1919 the the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Jallianwala Bagh is an enclosed garden on the road leading up to Sri Harmandar Sahib. The massacre was ordered by General R.E.H. Dyer on 13th April 1919. Fifty British Indian Army soldiers, commanded by Brigadier-General Reginald Dyer, began shooting at an unarmed gathering of men, women, and children without warning in the aim of silencing the movement of freedom against oppression. Dyer marched his fifty riflemen to a raised bank and ordered them to kneel and fire. Dyer ordered soldiers to reload their rifles several times and they were ordered to shoot to kill. Official British Raj sources estimated the fatalities at 379, and with 1,100 wounded. Civil Surgeon Dr Williams DeeMeddy indicated that there were 1,526 casualties. However, the casualty number quoted by the Indian National Congress was more than 1,500, with roughly 1,000 killed.

1978 Amritsar Massacre

On 13th April 1978 a cult supported by the Indian Government known as Nirankaris under the leadership of Gurbachana who had claimed himself to be a prophet and incarnation of Guru Nanak Dev jee held a procession and a conference at Amritsar. During their conference the speakers made venomous attacks on Sikhi, Sikh Gurus, Gurbani etc. Over 150 Sikhs under the command of Bhai Fauja Singh of the Akhand Kirtani Jatha, marched from Sri Darbar Sahib to protest peacefully against this fake Nirankari procession in which Gurbachana had seated himself on a higher position that of Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee. As the Sikhs approached the meeting place, the police stopped the Sikh protesters under the guise of granting them official and safe passage. During this time an ambush was set in motion, the police on duty hurled tear gas bombs against the unarmed Gursikhs and then armed units of Nirankaris briskly advanced forward and sprayed bullets indiscriminately with machine guns. This incident resulted in the death of 13 devout Gursikhs. No justice was given to the Sikhs. This Amritsar massacre became the starting point of the new phase of the struggle of the Sikh Nation.


Dhan Hai Guru, Dhan Hai Teree Sikhee!

Urgent email to MPs regarding Professor Bhullar Jee...

Please send the following email and attachment to your MP. Also ring 020 7219 3000 ask for your MP and pass this message to your MP. 

Dear [MPs Name]

Help save Professor Davinderpal Singh Bhullar

On Friday 12 April 2013 the Indian Supreme Court refused to commute the death sentence of Professor Davinderpal Singh Bhullar.

Professor Bhullar is an innocent man who was illegally deported from Germany in January 1995, convicted and sentenced to death on the basis of a controversial split judgement and has been mentally ill for over two years and in hospital. See link briefing regarding Profess Bhullar: http://www.prisonerwelfare.com/prof-devinderpal-singh-bhullar/

ALSO: On Monday 15 April 2013 the Federation of Sikh Organisations and Gurdwaras supported by the Sikh Media have organised a protest outside the High Commission of India, India House, Aldwych, London WC2B 4NA between 12 noon and 2pm. 

We will then march from the High Commission of India to the Houses of Parliament in Westminster and lobby MPs. We hope to meet you between 3-5pm and hope you will confirm your availability to meet.

Please show your support for the British Sikh community and opposition to the death penalty by joining us for this protest and then meeting Sikhs during the lobby.

Yours sincerely
[Your name and address, including postcode] 

The Sweet Poison of Maya...

Author: Veer Amanjot Singh (London)

In February Daas was blessed enough to do Seva at a Guru Ghar in France. I had arrived at Heathrow Airport 3 hours prior to my flight to go to France and had time to kill. I started browsing the duty free, when I came across the section of alcohol. I started walking away.

While walking away I couldn’t help myself in looking inside the section as there were four men which looked like Sikhs as they were wearing Dastaar on the heads. Once I exited the shop I could see that their family was waiting outside the shop. As I still had 3 hours to kill, I approached the family. I greeted them with Vaheguru Ji’s Fateh. "Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh." They replied "Sat Sri Akaal." After having a normal conversation with them for about 5 minutes, the Singhs which where presumably buying alcohol, came out of the shop and rejoined their family. When they came they saw me in Khalsa Bana (Khalsa Attire) and they asked me to pray for them that they have a safe flight to India.

I was confused that they asked me to pray for them when they didn't know me. I asked them, "Why did you ask me to pray for you?" They replied, "You look like a Gyani." Then I replied, "Sure I shall do Ardaas for you but will you accept whatever I say in the ardaas and work towards getting Satguru Ji's Happiness?" The whole family agreed!

So I asked them all to come to a less busy area of the airport and asked the Bibiya to cover their heads, removed our foot wear and I started Ardaas. So I started the Ardaas with the opening versus of Sri Chandi Di Vaar and then came to the Benti. I asked Guru ji to protect this family and to save them from the Maya of the 5 Thieves (Kaam, Krod, Lobh, Moh, Hankaar), the 4 Cardinal Sins (Removing Hair, Consuming Drugs/Alcohol, Consuming Meat and Outside Marriage Relations) and to bless this family with Gursikhi Jeevan. After this short Ardaas I roared the Jaikara which the family all replied to "SAT SRI AKAAL!" The family thanked me, but I was not done...

I explained to them that before starting the Ardaas I said that what we pray for we have to accept as Satguru Ji's Bhanaa and work towards in getting Vaheguru Ji's Kushi. They all nodded and said "YES"... I could see that they were holding clear see through duty free bags with four bottles of ‘Black Label’, an expensive whiskey alcohol commonly drunken by Punjabis. I calmly said to the family, "you cannot get Guru Ji's Kushi by drinking this alcohol and you said what every I say in the Ardaas you shall accept and follow. I asked Guru Ji to save you from intoxicating your body with Alcohol and now is the opportunity for you to stop, otherwise you are not obeying Satguru Jis Hukam!" The family was shocked because I was very upfront. They didn’t have any reply.

I knew they had spent over £90 on this Poison and didn’t know what to do. Then the oldest member of the family said that it’s not for us and it for our family in India. I replied that that even worse you are not killing yourselves but slowly killing others! You could hear gasping from the 2 bibiya in the family. As my gate has opened I said to them that I have not got much time. At the end of the day it is up to you and your choice if you want Satguru Ji's Kushi then you have do the right thing but if you want to do what you want go ahead and you shall sow what you reap. I exchanged Guru Ji's Fateh and left for my gate.

When I got to the boarding gate, I still had 1 and half hours until the plane was going to depart so I put in my head phones and I dosed off. After about 20mins I could hear someone saying "Singh Sahib! Singh Sahib!" I opened my eyes and that family I saw earlier thanking me for saving them? At this point I was very confused to why they are thanking me? I asked them why? They said that you saved us from this Sweet Poison of Maya. I then understood that they were talking about the bottles of alcohol. They said that they had returned them at the counter and that they would like me to keep the money as I had saved them. The family was giving me £130! I was so happy that they had made the right choice!

I refused to take the money that they were offering me as I had not saved them but Guru Ji had saved them from Kaljug, but they insisted. So as they were going to India I suggested that they should give this money to the poor (as Guru Ji says "Gareeb Da Mooh, Guru Di Golak") and to the people who need it the most. They accepted this offer and we then exchanged Vaheguru Ji's Fateh and left.

When they left I was reflecting on this situation. I thought to myself that Guru Ji is so powerful that he works through his Sikhs to help others not fall into the traps of Maya. We are all Sikhs of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, if Guru Ji went many different countries by foot to save the world from ‘Sweet Poison’ Maya, we are the Sikhs of Guru Nanak and it is also our duty to do the same! Whenever we see an opportunity to help someone physically, mentally or even give them advice, please do as we can save mankind in falling into the trap of Kaljug! Dhun Guru Dhun Teri Sikhi 

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Thank you to Veer jee for sharing his experience.

Dhan Hai Guru! Dhan Hai Teree Sikhee!

Teaching Sikhi to Dutch Children (Part 2)...

Author: Jaskarn Singh (Holland)
 

On Friday 22th March, I arranged for the school to arrive at the Gurdwara in Amsterdam at 11am. Everyone was really excited to come the Gurdwara. At 11am we got some unexpected visitors from the University of Nijmegen. A few teachers and students (10 people in total) came to explore the Sikh faith and the Gurdwara. We did not prepare for this, but we came up with the idea to let them join the school classes as well.

When the children arrived they were first shown the Nishaan Saahib and its importance was explained. When the children entered the Gurdwara, they removed their shoes, washed their hands and covered their heads. The 40 or so children were divided in three groups and each group would go to a different workshop for 10 minutes. The workshops were lead by the local sevadaars (Veer Vrinder Singh, Veer Ajinder Singh and Veer Bharatveer Singh). The idea was that we would switch after 10 minutes and that after a half an hour all the groups would have experienced all the workshops.

The first workshop Music and Meditation that was led by Ajinder Singh. He explained the importance of keertan and showed some video clips of children doing keertan. The second workshop Dastaar tying was led by Vrinder Singh and Bharatveer Singh and they explained the importance of our Dastaar and asked the children if they wanted a Dastaar to be tied on them. The third workshop was about the importance of seva and the different types of seva you can do in the Gurdwara like seva in the kitchen, bhandia di seva, joria di seva, cleaning or just helping out in the Gurdwara.

After the workshops everyone we planned to eat langar together. Before we could start with the workshops, we still had to do our metha theek. So before entering the main hall we explained to everyone how to behave and how not to behave. We discussed the special treatment we give to our Guru, the Shastars in front of Guru Granth Sahib Jee and that the Guru is the Word of God. We decided that the older group of students from the university could go to the langar hall and eat because they didn´t get the chance to hear a talk about Sikhi before. We planned that whenever the workshops are finished and the children are having langar, we would talk with the students from the university about Sikhi and they can ask questions.

VAHEGURU.


I was so happy and amazed that so many children were wearing Dastaars! After the workshops the children started eating their langar, and then I gave the students of the university and their teachers an introduction to the basics of Sikhi. I think some of them were Atheist…. Waheguruu They told me that these were students which will become teachers who will teach religious education later on. I thought Waheguru sharing information about Sikhi with such relevant persons. Dhan Guru Jee

There was a really open and relaxed atmosphere which was really nice. I ended the talk with a quote of Betrand Russell talking about Sikhi "If some lucky men survive the onslaught of the third world war of atomic and hydrogen bombs, then the Sikh religion will be the only means of guiding them. When asked, isn’t this religion capable of guiding mankind before the third world war? He said, ‘Yes it has the capability, but the Sikhs haven’t brought out in the broad daylight the splendid doctrines of this religion, which has come into existence for the benefit of the entire mankind. This is their greatest sin and the Sikhs cannot be freed of it."

At the end there was time to ask questions. One old man asked me the question: "You showed a lot of positive aspects about your religion but just like every religion in the world, it must have its negative aspects as well. What are the negative aspects of your religion?" I was thinking in my mind that Sikhi has no negative aspects! But If I say that our religion has no negative aspects they might think of my as an arrogant or that I´m am probably hiding the negative aspects. So I said: (and these are just my personal views) "I think that the bad part is that our own community do not realize that we have a treasure right in front of us and we are too blind to see it."  I explained the issue that there are not a lot of our own people who are seriously try to practice our religion and we just take it for granted. Then I asked them the question about what part of Sikhi did they like? After a short silence again the oldest man said: "I really enjoyed the hospitality, equality and the practical way the Sikhs share". He then added: "Just saying ´we share everything´ is one thing, but you really practically showed us by sharing your food with us." (Waheguru Dhan Sikhi I can´t describe with words how happy I am that Guru Nanak Dev Jee is my Guru!).

An important note is that both the teachers from the school and the students from the University made a donation to the Gurdwara. When the children left they were given some chocolates and chips.

The time spent in the Gurdwara was around 2 hours and 15 minutes. Both parties were really happy being able to visit the Gurudwara thanks to Guru Maharaaj.

May Maharaaj bless us all with Naam, Bani, Seva and a good character.

Waheguru Jee Ka Khalsa Waheguru Jee Ki Fateh 

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Thank you to Veer jee for sharing his experience.

Dhan Hai Guru! Dhan Hai Teree Sikhee!

Teaching Sikhi to Dutch Children (Part 1)...

Author: Jaskarn Singh (Holland)

Waheguru Jee Ka Khalsa Waheguru Jee Ki Fateh!

 

A few weeks ago my cousins called me and asked me if I wanted to do a talk about Sikhi at their school because they were studying the different religions of India and nobody knew about Sikhi. So I accepted the invitation to go to the primary school and share information about Sikhi.

 

That morning when I was walking towards the school I was getting worried and feeling a little nervous because I don´t have lots of knowledge about Sikhi and have no experience of visiting schools for this purpose. So I decided to do a Chaupai Saahib da paath on my way to school and during my Ardaas I said to Maharaaj: "I am unworthy to talk about Sikhi, please tusee kirpa karo (bless me)."

Most of the children were 10-11 years old. I used the basic ´Sikh Awareness presentation´ for the talk. During the talk we discussed different topics like the Guru, the importance of Kesh and our unique identity, the Dastaar, Gurudwara and Langar, Harmandir Sahib, equality in Sikhi, Sikhs in the World Wars, the Sikh lifestyle and the four cardinal sins (bajjar kurehits).

 

I was thinking by myself how to explain the importance of Kesh to non-Sikhs and I found the Rehatnama of Bhai Desa Singh to be very useful.

 

ਜਬ ਪਹਿਲੇ ਸਬ ਸਿ੍ਰਸਿਟ ਉਪਾਈ । ਤਬ ਹੀ ਮਾਨੁਖ ਦੇਹਿ ਬਨਾਈ ।
ਤਨ ਇਸ ਕੇ ਸਿਰ ਕੇਸ ਜੁ ਦੀਨੋ । ਸੋ ਇਹ ਤਨ ਸ਼ਿੰਗਾਰਿਹ ਕੀਨੋ ।੭੯|
ਦਾੜ੍ਹਾ ਮੁੱਛ ਸਿਰ ਕੇਸ ਬਨਾਈ । ਹੈ ਇਹ ਦਿ੍ੜ ਜਿਹ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ ਰਜ਼ਾਈ ।

ਮੇਟ ਰਜ਼ਾਇ ਜੁ ਸੀਸ ਮੁੰਡਾਵੈ । ਕਹੁ ਤੇ ਜਗ ਕੈਸੇ ਹਰਿ ਪਾਵੈ ।੮੦|

ਪਾਂਖਹੁ ਬਿਨ ਬਿਹੰਗ ਜਿਮ ਹੋਹੀ | ਊਰਬ ਬਿਨਾ ਭੇਡ ਜਿਮ ਕੋਈ |

ਬਸਨ ਬਿਨਾ ਨਾਰੀ ਹੈ ਜੈਸੇ । ਕੇਸਨ ਬਿਨ ਨਰ ਹੋਇ ਤੈਸੇ ।੮੧|

ਕੇਸਨ ਨਰ ਧਾਰੇ ਹੈ ਹਬਹੀ | ਪੂਰਨ ਰੂਪ ਹੋਇ ਹੈ ਤਬ ਹੀ
ਕੇਸ ਏਕ ਪੁਨ ਰਹਤ ਜੁ ਪਾਈਂ | ਤਾਂ ਕੀ ਮਹਿਮਾ ਕਹੀ ਨਾ ਜਾਈ |੮੨|

"God created the whole universe and also the human body. God bestowed the gift of kesh on the human head to be its adornment. The beard, moustache and kesh are embodiments of the inviolable will of God. Transgressing the Divine Will, how can one reach God with a shorn head? A man without kesh is like a bird without feathers, a sheep without wool, or a woman without clothes. Only if a man keeps his hair intact can he claim to be a complete image of God. By adhering to just one principle of conduct – viz. keeping hair intact – a man achieves indescribable merit."

(Rehatnama Bhai Desa Singh)

WAHEGURU. I was really surprised at the kirpa of Guru Maharaaj. The kids were so happy to hear about Sikhi and showed a lot of love and respect. After a while some kids were even started to say: "I want to become a Sikh too!" I was thinking in my mind: "Dhan Guru Nanak! Dhan Guru Nanak!"

I remember the part where I said that Sikhs are not supposed to have boyfriends and girlfriends and a Sikh ought to see other women as their mothers, sisters and daughters (and vice versa). There was one girl who then reacted and said: ´That´s so stupid!" Then I explained that even if we don´t agree with the views of other people I believe that everyone deserves love and respect. And some kids started to say: "Yeah I agree with that." Then I replied and said: "Let´s just imagine for a moment…..What would we become if this entire class starts seeing each other as brothers and sisters?" The class started saying: "Family" Then I asked: ´´What if everyone in Holland starts treating each other as brothers and sisters…….what would we become?" The kids replied: "Family!" "What if everyone on this planet would start treating each other as brothers and sisters…what will we get from this?" The class responded with enthusiasm: "Family!" and there was one cute little kid with glasses who said: "World Peace!" I was thinking Waheguru...Waheguru!

 

Then we discussed the Gurdwara and Langar part of the talk and the class almost went crazy when they heard there is a place when you can get food for free! LOL (There was one kid looking around like "What are we waiting for? Let´s Go!") They really liked the Gurudwara and Langar part of the talk so I asked the class: " Would you guys want to come to the Gurudwara and have some langar?" And the class started to shout: "Yeahhh!"

 

The talk finished with Sikhi being a universal religion and that anyone can become a Sikh. I showed a few pictures of Sikhs with a non Punjabi background. So one person asked me the question: "So you are saying if I stop doing those four things (Four bajjar kurehits) I can become a Sikh?" I said: "Yes." Everyone was really surprised and shocked in a positive way. :)

 

So we ended the talk with questions and answers. They were really interested in Sikhi and asked a lot of questions. At the end I quickly just showed them my karra and kanga. Some kids looked at the kanga and started to smell it. Seeing this the other kids also started to smell the kanga... Satnaam!

 

Then the kids were standing around me, observing me closely, and one child started to feel my beard and Dastaar (without permission lol!). I felt like an animal being studied carefully! It was quite a funny scene! After wrapping everything up I made an appointment with the teacher that the class would come to the Gurdwara Sahib after three weeks.

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Thank you to Veer jee for sharing his experience.

Dhan Hai Guru! Dhan Hai Teree Sikhee!

International Akhand Keertan Smagam UK 2013...

Message forward:

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa!! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!!

Akhand Kirtani Jatha UK’s Annual INTERNATIONAL AKHAND KIRTAN SMAGAM 2013 will commemorate via the essence of Shabad Guru, Vaisakhi and 100th Anniversary of the Start of The Ghadar Movement (1913-2013) and The Vaisakhi Massacre of 1978 in Amritsar

from Monday 25th March - Sunday 31st March 2013

Akhand Kirtani Jatha UK invites you to join sangat from all over the world for the 18th Annual International Akhand Kirtan Event. Many kirtani jathas and sevadaars from around the world will be taking part in kirtan seva. Gursikh Kirtanis have been invited from India, France, Australia, USA, Canada and throughout the Guru Khalsa Panth.

Smagam Breakdown
The programme details listed below will take place at Singh Sabha Gurdwara, Derby : -
Monday 25th March - Wednesday 27th March 2013 Sri Akhand Patth Sahib: 10am Arambh - 6pm Bhog followed by:
Rehras Sahib 6pm then Gurbani Veechar and Akhand Kirtan: 6-9pm

Thursday 28th March 2013: Asa Di Var Kirtan: 5.30-9am
Rehras Sahib 6pm then Gurbani Veechar and Akhand Kirtan: 6-10pm

Friday 29th March 2013:
Asa Di Var Kirtan: 5.30-10am
Rehras Sahib 6pm then Gurbani Veechar and Akhand Kirtan: 6-10pm

Saturday 30th March 2013:
Asa Di Var Kirtan: 5.30-10am
Rehras Sahib 6pm then Gurbani Veechar and Akhand Kirtan: 6pm-12am

Sunday 31st March 2013:
Panthic Seminar: 10.30am-1pm
Raensbhai Kirtan MAIN INTERNATIONAL RAENSBHAI KIRTAN ON Sunday 31st March 2013 from 7pm-5am at Singh Sabha Gurdwara, Princes Street, Derby, DE23 8NT. Tel : 01332 773010 For further details contact Gen Sec Bhai Rajinder Singh (07966 974505), email – sevaa@akj.org


Amrit Sanchaar
AMRIT SANCHAAR: Sunday 31st March at 2pm at Singh Sabha Gurdwara, Derby Can all ablakhyees contact Bhai Taranjeet Singh (07877 888874) to provide their names for the Amrit sanchaar. If you have questions, you can contact Jathedar Raghbir Singh on 01926 741 944 or Bhai Jarnail Singh on 01926 771 944 If any persons do not have full kakaars, then AKJ UK will provide them as part of the seva.


Live Broadcast
The whole Smagam and Raensbhai will be broadcast live on
www.akj.org, Sangat TV (SKY 847) and Sikh Channel (SKY 840)


Additional Programmes

• Special ‘PANTH TIME’ on Saturday 30th March from 3pm - 5pm by Sikh Channel
• Panthic SEMINAR “AZAADEE” Dedicated to Ghadar Movement on Sunday 31st March, 10.30am - 1pm
• Special Q and A on Sunday 31st March, 4 - 5.30pm by Sangat TV
• Gurbani Kantth Competition on Saturday 30th March, 2 - 6pm
  Contact: Giani Kulvinder Singh for details 07891 837208 
• Special exhibitions will be on display in National Sikh Museum covering history from the Guru Khalsa Panths, the 1978 Shaheedi Saka and Bhai Sahib Randhir Singh

Accommodation
Accommodation has been arranged for the whole Smagam. Bibian accommodation has been specially arranged. For further details, contact Bhai Bhupinder Singh on 07719225401

Airport Pickups
Transport will be arranged for all Gursikhs arriving from abroad at Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham, and all other UK Airports. Please contact Bhai Onkar Singh (07737749556).


Coach Transport
Coaches/Mini-buses will leave from the following towns for the Raensbhai Keertan in Derby on Sun 31st March. Please reserve your seats with your town reps ASAP. *

• Southall - Singh Sabha Havelock Rd at 5pm, Sevadaar Bhai Japsimran Singh 07400896809
• Slough - Khalsa School Wexham Rd at 5.30 pm, Sevadaar Bhai Onkar Singh 07737 749556
• Ilford - Singh Sabha High Rd, at 5pm. Sevadaar Bhai Upkar Singh 07747 770156
• Coventry - Singh Sabha Cross Rd at 6.30pm, Sevadaar Bhai Kulwant Singh 07854136413
• Woolwich - Ramgharia Gurdwara, Mason Hill, at 5pm, Sevadaar Bibi Navrup Kaur 07747 534502
• Croydon - Singh Sabha at 5pm. Sevadaar Bhai Harvinder Singh 07979 515849
• Tooting - Khalsa Centre Upper Tooting Rd at 4.30pm. Sevadaar Bhai Harvinder Singh 07979515849
• Gravesend - New Guru Nanak Gurdwara at 5pm, Sevadaar Bhai Seva Singh 07831 712430
• Manchester - Guru Harkrishan Gurdwara 6pm, Sevadaar Bhai Gurdip Singh / Bhai Jaskirat Singh 07723 921414
• Hitchin - Gurdwara, Wilbury Way at 5.30pm, Sevadaar Bhai Harkamal Singh 07816361811
• Leamington - New Gurdwara at 6.30pm, Sevadaar Bhai Joginder Singh 07723 367871
• South Shields - Khalsa Mero Roop Hai Kaas, at 5pm, Sevadaar Bhai Karnail Singh 07801 431855
• Reading - Singh Sabha, Cumberland Rd at 5pm, Sevadaar Bhai Parminder Singh 07984451061
• Bradford - Guru Nanak Gurdwara, Wakefield Road at 6pm, Sevadaar Bhai Maadho Singh 07850 947723
• Glasgow - Singh Sabha Gurdwara, Berkley Street, at 2pm, Sevadaar Bhai Manjit Singh 07769 354507
  
  All other UK gurdwara's are requested to provide transport for their local sangat. Please ring the designated area sevadaar to book your places on the coaches. 

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"101 Poor and Needy Sikh Children need our support...."

Message from Seva84 charity:

Sangat Jee, this picture is of children in a colony for survivors of the November 1984 genocide, in North West Delhi. It represents the difference that can be made to the lives of others when the Sewa of Sangat like yourself is invested wisely... 

Currently, Seva84 are assisting poor children from the families of 1984's survivors in gaining an education and building their future. On 11th March 2013, Seva84 made a payment of Rs 96,802 to secure the academic fees for 16 students - all with the generosity of the Sangat!! These 16 students were denied entry into school but have now been readmitted thanks to your support. 

There are still 85 children who do not have the funds to pay for their fees and are currently at risk of not completing their education! 

Please help these survivors of the 1984 genocide rebuild their lives and give them a chance to stand on their feet. Make a donation today and spread the word. 

It is crucial to keep children in Tilak Vihar in education, as drugs and crime is rampant in the area. Many children of shaheeds have already died to drugs since 1984. 

Together, we can make a difference! Education is a way out of poverty. Please help secure the education of the remaining 85 students. 

http://www.justgiving.com/101SikhChildren

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

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Vaheguroo

Story from Denmark Smaagam...

Author: Bhai Vijay Singh

I wanted to share a story with the Sangat about an opportunity I was blessed with when coming back from Denmark Keertan Samaagam on Sunday. I was sitting on the plane and it was not very full. There was only me and a Danish man sitting on the row. I noticed he was reading a very thick book, called the 'History of Europe'. I noticed out of the corner of my eye that occasionally he was looking in my direction so I thought I'd start a conversation. 

I asked him about the book and he was really enthusiastic about it and started talking to me about the different parts of it. He mentioned he had met Sikhs before and then I saw it as an opportunity to talk to him about Sikhi. I started to discuss the appearance of a Sikh because I realised that was the most intriguing thing for him initially. 

I talked about the dastaar being our crown of principles and our Kes forming our spiritual link with God. He seemed very impressed. I noticed that a number of people in the plane started listening too and turning around occasionally. He asked "How does one become a Sikh?" I talked very briefly about Amrit Sanchaar and how it is different to a normal baptism in terms of giving your head to the Guru. 

ਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਬਚਨੀ ਹਾਟਿ ਬਿਕਾਨਾ ਜਿਤੁ ਲਾਇਆ ਤਿਤੁ ਲਾਗਾ ||੧||
"I sold myself at Your store in exchange for the Guru's Word; whatever You link me to, to that I am linked."
(Ang 991)

I mentioned the commitment of refraining from the 4 bajjar kurehits (cardinal prohibitions) and a person who does one of these 4 is no longer a Sikh. I also discussed the qualities of a Gursikh mentioning: 

ਨਿਵਣੁ ਸੁ ਅਖਰੁ ਖਵਣੁ ਗੁਣੁ ਜਿਹਬਾ ਮਣੀਆ ਮੰਤੁ ||
"Humility is the word, forgiveness is the virtue, and sweet speech is the magic mantra."
(Ang 1384)

He said, "I have noticed that whenever I have spoken to Sikhs they are very softly spoken." This man then began complementing Sikhi saying how he didn’t know anything about Sikhs before and now I can see that a Sikh is an ideal person who has an ideal way of life to have happiness all the time. 

Right at the end I asked him why he was coming to England. He said he works for the Danish Government in the area of Cultural Awareness and was going to UK to attend a course. I thought to myself Dhan Guru Nanak Dev ji has given this gareeb Sikh a chance to share knowledge about his wonderful path to such an relevant person. I said to him that he should always go up to Sikhs when he sees them and speak to them. I said they are all friendly and nice. I also told him to attend Gurdwara Sahib in Copenhagen. 

An important learning point from this is that we should always be prepared to share knowledge about Sikhi with the world no matter who they are. We must first arm ourselves with information and then look for opportunities to educate. A candle does not lose anything by lighting another candle. But one point to note, only share this with the people who want to learn and hear about it otherwise we fall into the trap of: 

ਵਿਣੁ ਗਾਹਕ ਗੁਣੁ ਵੇਚੀਐ ਤਉ ਗੁਣੁ ਸਹਘੋ ਜਾਇ ||

"If virtue is sold when there is no buyer, then it is sold very cheap."

(Ang 1086)

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Power of Ardaas & Simran in Sangat...

Author: Balvinder Singh (Bradford, UK)

Date: 12th March 2013

 

Vaheguru Jee Ka Khalsa, Vaheguru Jee Kee Fateh

A Great Experience... today, Tuesday, at 13.45 on 12/3/2013.

The event for Seva of vulnerable and elderly Sangat has come to it's end today at Gurdwara Singh Sabha Bradford. The Granthi Singh jee had just finished doing katha and simran of the 11th asthpadee (chapter) of Sukhmani Sahib, when a very upset young lady walked in. She said Fateh to everyone with great humility and love. She looked very upset.

The Granthi Singh jee asked, "Is everything okay?" She weeped slightly and in a very upset voice repeatedly said, "No, my husband was suffering from bakhaar (temperature). He collapsed and got rushed in to intensive care, as he is quite serious. Can we please do an ardaas" she repeated in a very upset voice". The Granthi Singh jee said, "Don't worry bhenji. You have great good fortune, as you have come to Guru Sahib jee's hazooree (presence) whilst Sangat is going on... I can not do anything myself but the Sangat will bless you."

He started the simran. There were around 13 older ladies in the Sangat and a couple of young Singhs. The simran only lasted 5 minutes but the rass (power/taste) in those 5 minutes was immense. The bibi was crying whilst chanting Vaheguru. Everyone felt her pain and chanted in great vigour.

The simran stopped and the Granthi Singh jee did an ardaas. In the ardaas the Granthi Singh jee said, "Guru sahib jee I have no power... I am weak but you have blessed your daughter in the Saadh Sangat today. She is begging for you to listen to her prayer... birthee kadey na hoveaee jan Ki ardaas (Your servants ardaas has never failed). Nanak jor govind ka pooran guntaas (Nanak takes the strength of the perfect lord of the universe, the treasure of excellence). Please bless bhenji with strength, please bless bhenji with Gursikhi jeevan. Only you know her minds desires Guru Sahib, please fulfil them." The Granthi Singh jee explained to Guru Sahib what was wrong with bhenji's husband and ended the ardaas.

Bhenji in great humility thanked the Saadh Sangat for chanting Vaheguru in Sangat and standing in the ardaas. She had tears running down her face and the Sangat really felt her emotions. Bhenji's love for the Sangat was visible through her eyes. The Granthi Singh said, "Don't worry bhenji! Guru ji and the Sangat will look after your husband. You came at the perfect time". Bhenji still crying tried to smile and slowly walked to her car. She asked the Granthi Singh to please come to the hospital and see her husband, to which he agreed.

Daas received a call around 2.30pm from the Granthi Singh jee. Bhai Sahib said, "We got to the hospital and with Guru Sahib jee and his sangat's apaar (amazing) kirpaa (blessings) the husband was absolutely fine before we got there."

Saadh Sangat jee I was really touched by the love and power of Guru Sahib's Sangat and had to share this story.

Proud to be a slave of my Guru.

Guru sahib loves us and is always here for us, his love is unconditional. We only remember him when we need him. Let's all remember him always jee, without any condition.

Dhan Teri Sikhee Guru Jee.

Bhul Chuk Maaf Karni Jee.

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Dhan Hai Guru! Dhan Hai Teree Sikhee!

 

Happy New Year (Sikh Calendar)...

Today on 1st Chet (Panjabi Month), 14th March, the Sikh Nation celebrates the Sikh New Year. Happy new year to everyone. May Guru jee inspire, motivate and bless us with Gursikhi Sangat, keeping Rehat, japping Naam and doing seva of the Panth.

Guru jee's Hukam (instruction) to us on commencing of the month of Chet (mid March - mid April):

ਚੇਤਿ ਗੋਵਿੰਦੁ ਅਰਾਧੀਐ ਹੋਵੈ ਅਨੰਦੁ ਘਣਾ || ਸੰਤ ਜਨਾ ਮਿਲਿ ਪਾਈਐ ਰਸਨਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਭਣਾ || ਜਿਨਿ ਪਾਇਆ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਆਪਣਾ ਆਏ ਤਿਸਹਿ ਗਣਾ || ਇਕੁ ਖਿਨੁ ਤਿਸੁ ਬਿਨੁ ਜੀਵਣਾ ਬਿਰਥਾ ਜਨਮੁ ਜਣਾ || ਜਲਿ ਥਲਿ ਮਹੀਅਲਿ ਪੂਰਿਆ ਰਵਿਆ ਵਿਚਿ ਵਣਾ || ਸੋ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਚਿਤਿ ਨ ਆਵਈ ਕਿਤੜਾ ਦੁਖੁ ਗਣਾ || ਜਿਨੀ ਰਾਵਿਆ ਸੋ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ ਤਿੰਨਾ ਭਾਗੁ ਮਣਾ || ਹਰਿ ਦਰਸਨ ਕੰਉ ਮਨੁ ਲੋਚਦਾ ਨਾਨਕ ਪਿਆਸ ਮਨਾ || ਚੇਤਿ ਮਿਲਾਏ ਸੋ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ ਤਿਸ ਕੈ ਪਾਇ ਲਗਾ ||੨||
"In the month of Chet (the Spring season arrives, the blossoming of flowers everywhere brings joy to the mind), meditate on Waheguru, the Lord of the Universe, (and through the blessings of doing Simran) a deep and profound spiritual joy can arise. However, meeting with the humble Saints, the gift of chanting Waheguru's Name with our tongue is obtained. Those who have found Waheguru (through the aid of Simran) are blessed in their coming into this world, (because) those who live without Him, for even an instant - their lives are rendered useless. That Lord who is totally pervading the water, the land, and all space, He is contained in the forests as well. Those who do not remember such a Lord (i.e. Waheguru) then that person's mental anguish and suffering cannot be explained. (However,) those who enshrine that (All-prevading) God in their hearts, have great good fortune. My mind yearns for the Blessed Vision of the Lord Waheguru’s Darshan. O Nanak! My mind is so thirsty to have Your Darshan! I will touch the feet of the one who unites me with Waheguru in the month of Chet. (2)"
(Ang 133)

ਕਵਿਤਾ: "ਮਾਂ ..." । Poem: "Mum..."

A nice poem for mother's day:

My little boy came into the kitchen this evening while I was fixing supper and he handed me a piece of paper he'd been writing on.
So, after wiping my hands on my apron. I read it, and this is what it said:

"For mowing the grass, £5
For making my own bed this week, £1
For going to the shop, £10
For playing with baby brother while you went shopping, £10
For taking out the rubbish, £1
For getting a good school report, £5
For raking the garden, £4"

I looked at him standing there expectantly, and a thousand memories flashed through my mind. So, I picked up the paper, and turning it over, this is what I wrote:

"For the nine months I carried you, growing inside me: No Charge.
For the nights I sat up with you, doctored you, and prayed for you: No Charge.
For the time and the tears, and the cost through the years: No Charge.
For the nights filled with dread, and the worries ahead: No Charge.For advice and knowledge, and the cost of your college: No Charge.
For the toys, food and clothes, and for wiping your nose: No Charge.

Son.
When you add it all up, the full cost of my love: No Charge."

Well, when he finished reading, he had great big tears in his eyes. He looked up at me and said, "Mum, I sure do love you." Then he took the pen and in great big letters he wrote:

"PAID IN FULL"

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For a child a mother’s lap is no less than blissful heaven (ਮਾਵਾਂ ਠੰਢੀਆਂ ਛਾਵਾਂ). It is offered without asking. Prophet Muhammad once said, “Heaven lies under the feet of the mother”. She always gives; expecting little or nothing in return. It is our indebtedness to this supreme sacrifice of the mothers that the word mother is attached to all that we hold precious like ‘Mother Earth’, ‘Mother-Tongue,’ Maternal instinct,’ and ‘Mother’s milk’ etc.

Blessed our mothers. As a Gursikh I feel as if I have many mothers. My divine-mother, Mata Sahib Kaur jee. Then the mother that carried for me 9 months, gave physical birth to me, raised me, showered me with love and made sacrifices for me. Then mothers within Saadh Sangat that treat me, do seva, and give me pyaar as if I am their son. 
 
The Sikh Gurus also honoured motherhood. Throughout Gurbani, mothers are praised and honoured. Guru Sahib fully praise mothers for bringing credit to their families through proper care of their children.

ਧਨੁ ਜਨਨੀ ਜਿਨਿ ਜਾਇਆ ਧੰਨੁ ਪਿਤਾ ਪਰਧਾਨੁ ||
“Blessed is the mother who gives birth” 
(Ang 32)

A mother is the first teacher of a child radiating purity, grace and affection.

Punjab Police brutality...

Jalandhar: Several personnel of the Punjab Police were caught on camera beating up a woman and her elderly father in Tarn Taran on Sunday. The young woman had reportedly complained of sexual harassment. She said that she had been harassed by truck drivers, however instead the Police ended up beating both the woman and her father and took the side of the truck drivers.

ਰਾਜੇ ਸੀਹ ਮੁਕਦਮ ਕੁਤੇ ॥ ਜਾਇ ਜਗਾਇਨਿ੍ ਬੈਠੇ ਸੁਤੇ ॥
Raaje sheeh mukaḏam kuṯe. Jaae jagaaen baiṯẖe suṯe.
The kings are tigers, and their officials are dogs; they go out and awaken the sleeping people to harass them.

ਚਾਕਰ ਨਹਦਾ ਪਾਇਨਿ੍ ਘਾਉ ॥ ਰਤੁ ਪਿਤੁ ਕੁਤਿਹੋ ਚਟਿ ਜਾਹੁ ॥
Cẖaakar nahḏaa pāenih gẖaao. Raṯ piṯ kuṯiho cẖatt jaahu.
The public servants inflict wounds with their nails. The dogs lick up the blood that is spilled.

ਜਿਥੈ ਜੀਆਂ ਹੋਸੀ ਸਾਰ ॥ ਨਕੀਂ ਵਢੀਂ ਲਾਇਤਬਾਰ ||੨||
Jithai jeeaa(ʼn) hosee saar. Nakee(ʼn) vadẖee(ʼn) laaiṯbaar. ||2||
But there, in the Court of the Lord, all beings will be judged. Those who have violated the people's trust will be disgraced; their noses will be cut off. ||2||
(Guru Nanak Dev Jee - Ang 1288)

Holland Sikh Family Camp...

From 20th to 27th February 2013 a Sikh Family Camp was held at Guru Nanak Sahib Gurdwara in Amsterdam, Netherlands (Holland). With the blessings of Guru Sahib and the Saadh Sangat the camp was really successful. About 60 local children and 30 adults attended the week long camp. Bhenji Navrup Kaur from Kaurs Corner and other sevadaars from the UK came along to the camp to do talks and workshops.

The camp started 10am with Simran, Ardaas, and Hukamnama. The camp had classes for parents/adults, over 12s and under 12s. There were talks on various topics including Sukhmani Sahib vichaar, the power of Sangat, and role models. The workshops includes learning a shabad or simran tune, how to make degh, how to do Guru jee's seva and dastaar tying. Campers also made eggless cakes (which are rare in Holland). 

Some photos from the camp:

 Satguru Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee

 Kaurs Corner - Over 12s group

 

 Under 12s group reciting "We are the Khalsa, the mighty mighty Khalsa..."

 Younger group doing some colouring

 Keertan workshop

 Spongebob explaining Gurmat to the children

 Veer Jasraj Singh with the younger children

 Younger children playing a game whilst chanting Mool Mantar

 Bhenji Navrup Kaur with the elder girls

 Talk on power of Sangat

 Some of the younger children admitted to running around the Gurdwara and happily came to the front of the Sangat to do so Simran as a way of apologising. So sweet. Waheguru!

Mothers class

Making langar

 Veer Rajdeep Singh and Bhaji Gurpreet Singh with the under 12s

 Mothers class. The mata jee wearing the Keski is originally from Kabul, Afghanistan. In one the sessions she said that wearing a Keski gives her headaches but nothing in the world would make her take her Keski off. She said she would bear the pain of wearing a Dastaar for Sikhi. She showed extreme courage  and Sikhi spirit.

 Bhenji Navrup Kaur with youngest group

Group photo with local Sevadaars

Dhan Hai Guru! Dhan Hai Teree Sikhee!

"What do you eat?..."

When I worked in school, someone asked me to eat from the school canteen. I politely said, "No thanks - I don't eat out." The person seemed very intrigued with my answer. We both sat down and began talking whilst he had his lunch. He asked me, "Please explain what you eat and your way of life... I am very interested".

I explained, "Sikhs do not eat fish, eggs or meat." He asked, "Why is that?" I replied, "The Guru has taught us to eat those foods which helps us to meditate and make our mind spiritually strong - meat, egg and fish are considered negative foods which negatively affects our spiritually and mind. For this reason I  do not eat fish, eggs or meat."

ਬਾਬਾ ਹੋਰੁ ਖਾਣਾ ਖੁਸੀ ਖੁਆਰੁ ॥
ਜਿਤੁ ਖਾਧੈ ਤਨੁ ਪੀੜੀਐ ਮਨ ਮਹਿ ਚਲਹਿ ਵਿਕਾਰ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
“O Baba! The pleasures of other foods are false, by eating which, the body is ruined, and wickedness and corruption enters into the mind. ||1||Pause||”
(Ang 16)

He then asked, "So what is spiritual food?" "We eat anything which is natural or pure. Food becomes spiritual by when you cook it, you think of God or chant Waheguru when cooking."

"So is that what you do?" he said. I replied, "I try and cook my own food and eat food which has been spiritually blessed... in my mind I try to think of Waheguru, chant Waheguru or recite some prayers when cooking. Through eating food which has been cooked in this way, the food gets infused with spiritual vibrations. Not only does such food nourish the body but it also has a positive influence on one's mind and builds positive energy in the person."

By the end of the conversation, the person (who didn't believe or follow a religion) said, "That's really awesome. Please give me some vegetarian recipes of the food you cook at home. I want to try what you have told me - I want to chant Waheguru and cook food one day."





 


Dhan Hai Guru, Dhan Hai Teree Sikhee!

The Moral Decline of Panjabi Music...

Video of cricketer Harbhajan Singh nicely explaining how Panjabi music has contributed to the moral decline of society and a shame to Panjab, the Panjabi language, and society. Please watch:

Bhai Nand Lal Ji records Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s prescribed code of conduct as:

ਤਿ੍ਯਾ ਰਾਗ ਸੁਨਿਹ ਚਿਤ ਲਾਇ ॥ ਸੁਨਹੁ ਲਾਲ ਸੋ ਜਮਪੁਰਿ ਜਾਇ ॥੧੭॥
“Those who listen to dirty lyrics and lustful tunes with attention, listen Nand Laal Ji, they will be punished by the angel of death.”
(Rehatnama Bhai Nand Laal Singh Ji)

Gurbani says:

ਮੇਰੇ ਮੋਹਨ ਸ੍ਰਵਨੀ ਇਹ ਨ ਸੁਨਾਏ ॥
ਸਾਕਤ ਗੀਤ ਨਾਦ ਧੁਨਿ ਗਾਵਤ ਬੋਲਤ ਬੋਲ ਅਜਾਏ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
“O my fascinating Lord, let me not listen to the faithless cynic, singing his songs and tunes, and chanting his useless words. ||1||Pause|||"
(Ang 820) 

Following Rehat (disciplined living) leads us to experiencing and enjoying the benefits of Gurbani. Gurbani clearly states “Geeth” (ਗੀਤ), “Naad” (ਨਾਦ), and “Dhun” (ਧੁਨਿ). This incorporates all lyrics, all beats, all tunes of the faithless. If one is singing about the love of women, their caste, their wealth etc they are singing nonsense of faithless cynicism or what leads away from higher consciousness living in accordance to the Guru’s teachings.