ਗੁਰੂ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਸਿੰਘ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਗੁਰਪੁਰਬ ਦੇ ਮੌਕੇ ਤੇ ਗੈਰ-ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਵਾਸਤੇ ਸੁਨੇਹਾ । Message to share with non-Sikhs on Gurpurb of Guru Gobind Singh Ji

Sikh Festival:  Birthday Celebration of Tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Jee

5^th January marks the celebration date for the birth of the Tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Born in 1666, in the face of oppression, Guru Gobind Singh Jee challenged authoritarian rulers with his message of unity and the right for people of all faiths and beliefs to live freely without fear of persecution and discrimination.

His legacy codifying Sikhs into a uniquely visible army of Saint-Soldiers, the Khalsa, which is dedicated to the service and protection of humanity, is a reminder for us all of our responsibilities as human beings towards one another, society, and the planet. Guru Gobind Singh Jee formalised the Sikh uniform, which made all baptised or committed disciples standout as a daily reminder of their spiritual commitment to God and social commitment to be forever in service of the most vulnerable in society, regardless of who they may be.

Guru Gobind Singh Jee dedicated his entire life serving the people and fighting against injustice. He led by example and showed exemplary courage. For the sake of his mission to protect and serve humanity from oppression, his whole family was sacrificed. His father was beheaded in 1675 whilst defending the human right of people of another faith to be able to live with dignity in the midst of persecution from the authorities. His two elder sons, aged 17 and 15 bravely died in a unparallelled historic battle on 23^rd December 1704, where the Emperor of India and his supporters with an army of 1 million surrounded and attacked 42 brave Sikhs. His younger sons, aged 6 and 9, were bricked alive and attained martyrdom on 26^th December 1704 for refusing to give up their faith and give into tyranny. His elderly mother was detained with his younger sons and also attained martyrdom for refusing to give up her faith.

His teachings will continue to inspire coming generations to stand up against injustice and treat human race as one and seek to look beyond labels of religion, colour, race and gender.

ਡੈਨਿਸ਼ ਵਿੱਚ ਬੱਚੇ ਗੁਰੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ ਜੀ ਬਾਰੇ ਵਿਚਾਰ ਕਰਦੇ । Children discuss about Guru Nanak Dev Ji in Danish

On 8th December, I had the opportunity to talk about Guru Nanak Dev Ji during Sunday Divaan at Singh Sabha Gurdwara, Copenhagen, Denmark. The local children's Sikhi class also attended the talk. Afterwards, the children got together and were asked to recollect in Danish what they had learnt about Guru Nanak Dev Ji and had the opportunity to hear more about the life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The children were very well composed and focused and showed great enthusiasm to learn about Sikhi. 

ਨਿਕੀਆਂ ਜਿੰਦਾਂ ਵੱਡੇ ਸਾਕੇ | Young Souls, Great Sacrifices...

ਵੱਡੇ ਸਾਹਿਬਜ਼ਾਦਿਆਂ ਦੀ ਸ਼ਹੀਦੀ ਤੋਂ ਇਹ ਕਮਾਲ ਦਾ ਸਬਕ। Lesson from the martyrdom of the Elder Sahibzaadey...

ਜਥੇਦਾਰ ਭਾਈ ਰਘਬੀਰ ਸਿੰਘ ਜੀ (ਅਖੰਡ ਕੀਰਤਨੀ ਜੱਥਾ ਯੂ.ਕੇ.) ਦੇ ਅਨਮੋਲ ਬਚਨਾਂ ਦੀ ਵੀਡੀਓ । Special Documentary - Jathedar Bhai Sahib Raghbir Singh (Akhand Keertani Jatha UK)

ਜਥੇਦਾਰ ਭਾਈ ਰਘਬੀਰ ਸਿੰਘ ਜੀ (ਯੂ.ਕੇ.) ਦੀ ਸੰਖੇਪ ਜੀਵਨੀ । A short biography of Jathedaar Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji (UK) [Part 3]

 Continued...

(PART 3 - FINAL PART) 

 

First-ever youth Akhand Paath Sahib

From 6th to 9th November 2008, Akhand Kirtani Jatha UK organised the first ever national Sikh youth Akhand Paath Sahib (continuous non-intermittent reading of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji) at Gurdwara Singh Sabha Coventry. The Seva was co-ordinated by Bhenji Daljeet Kaur Ji and Bhai Jaspal Singh Ji from Leicester. The paatth (reading) was recited solely by the youth, in particular youth who had not done paatth in Sangat before. The Seva was carried out by around 50 Amritdhari Singhs and Singhnian from across the UK. Each person was allocated 20 Angs (respected word for pages) with an estimated time depending on the individual's ability. Individuals were given time to practise and seek help with pronunciation beforehand. Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji along with other elder Gursikhs of the Jatha like Bhai Jarnail Singh Ji (Leamington-Spa), Bhai Bhupinder Singh Ji (Coventry) etc. sat in the Sangat and listened to the entire Paatth to ensure that Gurbani was read correctly. It was amazing to hear Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji repeat lines of Gurbani without looking at the computer or any Pothi (scriptural volume) and correcting Paatthis (readers) where they unintentially made a mistake. It just shows how much abhiyaas (practice) they had of listening and reading to Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The final Ardaas was done by Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji. During the Ardaas he became emotional and tears ran down his face. He was so emotional that at one point he struggled to speak. Bhai Sahib expressed his joy that the youth of UK were now not only able to do Kirtan, but also on their way to becoming Paathis. Perhaps he was reminded of his promise he made to his comrades of the Sikh freedom struggle that he would dedicate his life to building up the Khalsa in the West. After the bhog (completion), Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji, as the Jathedaar of Akhand Kirtani Jatha UK, gave a siropa (robe of honour) to each and every person who took part in the Seva. Bhai Sahib was a firm believer that along with Naam Simran and Kirtan, a Gursikh should read and also try to understand Gurbani.

ਹਉ ਵਾਰੀ ਜੀਉ ਵਾਰੀ ਪੜਿ ਬੁਝਿ ਮੰਨਿ ਵਸਾਵਣਿਆ ॥
I am a sacrifice, my soul is a sacrifice, to those who read of the Lord, who understand and enshrine Him within their minds.
(Maajh M:3, Ang 127)

Final meeting with Bhai Shingara Singh Ji

Bhai Shingara Singh Ji was one of the early Gursikhs of Akhand Kirtani Jatha to come to the UK. He moved to the UK in 1963 and was one the few Gursikhs at the time who kept Sarbloh Bibek (discipline of eating food cooked and served by Gursikhs in iron utensils) and wore Khalsa Bana (attire). He had brought a large Sarbloh Baattaa (bowl) and Sarbloh Khanda (double-edged sword) with him from Punjab, and arranged the first Amrit Sanchaar organised by Akhand Kirtani Jatha in the UK. Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji met Bhai Shingara Singh Ji in 1976 in an Amrit Sanchaar organised by Akhand Kirtani Jatha in Southall. Since then, they enjoyed one another's company in walking the Guru's path. Two weeks before Bhai Shingara Singh Ji left this world, he started making all his arrangements for his funeral. He took a Gursikh with him to a Sikhi shop, DTF in Birmingham, and brought all his Kakkaars to wear on his funeral day. He also brought the cloth for his Bana (dress) which he wanted to wear on his funeral, and gave his daughter the tailor's details from whom he wanted to get it sewn from. He organised the Gurdwara for his funeral and also completed a Sehaj Paath (complete reading) of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji up to Salok Mahallaa Nauvaa(n). Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji and Bhai Shingara Singh Ji were very good friends. On Wednesday 29th June 2011, Bhai Sahib went to see Bhai Shingara Singh Jee around 7pm, after Bhai Shingara Singh Ji had made a few requests for Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji to come and visit him. Their meeting lasted until 9pm that evening. The following morning after completing Amrit-Vela, Bhai Shingara Singh Ji left this world.

ਜਿਸ ਕੇ ਜੀਅ ਪਰਾਣ ਹਹਿ ਕਿਉ ਸਾਹਿਬੁ ਮਨਹੁ ਵਿਸਾਰੀਐ ॥
ਆਪਣ ਹਥੀ ਆਪਣਾ ਆਪੇ ਹੀ ਕਾਜੁ ਸਵਾਰੀਐ ॥੨੦॥
We should not forget that Lord-Master from our minds who has given us our soul and breath. (Whilst your alive,) resolve our own spiritual affairs with our your efforts. ||20||
(Aasa M:1, Ang 474)

The ability to read people's mind

There are numerous accounts of Bhai Sahib being able to read people's minds and know people's inner thoughts. Once Bhai Atma Singh Ji (Coventry) accompanied another Gursikh to Bhai Sahib's house in Leamington Spa. Whilst the other Gursikh was engaged in a conversation with Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji, Bhai Atma Singh Ji had the thought what he should do with his Lareevaar Sencheeaa (small scriptural volumes) as he can now read Gurbani on his devices. Soon as this thought came to him, Bhai Sahib stopped the conversation with the other Gursikh and looked at Bhai Atma Singh Ji, and said, "If you have Sencheeaa at home, then you should read from them!" He then casually carried on his conversation with the other Gursikh. Bhai Atma Singh Ji was left amazed how Bhai Sahib read his thoughts and gave him a timely response. During Amrit Sanchaars Bhai Sahib would know whether someone is telling the truth or lying. This is a quality that many Gursikhs in the past who did Seva in Amrit Sanchaars had. Bhai Manpreet Singh Ji (Derby) shared how someone told Jathedaar Ji that he and his wife had been refused Daat (gift) from the Panj Pyaare (the reason being they were told to wake up Amrit-Vela and keep Rehat for 6 months first). The other Gursikh asked if Jathedaar Ji could tell the Amrit Sanchaar Sevadaars to please bless them with the Guru's gift sooner. Bhai Sahib looked into Bhai Manpreet Singh Ji's eyes and said, "You still believe that you can live and make do without Naam?" Bhai Manpreet Singh Ji shared that he had in the back of his mind that he had already taken Amrit and didn't think Naam was that important, although he was going to the Panj Pyaare to ask for this gift. Bhai Sahib had read his inner thoughts and feelings. This reassured Veer Ji that Naam was important.

ਨਾਨਕ ਵਾਹੁ ਵਾਹੁ ਕਰਹਿ ਸੇ ਜਨ ਨਿਰਮਲੇ ਤ੍ਰਿਭਵਣ ਸੋਝੀ ਪਾਇ ॥੨॥
O Nanak! Those who chant the Lord's Praises 'Vaahu! Vaahu!' become pure and obtain the knowledge of the three worlds (past, present and future). ||2||
(Gujri M:5, Ang 515)

Life partner being Saadh Saangat

Mata Nirmal Kaur Ji, Singhni (wife) of Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji, would always accompany Bhai Sahib when going abroad for Seva or attending Keertan programmes. Mata Nirmal Kaur Ji said to me, "I am so lucky that I was married to Jathedaar Ji. I passed my life with great peace and pleasure. I never had a bad moment with him." Mata Ji said that she never had argument with Bhai Sahib but then she said, "We actually would only have arguments over one topic." She said, "That one topic was... who would wake up Amrit-Vela first." Mata Ji shared that if she woke up at 12am and got in the bathroom first, Jathedaar Ji would call out, "It's my turn first. Have a shower after me." This is the enthusiasm and thirst Bhai Sahib had for Amrit-Vela. Sometimes Mata Ji would wake up 11.45pm so she could get her shower first and sit down first for Simran. She said she would quietly get up and try to enter the bathroom but Bhai Sahib would say from the bedroom, "I can hear you! You know after so many years that its my turn first for a shower and then yours." Both Bhai Sahib and Mata Ji would wake up 12am and sit together to do Naam Abhiaas. After Naam Abhiaas they would recite Nitnem Banis together and then read Sehaj Paath together. Bhai Sahib's Ji's Nitnem included reciting Panj Granthi. They would then take time to do a Sehaj Paath, where one would read the Sehaj Paath from Guru Granth Sahib Ji's Lareevaar Saroop and the other would read the translations of the Paath read from a a Steek Senchee (translation volume) written by Giani Harbans Singh. Every day at 11am they would sit together to watch Kathaa on TV and then discuss what they had learnt. A true couple which personified Gurbani's message of making one's family into Saadh Sangat, the True Company.

ਧੰਨੁ ਸੁ ਥਾਨੁ ਬਸੰਤ ਧੰਨੁ ਜਹ ਜਪੀਐ ਨਾਮੁ ॥
ਕਥਾ ਕੀਰਤਨੁ ਹਰਿ ਅਤਿ ਘਨਾ ਸੁਖ ਸਹਜ ਬਿਸ੍ਰਾਮੁ ॥੩॥
Blessed is that place, and blessed are those who dwell there, where they chant the Naam, the Name of the Lord. The place where the Sermon and the Praises of the Lord take place very often, becomes full of peace and tranquility. ||3||
(Bilaaval M:5, Ang 816)

Love for Gurbani

Bhai Sahib was blessed with being able to memorise a lot of Gurbani. To the point that he could sit in an Akhand Paath and correct the Paathis without looking. Bhai Sahib shared that he memorised Gurbani by writing it down on cards. He would keep these cards with him and refer to them everytime he forgot a line. Whilst driving trucks, Bhai Sahib would put small cards with Gurbani written on them on the dash board and whilst driving he would keep reciting a Shabad over and over again. In this way, he learnt many Banis and many Shabads. Truly, Gurbani was Bhai Sahib's life. Bhai Sahib stressed the importance to memorise Nitnem. Once Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji along with Bhai Rama Singh Ji and other Gursikhs travelled to Thailand to spread the message of Sikhi. On the return flight, there were quite a few Gursikhs together in the plane. Suddenly, Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji, who knew Bani by heart, started the Nitnem. Everyone listened to the Paatth of the Five Banis, One Singh looked at the time and asked, "Bhai Sahib, why did you start the Nitnem so early?" The England time at the time was 3am. In this way, due to force of habit, Bani is timed and recorded in the minds of Gursikhs and the Paatth starts automatically. Bhai Sahib also put equal stress on learning the correct pronunciation and meanings of Gurbani. Once at the Derby Vaisakhi Smaagam, the youth were reciting Nitnem in Sangat at Amrit-Vela. Bhai Sahib spoke to Bhai Hardip Singh Ji from Slough afterwards and said, "Today the youngsters reading Nitnem made so many mistakes. With such incorrect proncunciations how do they expect Gurbani to wash away the filth of their vikaars (corrupt thoughts)? Gurbani is very powerful in cleansing the mind, however only if one reads it correctly."

ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਬਾਣੀ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਪੂਰੇ ਕੀ ਜਿਸੁ ਕਿਰਪਾਲੁ ਹੋਵੈ ਤਿਸੁ ਰਿਦੈ ਵਸੇਹਾ ॥
The spiritual-life giving Bani (Word) of the Perfect True Guru dwells in the heart of one who is blessed by the Guru's Mercy.
(Raamkalee M:5, Ang 961)

Departing for the Guru's Abode

Bhai Sahib became physically weak and was admitted into his hospital in mid-November 2019. In hospital hundreds of Gursikhs from across the country came to give their respects to Bhai Sahib. It came to a stage that the hospital had to say no to visitors. During Bhai Sahib's last days, he was still committed to his Rehat of waking up 12am for Naam Abhiaas and only ate home-made food. Mata Nirmal Kaur Ji stayed with Bhai Sahib in the hospital room and together would do Nitnem. A day or so before leaving this world, Bhai Sahib began to talk about the Shaheed Singhs (martyrs) of 1984 and the Sikh freedom struggle. It was as if each Shaheed Singh whom Bhai Sahib had done Sangat with was coming to visit him one by one, and as they appeared to Bhai Sahib, he would begin talking about them. Bhai Sahib shared visions of Sachkhand and how beautiful it is with the Gursikhs in his hospital room. Whilst Benti Chaupai Sahib was being recited, Bhai Sahib commented that it was raining. When the Gursikhs said that it wasn't raining, he replied that it was pouring down with Guru's blessings. On Tuesday 19th November 2019, Bhai Sahib was induced into coma. During coma, a patient cannot move or speak and is put to sleep. However, before Bhai Sahib breathed his last, he spoke twice in a loud voice, "Vahiguru..., Vahiguru....". It is amazing that those who are not in coma and seem fully aware, struggle to say Vahiguru's Name, however a Gurmukh in coma can still speak Vahiguru's Name. Bhai Sahib will be remembered as role model saint-soldier and beloved Gurmukh.

ਚਲਿਆ ਪਤਿ ਸਿਉ ਜਨਮੁ ਸਵਾਰਿ ਵਾਜਾ ਵਾਇਸੀ ॥
Such a mortal departs with honour and respect; their life is beautified and redeemed, and the heavenly trumpets resound with their glory.
(Soohee M:1, Ang 730) 

ਜਥੇਦਾਰ ਭਾਈ ਰਘਬੀਰ ਸਿੰਘ ਜੀ (ਯੂ.ਕੇ.) ਦੀ ਸੰਖੇਪ ਜੀਵਨੀ । A short biography of Jathedaar Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji (UK) [Part 2]

 Continued...

(PART 2)

 

Financially helping Gursikhs

The Rehatnama (code of conduct) scribed by Bhai Desa Singh Ji (p. 130), records the Hukam (command) of Guru Gobind Singh Ji as: ਆਪ ਸਿੰਘ ਜੋ ਰਾਜਾ ਹੋਈ । ਨਿਰਧਨ ਸਿੰਘਨ ਪਾਲੈ ਸੋਈ ।੪੦। (“If one Sikh is well off, they should try to help other Sikhs who are less fortunate.”). Bhai Sahib Ji lived up to this. He had no attachment to money. Every time Bhai Sahib or Mata Ji heard of a Gursikh was buying a house, they would offer financial support without any expectations for being paid back or charging interest. They would even help non-Amritdharis where needed. They helped others with unconditional love. They could not tolerate to see another Gursikh financially struggle. If a Gursikh was able to financially stand on their feet, he or she could help other Gursikhs and help Sikh causes financially. Once, Bhai Sahib came to know that a Gursikh doing Seva was only working in the household. On top of this, this Gursikh was doing Seva of the Sangat but would not ask for money. After visiting the family, Mata Ji discreetly handed over a sum of money to the family and said "this is for you and to contribute towards the costs of your home." The family member receiving said, "This is not necessary Mata Ji." However, Mata Ji insisted that Bhai Sahib had asked for it to be given. However, truly the family appreciated how the Guru works through his Gursikhs to get through hardships and ensure no shortcomings come in serving the Sangat and doing Seva.

ਬਿਲਛਿ ਬਿਨੋਦ ਆਨੰਦ ਸੁਖ ਮਾਣਹੁ ਖਾਇ ਜੀਵਹੁ ਸਿਖ ਪਰਵਾਰ ॥੧॥

O Sikhs and brethren! Revel in it, delight in it, be happy and enjoy peace, and live long. ||1||

(Sorath M:5, Ang 618)

Memorising Gurbani

In 1989 Bhai Sahib went on a world trip for 5 weeks with Bhai Rama Singh Ji (Southall), Bhai Jarnail Singh Ji (Leamington Spa) and other Gursikhs from Akhand Kirtani Jatha UK for the purpose of spreading the message of Sikhi. They travelled from UK to Singapore, then Australia and New Zealand. From there they travelled to North America. During their trip to Canada they were returning back to Vancouver from a Kirtan programme held in Calgary with a Jatha (group) of 12 Singhs led by Bhai Malkit Singh Ji. It was journey of 12 or 13 hours at night.  Bhai Sahib Ji was reciting Gurbani aloud. An elderly person looked back to see if a cassette player was on, as he was wondering who was doing Paath in the darkness at night. He was suprised that there was no light, so who was reciting Bani for three or four hours non-stop. Bhai Sahib told the elderly person, "By the Grace of the Guru I had been able to memorise a lot of Bani. When I was young, I was very keen on wrestling. Seeing my interest, my father bought a sack of almonds as part of my strength building diet." Bhai Sahib believed that along with the Guru's Grace, the diet of almonds had helped his memory power. Singhs of the Akhand Kirtani Jatha had the minimum expectation that Singhs and Singhnian (Sikh men and women) would have memorised their Nitnem Banis (daily prayers). Those who were able to, memorised more. Some Gursiksh claims that Bhai Sahib knew all Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji from memory. It can be surely be said that Bhai Sahib could correct or know the Shabad being read during an Akhand Paath Sahib.

ਹਰਿ ਕੀ ਵਡਿਆਈ ਦੇਖਹੁ ਸੰਤਹੁ ਹਰਿ ਨਿਮਾਣਿਆ ਮਾਣੁ ਦੇਵਾਏ ॥

O Saints! Look and see the glorious greatness of the Lord! The Lord blesses the dishonored with honour.

(Soohee M:4, Ang 735)

Dedication to preaching Sikhi

Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji along with Bhai Rama Singh Ji, Bhai Jarnail Singh Ji (Leamington Spa), Bhai Sohan Singh Ji (Slough), Bhai Onkar Singh Ji (Leicester) and many other Singhs and Singhnis used to travel around the UK and abroad to do Seva of Amrit Sanchaars. During the holidays, people call others over for dinner or watch television, but Gursikhs dedicate themselves to Seva and Sangat. During these Seva tours, Bhai Jarnail Singh Ji would drive the whole night and do Naam Simran continuously. Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji and other Gursikhs would join Bhai Jarnail Singh Ji in doing Naam Simran. When they reached their destination, they would do a Rainsbaaee Kirtan (all-night continous singing of Gurbani) and preach to the Sangat to follow the Guru's teachings. They would say, "If you do not accept the Guru's Word (i.e. become Guru wale), then you will re-enter the cycle of birth and death." Bhai Sahib Ji stressed that taking Amrit alone is not enough and that keeping Rehat is compulsary. Bhai Sahib echoed Gurbani's teaching that without waking up Amrit-Vela and without doing Naam Simran one cannot call themselves a Sikh of the Guru, even if one has taken Amrit.

ਗੁਣਕਾਰੀ ਗੁਣ ਸੰਘਰੈ ਅਵਰਾ ਉਪਦੇਸੇਨਿ ॥
The virtuous accumulate virtue, and teach others. (Soohee M:3, Ang 755)

Panthic activism

Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji never forgot his promise to his comrades that he made in June 1984. Till his last breaths he showed concern for the future of the Sikh nation and was always ready to be of service in any way. Bhai Sahib was dedicated to fulfil his duty to rejuvenate the Khalsa Panth in the West through encouraging others to take Amrit, Jap Naam and become good Gursikhs. Bhai Sahib, without fail, attended every Shaheedi Conference. He strongly believed that Sikhs should never forget their Shaheeds (martyrs), whether they are from the past or modern history. Bhai Sahib would regularly attend the June freedom rally and 1984 remembrance march that would take place in London. Even in his old age, he would attend these events. Bhai Sahib would tell the Sangat to give Daswandh (one tenth of their earnings) for the betterment of the Panth that includes helping the families of Shaheeds. Bhai Sahib did not shy away in his support for Khalistan, an independent state for the Sikhs that he deemed necessary for becoming a global voice for Sikhs and protecting Sikhi from religious attacks. However, he believed this was part of the bigger picture for Khalsa Raaj, which would is beyond borders and boundaries and will see the glory of Akaal Purakh manifested through the Khalsa shine boldly across the whole world.

ਧਰਮ ਚਲਾਵਨ ਸੰਤ ਉਬਾਰਨ ॥ ਦੁਸਟ ਸਭਨ ਕੋ ਮੂਲ ਉਪਾਰਨ ॥੪੩॥ 
(I have been born) to spread Dharam, and protect the saints, and uproot tyrants and evil-minded persons.43.
(Bachitar Naatak P:10, DG p.134)

Gurdwara Singh Sabha Coventry

On 9th September 1998, the foundation was laid for a new Gurdwara, Gurdwara Singh Sabha, in Coventry, UK. The foundation was laid by Five Singhs which included, Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji, Bhai Jarnail Singh Ji (Leamington-Spa), Jathedaar Bhai Rama Singh Ji (Southall), Bhai Sohan Singh Ji (Slough) and Bhai Gurdev Singh Ji (Coventry). Giani Amolak Singh Ji also attended and gave his blessings for this new Gurdwara Sahib that would be dedicated to Gurmat and encouraging the youth towards Gurbani and Naam. This was one of the first Gurdwaras where Bhai Sahib and the rest of the Jatha Sangat contributed a large part of their time, money and energy. For the past 21 years, there have been regular Amrit-Velas, Smaagams, monthly Kirtan programmes, Amrit Sanchaars and youth camps at this Gurdwara. Bhai Sahib regularly attended the Amrit-Vela programme at Singh Sabha Gurdwara. He would wake up at 12am and do his personal Amrit-Vela from 12am to 2am. Then he would attend Gurdwara Singh Sabha Coventry from 2am to 4am for Naam Abhiaas (meditation on Naam).  When there were no other programmes, Bhai Sahib would attend the Sunday divaan at Gurdwara Singh Sabha Coventry. Sangat was everything for him. Although he had experienced a higher spiritual state, he still believed that it one's religious duty to attend the Sangat (congregation) in order to motivate and encourage others to step on the Guru's Path, rather than become a recluse.

ਸਤਸੰਗਤਿ ਮਿਲਿ ਹਰਿ ਸਾਦੁ ਆਇਆ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਬ੍ਰਹਮੁ ਪਛਾਤਾ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
One who joins the Sat Sangat, the True Congregation, and enjoys the divine-taste of the Lord, through the Guru they form a deep relationship with the Lord. ||1||Pause||
(Maalee Gauraa M:4, Ang 984)

Amrit-Vela  

Bhai Sahib would wake up 12am without fail and go to the bathroom to have his Amrit-vela ishnaan (body wash). The only arguments he has had with Mata Ji (his wife), has been over whose getting in the bathroom first at Amrit-Vela. If Mata Ji would get up first at 12am and go to the bathroom, Bhai Sahib would say, "It's my turn my first. How can you do have Ishnaan first? You know you turn is after me." Mata Ji would then sometimes go to do Ishnaan at 11.45pm, thinking Bhai Sahib would not realise, but he would would call out from the bedroom, "It's my turn first!" Bhai Sahib had so much love and enthusiasm for Amrit-Vela. For those who thought waking up Amrit-Vela is hard or tiring, Bhai Sahib's love and dedication for Amrit-Vela was uplifting and inspiring. In 2002, two young Singhs were travelling with Bhai Sahib to Pakistan from the UK for Yatra (religious pilgrimage). Bhai Sahib had a heavy cold and fever at the time. Due to the flight delays and changing airports, the journey from home to Gurdwara Panja Sahib (Hasan Abdal, Pakistan) took nearly 30 hours. The 2 Singhs were exhausted and worn out, and Bhai Sahib looked even worse. When arriving at Gurdwara Panja Sahib both Singhs were longing to have a rest and relax. At this point, Bhai Sahib asked for the time. The young Singhs replied, "11.30pm". Hearing this, Jathedaar Ji's eyes lit up and said, "Come, let's have a shower and then sit down together for Naam Abhiaas (practise of repeating the Lord's Name)." Once, Bhai Sahib asked a Singh, "Do you wake up Amrit-Vela?" He said, "I do usually, but not when I am ill." Bhai Sahib then smiled looking at the Singh (who was large in shape) and said, "Do you eat food, when you are ill?" The Singh said, "Yes." Bhai Sahib then said, "If you can forget not to eat when you are ill, then you shouldn't forget Amrit-Vela when you are ill!"

ਫਰੀਦਾ ਪਿਛਲ ਰਾਤਿ ਨ ਜਾਗਿਓਹਿ ਜੀਵਦੜੋ ਮੁਇਓਹਿ ॥
O Fareed! If you do not awaken at Amrit-vela (in the early hours before dawn), although you are alive (physically), you are (spiritually) dead.
(Salok Fareed Ji, Ang 1383)

Continued: Part 3

ਜਥੇਦਾਰ ਭਾਈ ਰਘਬੀਰ ਸਿੰਘ ਜੀ (ਯੂ.ਕੇ.) ਦੀ ਸੰਖੇਪ ਜੀਵਨੀ । A short biography of Jathedaar Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji (UK) [Part 1]

ਜਨਮੁ ਰਤਨੁ ਜਿਨੀ ਖਟਿਆ ਭਲੇ ਸੇ ਵਣਜਾਰੇ ॥

Those who fulfill and earn the jewel of this human life, are the most excellent of merchants of life.

(Raamkalee M:3, 917)

A very brief biography dedicated to the late Jathedaar Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji, the former Jathedaar (Head) of Akhand Kirtani Jatha UK. He was a role model Gursikh that I was blessed to meet and spend some time with in the Sangat. Jathedaar Ji left this world to the Guru's abode on 19th November 2019.

 

A SHORT GLIMPSE AT THE LIFE OF
JATHEDAAR BHAI RAGHBIR SINGH JI

(PART 1)

 

Calling from the Guru

Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji was born on 1st July 1942 in Rawalpindi in Punjab (which later became a part of Pakistan). He came to England in the 1960s and lived and worked in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire. He married Bibi Nirmal Kaur Ji in May 1968 and was blessed with a son and daughter. Bhai Sahib used to have cut-hair, drink alcohol and was a keen wrestler. However, one-day in 1975 he had a calling from the Guru. He said to his wife, "I want to take Amrit." Mata Ji was pleasantly surprised that Bhai Sahib wanted to take Amrit but thought he may still be drunk from the night before. Mata Ji told me that Bhai Sahib would bring friends and guests over in the evening after work to have a drink and Mata Ji would have to cook meat for them. Mata Ji said that she prayed that instead of drunkards, may Vahiguru Ji bless her with the Seva of Gurmukhs and may Gurmukhs visit her house and make the house blessed. She felt her Ardaas had been heard by Vahiguru with Bhai Sahib's sudden thirst for taking Amrit.

ਬਹੁਤੇ ਫੇਰ ਪਏ ਕਿਰਪਨ ਕਉ ਅਬ ਕਿਛੁ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕੀਜੈ ॥
This poor soul has wandered through so many cycles of reincarnation. Now, Lord, please bless me with Your Grace!
(Dhanaasree M:3, Ang 666)

In search for Amrit

Bhai Sahib Ji never went to the Gurdwara Sahib and there were not many Amritdharis in his town at that time. He went to his local Gurdwara Sahib in Leamington Spa, thinking that perhaps the Granthi Singh can give him Amrit (not fully knowing that Panj Pyaare give Amrit). When approaching the Granthi about taking Amrit, he didn't get much response. So he then approached a local Gursikh who was at the Gurdwara Sahib, the late Bhai Prahlad Singh Garewal Ji. Bhai Prahlad Singh Garewal Ji said to Bhai Sahib, "First make your appearance ready for Amrit?" Bhai Sahib responded, "What does that look like?" Bhai Prahlad Singh Garewal Ji said, "Keep your Kesh and beard! You need to wear a Dastaar, a Kirpaan held in a Gatraa, a Kachheraa and Karhaa. You should be doing Nitnem if you want to take Amrit..." When Bhai Sahib was about to leave the Gurdwara, Garewal Ji said to Bhai Sahib, "Come with me! I will give you a Kachhera from my home." Bhai Sahib at the time was a wrestler and a big build. Not paying much regard to Bhai Sahib's physique, Garewal Ji took Bhai Sahib to his home and give him a spare Kachhera he had. When Bhai Sahib went to the bathroom to put it on, it got stuck at his calves.  He kept pulling it up but it got stuck so he opened the door asked Garewal Ji, "How do you put this on?" Garewal Ji said, "Take it off! I will get you one when you go to the Amrit Sanchaar!"

ਹੁਤੀ ਜੁ ਪਿਆਸ ਪਿਊਸ ਪਿਵੰਨ ਕੀ ਬੰਛਤ ਸਿਧਿ ਕਉ ਬਿਧਿ ਮਿਲਾਯਉ ॥
I was thirsty, yearning to drink Amrit, the Divine-Nectar; to fulfill that wish, the Guru laid out the way.
(Svaiyye M:5, Bhatt Nall, Ang 1400)

Receiving Amrit

Bhai Sahib was told by Bhai Prahlad Singh Garewal Ji that an Amrit Sanchaar is being held on 14th November 1975 at Ramgarhia Gurdwara, Graham Street, Birmingham. At that time, Soho Road Gurdwara Birmingham had not been built. Baba Puran Singh Ji (Kericho wale) had moved to the UK from East Africa and had held 5 Akhand Paaths at Ramgarhia Gurdwara, ending with an Amrit Sanchaar. Forty more individuals from Leamington Spa got ready to take Amrit along with Bhai Sahib. That day 500 individuals had come to receive the gift of Amrit. Guru Sahib poured his blessings that day. The Gursikhs doing Seva in this particular Amrit Sanchaar included Baba Puran Singh Ji (Kericho wale), Giani Amolak Singh Ji (companion of Bhai Sahib Randhir Singh Ji), Bhai Harbhajan Singh Sagoo (who had the privilege of meeting Bhai Sahib Randhir Singh Ji), Bhai Kulbir Singh Ji and Bhai Shadi Singh Ji. Bhai Didar Singh Ji was doing the duty of Granthi Singh. When the Panj Pyaare gave the first 'Choola' (handful) of Amrit, Bhai Sahib fell backwards in a trance and his whole body began doing Saas-Giraas Simran (inhaling and exhaling the Lord's Name). Bhai Sahib said with the first 'Choola' he recieved Naam-Drir (i.e. Naam became instilled within him) without the Panj Pyaare physically putting their hand on his head. This is a rare happening, and showed how Bhai Sahib's Bhagti (devotional worship) and good Karam (actions) from his past lives had come forward to bear fruit. Seeing this spiritual experience, Giani Amolak Singh Ji introduced him to do the Akhand Kirtani Jatha and a year later Bhai Sahib presented himself at an Amrit Sanchaar at a Rainsbaaee Keertan held in Southall. The late Bhai Shingara Singh Ji (Birmingham) and Bhai Joginder Singh Ji (Leicester) did seva in this Amrit Sanchaar. Although Naam was flowing through Bhai Sahib even before this Amrit Sanchaar, he became further immersed in the power of Naam.

ਪੂਰਬ ਕਰਮ ਅੰਕੁਰ ਜਬ ਪ੍ਰਗਟੇ ਭੇਟਿਓ ਪੁਰਖੁ ਰਸਿਕ ਬੈਰਾਗੀ ॥
With the sprouting of one's seeds of good karma of past actions, they have met the Lord who is both sitting within all as the Enjoyer and also detached as the Renunciate.
(Gauree M:5, Ang 204)

Longing to see the Guru

After taking Amrit, Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji would everyday before going to work visit his local Gurdwara in Leamington Spa to have darshan (holy-sight) of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Bhai Sahib thought that it is Hukam (command) of the Guru to have his darshan everyday, however, it would be easier if Guru Sahib would be able to bless them at home. Mata Ji and Bhai Sahib would do Ardaas everyday that may Guru Sahib come to their home and bless them with their holy-company. At times they would become emotional when doing this Ardaas. Bhai Sahib would have dreams of Guru Granth Sahib Ji blessing him with their holy-company. Within one-year of taking Amrit, one-day 5 Gursikhs came knocking at Bhai Sahib's door. Bhai Sahib was at work at that time. Mata Ji answered the door. She had never seen these Gursikhs in her life before. They had with them Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and said we have come to bring you Maharaaj (the Great King). When Bhai Sahib arrived back from work both he and Mata Ji cried at how merciful the Guru was that he sent his Sikhs to give us his darshan and chance to do his seva (service). Till this date, no one knows who those 5 Gursikhs were and where they brought Maharaaj's Saroop from.

ਸੇਵਕ ਕਉ ਤੁਮ ਸੇਵਾ ਦੀਨੀ ਦਰਸਨੁ ਦੇਖਿ ਅਘਾਈ ॥੨॥
Your servant, whom You bless with Your service, is satisfied and fulfilled by having Your Darshan (holy-sight). ||2||
(Sorath M:5, Ang 610)

Akhand Kirtani Jatha UK

Bhai Sahib had joined Akhand Kirtani Jatha UK through the Sangat of Giani Amolak Singh Ji. The Akhand Kirtani Jatha is a group founded by the saint-scholar-warrior Bhai Sahib Randhir Singh Ji that is dedicated to doing Kirtan (singing the Word of the Guru) and living in accordance to the Guru's instructions. Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji become close friends with Bhai Jarnail Singh Ji, a Sarblohi Singh from Leamington Spa. At that time the prominent Gursikhs in Jatha were Giani Amolak Singh Ji, Bhai Rama Singh Ji, Bhai Shingara Singh Ji (Birmingham), Bhai Joginder Singh Ji (Leicester), Bhai Gurmej Singh Gill etc. The Jatha was quite small at this point. Some Gursikhs of the Jatha lived in Southall, others in Gravesend etc. Bhai Sahib for some years would drive to Gravesend with Mata Ji, Bhai Jarnail Singh Ji etc, to do Amrit-Vela with the late Bhai Nirmal Singh Ji, one the first Sarblohi Singhs to came to the UK. They would drive at least two and half hours to arrive Gravesend, do Simran together, then drive back another two and half hours back to Leamington Spa and then go to work as a truck driver.  Bhai Sahib would also drive to Southall to do Sangat and Amrit-Vela with the late Bhai Sahib Rama Singh Ji.

ਗੁਰਸਿਖਾਂ ਅੰਦਰਿ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੂ ਵਰਤੈ ਜੋ ਸਿਖਾਂ ਨੋ ਲੋਚੈ ਸੋ ਗੁਰ ਖੁਸੀ ਆਵੈ ॥
Deep within the hearts of His GurSikhs, the True Guru is pervading. The Guru is pleased with those who long for His Sikhs.
(Gauree M:4, Ang 317) 

 

Joining the Sikh Freedom Struggle

Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji played a pivotal role in the modern-day Sikh freedom struggle. In 1978, the Nakli-Nirankaris had massacred 13 Gursikhs on Vaisakhi day in Amritsar. This stirred the spirit of the Khalsa throughout the world. This episode and the increasing injustices against Sikhs had an influence on Bhai Sahib. In 1981 Bhai Sahib travelled to India and joined the Sikh freedom struggle. He had the Sangat (company) of Jathedar Bhai Sukhdev Singh Ji Babbar and other Gursikhs and was impressed by their devotion to living the Sikh lifestyle and upholding the ideals of the Sikh Gurus giving in Gurbani. In 1983, Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji visited India to do Panthic Seva. At the time he was working in the Ford factory in Leamington Spa, and had taken 2 weeks annual leave from work. Two weeks had passed and Bhai Sahib had not met the Gursikh he intended to meet, and therefore he extended his trip for an extra 4 days to ensure he completed his Seva. These extra 4 days were not booked holidays from his workplace, and Bhai Sahib thought he should go back to work and first apologise. When Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji returned back to the Ford factory, 4 days later than scheduled, he apologised to his employer. His manager said, "What are you apologising for? You attended work for the past 4 days." Bhai Sahib's faith in Gurbani and doing Panthik Seva increased. Bhai Sahib prioritised Panthic Seva before everything else, whilst continuing to work for livelihood and supporting his family. His thirst and devotion for Gurbani and Simran further increased.

ਗੁਰ ਪਰਸਾਦਿ ਸਦਾ ਮਨਿ ਵਸਿਆ ਸਭਿ ਕਾਜ ਸਵਾਰਣਹਾਰਾ ॥
By Guru's Grace, all the affairs are resolved of one in whose mind the Lord dwells. 
(Sorath M:3, Ang 638)

 Invasion of Sri Harmandir Sahib

Bhai Sahib had given up his mind, body and worldly attachments to serve and defend the Panth, and was committed to establishment of Khalsa Raaj in accordance to the description given in Gurbani. During his third trip to Punjab, Bhai Sahib stayed at Sri Harmandir Sahib for some time. During this trip the Indian army had invaded Sri Harmandir Sahib and other Sikh shrines across Punjab. On 1st of June 1984, Bhai Mehnga Singh Ji Babbar became Shaheed (martyred). Bhai Sahib helped to bring the Bhai Mehnga Singh Ji Babbar's body down from Baba Attal Rai Gurdwara Sahib and assisted with the Seva of washing the body and witnessing the last rites. June 1984 is considered the 3rd holocaust in Sikh history. Baba Jarnail Singh Ji Bhindranwale had made a declaration in his speeches before the attack that the day the Indian army invades Sri Harmandir Sahib the foundation for Khalistan will be laid. Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji was in Punjab at the time and was on the way to returning back to Sri Harmandir Sahib. However, the Indian army curfew meant that no one could enter or leave the area around Sri Harmandir Sahib. Bhai Sahib was around 2 miles away from arriving back to Sri Harmandir Sahib, when Gursikhs stopped him on the way and asked him to leave India and return back to the UK. The Gursikhs told Bhai Sahib that if everyone dies here it would never benefit the cause, and instead he should do Seva of doing Amrit-Sanchaars in the West, work to expand and uplift the Khalsa Panth and bring closer the dream of Khalsa Raaj. Bhai Sahib had desired Shaheedi (martyrdom), however accepting the Hukam of the Panj (Five) Singhs, Bhai Sahib got on a train from Amritsar to Delhi and then came back to the UK to fulfill his promise to those who later became Shaheed (martyred).

ਪਹਿਲਾ ਮਰਣੁ ਕਬੂਲਿ ਜੀਵਣ ਕੀ ਛਡਿ ਆਸ ॥
(The message from the Lord is- O human!) First, accept death, and give up any hope of life.
(Maaroo M:5, Ang 1102)

Seva across the West

Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji along with other Gursikhs of Akhand Kirtani Jatha UK would travel across UK and Europe in Bhai Sahib Jarnail Singh Ji's van. All the Gursikhs of the Jatha had a strong work ethic, worked hard and lived as householders, however they also were committed to serving the Panth and the Guru. Whilst working hard during the week-days, the weekends were dedicated to travelling and spreading the message of Sikhi to the far and wide places. Gursikhs would do nishkaam (without any monetary desire) Keertan and an Amrit Sanchaar would be held. Many places in Europe in 1980s had no Gurdwaras at that time, and therefore Amrit Sanchaars were held in homes. Thousands of people were joined to the Khalsa, women donned Dastaars (turbans), began waking up Amrit-vela, japping (meditating upon) Naam, and joined in the service of the Khalsa Panth. Bhai Sahib like his companions never got tired of Seva. He prioritised Sikhi and Seva of the Khalsa Panth over all other things. He reminded Gursikhs that Guru's Sikhs don't live to work, but work enough to keep things going. Countless non-Amritdharis were inspired to take Amrit and follow Sikhi seeing Bhai Raghbir Singh Ji and the rest of the Jatha's faces glowing with Naam, donned in Khalsa attire and immersed in Gurbani. This Seva extended to North America.

ਸੇਵਾ ਕਰਤ ਹੋਇ ਨਿਹਕਾਮੀ ॥ ਤਿਸ ਕਉ ਹੋਤ ਪਰਾਪਤਿ ਸੁਆਮੀ ॥
One who performs Seva (selfless service), without thought of reward, gets to meet the Lord-Master.
(Gauree M:5, 286)

Continued: Part 2

੫੫੦ ਸਾਲ ਗੁਰਪੁਰਬ ਸੁਨੇਹਾ । 550 Years Gurpurb Message...

Short Gurpurb message to share with work colleagues...

Subject: Good wishes to all 

on the Birthday of Guru Nanak Sahib Ji

 

12th November 2019 marks the Birthday of the founder and the first Guru of the Sikh faith, Guru Nanak Sahib Ji, This year is a special year as it is the 550th birth Birthday celebration.

The message, teachings and love of Guru Nanak Sahib Ji is not just for Sikhs, but for all of humanity.His three golden principles for a fulfilled life are:

• Naam - having mindful awareness and connection with the Divine Presence that is everywhere and within all.
• Daan - being selfless in sharing the gifts of life with others.
• Ishnaan - keeping the mind and body pure through good deeds and spiritual practice.

Good wishes to all on this happy occasion and may we all be inspired to spread peace, love and positivity.

ਜਰਮਨੀ ਦੇ ਗੋਰਾ ਅਤੇ ਗੋਰੀ ਨੇ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਪਾਨ ਕੀਤਾ । German couple takes Amrit...

Photos of yesterday's Simran Jaap.

 

The Simran Jaap ended with an Amrit Sanchaar. These are a white German couple who especially travelled all the way to UK via France on a ferry to take Amrit. The German lady, Bhenji Sahib Kaur Ji, did a small speech requesting all Punjabis to become Gursikhs by taking Amrit and not waste away this golden opportunity to merge with Vahiguru and enjoy divine happiness. Below is a video of them talking to the Sangat.