Trip to Oxford & Work Conversation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

19-10-2006 Keertan - Denmark Gurmat Camp

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

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

A Yorkshire Weekend

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

Hectic Training Day

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

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

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

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

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

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

Denmark Trip (Part 2)

Continued...

Group photo with Naujawan and Giani Jee.

Every opportunity the youngsters had they would surround the Vaajas (harmoniums) and practice Keertan.

Langar time.

During the week children prepared and practiced drama plays based on themes relating to Sikhi. Everyone participated and enjoyed acting. The dramas were really good and it showed how creative and confident the youngsters are as well as presenting their thoughts on Sikhi through their acting:

Bhaji Sukhwinder Singh jee presenting a prize to Prabhdeep Singh for getting questions right in a Gurmat knowledge quiz about Bandi Chhor Diwas and questions about Japji Sahib Vichaar.


Daas enjoying a nice cup of Chaa sitting next to Veer Jarnail Singh. He is a very nice guy (like all the other youngsters).


Group photo with Prabhdeep Singh, Bhoopjeet Singh and Anmol Singh from Denmark and Ramandeep Singh from Germany.

Bhai Subeg Singh jee, one of the Gurdwara Sahib Parbandhaks. He is a lovely man. So much nimartaa (humility), pyaar (love) and Sikh spirit. Waheguru.


Photos from Saturday night's Bandi Chhor Diwas celebrations:








Children doing Keertan with great enthusiam and pyaar during the Sunday morning Diwaan.


It was a great camp and the Naujawan were chardikala. The children who attended the camp showed great love for Sikhi and are a credit to the Sikh Panth. Many of the children who previously kept short cut hair, have kept their Kesh through being inspired by Gurmat through the various camps throughout the year, especially through the efforts of Bhai Kulwant Singh from the Chalda Vaheer Jatha, and the great input by the Giani Harkeerat Singh, the local Granthi, who teaches the youngsters Keertan, Sikh history, Punjabi and Gurmat. May Waheguru continue to bless these children and may they become Parcharaks (preachers) of the Sikh faith who can share their inspiration and knowledge of Sikhi with other children and the wider Danish community.

Denmark Trip (Part 1)

Daas has been away for the past week for a Gurmat Camp that was held for Sikh youngsters in Copenhagen, Denmark. The camp was held from Monday 16th October to Sunday 22nd October. Bhaji Sukhwinder Singh jee came to Denmark on Thursday because they had to attend another camp in Glasgow, Scotland.

The Camp was attended by over 20 youngsters, which involved a series of workshops and classes on Gurbaani Vichaar, Sikh Rehat Maryada, Sikh History, Keertan, and discussions. Also there everyone got in groups and put toghether some short drama plays based on Gurmat themes, which everyone enjoyed. The highlight of the week was the Keertan, especially Keertan done by the local Granthi Singh - Bhai Harkeerat Singh jee whom all the children and sangat loved and has done a great amount of parchaar in Denmark, and also keertan by Sukhwinder Singh bhaji (from Midlands). The youngsters of Denmark are a credit to the Panth (nation) and are showing great progress in Sikhi. May Vaheguru keep them in Chardikala and bless them with more enthusiasm, spirit and strength in becoming strong Sikhs and inspiring other youngsters.

Here are some photos:

Groups discussing why are they are proud to be Sikhs and proud to be born in Sikh families. Afterwards the groups presented their thoughts to the others.

Campers cooking Langar and brushing up on their cooking skills.


Youngsters playing football. Poor Giani jee got tackled and hurt his foot. Vaheguru!

Children learning how to tie a Keski (short under-turban) and Dumalla (large turban). It was so inspiring to find out that many of the youngsters have recently kept Kesh and some of them took Amrit recently.

The youngsters introduced Daas to the game of "ChiRee maaR". My reflexes are slow so I didn't do very well. Vaheguru!

To be continued...

Back in One Week

**Daas is going away for a week, so the next update of the blog will be on Monday 23rd October with pictures and summary of the trip**

Daas would like to apologise to the Birmingham Sangat who were expecting the Birmingham Sikh Soc's CHAA & SAMOSA PARTY photos to be posted up. Unfortunately the photos were NOT brilliant. (People say I am a bad photographer! However these were WORSE! I won't name and shame the photographer (*cough cough* Dhadi Master Pardip Singh). lol.

Here's an example of the type of photos that were taken:

Are my eyes going funny or is it the photo? "Blurry?" - An under-statement! Well I suppose in defense Bhai Sahib would argue he was being "ARTIST". Vaheguru.

Here's a FEW photos which turned out OKAY:

Bhaji Amandeep Singh, giving an intro talk.


Am I in the right place? Is it Christian-Sikh Soc? lol. Bhaji Balraj Singh posing with a Cross in the Chaplaincy.

The Chaa & Samosa Party was very good. It started off with Bhaji Amandeep Singh with a short intro then they played a video made by Birmingham Sikh Soc. The video was HILARIOUS. If anyone went to Boss Camp last summer then you would have had opportunity to see the video. The video was a good reflection of how FUN and ENJOYABLE Sikh Society is and at the same time you are LEARNING about Sikhi in the SANGAT.

Afterwards they played Boss Camp video 2006 then they played 2004. It ended with a summary of what Birmingham Sikh Soc offers for students. Every Monday morning there is Amrit-Vela Simran and Nitnem at Dhadi Master's Halls, weekly Football, Simran & Meditate exercises classes every Thursday. The Sikh Soc has a good reputation with awards for best events for their famous "LANGAR-ON-CAMPUS" annual event.

The Chaa & Samosay were TASTY (Note: Just to clarify - the Samosay were from an Amritdhari shop). As usual I got caught up in the VICIOUS CYCLE of eating tasty samosa and then having the feeling of violating my body. I had 3 samosay afterwards I felt very queasy. The tasty chaa helped to wash it down.

ਸਿੱਖੀ ਸੰਭਾਲੋ - "Sikhi Sambhaalo" (Look After Sikhi)

On Sunday I went to Southall for the Bhog (completion) of the Sri Akhand Paath Sahib (the complete continuous reading of Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee) in memory of the three young Gursikhs, which passed away last month. Giani Nirmaljeet Singh jee from Panjab was doing Kathaa (Gurbaani discourse) that day. The Kathaa was very moving and was delivered in a way that we don't hear often.

The Giani jee was fearless of speaking the truth and spoke from his heart. There are TWO TYPES of PARCHAARIKS (Preachers) - 1) Those that preach but have NOT earned or lived the message of the Guru, and 2) those that preach and have EARNED and LIVE the message of the Guru. You can tell when hearing someone what type of Parchaarik they are. Someone speaking from their heart and soul can be felt.

Giani jee's Kathaa the day was about promotion of Sikhi. Here is a brief summary of some of the things he said:

"When a young child first recognises who his father is - in Panjab people say: "bachaa apNe pitaa di dastaar pachhaaNdaa" (the child recognises his father's turban). O Sikhs! Young children are BETTER than us, that they actually RECOGNISE their father's turban. As Sikhs we have NOT yet recognised who our Father is. Our Father has told us, "O Sikh! Your belong to SRI ANANDPUR SAHIB, your birth place is SRI KESHGARH SAHIB. Your Father is GURU GOBIND SINGH JEE MAHAARAAJ and your mother is MATA SAHIB KAUR JEE."

The Guru has told us WHO WE ARE, however we have not gained enough MATURITY to realise and recognise this. Our Guru is GREAT. Unlike other Gurus, Sri Guru Gobind Singh jee has left his door OPEN for his children to come to him. Even if the ungrateful Sikh decides to wander at other doors, the Guru does not close his door. The Guru says, "If you want, go and try the other doors - however, eventually you will become tired and come back here. However, don't worry if you come back to me, I will still have my door open to you."

ਸਗਲ ਦੁਆਰ ਕਉ ਛਾਡਿ ਕੈ ਗਹਯੋ ਤੁਹਾਰੋ ਦੁਆਰ ॥
sagal duaar kau chhaad kai gahyo tuhaaro duaar.
Having abandoned all other doors, I have come to Your door for protection and help.

ਬਾਂਹਿ ਗਹੇ ਕੀ ਲਾਜ ਅਸਿ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਦਾਸ ਤੁਹਾਰ ॥੮੬੪॥
baa(n)hi gahe kee laaj as gobind daas tuhaar. ||864||
O Vaheguru! I have held Your arm, I am Your servant a devotee.864.
(P. 643, Dasam Granth)

The Guru reminds us of one fact though, which we read daily in Aasa Di Vaar:

ਬਿਨੁ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਕਿਨੈ ਨ ਪਾਇਓ ਬਿਨੁ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਕਿਨੈ ਨ ਪਾਇਆ ॥
bin satgur kinai na paa-i-o, bin satgur kinai na paa-i-aa.
Without the True Guru, no one can obtained Vaheguru; without the True Guru, no one has obtained Vaheguru.
(Ang 466)

Giani jee then went on to explain the value of keeping KESH, donning the body with the 5 Ks and receiving the gift of Khande-Di-Pahul AMRIT (the spiritual-life giving Nectar of the double-edged sword):

"O Sikhs! EVERYDAY we read Ardaas. However, how many of us actually MEAN what we say? Is it all words and no action? We daily say:

ਤੁਧੁ ਆਗੈ ਅਰਦਾਸਿ ਹਮਾਰੀ ਜੀਉ ਪਿੰਡੁ ਸਭੁ ਤੇਰਾ ॥

tuDh aagai ardaas hamaaree jee-o pindd sabh teraa.
I offer my prayer to You; my soul and body are all Yours.
(Ang 383)

We say our BODY and SOUL belong to VAHEGURU. However, we do NOT believe this. We are AGHIRT-GHAN (ungrateful). Realise this body does not belong to us but belongs to Vaheguru, the Master. If you realise this then you will keep Kesh, you will adorn your body with the 5Ks and then take Amrit from Guru...


Near the end of Katha Giani jee's words sent electric shocks through my body! I remember reading a book where an English Philosopher said that the GREATEST SIN the Sikhs have done is concealing their faith and NOT SHARING Sikhi with the world. However, the greater sin is not sharing Sikhi even within our community and families, even our own CHILDREN!

Giani jee in a mood of Bairaag (sadness) and yet boldness said:

"Christians knock on people's doors and distribute literature about their religion. They tell others about Christ and say become Christians. Every Muslim will do his or her best to bring the non-Muslim to Islam as part of their duty to their faith. They distribute literature and any opportunity they have in a conversation they say how great Islam is and that one should become Muslim to enjoy God's happiness.

Guru Nanak Sahib jee says:

ਜਨੁ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਧੂੜਿ ਮੰਗੈ ਤਿਸੁ ਗੁਰਸਿਖ ਕੀ ਜੋ ਆਪਿ ਜਪੈ ਅਵਰਹ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪਾਵੈ ॥੨॥

jan naanak DhooR mangai tis gursikh kee, jo aap japai avreh naam japaavai. ||2||
Servant Nanak begs for the dust of the feet of that GurSikh, who himself chants Naam, and inspires others to chant it. ||2||
(Ang 306)

Guru Nanak Sahib jee says that Sikh which meditates and chants NAAM and inspires others to NAAM JAP - your Guru says that He will apply the DUST of that person's feet to his forehead and pay his respects. O Sikhs! We have FAILED to share our great religion of Naam with our very own children, let alone our neighbours.

Where are the mother's who while giving milk (food) to the baby did Simran of Vaheguru and planted the seeds of Bhagtee (devotional worship). Where are the mother's who sat with their children and helped them to memorise Nitnem and Sukhmani Sahib. Where are the mother's who walked their children to the Gurdwara Sahib and standing in front of Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee say: "O Satguru! With your blessings you have given me this child. Do Kirpaa, have mercy on me, may this child become a Gursikh of Yours - if I have made any shortcomings while bringing up the child then please forgive me, may he remain attached to Your Feet." This was the mother of great Baba Deep Singh jee who was able to fight with head on his hand on the battlefield...

Look after Sikhi! Look after Sikhi! Sikhi is in Your Hands. We have MANY threats against Sikhi in today's world. Let us not do NEGATIVE PARCHAAR (preaching) whereby we end up condemning others and LOOKING DOWN at people. This is NOT the Guru's Way. Let's do POSITIVE PARCHAAR through love and embracing everyone - let us become role models and living examples of Sikhi and share the Guru's Pyaar with others. One needs to become SHASTARDHARI (equiped with weapons) physically, however one also needs to equip themselves with the weapon of VICHAAR. Knowledge of Gurbaani is our weapon against this modern attacks against Sikhi from the fashion world, the media, agencies, organisational and radicals from other religions who are telling us "Your Kesh do not look nice," "Amrit is not good," "Cut your hair and look like this." Recognise who you are Sikhs! The world will tell you to become like this and that however wake up O Sikhs and realise reality...


During the afternoon I was walking near Havelock Road and I bumped into a Baba jee, which I have met in camps and the Gurdwara Sahib. We talked on the side of the road. He spoke in such Bairaag. He told me that he wants the youngsters to equip themselves with GURMAT GYAAN (knowledge of the Guru's Teachings) and spread them to the world. He said Christians go door to door distributing information however we have failed to let anyone know about Sikhi. We have to move on from Panjabis. Panjabis have not understood Sikhi and nor do they wish to. Spread the message further afield and let the English people know about the Path of Naam and Gurmat and share the gems of Guru Nanak Sahib jee's Sikhi.

Baba jee got emotional near the end of the conversation and told me:
"Guru Nanak Sahib jee has traveled and walked thousands and thousands of steps all over the world. However, we are NOT WORTHY of standing on EVEN ONE STEP of Guru Nanak Sahib jee. Yes! We are not even worthy of standing on one step of the Guru. We have miserably failed to understand Gurbaani and share with others. Please let the youngsters know, go out in the world and share Gurmat with the world. Don't be like the older generation. PRINT LITERATURE and DISTRIBUTE door to door, share what Guru Nanak Sahib jee has given us with friends and neighbours. Through this we can benefit the world and do SARBAT DA BHALLA (good for all humanity)..."

May Vaheguru bless all of us with the gift of preserving the honour of BAANI (Divine Words of the Guru) and BAANAA (the Guru's given identity).

Waiting for the Bus

Yesterday my university lecture on Global Religious Politics was at 2pm. I didn't read the timetable carefully. I arrived at the Theology Department (which is separate to the main University of Birmingham campus) with 5 minutes to spare. I rang reception to find out where about the room for my lecture was. The lady said, "You are at the WRONG CAMPUS. You need to go to BIO-SCIENCES BUILDING at main campus." My mind thought "O deary me! What a HEADACHE! I just about got here in the RAIN, now I have to go all the way back to the main campus." I eventually got to the lecture but was 15 minutes late.

Then after the lecture I had to go all the way back to the Theology Department in the other campus to hand in a form. Before I set off I got collected a student bus pass from the Student Services Office, which entitles students free transport between the two university campuses. By the time I got to my campus I was TOO LATE! The Theology department office closes at 5pm, and I had just arrived at 5.02pm. Waheguru! Then I had to get a bus back to near the main campus to go and see Dhadi Master Pardeep Singh jee and baakee Sangat.

Getting the bus back was a NIGHTMARE! I stood waiting for the Number 45 Bus, which was the bus that was free with the student bus pass. 20 minutes had passed and I was thinking, "Can it be any LONGER?" Then I looked closely at the notice at the bus stop and I realised that Number 45 bus DOESN'T stop there! Rab Bhalla Kare! I wasted 20 minutes standing there. Then I walked to the next bus stop, which I checked before waiting. However, I didn't pay notice to HOW LONG it takes till the next bus arrives. I waited 20 minutes and thought, "Hey Mannaa (O mind)! What's happening! This bus is taking a LONG TIME, no wonder why it is free bus!" I got fed up and ended up walking to Dhadi Master Sahib jee's Halls of Residence.

While I was walking the thought came across my mind that I've just WASTED so much time WAITING for the bus. However it was my fault because the first incidence I was waiting at the wrong bus stop and the second incidence I had missed bus and had to wait for the next chance to catch the bus. Similarly, in life we are sometimes at the wrong place or wrong mindset, yet we expect happiness and peace, like I expected the Number 45 bus to arrive the Number 61 and 64 bus stops. However, instead we end up blaming Guru jee that "You have let me down! I haven't got what I wanted." Little do we realise that we needed the wisdom and understanding that in order for the medicine of Shabad to work on the mind, one need's to follow the prescription or follow the necessary conditions given by the Divine Doctor for the medicine to work. There is no point taking medicine when the doctor said not to eat oily foods but you decide to eat Ahloo Wale Poratay everyday.

ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਤਿਆਗਿ ਆਨ ਲਾਗਹਿ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੋ ਡਾਰਿ ਭੂਮਿ ਪਾਗਹਿ ॥
gobind ti-aag aan laagehi amrito daar bhoom paagehi.
You have forsaken Vaheguru, the Lord of the Universe, and become attached to another - you are throwing away Amrit, the spiritual-life giving Nectar, to take dust.

ਬਿਖੈ ਰਸ ਸਿਉ ਆਸਕਤ ਮੂੜੇ ਕਾਹੇ ਸੁਖ ਮਾਨਿ ॥੧॥
bikhai ras si-o aaskat moorhay kaahay sukh maan. ||1||
What do you expect from corrupt pleasures? You fool! What makes you think that they will bring peace? ||1||
(Ang 1303)

Satguru Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee has given us the roadmap for a perfect life. If we want peace and happiness then we got to get on the bus of the Guru, i.e. the Shabad Guru (the Divine Infinite Wisdom). However, one needs to know who the Guru is and where to find him, just like finding the right bus stop - this is through Gurmat Vichaar (contemplating on the Guru's Teachings). Then one needs a valid ticket, which is Amrit and keeping Gurmat Rehit (discipline) - through which you get the credits to travel, which is Naam.

ਖਰਚੁ ਬੰਨੁ ਚੰਗਿਆਈਆ ਮਤੁ ਮਨ ਜਾਣਹਿ ਕਲੁ ॥
kharach bann chang-aa-ee-aa mat man jaaNehi kal.
Gather up merits for your travelling expenses, and do not think of tomorrow in your mind.
(Ang 595)

Moral that Daas learnt: One should not waste life, like I wasted standing at the wrong bus stop. It is important to have knowledge of Reality and Truth, which is only possible through the True Perfect Guru, i.e. Satguru Sri Granth Sahib jee. Then one is able to establish that in order to travel and pass life easily, enjoyably and with happiness, it is only possible through the True Guru.

Bhul Chuk Maaf

Birthday of Baba Buddha Jee

This month marks the 500th JANAM DIWAS (Birth Day) of one of Sikhi's gems - BABA BUDDHA JEE, who was fortunate enough to be blessed with the seva (service) of serving the first 6 Guru Sahibs (from Guru Nanak Sahib jee to Guru Hargobind Sahib jee). The life of Buddha jee is a ROLE MODEL and INSPIRATION for all Sikhs. In tribute to Baba Buddha jee a short summary of Baba jee's life is below:


A SHORT GLIMPSE AT THE LIFE OF BABA BUDDHA JEE


Great Gursikh
Baba Buddha jee was the great Gursikh who had the pleasure of serving under Guru Nanak Sahib jee and the five succeeding Gurus. The Guru Sahibs gave Baba Buddha jee great respect and honour. He was born on 21 October 1506 at the village of Katthu Nangal, 18 km northeast of Amritsar. His name was originally ‘BOORAA” and was the only son of Bhai Suggha jee and Mata Gauran jee.


Childhood
As a small boy, one day Baba jee was grazing cattle outside the village when Guru Nanak Sahib jee happened to pass by. BooRaa went up to Guru Sahib and did Matha Tekh (bowed), offering a bowl of milk for Guru jee. He prayed: "O Sustainer of the poor! I am fortunate to have had a sight of you today. RELEASE ME now from the cycle of BIRTH and DEATH.”

Guru Sahib replied: "You are only a CHILD yet. But you talk so WISELY." Baba jee said, "Some Mughal soldiers set up camp by our village, and they destroyed all our crops. The RIPE as well as UNRIPE crop were both cut down. It made me think, that just as the soldiers do not look at the crop's age or growth before destroying it, similarly when death comes it does not consider the AGE or YEARS of a person before it comes and takes them away."

Hearing this Guru Nanak Sahib jee said, "You are NOT a child; you possess the WISDOM of an OLD MAN." From that day, BooRaa, came to be known as Bhai Buddha jee. ‘BUDDHA’ in Panjabi meaning a WISE OLD MAN.


Role in Passing Guruship
At the time of giving Guruship to the Second Nanak, Guru Nanak Sahib jee gave Baba Buddha jee with the responsibility of being the MASTER OF CEREMONY. This tradition continued up till the SIXTH NANAK. Baba Buddha jee who lived up to a very old age continued to serve the Gurus with complete dedication and remained an exemplary Sikh role model. Through living and earning the Guru's Teachings Baba jee earned respect amongst all the Sangat (congregation) and Guru Sahib.


Seva (Selfless-Service)
Baba jee devoted himself passionately to tasks such as the digging of the BAOLI (well) at GOINDVAL SAHIB under the instructions of Guru Amar Daas Sahib jee and the excavation of the SAROVAR (pool) at AMRITSAR under Guru Raam Daas Sahib jee and Guru Arjan Dev Sahib jee. The beR (tree) under which Baba jee used to sit supervise the excavation of the Amritsar pool still stands in the precincts of the Sri Harmandar Sahib. Baba Buddha jee was giving responsibility of training and teaching Guru Arjan Dev Sahib jee’s son and was installed as the FIRST GRANTHI (Scriptural Attendant) of Sri Darbaar Sahib, Amritsar. Baba Buddha jee showed that SIMRAN (devotional meditation on Vaheguru) and SEVA (selfless service) go hand in hand and that no is too great or small or to serve the Guru.


Building Akaal Takht
Following the Shaheedi (martyrdom) of the Fifth Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib jee built SRI AKAAL TAKHT SAHIB (the Throne of the Immortal). This was a declaration that Sikhs are sovereign nation. The WHOLE COMMUNITY built Sri Darbaar Sahib, however THREE PEOPLE built Sri Akaal Takht Sahib. The three were – Guru Hargobind Sahib jee, Baba Buddha jee and Bhai Gurdaas jee. This was indicative that those who represent Sikhs and Sikhi should have a SET CRITERIA and CHARACTER.


Political Activitist
Guru Hargobind Sahib jee was detained in the GWALIOR FORT on the orders of Jahangeer. Baba Buddha Jee, being a Saint and an Warrior of Truth, led the Sikh Sangat to the Gwalior and expressed PROTEST and their love for the Guru by going around the Fort and SINGING GURBAANI. Some historians trace the tradition of ‘PARBAAT PHEREE’ (singing hymns around villages) from this.


Last Moments
Baba jee passed his last days in SIMRAN (meditation) and BHAGTI (devotional worship) at RAAMDAAS, a village founded by his son, Bhai Bhana, where the family had moved. As the end came, on 16 November 1631, Guru Hargobind Sahib jee was at his bedside. Guru Sahib himself carried out the last rites of Baba jee.

"Can I Speak to Mr. Singh Please."

Yesterday I was sitting in the waiting room in the Citizen Advice Bureau. It was an EVENTFUL waiting time. I walked up the stairs and entered the Office. I was looking for the Reception. Infront was a room, which peeked into. An elderly gentleman was sitting there and asked, "How can I help you?" I said, "I am looking for the Reception." It was a bit of WEIRD conversation because the elderly man spoke to me as if I couldn't UNDERSTAND ENGLISH and slightly patronising. Chalo, I found the Reception desk and got my ticket number to see an advisor.

I sat back in the waiting room. It was a very SMALL ROOM with two elderly white people, one middle aged white man and one young dental student from India. As soon as I sat down the elderly man asked, "So, WHERE are you from?" I replied, "I am born HERE." "Naa, I mean, which COUNTRY you come from BACK HOME?" I said, "PANJAB, in Northern India". He said, "Aaah. I know, I know. THE PUNJAB." I was slightly baffled by the conversation. Referring to the Indian dental student and myself, the old man said, "I don't mind EDUCATED young people like yourselves coming to our country and making something of yourselves - do good in EDUCATION and EARN A FEW BOB... then GO BACK to your own country and enjoy life. Or stay here if you like our country. We don't want any old RIFF-RAFF" I looked at him just smiled, trying to avoid having a debate.

Then the conversation turned to about the local hospital being possibly closed down. The middle aged white person said, "Nowadays there is too much bureaucracy. Managers in suits are being paid for nothing. There are too many CHIEFS not enough INDIANS." Then he looked at me and said "Sorry, NO OFFENCE to you mate." I looked at him and didn't know whether to laugh or not. It was hilarious.

Then the elder man said, "I know YOUR LOT! Once I got my CAR FIXED from one of YOUR LOT. He was from HAYES. Yeah, I needed a car part for my car. I rang the man and he said come to my house, which he had turned into his Car Garage. I asked how should I find you. He said, "Just ask anyone for MR. A SINGH and you find me." He went on to say, "I got to Hayes and it was all your lot everywhere. I pulled over and asked someone, "Can I speak to MR. SINGH." The man replied, "WHICH MR. SINGH - you will find five thousand of us around here." I thought "O No! O heck!" I rang him and got to his house. He was a very nice man, a really nice man. He gave me a GREAT BARGAIN."

I think the man was genuinely nice however his way of talking was slightly crude. It was a good one-hour time pass.