KPS Slough Camp Photos

From Monday 4th August till Friday 8th August, Khalsa Primary School held it's summer Sikhi Camp. Khalsa Primary School is amazing. It has such a peaceful and inspiring atmosphere! Below are photos from the camp that were kindly forwarded by the camp organizers:

Morning Diwaan! With Guru Sahib's kirpaa, there were so many children that there was no space to sit!


12-14 years old class.


Bhai Jagjeet Singh jee (Leeds) with the younger children.


Langar.


Bumper cars (I think that's what it is called!). Looks fun! I didn't actually see this.


Bhai Roop Singh jee (Leeds) doing vichaar with the children in the "Contemplation" zone.


Gladiators.


Waheguru. Looks really fun! I felt like going on! hehe.


Daas with under 10 years talking about the purpose of life.


On Friday all the campers and their parents went on a trip to the sea-side!


Bhenji Daljeet Kaur jee's young son doing Ardaas. Waheguru.


Eating Langar on the grass outside.



Gatka by local Singhs.


On Thursday the campers did tests. Unlike most camps, this camp tests the children on what they have learnt during the week.



Closing diwaan - Bhai Roop Singh jee doing a talk to the Sangat.

Dhan Guru, Dhan Teree Sikhee!



Information on regular programmes at Khalsa Primary School, Slough:

Saturdays:
6.30 am - 7.30 am: Naam Simran on Vaaja

Sundays:
7.30 am - 10am: Aasa Ki Vaar
10am - 1pm: Panjabi School
2pm - 4pm: Keertan Class

For more info about the school: Khalsa Primary School website

Weird Story from Saturday... (Part 2)

...Continued.

I offered to do Ardaas for the lady. She said, "I don't believe in your God though. I believe in Jesus and my Christian God." I said, "There is only one God. My God, is your God, and your God is my God!" She said, "Really? (Pointing upwards) You believe in the God who is up there." I said again, "There is only one God for everyone." She smiled and said, "O really! O okay! I don't believe in your prayers but I suppose I have to do what you say because I am desperate."

I told the lady that she can follow me into the main diwaan hall. "We will stand for Ardaas, a standing prayer, and that Guru Sahib will listen to your prayer and help." The lady followed me into the diwaan hall. I did matha tekh in front of Satguru Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee and she copied me and bowed down. She said (with a confused and baffled voice), "Tell me. What I am bowing to?" I said, "We are bowing to Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the Word of God." She said, "Ermm... okay".

Then I did Ardaas to Satguru to help the lady who has come to the Guru's Sancturay and that if anyone has done any black-magic or negative things against this lady, may it stop. Also, may Waheguru bless the lady with good-health and prevent her from being vulnerable from anyone's misdeeds. After the Ardaas I did matha tekh and the lady copied me and bowed down. As I looked up, I realised that two or three people doing Akhand Paatths seva at the side were staring at me and the kaalee (which was kind of worrying, considering that they were meant to be reading paatth!).

I have a personal habit of walking backwards in Guru Sahib's presence and trying not to turn my back. It's a habit which has stuck since I took Amrit in India. Anyway, I started walking backwards after doing the Ardaas. (Anyone who knows of Southall Park Avenue Gurdwara, will know that the diwaan hall is quite big!). As I was walking backwards, the lady looked at me and started to copy me. She started walking backwards. Waheguru.

The lady said to me (with a confused and baffled voice), "Tell me, why on earth am I walking backwards?" Waheguru. I replied, "No one told you to walk backwards. I am walking backwards out of my personal devotion for my Guru. It is up to you. You can walk normally." She said, "No. I will do what you do." She carried on walking backwards (at the same time she looked scared as if she was going to fall over. Waheguru).

When we got to the door leading to the main entrance area, I touched the floor and wiped the charan dhoor (dust) of the Sangat on my forehead. The lady copied me and got her hand, wiped it across the floor and wiped it across her forehead. The lady said, "Why am I wiping the dirt from the floor on my forehead?" Hai Rabbaa! No one was telling her to do anything but she felt the need to copy. I said, "It's not dirt. But the dust of the feet of the devotees who come to see the Guru. It is a blessing in itself." She look at me with a confused face and said, "Ermm... Okay."

ਚਰਣਾਮਿ੍ਤ ਕਸਮਲ ਕਟੇ ਗੁਰੁ ਧੂਰੀ ਬੁਰੇ ਲੇਖ ਮਿਟਾਏ॥

charna-mrit kasmal katte gur dhooree bure lekh mittaae.
"Nectar of the Feet of the Guru (i.e. Gurbani, the Divine Word) cuts all sins and the dust of the Guru’s feet erases all evil writs."
(Bhai Gurdaas jee)

The lady then asked, "Will this work now?" I said, "Have faith in Guru Nanak. This is the House of the Great Guru. No one goes empty handed if you have faith, devotion and belief." She said okay and I made my way out of the Gurdwara. The lady continued to stand around the shoe area talking to other Sangat members. I would have told the lady to do Mool Mantar paatth or Vaheguru simran, but as the lady said she had no faith or belief in anything else other than Christianity and Jesus, I left it. She said she recites the Lord's Prayer everyday (which I remember from the days when I used to go to Scouts! "Our Father which art in Heaven, hallowed be thy Name..."). The main thing is remembering Akaal Purkh (God).

ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮੁ ਜੋ ਜਨੁ ਜਪੈ ਅਨਦਿਨੁ ਸਦ ਜਾਗੈ ॥

Rām nām jo jan japai an­ḏin saḏ jāgai.
That humble being who chants the Lord's Name, remains always awake and aware (of evil desires and inclinations), night and day.

ਤੰਤੁ ਮੰਤੁ ਨਹ ਜੋਹਈ ਤਿਤੁ ਚਾਖੁ ਨ ਲਾਗੈ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥

Ŧanṯ manṯ nah joh­ī ṯiṯ cẖākẖ na lāgai. ||1|| rahā­o.||
That person is not affected by any charms and spells (black-magic), nor are they harmed by the evil eye (burree nazar). ||1||Pause||
(Ang 817)

Hope the lady is okay. It is difficult to tell in these cases whether people are genuine, suffering mental difficulties, or intoxicated. May Waheguru bless her and everyone.


Related links:
- Black-magic & Gurmat (Video Vichaar)
- Discussion topic on Forum

Weird Story from Saturday (Part 1)

On Saturday morning it was Bhenji Amrit Kaur's wedding at Slough. The wedding was really nice. Bhai Harpreet Singh (Canada) did keertan as well as other Gurmukh pyaare. After the wedding I went to Southall. After doing some vichaar, keertan and paatth at Bhaji Vijay Singh's house we went to Southall Singh Sabha Gurdwara, Park Avenue, for the monthly evening keertan darbaar.

After doing keertan we thought we would go back to Slough for the rainsbaaee keertan (all night continuous keertan) at Khalsa Primary School. The time was around 9.20pm. Before we went, we went to the Langar hall to have something to drink and eat. Afterwards we went to put our shoes back on.

As we were walking towards the shoes area, the kaalee and two singhs came to me. All I heard was the Singh pointing to me and saying "This man is a religious Sikh scholar - talk to him". I thought what is he on about (especially the "scholar" part!). Perhaps at 9.50pm at night she wanted a guided tour of the Gurdwara? Rab jaane!

The lady had a loud hyper-active voice, similar to a stereo-typical black Afro-Caribbean lady (bit like in the Lilt advert). She had a scarf wrapped on her head with a scarf (chunni) draped over. I thought she might be a Muslim lady. The singh was trying to explain what the lady wants but the lady interrupted him with her loud voice and said, "Can you help me?" I said, "Well it depends. I am on the way to a Rainsbaaee in Slough (doubt she knew what a Rainsbaaee was!), so if it is quick then fine." (Note: the lady had a strong KFC chicken type smell. When I mean strong, I mean a really bad smell of chicken coming from her!). She replied, "When a child is in need then time does not matter." Hearing this I thought a child had been harmed or hurt so quite serious (but later realised she meant "child of God," not a "young person").

I asked the lady what she needs help with. The lady replied, "A man has been touching me up inappropriately." Waheguru. I said, "If someone has touched you inappropriately then you should ring the police immediately instead of talking to us." She said, "No, no, no. Not police matter. The man has been touching my legs and whispering dirty things in my ears." I was confused what she was going on about. "So has someone touched you? Or they haven't?" She said, "I went to Hounslow to get my palm read from an Asian man. I paid him £300. But the man did black-magic on me. When he blows air, he grabs my legs."

At this stage I am tired, confused, and bit scared of this lady! "What do you mean he blows air and grabs your legs?" The lady claimed that her legs had got swollen because this palmist man keeps holding them through some sort of magical power! Waheguru.

"No! This Asian man has done black-magic on me and he has control over me. He keeps illicit whispering messages to me and has control over my body." I said, "Are you religious?" "Yes I am a Christian". I replied, "If you believe in God and say prayers then this stuff does not affect you." She said that she recites the Lord's prayer everyday and does not believe in any other religion or God other than Jesus and her Christian God. It was real strange. She repeatedly asked for help to get rid the black-magic spell. Considering I wanted to get to Slough on time, I told the lady "I am going to Slough. There is a all-night keertan which means singing God's praises. Come there and sit within the congregation and your black-magic will get dispelled instantly." (Note: There was no chance of her going in my car! She would have to make her own way!). She said, "Why should I go to Slough, that's too far." Then I hear someone say, "Bhaji she will get scared at the Rainsbaaee when everyone starts japping "Waheguru"." hehe. It was a kind of a scary comedy scene!



To be continued...

Notice: Free Seva of LaReevaar Gutke in UK

Message forwarded for the attention of the Sangat (from Bhai Atma Singh from Slough, UK):

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ਵਾਹਿਗੁਰੂਜੀਕਾਖ਼ਾਲਸਾਵਾਹਿਗੁਰੂਜੀਕੀਫ਼ਤਹਿ

Sadh-Sangat Jeeo,

We have a supply of the following LaReevaar Potheeaa(n) /Gutkae ready for distribution, by hand (not postal delivery), in the UK:

- Nitnaym
- Panj Granthee

- Sukhmanee Sahib

- Asa Kee Vaar
- Baee Vaaraa(n)

- Bhagat BaNee

- Vaar Siree Bhagoutee Jee Kee (Dasam BaaNee)

If anyone would like these, the only condition is that they will commit to making a sincere effort to work towards doing Paath exclusively from SatGuroo-ordained LaReevaar Roop GurbaNee. If this is the case, please get in contact with us by email. These will be given to Sangataa(n) who have reserved them by emailing us:

atmasinghjee@yahoo.co.uk

Those Potheeaa(n) /Gutkae which have been reserved, as well as those remaining which haven't been reserved, can be picked-up as follows:

Rainsbaee on Sat 26th July 2008 @ Khalsa Primary School, Slough.

A Sevaadaar will be attending a table outside the Darbaar Sahib between 11pm-12am (midnight) which is when you can collect them. Please do not come earlier or later to collect these. You will need to bring your own Ramalae with you. Please wear a Hazooreea so that Satkaar can be given to Maharaaj Jee's Pavittar BaaNee when you handle it.

Please forward this email to your contacts in the UK so that the whole Sangat can benefit from the opportunity to connect with Maharaaj Jee's Shabad Roop the way They intend us to.

Dhanvaad.

ਵਾਹਿਗੁਰੂਜੀਕਾਖ਼ਾਲਸਾਵਾਹਿਗੁਰੂਜੀਕੀਫ਼ਤਹਿ

ਦਾਸ,

ਆਤਮਾ ਸਿੰਘ

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Bradford Trip - Gurmat Kamaaee Camp

From Friday 11th to Sunday 13th July, a Gurmat Naam Kamaaee Camp was organised at Bradford Singh Sabha Gurdwara by the local youngsters. The idea of doing the camp was inspired by the Gurmat Naam Kamaaee Camps that used to be held by the late Baba Harnam Singh jee at Rampur Khera in India. Bhaji Harbir Singh (Southall) took the train up to where I live and then we went together in the car to Bradford. It took about 2hrs 30mins. You know that you have arrived in Bradford because there is a very large Pakistani Muslim population. In addition to that Bradford and Yorkshire on a whole has wonderful stone built buildings. The stone houses look really nice.

The camp time table was as follows:

3am - Parkaash of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji followed by Naam Simran
5am - Nitnem Banian

The local Giani Ji, Bhai Tarlochan Singh jee, does beautiful paatth. He recites Gurbani with a mellow melody filled with love. Very soothing to hear!

6am - Aasa Kee Vaar Keertan (Ardaas & Hukamnama)

Bhai Santokh Singh jee (Damdami Taksaal) were doing keertan duty at the Gurdwara for the week. They have such an angelic voice and did beautiful keertan. Waheguru.

8am - Breakfast

The breakfast as suspected was Parothay!! Aunty jees and bhenjis put in a lot of effort into the Langar.

9am - Rest

After eating all those Parothay you need 2 hours of sleep! hehe. (Sounds really unhealthy! I am sure its not good. Chalo! I am sure all the Simran and paath cancels out the health concerns).

11am - Sukhmani Sahib

Giani Tarlochan Singh jee did the paatth. English translation was shown on the projector. It was very peaceful hearing the paath.

12.30pm - Langar

The langar was quite "full on". Waheguru. There was curry (when I say "curry" I mean the Panjabi sabjee. I don't mean "Indian curry" like Gore say. Just needed to clarify), chowl ("rice" if you didn't know!), daal, and semee'aa (ermm, I don't know the English for semee'aa - perhaps "hot sweet noodles"?). The Langar was very heavy!

1.30pm - Silent Naam Simran.

After eating all that heavy food what do you expect to do next? Go for a jog, walk, or do some physical activities? Well, it was sitting cross legged and doing Simran in silence. Waheguru. As you can imagine, I felt extremely tired and drowsy! I really think that doing "silent" simran after eating so much was a bad idea! I think I fell asleep on the first day (I didn't think anyone knew! But apparently it was obvious! Waheguru). Thankfully the next day the quiet simran was mixed with some mellow Simran on the vaaja, which helped with concentration and focus.

2.30pm - Rest

Waheguru. Well I suppose I got my rest through the silent simran. Seems like a lot of sleeping! (Joking! hehe).

4pm - Gurmat Vichaar (Talk/ discussion)

Bhai Satnam Singh jee (Damdami Taksaal) did Kathaa on Naam Simran and Gurmantar on Friday. Daas did seva of sharing a few Sikhi stories on Saturday and Sunday.

5pm - Naam Simran through Keertan, followed by Rehraas

Everyone in Bradford does really nice keertan. I hope that someone can make some recordings and forward them on. Or perhaps if someone can upload them on to the Internet. Really chardi kalaa keertanis!

6.30pm - Langar (Keertan)

Waheguru. Again, very chardi kalaa (and heavy) langar. I am sure that in addition of adding some extra kamaaee to the spiritual account, it's easy to add some extra calories and pounds on the physical side! hehe. Really, the aunty jees and sevadaars did a lot of seva. May Guru Sahib keep them all in Chardi kalaa!

7.30pm - Kathaa
8.30pm - Samaaptee & Sukhaasan

Bhai Satnam Singh jee (Damdami Taksaal) did Kathaa every day. He kept the theme of Simran, Waheguru, and Bhagti. He has a lot of knowledge on different religions and provided good comparisons when doing Kathaa.

During the trip I visited three other Gurdware (as part of my research). All the Gurdware people were really nice! Met some really chardi kalaa and pyaar wale Gurmukhs. May Waheguru keep everyone in chardi kalaa and bless us all with eternal love for Him and Gursikhi Jeevan. We left Bradford at about 5.30pm on Sunday. The aunty jees were more than generous of given loads of Pasta, a few cartons of tropical juice to drink on the way (although drinking and driving is illegal. hehe), and some sandwiches.

Dhan Hai Guru, Dhan Hai Teree Sikhee.

Keertan Video - Banbury Gurdwara

Bhai Preetam Singh Ji (Coventry) - 22nd June 2008, at Banbury Gurdwara (Oxfordshire, UK).

Women's Association Meeting (Part 2)

...Continued

Questions asked:

Q. "Wow. The piece of underwear thing you showed was huge. Do women wear these as well?"

A. Yes. Both men and women have the same code of conduct to that they follow and the same identity, i.e. 5 Ks and turban.


Q. "Where do you get that (referring to Kachhera) and your grand dress made from?"

A. I get my shorts (Kachhere) and dress (Kurta Pyjama) made from Panjab from a tailor shop in a city called Jalandhar.


Q. "Will you be having an arranged married? How will you find a wife?"

A. Sikhs don't have arranged marriages. In the past many people had arranged marriages. People born in this country and also in India now, have assisted marriages. No one is ever forced into marriage (well I hope not! joke! hehe). You are introduced to someone through a match-maker. The match-maker will take in account both individuals' character, qualities, interests, family type etc. So you get a pretty good match. Before deciding to meet each other, you can view a photograph or some people wish to talk on the phone. Then both families meet in person. You get talk to the person. If you like them and they like you then things progress and the families make another meeting. It is similar to Victorian England.


Q. "What do you believe about life after death?"

A: Sikhs believe that soul is infinite, divine and a part of God. The soul enters the cycle of reincarnation. We have been born as different forms of life, species and animals. The human life is the highest form of life because it provides the individual with an opportunity to live a God-conscious life, serve humanity and experience the Truth. When one experience the Divine in this life then when they die the soul goes to abode of Truth and forever enjoys union with the Divine Presence of God. We do not believe nor hope for physical heavens and paradises with worldly pleasures. The true heaven is forever enjoying oneness and peace with God.

There are many examples which provide us with evidence of Reincarnation. One relative of mine in India shared a story of how her nephew at the age of 3 years old would say that his wife and children live in Delhi. This child had never watched television and never visited anywhere out of his area. He told his parents that he was a truck driver and had three children (he knew the names). One day he had a car accident on the main road (he named the road and exact spot) and he died. When he died he explained that it felt like entering a black hole with a light at the end. He met someone there, where his whole life flashed in front of him. After this he entered this home and was born. This 3 year old child repeated this story until he was 7 years old. His parents were very upset and someone advised them that every time he brings up his past life give him a slap in the face and remind him that you are his family. He soon stopped talking about his past life. This is one of many examples. Despite this, we should concentrate and focus on the life we are living right now rather than thinking back or forward.


Q. "Have you faced any problems or racism because of your appearance and Sikh identity?"

A. If you think you are a problem, then you will attract problems. If you act and think normal, then no one bothers you. I used to first cut my hair, until I realised my roots and faith at the age of 15. When I first kept my hair and wore a turban I kept thinking that the whole world was looking at me. If someone laughed, I thought they were laughing at me. Then September 11th happened and some people would shout racist abuse at me at school and in public - "Bin Laden", "Taliban", "Towel Head", "Go back to Afghanistan," "Terroist," "Paki" etc. Also, once a tramp threatened to stab me with a knife and kill me in the middle of a train station in London (during the time I studied in London). However, you learn to cope with it. The racism was not only from white people but from other people as well, i.e. Pakistanis.

My faith has made me a stronger person. I am proud to look different, be different and think different. I am happy that I stand out of the crowd. My turban is a crown which reminds me that I am sitting on the throne of consciousness and dedicated to higher principles. My 5 Ks uniform and identity reminds me to live a conscious, pure, and holy life, which does does not harm anyone but rather radiate grace, peace and harmony. I can now walk around in these clothes and feel totally comfortable. Because I feel comfortable and happy in myself, others around me feel comfortable and happy. Meditation, reading prayers and contemplating on the Guru's teachings helps me to realise that the Divine is within me, which in turn helps one to realise that the Divine is within others and all living being.


The ladies were impressed with Sikhi and were very happy to hear about equality, the status of women, and how their questions had been answered. Before I came to the meeting, I had prepared some Karhaah (not Parshaad) to share with women. At the end of the meeting the Karhaah was given out to all the ladies. They loved it and asked for more. The ladies gave a kind thank you card and small gift of appreciation for sharing my faith with them and then I went home (about 9.30pm).


Note: The reason for sharing this is so that others can get the idea and confidence to share their faith with others. It is important that we do not keep Sikhi to ourselves but share the jewels of Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Dharam with all humanity. The first step we can do is share Sikhi with our neighbours and friends. Guru is Great. Bhul Chuk Maaf.

Women's Association Meeting (Part 1)

Reading the title you may think "What does Manvir Singh have to do with a Women's Association?" Waheguru. Just to clarify I have not joined a Women's Association nor am I planned to! hehe. Last month, on Tuesday June 17th, Daas was invited to somebody's house to do a talk about Sikhi. At first it was strange that an English lady wanted me to come to her house to do a talk about Sikhi but afterwards she explained that they are a local group called "Women's Association". This group is part of a national network who organise small groups in all towns and communities for women to get together and do community activities. The meetings of the Women's Association are held at different members' house on a fortnightly basis.

I arrived at the house at 8pm and was warmly greeted by the elderly lady whose house it was. I went to the living room and there were about ten ladies in total. Most of them were probably over 40 years old and over. The meeting started with the Women's Association introducing themselves and what their group does. Then Daas was given time to talk about Sikhi with time for questions and answers afterwards.

To begin the talk, I asked, "Have any of you seen anyone wearing a turban?" Everyone said that they had. I asked, "Has everyone heard of Sikhs or the Sikh religion." Everyone said that they had heard of Sikhi but they didn't know anything about it. So I gave the following brief summary about Sikhi:

"I am a Sikh. A Sikh is a follower of the Sikh religion. We are neither Hindus nor Muslims. We originate from the Panjab in Northern India, which is south of the Himalayas. Panjab has the most fertile land in India and is known as the bread basket of India. The Sikh religion is a unique and distinct faith that was revealed through Guru Nanak jee in the late 15th century."

Some of the ladies shared that they had travelled to India but not to the Panjab. They were interested in travelling to Panjab the next time they go on holiday to India.

"Guru literally means "teacher" or "master" but for Sikhs the Light of God radiated to all humanity through the Guru and through whom we can experience the Divine Truth. We have Ten Masters. After the Tenth, Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee, the Divine Sacred Scripture, is the Guru. Our Guru shows the path of living a total, complete, and perfect lifestyle which brings happiness, content, and balance between the mind, body & soul. The Guru teaches a simple message of living in harmony with the Will of God, remembering the God and recognising that God is within all and everything - "See God IN ALL, or not at all all."

The English ladies were pleased to hear about Sikhi's all embracing and loving nature. I went on to explain the three basic principles of a Sikh's life and how a Sikh strive to live a simple, divine, and disciplined life: (1) preserving and maintaining the God given body in its full glory and majest; (2) having high moral character and treating the opposite gender with the respect of a mother/father, sister/brother, or daughter/son; (3) maintaining a healthy lacto-vegetarian diet; and (4) always keep the mind and body pure and sacred through avoiding smoking, alcohol and other intoxicants. This led on to talk about how Sikhs live to serve humanity:

"After September 11th the Sikhs were mistaken to be part of the Taliban and became victims of hate crimes. You may be sitting here and thinking why we wear turbans and why a minority of ignorant people may mistake us for terrorists. There are some similarities between the Taliban and Sikhs. (1) Both Sikh men and the Taliban have beards, although Muslims shave & trim; (2) both Sikhs and the Taliban wear turbans; and (3) both Sikhs and the Taliban are willing to die for their beliefs and principles. However, there is a fundamental difference. That is that a Sikh is also willing to die for another's right of beliefs, a Sikh is willing to lay down his or her life for a non-Sikh."

Everyone was pleasantly surprised to know how Guru Tegh Bahadar jee and the Sikhs throughout history have made sacrifices for maintaining the human rights and liberties of other people, irrespective or religion or race:

"Amnesty International (non-govt. international body for human rights) recognises Guru Tegh Bahadar Sahib jee, the Ninth Master of the Sikhs as the first person in the known recorded history who gave his life for another's freedom and human rights. This is the foundation of world peace. To recognise we are different and not the same. However, to respect our differences, to give each and everyone dignity, love, and to recognise the Divine Light within all."

To end with I went to explain the significance of the Baanaa (Sikh identity) and explained the practical and spiritual meanings of the 5 Ks. I brought a spare Kangha, Kasheraa and Dastaar to show the ladies. Everyone was gob smacked and taken aback at the size of my kachheraa! Waheguru. It seems the most interesting thing they found in the talk was the Kachheraa!! lol

Some of the questions they asked:


To be continued...

Amazing Sikh Artwork

Last week I received some artwork posters kindly sent as gift by Bhaji Kanwar Singh Dhillon from www.ArtOfPunjab.com website. Bhaji's artwork and outlook to art is very refreshing and uplifting!

This is a painting by Veer Kanwar Singh Dhillon of Vaisakhi 1699, from a unique angle. It shows the first of the Pyaare (Beloved Ones) volunteering his head to Guru Gobind Singh jee, who has his sword unsheathed, and Mata Sahib Kaur jee is on the opposite side compassionately welcoming the first of the Panj Pyaare - Bhai Dharam Daas jee who become Bhai Dharam Singh jee.

This painting by Veer Kanwar Singh depicts Baba Banda Singh jee Bahadur making his final stand against the vast Mugal army at Gurdas Nangal. Baba Banda Singh jee Bahadur was handed the mantle of leadership from Guru Gobind Singh jee and became the first of many great Khalsa generals during the turbulent 18th Century. He delivered justice for the crimes committed against Guru jee's family and punished the cruel tyrants.

I hope Bhaji doesn't mind me sharing something that he wrote in an email to me. He share his thoughts on what the purpose and objective of his artwork is:

"I have a degree in history but it wasn't until I started reading Sikh history (post university) when I realized how we have been blessed with so many heroes that have shaped and preserved our religion and way of life. I hope to dedicate my life to shedding more light on these great Sikhs through my art because I feel that most of the painted works we routinely see are getting very dated and loosing their impact on younger generations of Sikhs."

I am bit of sceptic with some artwork because I have seen art being "misused" for idol worship. I personally believe that art and illustration can beautifully represent historical events and personalities that can easily connect to the individual's heart and emotions. "A picture speaks a thousand words". This is true. However, some artwork, in particular paintings depicting just the face of the Guru Sahibaans (mostly painted by Sobha Singh) have become in some cases excuses for idol worship and veneration of an image over the true reality of what Guru Jee means and is to us. Many houses and shops in India have images depicting the Guru Sahibaans with flower garlands over them (usually done with dead family members' photos), placing incense in front of it and then bowing down in front of it.

It was really positive to hear from Bhaji Kanwar Singh and how he is trying to represent Sikh history so that he can rouse the Sikh spirit within those who otherwise wouldn't pick up a history book. Bhaji wrote, "...It's a bit of a balancing act between inputing the necessary aesthetics to create a strong painting but not so much that it becomes an idol in itself."

Guru Nanak Dev jee on an Udaasi (journey) with Bhai Mardana jee.

Akali Baba Phoola Singh jee - Great Gursikh and warrior during Raja Ranjeet Singh's period.

Bhaji is obviously a talented artist! May Waheguru bless him with the sevaa of serving the Panth through his inspiring artwork and illustrations depicting the glorious history and faith of Sikhs.


Please support the artist and visit his website to take a look at his impressive work. Also he has a Flickr account where you can see more of his work (some of which is still in progress): http://www.flickr.com/photos/artofpunjab/

Sikh Identity & Power of Ardaas

Below is a video clip from Kathaa (discourse) by Bhai Paramjeet Singh Khalsa. He is one of my favourite Kathaavachiks because I really like the way he conveys Gurmat and does Parchaar in an easy and approachable way. Guru Kirpaa kare. The video clip is about Sikh identity:

For those who may find it difficult to understanding Panjabi, Bhai Sahib explains that he met a 6ft tall Gursikh police constable in Amritsar. Giani jee was really happy to see a Gursikh police officer and gave him blessings. Giani jee says in the Kathaa, "If by looking at Sikhi Saroop (the identity of a Sikh) another Sikh gives so many blessings, then imagine how many blessings Guru Gobind Singh jee gives that Sikh who keeps the identity that he has given us."

The young man told Giani jee that when it was the 300th anniversary of the Khalsa (1999), his father passed away. He said, "My two sisters were married off and only me and mother lived at home. When I grew up I passed by BA and joined the police at Baba Bakala village in Amritsar district." On the 300th anniversary of the Khalsa, his mother said to him:

"This house no longer looks like a Sikh house. You father is no more. Before, because your father had a turban on his head people would say that this is a Sikh house. Now your father has left this world, you are the only head of the house; but you have cut your hair and trimmed your beard. I have no identity whether I am a Sikh or another religion unless I wear a Dastaar (turban) and take Amrit, then my identity would be distinct. How will people know that this is a Sikh household?"

The mother asked her son, "If you give me permission, can I take Amrit on the 300th anniversary?" The son replied, "Mother! What is more better than doing this. Take Amrit!" The mother replied, "When I come home wearing a Gatraa (and Kirpaan), people will talk back to me and say that I am wearing a gatraa kirpaan whilst my son has his head shaven and dishonours his Kesh."

The mother folded her hands and told her son that she is not asking him to take Amrit but at least at least stop cutting his hair and wear a turban for her sake so that she could take Amrit. The son agreed to respect his mother's wishes.

Everyday as his beard grew, the young man thought whilst looking in the mirror: "shall I cut my hair today or tomorrow?" But he never got around to trimming his beard. By now he had a Dastaar on his head and his mother was Amritdhari. Giani jee comments that, "It is an unfortunate thing that no one highlights these positive things that happen in society. Instead the news and public focus on negative examples."

As soon as the young man's beard had fully grown he didn't feel like cutting it. He did Ardaas to Guru Gobind Singh jee, "O Kalgee-dhar Sache Paatishaah! Please protect me! Please guard me! When I sit with my friends they will say that have I not found a shaving blade and will say "shall we give you a blade". They will laugh..." It is our own people who laugh at those who keep Sikhi Saroop. Someone keeps their Kesh and wears a Dastaar and so-called Sikhs laugh and ridicule them by calling them "Giani" (with a derogatory overtone), "Baba" and taunt them. May Guru Sahib bless us all with wisdom.

One day, the friends of the young man laughed at him and taunted him so much that he decided to go the barber's shop. The man told Giani jee: "As I walked into the barber's shop, my eyes stopped seeing anything. I had (earlier) done Ardaas to Guru Gobind Singh jee to save me. Well, as I was in the barber's shop I went blind and started to feel dizzy." He thought what is happening and perhaps it is happening as a result of him being scared to cut his hair. So he went outside. As soon as I walked outside he could see perfectly well and the dizzy spells stopped!

The man then re-entered the barber's shop. He sat on the barber's chair ready to get his hair cut, and then again the light in his eyes went and he began to feel dizzy. After the second, then third time of going outside and coming back inside the barber's shop, he decided the fourth time not to shave. He then did Ardaas, "O Kalgee-dhar Sache-Paatishaah! You are Great! Are you that close to a Sikh that you heard my mother's Ardaas! My mother had said that may my son never cut his hair. O Guru Gobind Singh! You loved me so much that every time I think of cutting my hair I go blind."

Giani jee says, "Think carefully! If Guru Gobind Singh jee showed so much love and came to his Sikh, then think how much Guru jee loves Kesh (sacred hair)? But the sad thing is that today's Sikh has lost the plot and made it an interest to distort his appearance and cut his hair..."

Modern times - Young Sikh man denounces his Sikh identity. His Sikhi is worth a mere 10 Rupees.


Bhai Taru Singh, who loved his Kesh and Guru so much that he valued Sikhi above death and torture. His Sikhi was priceless!

Giani jee continued to say: "Guru Gobind Singh jee's Sikh, Bhai Shahbaaz Singh, climbed the spiked rotating wheels. Both father and son climbed on the wheels. You may have seen the pictures of them in museums. They were crushed in the rotating wheels but till the last breath they both kept singing, "Sir Jaae Ta Jaae, Par Sikhi Sidak na Jaae" (If heads are chopped then so be it, but may our Sikh spirit never go)."

Shaheed Bhai Subegh Singh and Bhai Shabaaz Singh, father & son who didn't sacrifice their faith and instead happily faced death!

Dhan Hai Guru, Dhan Hai Teree Sikhee.

Photos from Monday Simran

Photos from the weekly Simran that takes place every Monday evening, 6.30pm till 7.30pm, at Leamington & Warwick Gurdwara Sahib, have been posted. Children and youngsters are encouraged to do seva and help one another to learn and do Simran on vaaja, Ardaas, Sukhaasan seva and with Guru Sahib's kirpaa Hukamnama seva.

This week it was Bhenji Gurpreet Kaur's 19th birthday. Bhenji's family made some lovely chocolate and chocolate chip cakes, as well as ahloo tikkian. It's always a pleasure to have darshan of the children of Leamington Spa because they have so much shardaa and enthusiasm. With Waheguru's kirpaa, a 7 year old veer ji came up and said that now his morning Nitnem is Japji Sahib, Jaap Sahib, Svaiye and Chaupai Sahib. His 10 year old cousin's morning Nitnem is now Japji Sahib, Jaap Sahib, Svaiye, Chaupai Sahib and Anand Sahib. Waheguru.

10 year old Vikram Singh doing Simran.


Bhai Pardip Singh doing Chaur Sahib seva.


5 year old Jeevan Singh doing Simran (Waheguru. So cute! Most children his age are too shy to talk but this Singh is great. His mum ties a Dastaar on his head and always happy to do Simran).


10 year old Amritpal Singh on Vaaja and 10 year old Dalraj Singh on Tablaa. Both are amazing! Dalraj Singh is the Tabla maestro! Vaheguru!


9 year old Manbir Singh.


7 year old Beant Singh (Manbir Singh's brother. These Singhs are Chardi Kalaa. Lots of energy and I am sure will become great soldiers for the Khalsa!)


Amritpal Singh doing Chaur Sahib seva.


Don't know the name or age of this boy. He has a lot of devotion and pyaar for Sikhee. His grandparents with Guru's Kirpaa have encouraged him to come into Sikhi. Guru kirpaa kare, he will soon keep his Kesh.


Bhenji Gurpreet Kaur. It was Bhenji's birtdhay yesterday! May Guru Sahib bless them with Gursikhi Jeevan, blessings of Naam and everlasting love for Waheguru.


10 year old Amritpal Singh taking Hukamnama at the end of the Diwaan. His grandmother sat with him for support. Great to see young children making progress and building to become Parchaariks of the future.


Dhan Guru, Dhan Guru Ke Pyaare.

Bhai Manpreet Singh Keertan Video

Bhai Manpreet Singh at Kanpur Keertan Smaagam 2007

Inspirational Poem

I came across this inspirational poem.

Title: Blessed
Author: Unknown

Today, upon a bus, I saw a girl with golden hair and wished I was as fair.
When suddenly she rose to leave, I saw her hobble down the aisle.
She had one leg and wore a crutch. But as she passed, she had a smile.
Hey Waheguruji, forgive me when I whine. I have 2 legs, the world is mine.

I stopped to buy some candy. The lad who sold it had such charm.
I talked with him, he seemed so glad. If I were late, it’d do no harm.
And as I left, he said to me, “I thank you, you’ve been so kind.
It’s nice to talk with folks like you. You see,” he said, “I’m blind.”
Hey Waheguruji, forgive me when I whine. I have 2 eyes, the world is mine.

Later while walking down the street, I saw a child with eyes of blue.
He stood and watched the others play. He did not know what to do.
I stopped a moment and then I said, “Why don’t you join the others, dear?”
He looked ahead without a word. And then I knew, he couldn’t hear.
Hey Waheguruji, forgive me when I whine. I have 2 ears, the world is mine.

With feet to take me where I’d go.
With eyes to see the sunset’s glow.
With ears to hear what I’d know.
Hey Waheguruji, forgive me when I whine.
I’ve been blessed indeed, the world is mine

Dodgy Baba - Home Delivery

A few weeks ago I was shocked to discover a letter addressed to my mum and I. (The shocking part is yet to come, don't think that the shocking thing is that I received a letter from someone. hehe). On this letter, it had "URGENT" in red stamped on it. On the back of the envelope, it had an address from India on it.

I opened the letter to find several items.;(1) an A4 leaflet, (2) a self-address envelope, and (3) two small pieces of paper - one in Panjabi and one in English. All this information had been sent from India from "Moallim Syed Azazur Rahman Burraqui" (a bit of a tongue twister!). His nickname is "Gharib Nawaz".

A black and white leaflet in Gujrati, Panjabi and English which gives details of this Sufi Baba and then says:

"If you are worldly unhappy like loss of business, not getting success in Education, any suit is going going, not marriage of children... [an endless list! He probably watches the Trisha show or Jerry Springer on Sky or something] ....I assure you will return back with success and fulfilment of your all hearty desires [I think Trisha and Jerry Springer have some competition!]..."

Then there are few phone numbers to call if you have problems. I assume you 1) pay for an international call, and 2) you have to pay extra for calling a premium number. At the end you will all be glad to know that he has said the following:

"...In case you are unable to attend personally you can mark your presence by sending any amount from your hard earned income inshape of British Postal Order, Personal Cheque, Bank Draft, and Money Order through REGISTERED POST (Recorded Delivery) to my name."

Aaah that's nice of Baba jee to be so generous and offer us ways of giving him money from our "hard-earned money" while Baba jee sits and enjoys Jaleebis and Laddoos sitting in a chair all day (paid with the compliments of gullible people who send this clown money!).


He doesn't stop there! Obviously desperate to get some pounds (every pound equal eighty rupees - so that means money, money, money!) he has repeated his requests to sort out any marital, education, work and family problems. Does he have a magic wand or something? Wonder if he can do my degree for me?

I was taken aback at the fact that this Baba in India had first got my full name and address, secondly, he has stamped my town name with a black stamp (so I assume others in the town have received similar letters), and lastly, he has gone through the effort of printing so many leaflets and a self-addressed envelope and sent them abroad. It's worrying how this man got my personal details!

Self-addressed envelope (Looks very professional! He must have spent some money printing them!).

This man has obviously gone through all this effort to MAKE MONEY! Therefore, he is desperate! If he is going through this much effort to find "customers" then why does he not sort out his own money problems and desires! Rab Raakhaa!

Good News for French Sikhs!

With Waheguru's Kirpaa I am happy to share the good news that the French authorities have approved the Paris Sikh school building (a private school) in all the required tests. The school building had failed a few times before. Today the authorities inspected the building and checked that it met all the criteria. This evening I got a text message from Veer Dharamveer Singh from France saying that the building had passed. This means that in September 2008 classes can start at the new Sikh School in Paris and both girls and boys can attend the school dressed in full baanaa (Sikh attire).

Well done to Uncle Gurdial Singh, his family and the Paris Sangat.

Bole So Nihaal! Sat Sree Akaal!

Dhan Guru Arjan Dev Jee

Today it is the Shaheedi Diwas (Martyrdom day) of the Fifth Guru, Guru Arjan Dev jee. Guru Sahib not only sowed the seeds of martyrdom and demonstrated fearlessness acquired in the love of God, but also illustrated acceptance of God's Will (Hukam) that is the foundation of Sikhi. Dhan Guru Arjan Dev Ji and thousands of salutations to the countless martyrs in Sikh history.

Below is a video of Bhai Joginder Singh talking about the the martyrdom of the Guru Arjan Dev jee relating to spirituality:

Portuguese Pope's account of the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev jee:

Related Audios:
> Shahaadat Guru Arjan Dev Ji (Kathaa) - Bhai Pinderpal Singh
---Part 01
---Part 02

Related posts:
> Master of Martyrs - Shaheedaa De Sirtaaj
> Small Accident with Frying Pan

School Visit - Sikh Awareness Day

Today Veer Ravjeet Singh was invited to a primary school in London to share knowledge of Sikhi with the students and staff. The day started off with the morning assembly in which Ravjeet Singh gave a 15 minute introduction to who Sikhs are, where they come from, and why they look different (using visuals from a powerpoint).


Children displaying the 5 Ks.

The caretaker for the school also heard the talk in the assembly. He was very interested by Sikhi. Afterwards he approached Veer Ravjeet Singh and requested him to tie a Dastaar on his head. Only having material for small dastaars (keskis) he tied a small dastaar on his head. The caretaker was really impressed and happy at the fact he had a dastaar on his head. However, he said, "You are wearing two turbans. A small one, which is covered with a big one. Can you please tie the big turban on my head as well." Waheguru. Ravjeet Singh didn't have any large dastaar material but used the small dastaar material to tie a second dastaar over the keski. Waheguru. The caretaker was very happy. Amazing to see such enthusiasm and pyaar for Sikhi Saroop from non-Sikhs.

Caretaker with Chhottee Dastaar (keski)


Caretaker with double dastaar. (Not the greatest looking dastaar, but even so he enjoyed the experience and liked the feeling of having a dastaar on his head). Waheguru.

During the day, Ravjeet Singh rotated between three classes and spent an hour with each class. He started off with re-capping the information given in the assembly, e.g. where Sikhs come from, what are the 5 Ks etc. Afterwards he talked about the basic Sikh principles, lifestyle, main festivals and about Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple). The children afterwards asked questions. One boy pointed to the photo of Harmandir Sahib (on the screen) and asked, "Why is the Golden Temple called Golden Temple?"

At the end of the class sessions Veer jee distributed Karhaah (not parshaad) to show to the children what Karhaah Parshaad would taste like in the Gurdwara. All the children enjoyed the Karhaah. Some children didn't eat the Karhaah because they were Muslims or Christians and felt uncomfortable eating it. However, seeing the rest of children ask for seconds, thirds and more helpings, they decided to eat some and enjoyed it.


Karhaah.

Children were also given the opportunity to have a chhottee Dastaar tied on them. The Dastaar demonstrations were very popular with the children.


Student having a chhottee dastaar tied on her.

I hope that in sharing this information and photographs others will get some ideas of how they can promote awareness of Sikhi in their local schools and colleges. You don't have to make it really complicated. Today's Sikh Awareness Day at this school shows that a simple talk, answering children's questions, sharing some food and tying Dastaars on children (in a fun and interactive way) can help to share understanding of who Sikhs and clear ignorance, prejudices and misconceptions. If anyone would like a copy of the short Powerpoint Presentation on "Introduction to the Sikhs" then please send me an email and I can send that to you (email address is: manvir.khalsa@gmail.com). The better option would be if someone could upload it to a website so that the general sangat can download it whenever they like.

Dhan Hai Guru, Dhan Hai Teree Sikhee