Anti-Sikhi Parchaar (Part 2): Topic - Nitnem Banian & Dasam Bani

Once I went somewhere, and a group of individuals that looked like Gursikhs asked me to come to one side and sit with them as they wished to ask me something. This was at a time where the normal Sangat was not present at the Gurdwara Sahib, and they made sure that other Gursikhs were not with me when talking to them. One person said, “The Sikh nation is suffering attacks and is weak because we have failed to all accept ‘one Panth – one Granth – one Maryada’. Instead we have set up our own Panths, we don’t believe in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji alone and we don’t accept one Maryada… Do you believe there is one Panth, one Guru, and one Maryada?” I replied, “Yes, I agree there is only one Panth, one Guru and one Guru’s Maryada.” 

Then the clever mind games began. “Do you believe Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is the Perfect Guru?” A pretty stupid question which the person should know the answer to, but it was asked as part of the plan to do anti-Sikhi parchaar. Anyway, I replied, “Yes,” (when really I should have avoided getting in to the trap of keep saying 'Yes' and instead replied, "Why? Are you doubting Guru Ji? Don't you believe Guru Ji is Perfect?") Then they asked, “Do you believe that that something that is Perfect is complete within itself and contains everything that you need?” I again replied, “Yes”. Then they asked, “Do you agree that if Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is the Perfect Guru then it is complete and nothing outside it is needed as everything needed is within it?”

I realised where this guy was going with the conversation and stopped him, and asked, “Do you believe Jaap Sahib is Gurbani? Please answer - Yes or No?” The other people quickly responded, “Hold on, hold on, he will get there, first hear what he wants to say." The other individual continued to say,  "I want to discuss with you Dasam Granth.” I responded, “To be honest I have no interest in discussing such a topic with you. Firstly, I don’t engage in such debates or discussions. I have come to do Parchaar seva and teach children the basics of Sikhi. Secondly, it is forbidden by Sri Akaal Takht Sahib to discuss this topic. I am not a scholar and if you wish to take any matters regarding Dasam Granth then you need to present yourselves to Sri Akaal Takht Sahib. Thirdly, I have not read all of Dasam Granth nor am I an expert that I can explain you something on the topic. So please don’t discuss such topics with me. Can you please tell me – do you believe in Jaap Sahib, Svaiyye, Chaupai Sahib, and Ardaas?”

The intentions of the men that looked like Gursikhs became pretty clear. Rather than confessing that don’t believe in the Banian that were recited to make Amrit which leads to their claim to be a Sikh, they went around in circles. Below are some of their claims along with a Gurmat response…

#1. "We “have to” [in the tone of “we are forced to”] to recite Jaap Sahib, Svaiyye, Chaupai and Ardaas by the Panj Pyaare when we took Amrit. We don’t have a choice. Because they told us we have to read it and its instructed in Sikh Rehat Maryada." RESPONSE: The question was “Do you believe that Jaap Sahib, Svaiyye, Chaupai Sahib and Ardaas are Guru Gobind Singh Jee’s Bani?" Clearly the question was not answered. 

#2. "There is nothing wrong with reading any composition which has a "good message" and praises Vaheguru. For example, whether Guru jee wrote Jaap Sahib or not, we should recite it because it praises Vaheguru and doesn’t have any anti-Gurmat thing in it."
RESPONSE: Clear admission that person doesn’t believe in Jaap Sahib as Bani. "If you don't believe it to be the composition of Guru Gobind Singh jee then why do you read it? So why did you take Amrit where this Bani was recited to make the Amrit?" If one was true to Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and believed that Guru Gobind Singh Ji's Bani is not Bani, then one shouldn't take Khande-Di-Pahul (Amrit) and not comply to the prescribed Nitnem stated in the Panthic Sikh Rehat Maryada, as Guru ji says:

ਅਖਰ ਲਿਖੇ ਸੇਈ ਗਾਵਾ ਅਵਰ ਨ ਜਾਣਾ ਬਾਣੀ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
"I sing the (Guru's) Word which You have written; I do not know any other Bani (Word). ||1||Pause||" 
(Basant M:1, 1171)

#3. "There is no proof that the Panj Banian that we recite today to make Amrit were the same Banian recited in 1699 Vaisakhi to make Amrit. I have 11 proofs that don't mention the Panj Banian that are recited today!"
RESPONSE: There is proof! The first proof is that my Guru gave me Amrit with these Panj Banian. My second proof is that all Amrit Sanchaars across all Gurdwaras, Takht Sahibs and Jathebandis, recite the same Panj Banian without any controversy or disagreement. Thirdly there is a historical proof that these Panj Banian were recited in the Amrit Sanchaar of Vaisakhi 1699. The proof is written by Bhai Jaita jee who brought Guru Teg Bahadar Sahib jee's head from Delhi to Anandpur Sahib and later took Amrit, was renamed as Bhai Jeevan Singh jee and attained Shaheedi at Chamkaur Sahib. Bhai Sahib writes:

ਪਾਂਚ ਕਕਾਰ ਸੰਪੂਰਣ ਦੇਖਿ ਕੈ ਯਾਚਕ ਸਿਖਹਿ ਸੰਮੁਖ ਬੈਠੀਜੈ। ਜਲੋ ਬਤਾਸੇ ਲੋਹ ਪਾਤਰ ਮਹਿਂ ਡਾਰਿ ਕੈ ਛਹਿ ਸਿਖ ਆਸਨ ਬੀਰ ਲਵੀਜੈ। ਹਾਥ ਪ੍ਰਥਮ ਸਿੰਘ ਖੰਡੇ ਕਉ ਲੇਕਰ ਜਲੋ ਪਤਾਸੋ ਕਉ ਖੂਬ ਮਿਲੀਜੈ। ਜਪੁ ਕੋ ਪਾਠ ਕਰਹਿ ਸੰਗ ਤਿਹ ਸਿਖ ਪਾਤਰਿ ਦੂਸਰ ਹਾਥ ਧਰੀਜੈ ॥੧੧੨॥ ਪਾਚਹੁੰ ਮਹਿ ਚਾਰ ਸੁ ਹੋਵਹਿਂ ਅਵਰ ਜੋਇ ਪਾਤਰ ਊਪਰ ਹਾਥ ਰਖੀਜੈ। ਆਪਨ ਆਪਨ ਬਾਰ ਯੇ ਪਾਂਚਹੁੰ ਪਾਂਚ ਹੀ ਬਾਣੀ ਕੋ ਪਾਠ ਪੜ੍ਹੀਜੈ। ਜਪੁ, ਜਾਪ, ਸਵੈਯੇ, ਚੌਪਈ, ਅਨੰਦ ਕੋ, ਪਾਠ ਸੋਂ ਪਾਹੁਲ ਤਿਆਰ ਕਰੀਜੈ। ਪਾਂਚਓ ਚੁਲੇ ਮੁਖ ਪਾਵਹਿ ਸੁ ਯਾਜਕ ਏਤ ਹੀ ਨੇਤਰ ਕੇਸ ਪਵੀਜੈ ॥੧੧੩॥ ਪ੍ਰਤਿ ਏਕ ਚੁਲੇ ਸੰਗ ਯਾਚਕ ਮੁਖ ਤੇ ਵਾਹਿਗੁਰੂ ਕੀ ਫਤਿਹਿ ਗਜਾਵੈ। ਯਾਚਕ ਸਿੰਘ ਜੋ ਅਵਰ ਭਿ ਹੋਇ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਏਕੁ ਹੀ ਪਾਤਰ ਪਾਵੈ। ਰਹਿਤ ਕੁਰਹਿਤ ਬਤਾਇ ਕੈ ਸਬਹਿਨ ਅਰਦਾਸ ਕਰਹਿ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ਦਵਾਵੈ। ਪੁਨ ਸਬ ਏਕੁ ਹੀ ਬਰਤਨ ਮਾਹਿਂ ਏਕਠਿ ਖਾਨ ਔ ਪਾਨ ਕਰਾਵੈ ॥੧੧੪॥
"Seeing the Sikhs wear all five Kakkaar they sat in front. Water and Pataasay was poured in a iron utensil and the Sikhs sat in the poster of Bir Aasan (warrior pose). The first Singh held the Khanda and beautifully blended the water and Pataasay. The prayer of Jap[ji] was recited and then the Khanda was passed to the next Sikh. (112) The other four of the five kept hold of the top of the utensil. Turn by tun the five recited the five Banian. Jap[ji], Jaap, Svaiyye, Chaupai and Anand were recited to prepare the Pahul (Amrit). Five handfuls were put in the mouth, then in the eyes, and the Kes (hair). (113). After receiving one handful "Vaheguru Jee Fateh" was roared. All the rest of the Singhs and others received Amrit from the same utensil. Rehats (discipline) and Kurehats (prohibitions) were told to all and after Ardaas Karhaah Parshaad was given. Then they all ate from utensil. (114)."
(Source: Baba Jeevan Singh – ‘ਭਾਈ ਜੈਤ ਰਾਮ-ਜੀਵਨ ਤੇ ਰਚਨਾ’, S. Gurmukh Singh, Punjabi University, 1994)

Furthermore, the Bhatt Vehis, one of the earliest recorded accounts of Sikh history, states:

ਅੰਤਰਯਾਮੀ ਸਤਿਗੁਰਾਂ ਇਨ ਕੀ ਤਰਫ ਨਹੀਂ ਦੇਖਾ, ਮਨ ਬਿਰਤੀ ਕੋ ਇਕਾਗਰ ਕਰੀ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਜਪੁ ਜੀ ਕਾ ਪਾਠ ਕਰੀ ਗਏ | ਉਪਰੰਤ ਜਾਪ, ਸਵੈਯੇ ਚਉਪਈ ਕਾ ਉਚਾਰਣ ਕਰ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਅਨੰਦ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਕਾ ਪਾਠ ਕੀਆ |
"The All-Knowing True Guru did not look at them,  [instead] with a fixed mind Sri Jap Ji [Sahib] was recited. After chanting Jaap [Sahib], Svaiyye and Chaupai [Sahib], Anand Sahib was recited."
(Bhatt Vehi, Guru Kian Sakhian, Page 125)

#4. "But that is one or two proofs. We have 11. Would you believe one over 11?"
RESPONSE: If ten people are lying or don't know the full picture and one is telling the truth and presenting the complete picture - who would you choose to believe? The ten or one? I don't need any proofs when I have one telling the truth. Thank you.


#5. "Do you know that the Ardaas that people read is from the composition titled, "Durga Kee Vaar" (the Ode of Durga). Did you know that? It is therefore the worship of Durga and not Akaal Purakh!"
RESPONSE: Did you know that the Bani of Aasa Kee Vaar is titled with the name of King Asaraj?

ਆਸਾ ਮਹਲਾ ੧ ॥ ਵਾਰ ਸਲੋਕਾ ਨਾਲਿ ਸਲੋਕ ਭੀ ਮਹਲੇ ਪਹਿਲੇ ਕੇ ਲਿਖੇ ਟੁੰਡੇ ਅਸ ਰਾਜੈ ਕੀ ਧੁਨੀ ॥
"Aasaa, First Nanak: Vaar (Ode) with Saloks (couplets), and Saloks written by the First Nanak. [To be sung] in the tune [of the Vaar] of Tunday (King) Asraaja." (Aasa M:1, 463)

Does this mean that Guru Nanak Dev jee worshipped the King Asaraj? The answer is - No! Aasa Kee Vaar is titled with the name of Raja Asaraj because the style of poetry singer associated to him is the style that Guru Ji instructs us to sing Aasa Kee Vaar. Now, coming to the Ardaas. Guru Ji similarly, gives the title of Chand Dee Vaar (the composition of which the Ardaas is the first paragraph) with the title "Durga Kee Vaar" because Guru Ji has used the heroic mythological tale of Durga to give his message of instilling bravery and courage in His Sikhs.

#6. "But did you know that the Chaupai that you read comes at the end of Charitr Pakhyaan?"
 RESPONSE: Yes! And your point being? Benti Chaupai Sahib is a prayer that is a supplication (Benti) for protection from the enemies of vice and sin. Where it is positioned in Dasam Granth makes no difference to a Sikh who got life from this Bani when it was recited for making Amrit and drinks the Amrit taste of this Bani every day in his or her Nitnem.

#7. "Dasam Granth was not created by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. This scripture appeared years later and it was first called Bachitar Naatak Granth. For this reason this Granth is not the Guru's Granth."  
RESPONSE: Whether this Granth was compiled after Guru Gobind Singh Ji does not change the fact that it contacts Amrit Bani that we recite for preparing Amrit and Nitnem and the works of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Whether each composition was a separate volume and joined together in one big scripture later by respected Sikhs, the fact that it contains the writings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji it deserves reverence and respect. Even if one thinks some of the compositions have been altered or tampered with over history, it still doesn't warrant any excuse for discrediting, disrespecting and belittling Dasam Granth.


#8. "It is forbidden to do Keertan from Dasam Granth in accordance to Sikh Rehat Maryada. Only the Keertan of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji can be done." RESPONSE: Can I have the page reference for where it says that in the Sikh Rehat Maryada? Sorry - but there is no page reference because it is not written anywhere in there! The Panthic Sikh Rehat Maryada states:

ੲ) ਸੰਗਤ ਵਿਚ ਕੀਰਤਨ ਕੇਵਲ ਗੁਰਬਾਣੀ ਜਾਂ ਇਸ ਦੀ ਵਿਆਖਿਆ-ਸਰੂਪ ਰਚਨਾ ਭਾਈ ਗੁਰਦਾਸ ਜੀ ਤੇ ਭਾਈ ਨੰਦ ਲਾਲ ਜੀ ਦੀ ਬਾਣੀ ਦਾ ਹੋ ਸਕਦਾ ਹੈ |
c) In the Sangat, Keertan only of Gurbani and, for its elaboration, the Bani of Bhai Gurdaas Ji and Bhai Nand Laal Ji, may be performed.
(Sikh Rehat Maryada)

Now, the question is what is Gurbani, i.e. the Guru's Bani? The first section of the Sikh Rehat Maryada, which defines who a Sikh is, clarifies that a Sikh must faithfully believe in the Bani of the Ten Gurus:

ਜੋ ਇਸਤਰੀ ਜਾਂ ਪੁਰਸ਼ ਇਕ ਅਕਾਲ ਪੁਰਖ, ਦਸ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਾਹਿਬਾਨ (ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇਵ ਜੀ ਤੋਂ ਲੈ ਕੇ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਤਕ), ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਅਤੇ ਦਸ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਾਹਿਬਾਨ ਦੀ ਬਾਣੀ ਤੇ ਸਿੱਖਿਆ ਅਤੇ ਦਸਮੇਸ਼ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਉੱਤੇ ਨਿਸ਼ਚਾ ਰੱਖਦਾ ਹੈ ਅਤੇ ਕਿਸੇ ਹੋਰ ਧਰਮ ਨੂੰ ਨਹੀਂ ਮੰਂਨਦਾ, ਉਹ ਸਿੱਖ ਹੈ |
"Any human being who faithfully believes in One Akaal Purakh (Timeless God), Ten Gurus, from Guru Nanak Dev Ji to Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the Bani (divine-words) and teachings of the ten Gurus, Amrit given by the tenth Guru, and who does not owe allegiance to any other religion, is a Sikh."
(Sikh Rehat Maryada)

Keertan of Dasam Bani is done at Sri Darbaar Sahib (Amritsar), Sri Akaal Takht Sahib, and all major historical Gurdwara Sahibs.


#9. "Well, the Shabad "Deh Shiva Bar Mohe Eihai..." is against Gurmat. We are not the worshippers of the Hindu god 'Shiva'. It is sad that the Sikh nation has made the praise of 'Shiva' their national anthem." 

RESPONSE: I sense "Hinduphobia" (sounds like I've made a new word). Well, news flash, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji praises Raam! Would these people remove "Raam" from Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji? No. Because where "Raam" is praised and revered, it means the "All-pervading One," referring to Vaheguru. "Raam" is an descriptive name for Vaheguru pre-dating the Hindu god 'Raam', the son of Dashrat. Similarly, "Shiva" is also mentioned in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. "Shiva" is mentioned in some places as the individual called Shiva which Hindus revered as a demi-god, and other places "Shiva" refers to Vaheguru. Professor Sahib Singh Ji in Guru Granth Darpan translates "Shiva" to mean ਕਲਿਆਣ-ਸਰੂਪ, which in English translates to mean epitome of benediction, helper of others, master of happiness.

ਸੁਰਗ ਪਇਆਲ ਮਿਰਤ ਭੂਅ ਮੰਡਲ ਸਰਬ ਸਮਾਨੋ ਏਕੈ ਓਹੀ ॥ ਸਿਵ ਸਿਵ ਕਰਤ ਸਗਲ ਕਰ ਜੋਰਹਿ ਸਰਬ ਮਇਆ ਠਾਕੁਰ ਤੇਰੀ ਦੋਹੀ ॥੧॥
"In the heavenly paradise, in the nether regions of the underworld, on the planet earth and throughout the galaxies, the One Lord is pervading everywhere. Everyone calls upon You with their palms pressed together, saying, "Shiva", "Shiva" ("the Master of happiness", "the Master of happiness"). O Merciful Lord and Master, everyone cries out for Your Help. ||1||"
(Gauree M:5, 207)

ਨਿੰਦਕੁ ਗੁਰ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਤੇ ਹਾਟਿਓ ॥ ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਭਏ ਦਇਆਲਾ ਸਿਵ ਕੈ ਬਾਣਿ ਸਿਰੁ ਕਾਟਿਓ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥"When the Guru shows His Grace, the slanderer stops (slandering). The Supreme Lord God becomes merciful (upon that slanderer); with the Naam-arrow of 'Shiva', the Lord that epitomises helping others, (the Guru) cuts the head off (that person's ego). ||1||Pause||" (Todee M:5, 714)

In the Shabad "Deh Shiva Bar Mohe Eihai...", Shiva here means Vaheguru, not for a Hindu demi-god. This can be cross-referenced with Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji with the above Shabads. The "a" sound at the end or in Panjabi ਾ (kannaa sound), it adds the mean "O" or ‘ਹੇ’. Therefore "Shiva" becomes "O Vaheguru" or "ਹੇ ਵਾਹਿਗੁਰੂ’ ਹੈ".

#10 "It is claimed that Bachitar Naatak is the autobiography of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, but it has no relevance to Gurmat or Sikh history. For argument sake if Guru Gobind Singh Ji did do meditation at Hemkunt [Sahib] in his past life, why do we need to know this? Our history begins when Guru Ji becomes the Guru, not before."
RESPONSE: Interesting that we don't use the same logic for each of the Guru Sahibaans. When analysing the life of Guru Angad Dev Ji we cannot help but mention his life as Bhai Lehna Ji. We don't just begin when he meets Guru Nanak Dev Ji, but we go beyond that and we remember that before meeting Guru Ji, Bhai Lehna Ji was a worshipper of of Vaishnu Devi. However, meeting Guru Nanak Dev Ji he gives up worshipping Vaishnu Devi and becomes a worshipper of Akaal Purakh. Similarly, when we remember Guru Amar Daas Ji, we also talk about their life before becoming the Guru when they were know as Baba Amar Daas Ji and had no Guru until meeting Guru Angad Dev Ji through his daughter-in-law. Similarly, history is written about and we remember the past life of Guru Raam Daas Ji when he is called Bhai Jetha Ji and so on. So why are people so disturbed and upset to read the history of Guru Gobind Singh Ji before he became the Guru? The whole Bachitar Naatak, which is the autobiography of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, is in Praise of Akaal Purakh and rejects all other religious paths, beliefs, and demi-gods.

Soon after, the group of individuals decided to change the topic and moved on to challenge Naam and the Gurmantar. The next post will discuss the topic of Naam and Gurmantar.

Anti-Sikhi Parchaar (Part 1): Introduction

It is very worrying how anti-Sikh parchaar is happening within us by those who look like Gursikhs and claim to stand by the Panthic Sikh Rehat Maryada but undermine the very fundamentals of Sikhi like Gurmantar, Amrit-vela, Nitnem, Bibek, Bana, and Dasam Bani. These views seem to stem from the Kala-Afghana group which go further to deny the existence of reincarnation, an after life, Sachkhand, Dharam raaj, Jamdoot, need to wear Panj Kakkaar. What's left?

Anyone is entitled to have their own views, however, it is worrying when someone with views not aligned to Gurbani tries to "convert" others visiting the Gurdwara to learn from the Guru with an "in your face" approach and confuse innocent members of the Sangat who may lack knowledge of Gurbani to begin with. From my personal experience, this anti-Sikh parchaar is done by targeting people one-to-one in Gurdwaras and Sikh events and claiming to want to have a “Gurmat vichaar” and “learn from you”. They will use Gurbani from Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee to justify their claims and attacks on the basics and fundamentals of Sikhi, confusing most people. It is very alarming how innocent minded people who lack knowledge can be so easily manipulated into questioning the fundamentals of Sikhi and be made to break away from Rehat and Gurbani in a cunning way.

It is important that we are firstly have the awareness to identify such vichaar that undermines Sikhi and breaks one from Rehat and Gurbani. Such individuals avoid talking to the whole Sangat (I am guessing as they may be challenged) and instead seek to brainwash people sitting in the Langar hall or stop someone outside the Gurdwara Sahib. Every Sikh should be self-aware and able to spot whether the person talking to them is seeking to increase your spirituality or destroy your spirituality, increase your love for Sikhi and Rehat or destroy it, etc. Take good from all, however when someone is saying something break's one's spirituality and contradicts Gurbani that one should be able to either walk away or lovingly explain to the person that you don't wish to hear such views.

Sikhs have been killed in holocausts and genocidal campaigns however, Sikhs have always recovered from mass loss of lives. Sikhs have always remained in Chardi Kalaa and recovered from great physical hardships imposed on them in history. Those that seek to destroy Sikhs and Sikhi, have taken a new approach now. If Sikhs cannot die, then kill their Sikhi. However, the attack in not from only outside but people planted within or perhaps being used without them even knowing. If Sikh begins to undermine the Guru’s Rehat, begin questioning the source of his or her existence (i.e. Nitnem Banian), and source of life of his or her people (i.e. Naam), then no tanks, guns or poisonous gas is needed to kill the Sikh, the Sikh will die within.

Every Sikh needs to be aware of the new attempts of an ideological genocide of Sikhi. History books are being re-written, historical Gurdwaras are being destroyed and rebuilt in the name of Kaar-seva, and now people dressed as Sikhs are within us preaching against the fundamentals of Sikhi in the disguise of “Gurmat Parchaar”. This is not by particular speakers or personalities, however, now groups of individuals living in communities are doing the best to break locals away from Rehat, Gurbani and Naam – without which a Sikh cannot be a Sikh.

The upcoming few posts will expose such attacks on Sikh fundamentals of Nitnem Banian, Bibek, Bana, Gurmantar, Naam and some Gurmat based responses using Gurbani and Panthic Sikh Rehat Maryada.

Bhai Jeevan Singh Jee: Keertan Vichaar on Khalistan

Bhai Sahib Jeevan Singh jee does viakhiyaa (explanation) of a Shabad of Bhai Nand Lal jee and uses references from Gurbani to explain the purpose of life, the state of the world, how the world can be saved and about Khalistan:

ਦੁਲਭ ਜਨਮੁ ਪੁੰਨ ਫਲ ਪਾਇਓ ਬਿਰਥਾ ਜਾਤ ਅਬਿਬੇਕੈ ॥ 
With difficulty this precious human life is obtained as a reward for past actions, but without discriminating wisdom, it is wasted in vain.

ਰਾਜੇ ਇੰਦ੍ਰ ਸਮਸਰਿ ਗ੍ਰਿਹ ਆਸਨ ਬਿਨੁ ਹਰਿ ਭਗਤਿ ਕਹਹੁ ਕਿਹ ਲੇਖੈ ॥੧॥
(We never thought of that) without devotional worship of Vaheguru, then what use are heaven like mansions and thrones like those of King Indra? ||1||

ਨ ਬੀਚਾਰਿਓ ਰਾਜਾ ਰਾਮ ਕੋ ਰਸੁ ॥
(Those engrossed in Maya) have not considered the sweet enjoyment of the Name of Vaheguru, our King;

ਜਿਹ ਰਸ ਅਨਰਸ ਬੀਸਰਿ ਜਾਹੀ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
this sweet taste shall cause you to forget all other tastes and pleasures. ||1||Pause||

ਜਾਨਿ ਅਜਾਨ ਭਏ ਹਮ ਬਾਵਰ ਸੋਚ ਅਸੋਚ ਦਿਵਸ ਜਾਹੀ ॥
(O Vaheguru!) Whilst knowing and understanding we still become fools and insane. We do not consider what we should consider; our days are passing away. 

ਇੰਦ੍ਰੀ ਸਬਲ ਨਿਬਲ ਬਿਬੇਕ ਬੁਧਿ ਪਰਮਾਰਥ ਪਰਵੇਸ ਨਹੀ ॥੨॥
Our passions are growing strong, and our Bibek Budh (discriminating wisdom) is weakening; we have no thought about what is our supreme objective. ||2||

ਕਹੀਅਤ ਆਨ ਅਚਰੀਅਤ ਅਨ ਕਛੁ ਸਮਝ ਨ ਪਰੈ ਅਪਰ ਮਾਇਆ ॥
We say one thing, and do something else; Maya has become strong that we do not understand anything (about our foolishness).

ਕਹਿ ਰਵਿਦਾਸ ਉਦਾਸ ਦਾਸ ਮਤਿ ਪਰਹਰਿ ਕੋਪੁ ਕਰਹੁ ਜੀਅ ਦਇਆ ॥੩॥੩॥
(O Vaheguru!) Your Ravi Daas says -  I am now detached from this foolish mindset; please, spare me Your anger over my misunderstanding, and have mercy on my soul. ||3||3||  
(Sorat'h Ravidaas, 658)

Bhai Jeevan Singh Jee: Importance of Kesh

Bhai Sahib Jeevan Singh Jee combing his Kesh

ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਰੋਮਿ ਰੋਮਿ ਹਰਿ ਧਿਆਵੈ ||

gurmukh rom rom har dhiaavai.

The Gurmukh meditates on the Lord with every hair of his body.

(Raamkalee M:1, 941)

Bhai Sahib said when you look after your Kesh (hair) properly they act as conductors of Naam current. Your Kesh on the head connects you to the sky and above. Your daarhi (beard) connects you to the ground and below. Your moustache connects you to the world around you. When these currents join the Naam feels like electric current going through your body.

Vaheguru!

Remembering Bhai Sahib Jeevan Singh Jee...

 

ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਜਨਮੁ ਸਵਾਰਿ ਦਰਗਹ ਚਲਿਆ ||

ਸਚੀ ਦਰਗਹ ਜਾਇ ਸਚਾ ਪਿੜੁ ਮਲਿਆ ||

"Spending this life fruitfully, the Gurmukh goes to the other world. There in the True court (of the Akaal Purakh) they get their True place."

(Bhai Sahib Gurdaas Jee, Vaar 19: 14)

 

On January Wednesday 7th January, Bhai Sahib Jeevan Singh jee of Akhand Keertani Jatha, left this world to go to the lap of the Guru at the worldly age of 88. Bhai Sahib was known for his humility and saintliness not in India but around the world. He devoted his life to the Panth and helping others. He was a highly respect personality in the Sikh Panth. He was a close companion of Bhai Sahib Bhai Randheer Singh jee. Bhai Sahib lived up to his name "Jeevan" and was a living image of what it means to be a Gursikh. Those who knew Bhai Sahib reveal that Bhai Sahib knew all of Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee by memory, although epitomising humility he never claimed or discussed it. Bhai Sahib is a gem of the Panth who inspired countless people, including those who had not physically seen him.  

Guru jee blessed my mother and I with Bhai Sahib's darshan at his residence in Amritsar in February 2009. Although Bhai Sahib's health was poor at the time and he was unable to speak, his presence alone brought tears to the eyes. My mother gave him a cardigan which he hugged and stroked (because it was soft). He then struggled to put his arm down the bed. We thought he had dropped something and trying to pick it up. We then realised he was trying to touch my mum's feet! My mum is not Amritdhari and seeing such humility from Bhai Sahib made both her and I emotional. Waheguru. The dust of the feet of such Gursikhs is priceless.

A SHORT GLIMPSE AT THE LIFE OF
BHAI SAHIB JEEVAN SINGH JEE
(Collected from Gursikhs and from the Internet)

Background

Bhai Sahib was born on 15th March 1926 in the village Kot Rustana, district Jhang, now in Pakistan. His parents were Mata Kishan Kaur jee and Bhai Mehtaab Singh jee. He had three sisters - Bibi Lachhmi Kaur jee, Bibi Raaj Kaur jee and Bibi Sant Kaur jee, and one younger brother - Master Sher Singh jee. In 1942 he did Paatth seva for Akhand Paatths held at Sri Hamandir Sahib, Amritsar. He impressed everyone wit h his flawless and melodious recitation of paatth. In 1943 his Anand Kaaraj was done with Bibi Joginder Kaur jee in a nearby village. Thirteen years later Bhai Sahib was blessed with a son, named Jaspal Singh. From 1945-46 Bhai Sahib began keertan seva at Baoli Sahib Gurdwara, Sri Goindwal Sahib. But then in 1947 he began to do keertan at Sri Darbaar Sahib, Amritsar, with a Gursikh from Sindh province.

Meeting Bhai Sahib Bhai Randheer Singh Jee
In 1947 Bhai Jeevan Singh jee met Bhai Sahib Bhai Randheer Singh jee of Narangwal, Ludhiana. Bhai Sahib Bhai Randheer Singh jee was one the leading freedom fighters of the Gadar Movement, hero of the Lahore conspiracy case, first prisoner of the Gurdwara Reform Movement, and who was honoured as the 'Golden Sparrow' of the Panth. He had spent more than 15 years in prison and was a great mystic and keertani. When Bhai Jeevan Singh jee met Bhai Sahib Randheer Singh jee a spiritual relationship form and Bhai Jeevan Singh jee got inspiration and direction. From this point Bhai Jeevan Singh jee began to do selfless keertan with Bhai Sahib Randheer Singh jee's Jatha (group) which later became known as the 'Akhand Keertani Jatha'. 

Career as a Raagi
Some years later Bhai Sahib began to accompany Raagi Surjan Singh jee to do keertan from 1953 to 1954. Afterwards Bhai Sahib returned back to Ludhiana where Bhai Sahib Randheer Singh jee instructed him to do keertan at Gurdwara Singh Sabha, Model Town, Ludhiana. Bhai Sahib did keertan seva at this Gurdwara Sahib for some time. Here, he settled with his wife and son and his brother-in-law Bhai Iqbal Singh jee and sister, Bibi Sant Kaur jee began to do sangat here. The fragrance of Bhai Sahib's keertan spread far and wide. The management committee of Takht Sri Patna Sahib were taken aback by Bhai Sahib's sweet voice and beautiful keertan and as a result he was made a Hazoori Raagi at Takht Sri Patna Sahib in 1972. Bhai Sahib's keertan changed the atmosphere. At the time Bhai Sahib would return to Panjab every year for 2 months and return back to Takht Patna Sahib with wheat donations for the Langar and other monetary donations he had collected from Panjab to give to the Takht Sahib. Bhai Sahib's seva led to his further respect.

Meetings with Giani Baba Kartar Singh Jee (Bhindran Wale)

Bhai Jeevan Singh jee used to be invited by Giani Baba Kartar Singh jee Bhindranwale to do keertan at Mehtaa. It has been said that Baba jee would wait at the train station for Bhai Sahib and the Akhand Keertani Jatha Singhs to come. When Bhai Sahib jee used to get off the train Baba jee would rush to the train to greet Bhai Sahib. When they would meet they would embrace one another with so much pyaar (love). Baba jee held Bhai Sahib jee in great regard. Baba jee himself would serve Bhai Jeevan Singh jee langar with his own hands. Whenever Bhai Jeevan Singh jee would enter the Diwaan where Baba Kartar Singh jee would be doing Kathaa, Baba jee would stop the Kathaa and request Gurmukh pyaare Bhai Jeevan Singh jee to do keertan for the Sangat.

Tour to Propagate Sikhi
In 1976 Takht Sri Patna Sahib management committee sent Bhai Sahib to Canada for Dharam Parchaar (propagation of Sikhi). This was his first foreign tour. At the time not many Parchaariks had travelled abroad. However, Bhai Sahib's unique point was that he was the first Parchaarik visiting the West that did not take money for himself. In the 1970s people living in the West had grown away from their Sikhi roots. Bhai Sahib decided that Sikhi education is fundamental and is importantly needed in the countries outside of India. His gentle sweet approach inspired thousands to stop drinking alcohol and eating meat and begin Nitnem, keep Rehat and take Amrit from the Guru-roop Panj Pyaare. At that time in Canada, it was difficult to find five Amritdhari Sikhs to do Amrit Sanchaar. So Bhai Rama Singh jee and Bhai Amrik Singh jee went from England for this purpose. The first Amrit Sanchaar in Vancouver was held in Tatt Khalsa Gurdwara. People came from faraway, including Sikhs from America. Eighty people were ready to receive Amrit. The Amrit Sanchaar programme started at 2am and ended in the afternoon. When the procession of eighty Sikhs who had received Amrit came out with the Panj Pyaare into the sangat, everyone was impressed. Many others were inspired to take Amrit.

The bloody Vaisakhi of 1978

On Vaisaakhi 1965 Bhai Fauja Singh jee's marriage took place with Bibi Amarjit Kaur jee and on this occasion Bhai Jeevan Singh jee performed the keertan. On 13th April 1978, the day of Vaisaakhi, about 125 Singhs, led by Bhai Fauja Singh jee, went to peacefully protest against the Nakli-Nirankari procession in Amritsar and against the cult leader Gurbachan's insults against the Sikh Gurus. The Nakli-Nirankari army fired at the unarmed Singhs, and Bhai Fauja Singh jee and 12 other Singhs became Shaheeds and 70-75 Singhs were wounded. On 22nd April 1978, Bhai Jeevan Singh was honoured with performing the Antim Ardaas (prayer for the last rites) of the 13 Shaheeds. The Ardaas was attended by all the main Panthic leaders.

Touring UK, Europe and other countries
Bhai Rama Singh jee requested Bhai Jeevan Singh jee to come to England and bless the sangat. So on his return from Canada to India, Bhai Sahib came to England for a week. He took part in a Rainsbaaee Keertan, and the sangat was deeply moved by his keertan. Bhai Sahib retired from his duties at Takht Sri Patna Sahib and dedicated his life to Gurmat Parchaar and Amrit Sanchaars. In this way the Akhand Keertani Jatha movement spread in Canada, America, UK and other countries. His wife, Bibi Joginder Kaur jee was supportive of his Parchaar and always accompanied him. Bhai Sahib's keertan was a greatly admired by youngsters at the time. Bhai Sahib performed Amrit Sanchaars with Gurmukh Pyaare Bhai Rama Singh jee and Bhai Rajinder Singh jee, in countries where Parchaariks had never visited such as Australia, New Zealand, Holland, Germany, Sweden, Italy, Philippeans, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore etc. He encouraged and inspired children towards Sikhi by started the tradition of giving religious gifts such as through giving away gifts like Kirpaans, Vaajay, Tablay, Cholay, Khanday for Dastaars, Gurbani Pothis and Soora religious magazine etc. Bhai Sahib inspire youngsters to give up intoxicants, and joined them to Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee and the Guru Khalsa Panth. Bhai Sahib would sit with children and do Nitnem with them. He would teach young and old to do Keertan without charging for anything.

Freedom Fighter and Supporter of the Panth
In June 1985 Bhai Sahib gave a bold speech at a Khalistan rally and protest against the Indian government for the attack on Sri Harmandar Sahib and killing thousands of Sikhs. After all the "leaders" had made their lengthy speeches, Bhai Saheb Jee was invited to the podium and at the US Capitol steps said: "Khalistaan Mangan Vaaleyo, Khalsey Bano!" ("Those asking for Khalistan, become Khalsa!"). Bhai Jeevan Singh jee used to tell the Sangat that we all have responsibility for the Panth. He gave encouragement to many Singhs who joined the freedom struggle and supported the families of Shaheed Singhs. Bhai Sahib used to donate the money he was given by the Sangat on his foreign tours to the Shaheed Bhai Fauja Singh Orphanage and other projects that aided the families and children of Shaheed Singhs. Whenever the Singhs would go on a mission they would ask Bhai Jeevan Singh to do Ardaas in front of Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee. When speaking on the phone to Jhajaaroo Singhs, Bhai Sahib would say: "Let me kiss your feet Guru Pyaario." 

Khalsa Schools & Education
Bhai Sahib was the first to establish the idea of Sikh ethos run schools in the West. In 1986 Bhai Jeevan Singh jee suggested the idea of a Khalsa school in Vancouver, Canada, and agreed to support it financially by giving offerings made to him by the Sangat for the school. The Satnam Education Trust was set up and then in 1987 the school was built and made world history. Bhai Sahib was a firm believer that the Khalsa's future laid in the new generation and through Gurmat orientated education. Under Bhai Jeevan Singh jee's guidance and blessings, the Satnam Trust further progressed to form the first Sikh cooperative bank and later it was followed by Satnam Sarab Kalyan Trust in India, which has 300 schools in India that give Gurmat-orientated education. Children are taught Gurbani, Sikh history and Panthic Sikh Rehat Maryada, and Trust organizes Gurmat Competitions every year.  Khalsa School in Surrey now have five campuses, which covers from pre-school to high school. These Khalsa Schools have inspired other communities throughout Canada and UK to start Sikh ethos schools. Bhai Jeevan Singh jee also supported the schools run by Bhai Dharam Singh Khalsa Charitable Trust and Shaheed Bhai Fauja Singh Charitable Trust (Amritsar).

Bhai Sahib and Amrit-Velaa

There was a young Singh in England who had taken Amrit for about a year. His Amrit-velaa (habit to wake up early) started getting slack. He used to do Amrit-velaa with Gursikhs regularly at a Gursikh's house but he gradually stopped attending daily. One day, early in the morning at Amrit-velaa, the Singh was asleep and hadn't woken up for Amrit-velaa. His father was at work on the night shift and his mother was up doing her paath when suddenly the phone rang. Bhai Jeevan Singh jee said, "Is bhaji there?" The Aunty jee replied, "No, he is working on a night shift." Bhai Sahib said, "No, I am not talking about Pita jee. Is Bhaji there." (Bhai Sahib always makes himself out to be the youngest, such is his humility). The Aunty jee rushed up to wake up the young Singh and tell him to answer the phone. The Singh shared the Guru's Fateh over the phone with Bhai Sahib and then Bhai Sahib said, "Bhaji, you haven't done kirpaa (mercy) on me today, it is Amrit-vela, and you forgot to wake me." There was a silence. The Singh felt so embarrassed for missing Amrit-vela. The Aunty jee and son looked at one another wondering how Bhai Sahib living in Canada knew that he had missed Amritvela that day.

Accepting Akaal Purakh's Will
Bhai Sahib visited a family in England in the late 1980s and stayed at the house for Akhand Paath sevaa. Bhai Sahib listened the Paath for many hours and corrected the Paathis (readers) when they made a grammatical or pronunciation error. Seven or eight years later Bhai Sahib came back to England and was invited to the same family. Several years earlier the Singh whose house it was had passed away. When Bhai Sahib jee asked the lady about her husband she became emotional and as soon as this happened Bhai Sahib jee went upstairs in Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee's room and stayed there. He never came down and after a good 4-5 hours the bibi asked her daughter to ask Bhai Sahib jee to come down. The girl went upstairs and found Bhai Sahib jee sitting in smaadhee (meditative pose). She asked them to come downstairs, to which Bhai Sahib replied that she should tell her mum that he will only come downstairs after her mum accepts the Bhaana (Will) of Akaal Purakh and not to become emotional about her husband. The Bibi agreed and Bhai Sahib jee came down and later did keertan at the house.

Bumping into a Mona
One evening, the Gursikhs had just finished doing kirtan at Gurdwara Singh Sabha, Slough (England). A Singh phoned and said that had booked kirtan in Hounslow, and that the Gursikhs should come straight away. Bhai Jeevan Singh jee said, "Lets go quickly, we should always be on time". As Bhai Jeevan Singh jee, his singhni (wife), and two other Singhs walked downstairs into the shoes section, a mona (man with hair cut) was walking in to the Gurdwara. Accidentally, he bumped into Bhai sahib. He said "sorry," and looked into Bhai sahib's face. Those who know Bhai sahib know how enigmatic his smile is, and how his face always shines. Bhai sahib said to him, "I came here especially to see you, I have something for you." Bhai sahib then took off his dastaar (turban) and handed it to the youth. The mona youth could not believe his eyes; Bhai sahib said these words to him with so much honesty, pyaar (lovingness) and humility that from that day on the boy kept his kesh and came into Sikhi.

Respect from all Panthic Leaders

In 1995 Professor Manjit Singh, the then Jathedaar of Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib called a World Sikh Samellan (conference). Every Gurdwara, Sikh organization and jatha (group) from around the world was invited and many days were spent discussing Panthic (Sikh national) issues affecting Sikhs. Thousands of Sikhs gathered, including all the big leaders and personalities within the Panth. Many people such as political leaders were centred on themselves and wanted special treatment, but everyone was treated equally. No dignitary received special attention. However for some reason the Panj Jathedars of the five Takhats sat on a sofa in the complex where this was happening. As the A-Z of Sikh leadership sat in the sangat on the floor, a simple Gursikh walked into the complex building. He walked in humbly, did matha tekh, and went to sit in the sangat. However straight away, the Jathedaars got up and ran over to him, and said to him, he must sit on the sofa. Totally embarrassed he refused. But they brought him over and sat him on the sofa. He sat uncomfortably because he was not one for that kind of attention. That Gursikh was Bhai Jeevan Singh jee. It goes to show how highly Bhai sahib, his jeevan, his seva, and his nimarta is respected in the Panth, that only he was singled out for such attention. It is the virtues of Guru, such pure humility, that pulls at peoples hearts.

Great humility A Muslim man passed by Bhai Sahib somewhere and he stopped and looked at Bhai Sahib's face. The man goes up to Bhai Jeevan Singh jee and says "I can see 'Allah Da Noor' (the Light of God) in you". Bhai Sahib folded his hands and humbly said, "O great man! Can you please give me your wonderful eyes with which you see such wonderful things." Another time, there was Sangat sitting in Canada and someone approached Bhai Sahib with a question in front of others. He said, "Bhai Sahib, you tell us - as you have met God." Bhai Sahib replied with a humble and astonished "Achhaa? (O really?)" and walked away.

Despite ill-health
Bhai Jeevan Singh jee lived 5-10 minutes away from Sri Darbar Sahib in Amritsar. Bhai Sahib would occasionally go and do keertan seva there whenever it was his turn/duty. One day his wife locked the door of his room to make sure he didn't go to do keertan seva that day because Bhai Sahib was very sick and she knew that Bhai Sahib would still want to go to Sri Darbaar Sahib. When his wife turned on the television she saw Bhai Sahib doing keertan (I think it was Aasa Kee Vaar keertan). She brought someone else to the television and showed them and they said it's probably a recording. Still in doubt they opened the locked room and went in and found that the window was wide open and Bhai Jeevan Singh jee no where to be found. He had jumped out of the window somehow and went to do keertan seva even though he was really sick. This was the dedication of a beloved Gursikh for his Guru.

End of Bhai Sahib's earthly journey
Bhai Sahib's last wish to hear the keertan of Sri Harmandir Sahib before he dies. His wish was fulfilled because the last part of his life he lived in an apartment across the road from Sri Harmandir Sahib. Bhai Sahib became old and frail and suffered health problems. He was cared for by Bhai Balwinder Singh jee and his wife. Bhai Balwinder Singh jee thousands of blessings from the Sangat for caring for Bhai Sahib. On Wednesday 7th January Bhai Sahib breathed his last breaths. On Thursday 8th January Bhai Sahib's last rites were performed. His body was cremated at crematorium of Chattiwind. Sangat in their thousands sang Gurbani loudly as they carried Bhai Sahib's body to the crematorium. The funeral was attend by former Sri Akaal Takht Sahib Jathedar, Giani Joginder Singh Vedanti who led the recital Japji Sahib. Singh Sahib become emotional and had tears in eyes at the funeral. He told the media, "Bhai Jeevan Singh was the last sevadaar of his stature. He could do keertan for hours together without looking at a Pothi. There are still some Sikhs who have memorised Gurbani to a great extent, but there was none who could match him."

ਵਿਚਿ ਦੁਨੀਆ ਸੇਵ ਕਮਾਈਐ ॥ ਤਾ ਦਰਗਹ ਬੈਸਣੁ ਪਾਈਐ ॥
vich duneeaa seva kamaaeeai. ta dargeh baaisan paaeeai.
"In the midst of this world, do seva (selfless service), and you shall be given a place of honour in the Court of Waheguru."
(Ang 26)

Dhan Guru, Dhan Guru Ke Pyaare.

Vichaar on Rehat...

Bhai Manpreet Singh (Kanpur) vichaar on eating meat and Kakkaars given at a Camp Fulwari held at Gurdwara Rakaab Ganj Sahib, Delhi:

Happy Gurpurb!

Wishing everyone good wishes on the Parkaash Utsav of Guru Gobind Singh jee.

VAHEGUROO JEEO SAT

NASRO MANSOOR GURU GOBIND SINGH
EEZAD-I MANZOOR GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh is victorious and assists us to succeed in life; he is accepted by God as His own.

HAQ RA GANJOOR GURU GOBIND SINGH
JUMLA FAIZ-O NOOR GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh is the custodian of God’s treasure; he is the bestower of all the gifts.

HAQ HAQ AAGAAH GURU GOBIND SINGH
SHAHE SHAHAN SHAH GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh knows the ways of God; he is the emperor of emperors.

BAR DO ALAM SHAH GURU GOBIND SINGH
KHASAM RA JAN KAH GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh rules over both the worlds; he is the destroyer of the enemies.

FAA-EZ AL-ANWAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH
KASHIF AL-ASRAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh illuminates our lives with abundance; he reveals secrets of God.

AALIM AL-ASTAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH
ABR-E REHMAT BAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh is aware of the secrets of the world; he showers his unlimited mercies.

MUQBAL-O MAQBOOL GURU GOBIND SINGH
WAASIL-O MAUSOOL GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh is the favourite of Waheguru; he is with Him all the time.

JAAN FIROZ-E DAHAR GURU GOBIND SINGH
FAIZ-E HAQ RA BAHR GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh bestows life in this world; he is the sea of Waheguru’s blessings.

HAQ RA MEHBOOB GURU GOBIND SINGH
TALIB-O MATLOOB GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh is loved by God; he is the seeker as well as the sought.

TEG RA FATTAH GURU GOBIND SINGH
JAN-O DIL RA RAH GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh achieved victories with his sword; he knows the secret of every heart.

SAHIB-E IKLEEL GURU GOBIND SINGH
ZILL-E HAQ TAZLEEL GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh wears the crown of the world; he lives in the shadow of Waheguru.

KHAAZAN-E HAR GANJ GURU GOBIND SINGH
MARHAM-E HAR RANJ GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh controls all the treasures of the world; he is the medicine of all ailments.

DAAWAR-E AAFAAQ GURU GOBIND SINGH
DAR DO AALAM TAAQ GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh is the master of the world; both the worlds are under his shelter.

HAQ KHUD WASAAF GURU GOBIND SINGH
BARTAREEN AUSAAF GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh is praised by God Himself; he is bestowed with highest qualities.

KHAASGAN DAR PAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH
QUDSI-AAN BAAR-AAE GURU GOBIND SINGH
Great men are at the feet of Guru Gobind Singh; the angels visit him for audience.

MUQBAL-AAN MADDAH GURU GOBIND SINGH
JAAN-O DIL RA RAH GURU GOBIND SINGH
The fortunate ones admire Guru Gobind Singh; he knows every thing in our hearts.

LAA-MAKAAN PAABOS GURU GOBIND SINGH
BAR DO AALAM KOS GURU GOBIND SINGH
The poor kiss the feet of Guru Gobind Singh; the drum of his authority sounds in both the worlds.

SULS-HAM MAHKOOM GURU GOBIND SINGH
RUBEH HAM MAKHTOOM GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh rules over the three worlds; he has the stamp of his authority on the four Vedas.

SUDS HALQEH B-GOSH GURU GOBIND SINGH
DUSHMAN AFGAN JOSH GURU GOBIND SINGH
The six shastras are his slaves; he always defeats the enemy.

KHALAS-O BE-KEENEH GURU GOBIND SINGH
HAQ HAQ AINAA GURU GOBIND SINGH
Pure at heart, Guru Gobind Singh is free from ill will; he is the mirror through whom God reveals Himself.

HAQ HAQ ANDESH GURU GOBIND SINGH
BADSHAH DARVESH GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh meditates on God; he is a mystic and a king at the same time.

MAKRAM AL-FAZAAL GURU GOBIND SINGH
MUN-IM AL-MUT-AAL GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh is virtue personified; his gifts to mankind are unending.

KAARAM AL-KIRAM GURU GOBIND SINGH
RAAHAM AL-RAHAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh is most generous and forgiver.

NAA-EM AL-MUN-AAM GURU GOBIND SINGH
FAHAM AL-FAHAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh blesses even the benevolent; he bestows gifts even to those who give.

DAA-IM-O PAA-INDA GURU GOBIND SINGH
FARAKH-O FARKHUNDEH GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh is eternal; he is auspicious for all.

FAIZ-E SUB-HAAN ZAAT GURU GOBIND SINGH
NOOR HAQ LAM-AAT GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh is essence of God’s blessings; God Himself radiates through him.

SAMIAAN-E NAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH
HAQ BEEN Z IN-AAM GURU GOBIND SINGH
Those who have listened to the name of Guru Gobind Singh have received the gift of seeing God Himself.

WAASIF-AAN-E ZAAT GURU GOBIND SINGH
WASIL AZ BARKAAT GURU GOBIND SINGH
Those who sang the praises of Guru Gobind Singh were united with God.

RAAQMAANE WASF GURU GOBIND SINGH
NAAMWAR AZ LUTF GURU GOBIND SINGH
Those who wrote in praise of Guru Gobind Singh received fame the world over with his grace.

NAAZRAN-E ROO-E GURU GOBIND SINGH
MAST HAQ DAR KOO-E GURU GOBIND SINGH
Those who had seen the face of Guru Gobind Singh moved in his lanes intoxicated with God’s Name.

KHAAK BOS-E PAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH
MUQBAL AZ AALAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH
Those who kissed the dust under the feet of Guru Gobind Singh were fortunate and were elevated in life.

QADIR-E HAR KAR GURU GOBIND SINGH
BE-KASAAN RA YAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh is the doer of all that is happening in this world, he is friend of the poor.

SAAJID-O MASJOOD GURU GOBIND SINGH
JUMLEH FAIZ-O JOOD GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh worships (God); he is also worshipped (by the whole creation).He is generous with all the bounties he gives.

SARWRAAN RA TAJ GURU GOBIND SINGH
BARTAREEN MI-ARAJ GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh is the chief of all the kings; he occupies the loftiest position.

ASHAR QUDSI RAM GURU GOBIND SINGH
WASIF-E IKRAM GURU GOBIND SINGH
The ten (Greek) gods are under the command of Guru Gobind Singh and they sing his praises in reverence.

UM QUDAS B-KAR GURU GOBIND SINGH
GAASHIA BARDAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH
The sacred goddesses of the world are also working for Guru Gobind Singh and they are his servants.

QADR-O QUDRAT PEISH GURU GOBIND SINGH
INKIYAAD ANDESH GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh controls our destinies; still he meditates on God in submission.

TISYA ULVI KHAAK GURU GOBIND SINGH
CHAAKAR-E CHALAAK GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh is above the highest thrones; he moves in the heavens.

BARTAR AZ HAR QADR GURU GOBIND SINGH
JAAWDANI SADR GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh is supreme in all virtues; he is eternal and above everyone else.

AALAM-E RAUSHAN Z GURU GOBIND SINGH
JAAN-O DIL GULSHAN Z GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh gives light to the world; our hearts and souls blossom because of him.

ROZ AFZOON JAAH GURU GOBIND SINGH
ZEB TAKHT-O GAAH GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh’s stature is increasing every day; he is the beauty of all thrones.

MURSHID AL-DAAREEN GURU GOBIND SINGH
BEENASH-E HAR EIN GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh is our guide in both the worlds; he is the sight of every eye.

JUMLA DAR FURMAAN GURU GOBIND SINGH
BARTAR AAMAD SHAAN GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh commands the whole creation; he is supreme in stature.

HAR DO AALAM KHEIL GURU GOBIND SINGH
JUMLA ANDAR ZEIL GURU GOBIND SINGH
Both the worlds are the army of Guru Gobind Singh; all are under his protection.

WAAHAB AL-WAHAAB GURU GOBIND SINGH
FAATEH HAR BAAB GURU GOBIND SINGH
The most generous Guru Gobind Singh is the conqueror of every battle.

SHAAMIL AL-ASHFAAQ GURU GOBIND SINGH
KAAMIL AL-AKHLAAQ GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh’s blessings are unending; he is virtue personified.

ROOH DAR HAR JISM GURU GOBIND SINGH
NOOR DAR HAR CHASHM GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh is the soul of every one; he is the light of every eye.

JUMLA ROZI KHWAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH
FEIZ-E HAQ AMTAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh provides sustenance to all; he showers His graces.

BIST-O HAFT GADAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH
KHAAK ROB SARAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH
The twenty-seven gods are the beggars of Guru Gobind Singh; they are engaged in sweeping his house.

KHAMS WASF PEI-RAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH
HAFT HAM SHEIDAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH
The five elements praise Guru Gobind Singh; the seven worlds admire him.

BAR DO AALAM DAST GURU GOBIND SINGH
JUMLA ULVI PAST GURU GOBIND SINGH
Guru Gobind Singh has his hand on both the worlds; all the angels are inferior

LAL SAG GULAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH
DAAD-DAAR-E NAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH
Nand LaL is the slave dog of Guru Gobind Singh; he carries the stamp of Guru Gobind Singh on him.

KAMTAREEN Z SGAAN GURU GOBIND SINGH
REZAA CHEEN-E KHAAN GURU GOBIND SINGH
Nand Lal is lower than all the dogs of Guru Gobind Singh; he (pecks) at the left overs of his dinner table.

SAA-EL AZ IN-AAM GURU GOBIND SINGH
KHAAK-E PAAK IQDAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH
Nand Lal is begging to get the gift of holy dust of Guru Gobind Singh’s feet.

BAAD JAANASH FIDAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH
FARQ-O BAR PAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH
His (Nand Lal’s) life may be sacrificed for Guru Gobind Singh and Nand Lal’s head may always remain at his feet.

(Ganjnama, Bhai Nand Lal Singh)

Connect2Sikhi Winter Camp 2014...

Last weekend, Connect2Sikhi Winter Camp 2014 was held at Singh Sabha Gurdwara, Seven Kings, Ilford. The camp took place from Saturday 27th December to Monday 29th December. The camp is aimed at children aged from 6 to 16 years, however parents and adults also joined in the classes to learn about Sikhi. Connect2Sikhi holds an annual week long summer camp and shorter weekend and an annual winter weekend camp, as well as other Gurdwara based camps and programmes throughout the year. Connect2Sikhi camps, which are based in East London, are one of my favourite camps that I am invited to do seva. The children attending the camp have always left a positive lasting impression and have inspired me, and the sevadaars have always shown utmost dedication to seva and enthusiasm for Sikhi.

 Youngest group in the camp busy doing Gurmat learning activities

 Eldest group learning about the Sahibzaade

At the recent camp they had various speakers, which included Bhai Vijay Singh from Luton, Kaurs Corner sevadaars, Bhai Jagmeet Singh from Basics of Sikhi, Bhai Mankamal Singh and Bhenji Davinder Kaur. The theme of the camp was the Chaar Sahibzaade. The talks covered the history of Anandpur Sahib and how the Hindu hill kings and the Mughal forces conspired against Guru Gobind Singh jee to the Shaheedi of the elder and younger Sahibzaade. I was amazed at how much information the children, from the younger ones to the elders, had learnt in the camp talks. The questions the campers came up with were very thoughtful and deep and took the sevadaars by surprise. The camp included keertan, talks, discussions, fun learning activities, dastaar tying, quizzes, games, and questions and answers sessions.

Dastaar tying lesson

There was one Bhenji at the camp who tied a Dastaar for the first time and she said she planned to keep wearing a Dastaar when going to college. Another younger bhenji, around 10 or 11 years old, said that she recites full Nitnem morning and evening, wakes up Amrit-vela and keeps Rehat and really wants to take Amrit. She was so thirsty for Amrit but her parents were not into Sikhi and don't think she should take Amrit, however she is still hunger for the Guru's gift and asked a sevadaar to speak to her parents. She proudly wore a Dastaar during the camp. Seeing such thirst for Sikhi is humbling and moving.

The camp atmosphere as always was very family-orientated, friendly and welcoming. It was nice to see young and old attend the camp and a number of parents and elders volunteer to help with the camp. I would definitely recommend that children (and adults!) to attend future camps organised by Connect2Sikhi.You can keep up to date with their programmes and events on their facebook.

Below are some photos from the camp (taken from Basics of Sikhi Facebook and Singh Sabha London East Facebook):

 Hukamnama

 Older group with Bhaji Jagmeet Singh

 Middle group learning about the Shaheedi of the Chhote Sahibzaade. They listened very carefully and paid attention.

Youngest group with Bhai Vijay Singh

 Simran and Keertan with elder group

 Gurmat competition and quiz with the youngest group. The children seem excited!


 Langar

Talk with elder group on the Vadde Sahibzaade

Story board activity about the Chhote Sahibzaade

Bhai Mankamal Singh and Bhenji Davinder Kaur teaching the middle group

 Eldest group doing drama work in groups

  Eldest group doing drama work in groups

 Bibi teaching Keertan to the middle group

 Youngest group drawing out story scenes from the story of the Chaar Sahibzaade.

 Questions and answers session with Bhaji Mankamal Singh and Bhenji Davinder Kaur

 Group photo with Bhai Jagmeet Singh and Bikramjit singh. Bhai Jagmeet Singh was very good with the younger children. Lots of energy and enthusiasm!

 Dastaar tying session. All the campers showed so much enthusiasm and pyaar for tying a dastaar.

 Bhai Vijay Singh's talk on Heroes with the youngest group. Children doing simran before the talk.

Questions and answers session

The youngest group showing off their Panj Kakkaar booklets they made and their activity learning books.

Dhan Hai Guru! Dhan Hai Teree Sikhee!