Episode 6 of India Travels: Funeral Akhand Paath Da Bhog

Day 11 of my trip. It’s Sunday 6^th July 2003. My mum and I went to visit family near Philaur. On that day there was an Akhand Paat da Bhog (conclusion of three-day reading of Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee) at the next door neighbour’s house. Their elderly grandmother, who was over 100 years old, had passed away.

People were sitting in the house and outside on the floor listening to the conclusion of the Paath. Guru Sahib’s Prakaash was inside one of the rooms. First of all we had Chaa Paani and ate few Pakoray etc. It was “help yourself style,” which I am not too keen on. However, I was assured that everyone is washing their hands and touching food. Fair enough, so I tuck into a few pakoray and one or two barfi pieces. Felt hungry so I am thinking of going back to get some more Pakoray.

Shock horror! An aunty who was sitting nearby and eating with her hands and putting her hand in her mouth went to get some Pakoray. Instead of asking someone to pour her some, she went straight for the bowl and shoved her hand RIGHT TO THE BOTTOM! She started lifted Pakoray from the bottom (probably thinking she didn’t want to eat Pakoray touched by other people’s dirty hands!!). I felt bit queasy and sick! Perhaps it’s a good way to keep off the calories (just watch how unhygienic things are and I am sure it will put you off having second helpings!)

Washed my hands and then we go to do matha tekh (bow down) to Guru Jee. I was shocked at what I saw. Sat Naam, Waheguru. Probably should say Waheguru few more times to get over the shock.


Where should I do Matha Tekh? Infront of Guru Sahib there were photos of the deceased elderly lady. So basically everyone who did Matha Tekh to Guru Sahib ended up doing Matha Tekh to these large photos of the elderly Mata jee who had passed away.

I couldn’t believe how the Amritdhari looking Paathis could allow such Manmat (contrary to Guru’s teachings) things to happen. Chalo, I walked to the side of Guru Sahib and did Matha Tekh rather than doing it from the front.


The programme finished and Guru Jee was carried with reverence back to the Gurdwara Sahib. Everyone then went to eat “Langar.” Well it wasn’t exactly Langar because it wasn’t cooked by the “Sikh Sangat” or “Saadh Sangat,” instead it was cooked by “Halwayee” or cooks. And it was served like a buffet style (again!).

I refused to eat "Langar" because I could felt uncomfortable eating. I told my cousins that I eat in steel plates and that there’s no “sucham” (hygiene) in buffet-style “Langar.” My cousins said, “Don’t worry! Amritdharis don’t eat there. You and the Granthi Singhs will be eating Daal Sabji straight from the pateelaa (cooking pot).” I was thinking to myself, “O mind! Am I hearing this correctly? There is separate langar for Amritdharis and separate langar with anyone who doesn’t mind eating in dirty plates and buffet-style “langar”.” I couldn’t believe it.

I told them that why don’t you give everyone steel plates and why don’t you make everyone sit on floor and do sewa of sangat by distributing langar. They agreed that there is no hygiene and that it is contrary to Gurmat tradition. However, their excuse was “this is how everyone does it in India.”


Had my langar and went on the look out to find the Granthi Singh incharge so I could have a word with him about why there was a large picture of deceased elderly lady resting on Guru Granth Sahib jee. I found the Granthi. He was pleased to see a Singh from abroad. When asking him about the photo he said, “Yes it is Manmat and totally wrong. It should not be there and is considered “Bipran Kee Reet” (contrary to Gurmat).”

If we read, listen and contemplate then we learn many inspiring and deep things in our Nitnem (daily prayers). People say "Why do Nitnem?" For me Nitnem is a Sikh's "daily inspiration," which every day links us back to our Guru and helps to tune our mind to Gurmat (the Guru's teachings). Every morning we read in Tva Prasaad Svaiye (early-morning Nitnem prayer composed by Guru Gobind Singh jee):

ਕੋਉ ਬੁਤਾਨ ਕੋ ਪੂਜਤ ਹੈ ਪਸੁ ਕੋਉ ਮਿ੍ਰਤਾਨ ਕੋ ਪੂਜਨ ਧਾਇਓ ॥
ko-oo butaan ko poojat hai pas, ko-oo mritaan ko poojan dhaa-i-o||
Some fool worships the idols and someone goes to worship the dead.

ਕੂਰ ਕਿ੍ਰਆ ਉਰਿਝਓ ਸਭ ਹੀ ਜਗ ਸੀ੍ ਭਗਵਾਨ ਕੋ ਭੇਦੁ ਨ ਪਾਇਓ ॥ ੧੦॥੩੦॥
koor kriaa urjhio sabh hee jag, sree bhagvaan ko bhed na paa-i-o||10||30||
The whole world is entangled in false rituals and has not known the secret of Lord-Waheguru. 10.30.

I asked the senior Granthi Singh, “Why did you not remove the photo?” “We didn’t notice the photo. We only noticed the picture today,” he replied. Sorry, but that had to be a porkie (a lie). Firstly how can someone do Paath for THREE DAYS at someone’s house and not notice a HUGE picture lying directly where one does Matha Tekh (unless you do Matha Tekh with eyes closed and keep eyes closed when doing Paath!). Secondly, there were 5 Singhs! So did none of the 5 Singhs notice the huge photos of Mata jee right infront of Guru jee?

He then said, “Well actually the family wanted the photo there. We couldn’t tell them not to put it there and go against their wishes in such circumstances like a funeral.” Rab Bhalla Kare!

ਇਹੁ ਕੁਟੰਬੁ ਸਭੁ ਜੀਅ ਕੇ ਬੰਧਨ ਭਾਈ ਭਰਮਿ ਭੁਲਾ ਸੈਂਸਾਰਾ ॥
ehu kuttamb sabh jee-a ke banDhan bhaa-ee bharam bhulaa saiNsaaraa.
All of these relatives are like chains upon the soul, O Siblings of Destiny; the world is deluded by doubt.

ਬਿਨੁ ਗੁਰ ਬੰਧਨ ਟੂਟਹਿ ਨਾਹੀ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਮੋਖ ਦੁਆਰਾ ॥
bin gur banDhan tootteh naahee gurmukh mokh du-aaraa.
Without the Guru, the chains cannot be broken; the Gurmukhs find the door of salvation.

ਕਰਮ ਕਰਹਿ ਗੁਰ ਸਬਦੁ ਨ ਪਛਾਣਹਿ ਮਰਿ ਜਨਮਹਿ ਵਾਰੋ ਵਾਰਾ ॥੨॥
karam karahi gur shabad na pachhaaneh mar janmeh vaaro vaaraa. ||2||
One who performs rituals without realizing the Word of the Guru's Shabad, shall die and be reborn, again and again. ||2||
(Ang 601)

Valentine's Poem

Two years ago, on Valentine's day I went to Southall (nothing new there - I mean going to Southall). I did my usual Gurdwara Yatra (visit). Did darshan of Havelock Rd. Gurdwara, Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara (Aghani Sangat) then Park Avenue Gurdwara. In the evening Bhai Dya Singh Australia wale were doing keertan at Osborne Rd. Gurdwara. So from Park Avenue I went there. The programme finished late. Afterwards I made my way back to Halls of Residence (in Central London).

I didn't realise it was Valentine's Day. I sat on the tube and noticed LOADS OF PEOPLE (unusual for a Sunday night!). I felt queasy. Sat Naam, Waheguru. As it was Valentine's Day people around me on the tube were acting lovey duvey. Sat Naam. I just kept my head down and did Simran. Everywhere where I looked people and more people - eating one another's face off. Waheguru Bhalla Kare.


Chalo, I got back to halls in one piece with Guru's Kirpa. In my room I reflected on the day. The keertan darbaar was beautiful and having darshan of so many Gurdwaras in one day was great. I started to think about what is Valentine's day... My thoughts led me to write a poem that day. The poem is below:

Valentine’s Day celebrates love.
Valentine’s Day is about showing your love.
Valentine’s Day involves sharing love.

Who do you love?
Who would you want show your love to?
Who do you wish to share your love with?

We all have love.
We can all show love.
We can all share love.


My Valentine’s would be the person who taught me about love.
My Valentine’s would be the person who showed me love.
My Valentine’s would be the person who I learnt to share love.

My Valentine’s Day is everyday.
My Valentine’s Day is the early hours before sunrise.
My Valentine’s Day is waking up to my Beloved.

My Valentine’s would be my Beloved Guru.
My Valentine’s would be my parents.
My Valentine’s would be my Dear Lord Creator.


The sign of love is willing to sacrifice all you have.
The sign of love is being graceful and forgiving.
The sign of love is being side by side forever.

Guru Gobind Singh Ji sacrificed his mother, father, four sons, and all he had for me.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji showered His grace on me and gave me the gift of Amrit.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji is always with me in the Divine form of the Shabad.

ਸੁਖੀ ਬਸੈ ਮੋਰੋ ਪਰਿਵਾਰਾ ॥ ਸੇਵਕ ਸਿੱਖ ਸਭੈ ਕਰਤਾਰਾ ॥ ੨ ॥
"May me family [the Sikhs] live happily, and may my Sikhs and disciple cross over to God."
(Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Benti Chaupai)

A mother sacrifices her share of a meal just to see her child does not feel hungry
A father s acrifices his time and energy, to work hard bring his children up.
A mother will be forgiving and show grace to her child when he or she does something wrong.

Our parents teach us to walk, talk and eat.
Our parents hug us when we feel lonely and wipe our tears when we feel sad.
Our parents do so much for us and yet do not seek thanks or appreciation.

ਕਾਹੇ ਪੂਤ ਝਗਰਤ ਹਉ ਸੰਗਿ ਬਾਪ ॥ ਜਿਨ ਕੇ ਜਣੇ ਬਡੀਰੇ ਤੁਮ ਹਉ ਤਿਨ ਸਿਉ ਝਗਰਤ ਪਾਪ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ॥
"Why O son do you argue with your father? It is a sin to argue with him who gave you life and brought you up."
(Ang 1200)

The mother is the first one to offer companionship to her child from when the child is in her womb.
During hard times our parents stand side by side us.
When a child is sick or upset, our parents are still there to listen and offer a shoulder to cry on.

Vaheguru has given me the gift of a human body.
Vaheguru has given me the gift of the breathing.
Vaheguru has given me the gift of intellect.

Vaheguru can make me us from nothing to everything.
Vaheguru is a merciful judge who is neither harsh nor lenient.
Vaheguru bears no hatred; He listens and guides all those who ask with devotion.

ਸਾਚੁ ਕਹੋਂ ਸੁਨ ਲੇਹੁ ਸਭੈ ਜਿਨ ਪ੍ਰੇਮ ਕੀਓ ਤਿਨ ਹੀ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਪਾਇਓ ॥੯॥
"I tell the truth, listen everybody: those who love (Vaheguru) obtain the Dear Lord."
(Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Swaarag Swaiye)

Vaheguru is my mother, father, friend and companion.
Vaheguru is always with me, within me and beside me.
Vaheguru protects me when I am a weak, lifts me when I fall, and guides me when I can’t see.


Lets all prayer that may we love Vaheguru as much as He loves us.

Bhul chuk maaf.

Photos from Dastaar Tying Class

ਕਾਇਆ ਕਿਰਦਾਰ ਅਉਰਤ ਯਕੀਨਾ ॥

kaae-iaa kirdaar aurat yakeenaa.
O person of God! Let good deeds be your body, and faith your bride.

ਰੰਗ ਤਮਾਸੇ ਮਾਣਿ ਹਕੀਨਾ ॥
rang tamaashe maaN hakeenaa.
(Instead having enjoyment of ‘vikars', immoral deeds,) play and enjoy in Waheguru's love and delight.

ਨਾਪਾਕ ਪਾਕੁ ਕਰਿ ਹਦੂਰਿ ਹਦੀਸਾ ਸਾਬਤ ਸੂਰਤਿ ਦਸਤਾਰ ਸਿਰਾ ॥ 12 ॥
naapaak paak kar hadoor hadeesaa, saabat soorat dastaar siraa.12.
O person of God! Purify the mind what is impure (with bad thoughts) – this is the religious tradition (the true Hadith) through which you can experience the Lord's Presence. (Abandoning circumcision, mutilation and deferment of the body etc) preserve a complete appearance with a turban on your head – this becomes the way to maintain respect and honour. 12
(Maroo M:5, Ang 1084, SGGS)

Every Sunday 3.30-4.30pm there is a Dastaar (turban) tying class in the carpark hall of Singh Sabha Gurdwara, Park Ave., Southall. Below are a few photos of a 10year old Singh who has been practising how to do his Joora (tie a hair-knot), and tie a Keski (short under-turban) and Dastaar from last week's class:


Learning how to tie a Keski (under-turban).


Tying the Dastaar himself (with a few tips and guidance here and there).


Great to see the kids taking so much pride in their Dastaar and being so enthusiastic to learn how to tie a nice-looking Dastaar.


You can learn how to tie different Sikh turbans through step by step videos on SikhNet.com

About The Turban
The turban is our Guru's gift to us. It is how we crown ourselves as the Singhs and Kaurs who sit on the throne of commitment to our own higher consciousness. For men and women alike, this projective identity conveys royalty, grace, and uniqueness. It is a signal to others that we live in the image of Infinity and are dedicated to serving all. The turban doesn't represent anything except complete commitment. When you choose to stand out by tying your turban, you stand fearlessly as one single person standing out from six billion people. It is a most outstanding act.
http://www.sikhnet.com/s/WhyTurbans

Inspiring Love Story

The Rose Within
Author: Unknown (Adapted by Daas)

ਸਲੋਕ ਮ: ੧ ॥
salok mehlaa 1.
Shalok, First Mehl:

ਕਾਇਆ ਕੂਮਲ ਫੁਲ ਗੁਣ ਨਾਨਕ ਗੁਪਸਿ ਮਾਲ ॥
kaa-i-aa koomal, phul guN, naanak gupas maal.
With the fresh leaves of the body, and the flowers of virtue, Nanak has weaved his garland.

ਏਨੀ ਫੁਲੀ ਰਉ ਕਰੇ ਅਵਰ ਕਿ ਚੁਣੀਅਹਿ ਡਾਲ ॥੧॥
einee phulee rau kare, avar ke chuNee-ahi daal. ||1||
Waheguru is pleased with such garlands, so why pick any other flowers? ||1||
(Ang 791)

A certain man planted a rose and watered it faithfully and before it blossomed, he examined it.

He saw the bud that would soon blossom, but noticed thorns upon the stem and he thought, "How can any beautiful flower come from a plant burdened with so many sharp thorns? Saddened by this thought, he neglected to water the rose, and just before it was ready to bloom... it died.

So it is with many people. Within every soul there is a rose. The God-like qualities planted in us at birth, grow amid the thorns of our faults. Many of us look at ourselves and see only the thorns, the defects.

We despair, thinking that nothing good can possibly come from us. We neglect to water the good within us, and eventually it dies. We never realize our potential.

ਇਹੁ ਮਨੁ ਆਰਸੀ ਕੋਈ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਵੇਖੈ ॥
ehu man aarsee, ko-ee gurmukh vekhai.
This mind is a mirror; how rare are those who, as Gurmukh, see themselves in it.
(Ang 115)

Some people do not see the rose within themselves; someone else must show it to them. One of the greatest gifts a person can possess is to be able to reach past the thorns of another, and find the rose within them.

ਮਨ ਤੂੰ ਜੋਤਿ ਸਰੂਪੁ ਹੈ ਆਪਣਾ ਮੂਲੁ ਪਛਾਣੁ ॥
man tooN jot saroop hai aapnaa mool pachhaan.
O my mind, you are the embodiment of the Divine Light - recognize your own origin. (Ang 441)

This is one of the characteristic of love... to look at a person, know their true faults and accepting that person into your life... all the while recognizing the nobility in their soul. Help others to realize they can overcome their faults. If we show them the "rose" within themselves, they will conquer their thorns. Only then will they blossom many times over. Let us remember and cherish Waheguru. We have so many faults yet His love is beyond boundaries and and helps us to realise our mistakes so that we can make our stumbling blocks our building blocks.

ਸਲੋਕ ਮ ੫ ॥
salok mehlaa 5.
Shalok, Fifth Mehl:

ਫਰੀਦਾ ਭੂਮਿ ਰੰਗਾਵਲੀ ਮੰਝਿ ਵਿਸੂਲਾ ਬਾਗੁ ॥
fareedaa bhoom rangaavalee, manjh visoolaa baag.
Fareed, this world is beautiful, but there is a thorny garden within it.

ਜੋ ਨਰ ਪੀਰਿ ਨਿਵਾਜਿਆ ਤਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹਾ ਅੰਚ ਨ ਲਾਗ ॥੧॥
jo nar peer nivaaji-aa, tinHaa anch na laag. ||1||
Those who are blessed by their spiritual teacher are not even scratched. ||1||
(Ang 966)

The Secret of Life

I recieved this email from Bhaji Mehtab Singh. Its a really nice email which I would like to share:


Have you read this before?
Discover the 90/10 Principle. It will change your life(at least the way you react to situations). What is this principle?

10% of life is made up of what happens to you. 90% of life is decided by how you react. What does this mean?


We really have no control over 10% of what happens to us. We cannot stop the car from breaking down. The plane will be late arriving, which throws our whole schedule off. A driver may cut us off in traffic. We have no control over this 10%. The other 90% is different. You determine the other 90%.

How? By your reaction. You cannot control a red light., but you can control your reaction. Don't let people fool you; YOU can control how you react.


Let's use an example.
You are eating breakfast with your family. Your daughter knocks over a cup of coffee onto your business shirt. You have no control over what just what happened. What happens when the next will be determined by how you react.You curse. You harshly s'cold your daughter for knocking the cup over.

She breaks down in tears. After s'colding her, you turn to your spouse and criticize her for placing the cup too close to the edge of the table. A short verbal battle follows. You storm upstairs and change your shirt. Back downstairs, you find your daughter has been too busy crying to finish breakfast and get ready for school. She misses the bus. Your spouse must leave immediately for work.

You rush to the car and drive your daughter to school. Because you are late, you drive 40 miles an hour in a 30 mph speed limit. After a 15-minute delay and throwing $60 traffic fine away, you arrive at school. Your daughter runs into the building without saying goodbye. After arriving at the office 20 minutes late, you find you forgot your briefcase. Your day has started terrible. As it continues, it seems to get worse and worse. You look forward to coming home, When you arrive home, you find small wedge in your relationship with your spouse and daughter.

Why? Because of how you reacted in the morning. Why did you have a bad day?

A) Did the coffee cause it?
B) Did your daughter cause it?
C) Did the policeman cause it?
D) Did you cause it?

The answer is " D".

You had no control over what happened with the coffee.


How you reacted in those 5 seconds is what caused your bad day. Here is what could have and should have happened.

Coffee splashes over you. Your daughter is about to cry. You gently say, "It's ok honey, you just need, to be more careful next time". Grabbing a towel you rush upstairs. After grabbing a new shirt and your briefcase, you come back down in time to look through the window and see your child getting on the bus. She turns and waves. You arrive 5 minutes early and cheerfully greet the staff. Your boss comments on how good the day you are having.

Notice the difference?
Two different scenarios. Both started the same. Both ended different.

Why? Because of how you REACTED. You really do not have any control over 10% of what happens. The other 90% was determined by your reaction.

Here are some ways to apply the 90/10 principle. If someone says something negative about you, don't be a sponge. Let the attack roll off like water on glass. You don't have to let the negative comment affect you! React properly and it will not ruin your day. A wrong reaction could result in losing a friend, being fired, getting stressed out etc.

How do you react if someone cuts you off in traffic?
Do you lose your temper? Pound on the steering wheel?
A friend of mine had the steering wheel fall off)
Do you curse?
Does your blood pressure skyrocket?
Do you try and bump them?
WHO CARES if you arrive ten seconds later at work? Why let the cars ruin your drive? Remember the 90/10 principle, and do not worry about it.

You are told you lost your job. Why lose sleep and get irritated? It will work out. Use your worrying energy and time into finding another job.The plane is late; it is going to mangle your schedule for the day. Why take out your frustration on the flight attendant? She has no control over what is going on. Use your time to study, get to know the other passenger. Why get stressed out? It will just make things worse. Now you know the 90-10 principle. Apply it and you will be amazed at the results. You will lose nothing if you try it.

The 90-10 principle is incredible. Very few know and apply this principle.

The result? Millions of people are suffering from undeserved stress, trials, problems and heartache.

We all must understand and apply the 90/10 principle.

It CAN change your life!!!

King's College Weekly Simran

Here's a short video clip, courteousy of Rsingh, from the Weekly Simran programme which takes place every Tuesday, 5.15-6pm at King's College London, Room G4, New Hunt's House, Guy's Campus (nearest tube station is London Bridge).

Just 3 Words

I recieved this email from Bhaji Mehtab Singh. Its a really nice email which I would like to share:


There are many things that you can do to strengthen your relationships. Often the most effective thing you can do involves saying just three words. When spoken sincerely, these statements often have the power to develop new friendships, deepen old ones and even bring healing to relationships that have soured.

The following three-word phrases can be tools to help develop every relationship.

1. Let me help
Good friends see a need and then try to fill it. When they see a hurt they do what they can to heal it. Without being asked, they jump in and help out.

2. I understand you.
People become closer and enjoy each other more when the other person accepts and understands them. Letting your spouse know - in so many little ways - that you understand them, is one of the most powerful tools for healing your relationship. And this can apply to any relationship.

3. I respect you
Respect is another way of showing love. Respect demonstrates that another person is a true equal. If you talk to your children as if they were adults you will strengthen the bonds and become closer friends. This applies to all interpersonal relationships.

4. I miss you.
Perhaps more marriages could be saved and strengthened if couples simply and sincerely said to each other "I miss you." This powerful affirmation tells partners they are wanted, needed, desired and loved. Consider how important you would feel, if you received an unexpected phone call from your spouse in the middle of your workday, just to say "I miss you."

5. Maybe you're right.
This phrase is very effective in diffusing an argument. The implication when you say "maybe you're right" is the humility of admitting, "maybe I'm wrong". Let's face it. When you have an argument with someone, all you normally do is solidify the other person's point of view. They, or you, will not likely change their position and you run the risk of seriously damaging the relationship between you. Saying "maybe you're right" can open the door to explore the subject more. You may then have the opportunity to express your view in a way that is understandable to the other person.

6. Please forgive me
Many broken relationships could be restored and healed if people would admit their mistakes and ask for forgiveness. All of us are vulnerable to faults, foibles and failures. A man should never be ashamed to own up that he has been in the wrong, which is saying, in other words, that he is wiser today than he was yesterday.

7. I thank you.
Gratitude is an exquisite form of courtesy. People who enjoy the companionship of good, close friends are those who don't take daily courtesies for granted. They are quick to thank their friends for their many expressions of kindness. On the other hand, people whose circle of friends is severely constricted often do not have the attitude of gratitude.

8. Count on me
A friend is one who walks in when others walk out. Loyalty is an essential ingredient for true friendship. It is the emotional glue that bonds people. Those that are rich in their relationships tend to be steady and true friends. When troubles come, a good friend is there indicating "you
can count on me."

9. I'll be there
If you have ever had to call a friend in the middle of the night, to take a sick child to hospital, or when your car has broken down some miles from home, you will know how good it feels to hear the phrase "I'll be there." Being there for another person is the greatest gift we can give. When we are truly present for other people, important things happen to them and us. We are renewed in love and friendship. We are restored emotionally and spiritually. Being there is at the very core of civility.

10. Go for it
We are all unique individuals. Don't try to get your friends to conform to your ideals. Support them in pursuing their interests, no matter how far out they seem to you. God has given everyone dreams, dreams that are unique to that person only. Support and encourage your friends to follow their dreams. Tell them to "go for it."

B o n u s : 11. I love you
Perhaps the most important three words that you can say. Telling someone that you truly love them satisfies a person's deepest emotional needs. The need to belong, to feel appreciated and to be wanted. Your spouse, your children, your friends and you, all need to hear those three little words: "I love you." Love is a choice. You can love even when the feeling is gone.

Charan-Kamal Singh's B'day Bash

Last week it was Bhaji Charan-Kamal Singh's 20th birthday (Bhaji recieved the gift of Amrit in October 2005 along with Mandave Singh and Pardip Singh). It was celebrated Midlands style! Started off with Rehraas Sahib and Simran, followed cake ceremony, then, well I will let you have a look at the photos! (Just to clarify for the record, I weren't at the birthday bash! I have been kindly sent the photos by my friend.)


Bhai Sahib Charan-Kamal Singh (aka Birthday Singh)


Nice birthday cake (eggless of course!) :)


Bhaji reading his birthday card.


Balraj Singh (in white pagh), Charankamal Singh (b'day singh), Pardip Singh aka Dhadi Master Sahib (in creme pagh), Mandave Singh (in black) and Bish Singh at end.


Making birthday wish (probably wishing that he doesn't end up like Pardip Singh and Mandave Singh on their birthdays!)


Bhai Sahib doing Bhog of the cake (in simple English - cutting the cake!)


Ermm... a blurry photo of the back of Charan-Kamal Singh's head.


"Once upon a time a Singh was born in Midlands. Twenty years on, three wise Singhs came bearing gifts and presents for the Singh....


The first wise Singh brought the gift of a black and kesri (orange) dastaars (turbans)...


The second wise Singh presented arm-pads for practicing Gatka....


The third wise Singh presented the gift of a Kenchi Sahib (a stand) for keeping Gutka Sahib and a Sandlewood Mala.



Waheguru! It looks like Charan-Kamal Singh bhaji is either alergic to cake or scared of having cake forced in his face.


Birthday Sagun (I don't know whether he is being made to eat the cake or wiping his face with it. Rab bhalla kare!)


Shifty looking characters


Getting stuck in! Bhaji Kamal Singh (at end) looks like he's got a headache, Saty Bhaji looks eager to munch the cake, erm... bhaji Sukhi Singh looking like he's been brainwashed into eating cake. Sat Naam, Waheguru.

Episode Five of India Travels - Celebrating Gurpurb

On the eighth day my mum and I went to Jalandhar to stay with my mum’s Mami jee and their family (maternal uncle’s family). My mum and I were introduced to the Granthi Singh of the local Gurdwara. The Gurdwara Sahib was just on the backside of the house where we were staying.

The Granthi Singh was a very “happy-chappy.” He was always smiling, making others smile, laughing and making others laugh, as well as talking about Gurmat. It was very nice meeting him.

On Saturday 5^th July (day 10 of the trip) it was Sixth Nanak, Siri Guru Hargobind Sahib jee’s prakaash diwas (birth day) gurpurb. So the whole family went to the local Gurdwara Sahib.


There was “Missi-Roti” (ਮਿੱਸੀ ਰੋਟੀ) da Langar, roti prepared from wheat flour mixed with gram flour, with onions to eat (marking the fact that Mata Ganga jee (Guru Hargobind jee's mother) served the elderly wise Gursikh Baba Buddha jee with the simple meal of Missi-Roti and onions when asking Baba jee to do Ardaas to Waheguru asking for a gift of a child). As the Diwaan (programme) finished the Sangat made its way outside to eat Langar.

Just near the entrance of the Darbaar Sahib I saw some clean-shaven young men which were college age, who were wearing caps. I folded my hands and did a benti (request) to the young man, “Bhaji, please don’t take offence but could you kindly tie a rumaal (handkerchief) instead of wearing a hat.” He said, “O sorry! Yes I will do it.” Chalo, teek hai. I sat down to eat Langar. Ideally when doing sewa one should wear a turban, as its the Guru's Nishaani and gift. If we serve in the name of Guru Nanak, then its ideal to serve in the image Guru jee expects from his Sikh.

ਜਿਨਿ ਜਨਿ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਸੇਵਿਆ ਤਿਸੁ ਘਰਿ ਦੀਬਾਣੁ ਅਭਗੈ ॥
jin jan gurmukh sevi-aa, tis ghar deebaan abhgai.
That humble being, who, as Gurmukh (one who has his face turned towards the Guru), serves the Lord, has the Support of the Imperishable Lord Waheguru in the home of his heart.
(Ang 1098)

Sat Naam. As I am waiting for Langar the person giving out the Roti was the clean-shaven young man who was STILL wearing his cap. Waheguru! I folded my hands and said, “Bhaji could you please tie a rumaal. Wearing a topi in the Gurdwara or while doing sewa is not accordance to Gurmat.” He again said “O okay. I will do it.” Waheguru! The group of young men who were clean shaven throughout the whole time at the Gurdwara continued to keep their caps on. What else could I do? How can someone do sewa of Langar and distribute Langar wearing caps. However, there were some younger children distributing Langar who were also wearing caps but they responded positively when I requested them to tie a rumaal on their head instead.

The ParDhaan (President) of the Gurdwara Management Committee was sitting in front of me eating Langar. I told him that Langar should be distributed in accordance to Gurmat Maryada (tradition) and that people are roaming the Gurdwara wearing (baseball) caps and hats and no one is kindly telling them they can’t wear caps in the Gurdwara. I was shocked the elderly ParDhaan was not very interested, and said “Teek hai, chalo” (Its okay. O well). Waheguru!

In the evening the Granthi Singh came over to the house. I shared my concerns with him. He agreed, but said he once told some people not to wear caps and hats and the Committee and the boys’ relatives came and told the Granthi Singh off, and asked him not to say anything to their sons, and that his job is only to read Paath and do sewa. The Granthi Singh is a very friendly chap and gets along with everyone regardless of whether they are practicing Sikh or not. I was amazed how someone could find what he said as “offensive.” Rab Bhalla Kare.

Chalo, the conversation turned light hearted and we were laughing with my younger Mama jee (my mum’s younger cousin) about getting married. He is clean shaven. He asked me to look for a wife for him but I said that it would be hard for me to find a wife like he wants unless he wants to keep Kesh and marry an Amritdhari or religious-minded girl (as the majority people I know are religious natured people). Lol. We laughed and had good fun. My Mama jee said “Manvir, when you go to the Gurdwara today, do Ardaas for me that I get married and find a wife.” I said teek hai, I can do that.In the evening I went to listen to Sodar Rehraas Sahib. Afterwards there was nice Keertan. Then came back home. My elder Mami jee (my mum’s elder cousin’s wife) told everyone that today when she went to the Gurdwara Sahib an aunty jee asked her who I was and offered a marriage proposal for her daughter to me. Sat Naam. Firstly she was 14 or something! Waheguru! And I was 18, and yes - too young to get married.

Did I hear the last of this? Sat Naam. It was a good excuse for everyone to have fun and fill their bellies with laughter. Everyone joked that I went to the Gurdwara to do Ardaas for my Mama jee to get married and instead I ended up getting a marriage proposal. Rab Bhalla Kare! :)

Train Journey - Southall to Paddington

On Sunday I went to Southall. On the way back from radio I got lift to Park Avenue Gurdwara. From the Gurdwara I walked to the train station and awaited the train to London Paddington.

I got on the train and sat at the end compartment of the train. Three youngsters, two girls and one boy, aged 16 or 17 years old came in the compartment and sat on the seats on the opposite side of the train. They looked at me and then looking at each other. Then I saw one the girls get some paper and tobacco or something like tobacco and starting rolling it. She looked at me a few times. I think she was trying to suss out whether I would complain that if she starts smoking on the train.

I looked at her rolling the the substance in a white piece of paper, and kindly said, "Hi. Are you planning to smoke? Because I am asthmatic." The girl quickly said, "No, no, no." The others joined and said, "We are courteous, we wouldn't do such a thing. We know that we should be considerate to others." Chalo, teek hai!

I was on the phone to someone and I could hear the three youngsters have a conversation about being successful and discrimination. I finished my phone call and closed my eyes to relax. I could hear the conversation still. The two girls were black, and the boy was white. The conversation turned into Race and Success. The black girl was saying that every race has a particular gift and particular field they are successful in, and that each race has a unique world view. It was nice to hear them speak. The conversation was mature and interesting, a bit different to what I expected from when I first saw them rolling up splifs or whatever you call it.

I had my eyes closed. One thing I heard and which I was pleasantly surprised to hear was that one girl said, "We are all different, different race or different religion. However, the key is that the wisest person is he or she who has full faith and commitment in her beliefs. If you claim to be something or follow something but you don't follow it properly then what is that person? He's not anything. He remains at bottom."

I thought, wow! I smiled inside hearing them. Again I try (with Guru's Kirpa) to equate things to Gurbaani. Baba Fareed jee maharaaj says in GurbaaNee on ang 488:

ਦਿਲਹੁ ਮੁਹਬਤਿ ਜਿੰਨ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਸੇਈ ਸਚਿਆ ॥
dilahu muhabat jinH se-ee sachi-aa.
They alone are true, whose love for Waheguru is deep and heart-felt.

ਜਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹ ਮਨਿ ਹੋਰੁ ਮੁਖਿ ਹੋਰੁ ਸਿ ਕਾਂਢੇ ਕਚਿਆ ॥੧॥
jinH man hor, mukh hor, se kaa(n)dhe kachi-aa. 1
Those who have one thing in their heart, and something else in their mouth, are judged to be false. 1
Read Full Shabad / Audio of Shabad

The girl carried on to say: "The wisest Buddhist is he who fully believes 100% and follows the discipline. A Buddhist who claims to be Buddhist but has no discipline or doesn't follow the path of the Master loses out. The wisest Sikh is he who follows Sikh principles. A Sikh who doesn't follow the Sikh path and principles to the max and doesn't have full faith in the Master is a not wise. The wisest one is he or she is willing to live the principles... that person is true and proper who walks the walk and talks the talk..."

I was bit taken back by how strongly this girl felt when speaking. However, underlying what she was saying is that a wise person is he who strives to follow the path and not someone who gives up on life.

This reminded me of a pauRee (stanza) from Sukhmani Sahib (a prayer called: "Psalm of Peace"):

ਰਹਤ ਅਵਰ ਕਛੁ ਅਵਰ ਕਮਾਵਤ ॥
rehat avar kachh avar kamaavat.
He says one thing, and does something else.

ਮਨਿ ਨਹੀ ਪ੍ਰੀਤਿ ਮੁਖਹੁ ਗੰਢ ਲਾਵਤ ॥
man nehee preet mukhahu gandh laavat.
There is no love in his heart, and yet with his mouth he talks tall.

ਜਾਨਨਹਾਰ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ ਪਰਬੀਨ ॥
jaananhaar prabhoo parbeen.
The Omniscient Lord Waheguru is the Knower of all.

ਬਾਹਰਿ ਭੇਖ ਨ ਕਾਹੂ ਭੀਨ ॥
baahar bhekh na kaahoo bheen.
He is not impressed by outward display.

ਅਵਰ ਉਪਦੇਸੈ ਆਪਿ ਨ ਕਰੈ ॥
avar updesai aap na karai.
One who does not practice what he preaches to others,

ਆਵਤ ਜਾਵਤ ਜਨਮੈ ਮਰੈ ॥
aavat jaavat janmai marai.
shall come and go in reincarnation, through birth and death.

ਜਿਸ ਕੈ ਅੰਤਰਿ ਬਸੈ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰੁ ॥
jis kai antar basai nirankaar.
One whose inner being is filled with the Formless Lord Waheguru -

ਤਿਸ ਕੀ ਸੀਖ ਤਰੈ ਸੰਸਾਰੁ ॥
tis kee seekh tarai sansaar.
by his teachings, the world is saved.

ਜੋ ਤੁਮ ਭਾਨੇ ਤਿਨ ਪ੍ਰਭੁ ਜਾਤਾ ॥
jo tum bhaane tin prabh jaataa.
Those who are pleasing to You, Waheguru, know You.

ਨਾਨਕ ਉਨ ਜਨ ਚਰਨ ਪਰਾਤਾ ॥੭॥
naanak un jan charan paraataa. 7
Nanak falls at their feet. 7

Then the train arrived at Paddington, I opened my eyes and got the underground to go back to Halls.

How Grateful Are We?

Short but sweet anecdote:


Once a man paid a visit to a wise old Gurmukh (Guru-orientated person). The man complained about his poverty and made a lot of noise about his dire situation.

Having listened to the man’s grumblings, the wise old Gurmukh immediately offered the man a huge amount of money in exchange for some of the man’s body parts. As expected, the man refused the offer as his body parts were dearer to him than any money the Gurmukh could offer. This way the Gurmukh was able to convince the man that the poor man wasn’t so poor after all.

ਜਿਹ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ਭੋਗਹਿ ਸਭਿ ਰਸਾ ॥
jih prasaad bhogehi sabh rasaa.
By His Grace, you enjoy all sorts of pleasures

ਸਗਲ ਸਮਗ੍ਰੀ ਸੰਗਿ ਸਾਥਿ ਬਸਾ ॥
sagal samagree sang saath basaa.
You are provided with all the necessities of life.

ਦੀਨੇ ਹਸਤ ਪਾਵ ਕਰਨ ਨੇਤ੍ਰ ਰਸਨਾ ॥
deene hast paav karan netr rasnaa.
He gave you hands, feet, ears, eyes and tongue,

ਤਿਸਹਿ ਤਿਆਗਿ ਅਵਰ ਸੰਗਿ ਰਚਨਾ ॥
tisehi ti-aag avar sang rachnaa.
and yet, you forsake Him and attach yourself to others.

(4th Asttpadee of Sukhmani Sahib, Ang 267)
Read the Asttpadee (Chapter)

Thank you, Uncle
Author: Dr. Gurbaksh Singh (Canada)


It was a great experience to work as a heritage teacher at the Khalsa School, Vancouver, Canada. One day the children were playing basketball and I was deputed to supervise them. The basketball poles were very near the boundary fence. When a student attempted to throw the ball in the basket, it hit the board, bounced over the fence and went on to the street.

The students wanted to get the ball back but they did not attempt to go over the fence because I was standing and watching them. Going around the fence and through the gate would have taken a lot of time, almost all of the remaining time of the lunch recess. The students were helplessly looking towards the basketball, trying to decide what to do.

Just then a gentleman happened to pass by. After seeing the ball, he looked at the students. The students, though spoke nothing, but through their eager eyes sent a strong request to him. "Please throw the ball over the fence to us." The stranger bent down, picked up the ball and smilingly threw it over the fence to the students. Every student shouted aloud, "Thank you, Uncle; thank you, Uncle." The gentleman negotiated the corner and the students started playing again.


Supporting myself against the post of the fence, I could not help closing my eyes and thinking of another 'thank you' word, heard some minutes earlier. The students were eating lunch, one boy passed the glass of water to his friend, sitting on the other side of the table. The friend immediately said, 'Thank you' in a routine way.

With my eyes closed, and my mind tuned to the words 'thank you', I listened, "Gurbakhsh Singh! What an ungrateful person you are? Look! The students felt obliged to the stranger when their own ball was returned to them. They responded aloud 'thank you'. Just for pushing the glass of water by his friend, the student voluntarily said 'thank you'. How dare you ignore to feel 'thankful' to Him Who gave you this body and everything in this world to enjoy your life?"

I do not know for how long the above thought continued to occupy my mind. When I opened my eyes the students had gone to their classes. I slowly walked to the building, every cell of my body voluntarily repeating, "Waheguru, thank you."

I still remember myself drenched in the feelings, "God, Thank you." I enjoyed supreme bliss that was beyond words. As mentioned somewhere else, I was lucky to benefit from the association of Sant Teja Singh. While walking or just sitting, he was often heard saying, "Waheguru tera shukar hai, God! Thank you."

Today I recollect that experience, but have not been able to enjoy that kind of bliss again. It was a rare gift from Waheguru.

Happy Gurpurab!

Today it is the Seventh Nanak, Sri Guru Har Rai Sahib jee's prakaash diwas (birth day). Lakh Lakh Vadhaayee (many happy returns) to everyone on this Gurpurb day.

You can read a tribute article I have written on the article below:

"Simrau Sri Har Rai..."

Episode 4 of India Travels: Amrit Peeaa Satgur Deeaa

ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਪੀਆ ਸਤਿਗੁਰਿ ਦੀਆ ॥
amrit peeaa satigur deeaa
I drink the Amrit, spiritual life giving Nectar, given by the True Guru.

ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਜਾਣਾ ਦੂਆ ਤੀਆ ॥
avar na jaanaa dooaa teeaa
I do not know any other second or third.

ਏਕੋ ਏਕੁ ਸੁ ਅਪਰ ਪਰੰਪਰੁ ਪਰਖਿ ਖਜਾਨੈ ਪਾਇਦਾ ॥੧੨॥
eiko eik su apar parampar, parakh khajaanai paaeidaa
He is the One, Unique, Infinite and Endless Lord; He evaluates all beings and places some in His treasury. 12
(Ang 1034)

Its July 1st 2003, day 6 of the trip. I planned to go back to Sri Akaal Takhat the next day after finding out that the Amrit Sanchaar takes places at 12pm on Wednesdays and Sundays. I was excited and nervous after missing the first Amrit Sanchaar. I didn’t know what to expect, will I able to reach there in time or not?

Waking up in the morning I did Ishnaan (bathed) and Nitnem (daily prayers). However, today my was head was feeling HEAVY and I felt SICK. O dear! Of all days to go ill! Either it was heat stroke or God knows. But I didn’t want my health to come in the way of taking Amrit and asking Guru Sahib to accept me at His Feet.

The head was getting heavier and I was feeling queasy. When I walked it felt as if my head was going to topple over onto one side and my body was going to fall over. Chalo, Rab Rakha! I had some breakfast. Unlike Sunday I was unable to make Karhah Parshaad. However, all the family gathered and we did an Ardaas to Guru Sahib to grace Amrit di daat (the gift of Amrit).

This time only three of us went. My cousin, my mum, and I. As I was feeling weak and ill my cousin played Keertan tapes on the journey to Amritsar. “Sat Naam Waaheguroo, Sat Naam Waaheguroo… Dhan Guru Gobind Singh” was on my mind. I prayed that my headache is relieved by the time we reach Amritsar. It was July and therefore very hot.

We arrive in Amritsar and I am still feeling weak, but that didn’t change my mind about taking Amrit. We did Panj-Ishnaan (bathed face, feet and hands) in the Sarowar (pool) of Darbaar Sahib and did Matha Tekh at Sri Darbaar Sahibn. My ardaas was “Guru Sahib please bless me with darshan of the Guru-Roop Panj Piaare and bless your Daas (slave) with Amrit.”


It was 11am and we all sat in Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib and listened to the Paath (Gurbani) being read there. I was feeling better now. Other members of Sangat who wished to take Amrit were gathering and were sitting near us listening to the Paath being read. Then the sewadaars arrived and announced, “All those wish to become Guru-wale (the Guru’s ones) please come over.” My cousin and mum said that they will meet later in the afternoon. I walked over and the Pehredaar (guard) asked everyone that whoever wishes to take Amrit today must have had Keshi Ishnaan (bathed their hair as well as body) and be adorned with the Panj Kakkaar (5Ks). He clarified that the Kachhera should not be boxers or any other type of short. It can only be the Sikh-style of Kachhera which is tight near the knees.

As each person confirmed to the Pehredaar that they wish to take Amrit and are adorned with the Panj Kakkaar (with no jewelry or token of of any other faith on the body) and have bathed their body and kesh today we walked upstairs to the second floor of Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib. Guru Sahib da Prakaash was there. We sat in Guru jee’s presence waiting, and I could hear the people standing next to me reciting Benti Chaupayee Sahib da Paath (a prayer). I joined in and repeated Chaupayee Sahib over and over again. Waheguru! I don’t know how to explain the feeling nor am I going to attempt. Guru Jee nicely summaries the feeling as:

ਜਿਨਿ ਇਹ ਚਾਖੀ ਸੋਈ ਜਾਣੈ ਗੂੰਗੇ ਕੀ ਮਿਠਿਆਈ ॥
jin eih chaakhee soee jaanai goongé kee mithiaaee

Only one who tastes it knows it, like the mute (deaf & dumb person), who tastes the sweet candy, but cannot speak of it.

(Ang 607)

Then we were called up few at a time to go upstairs to the top floor of Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib. At the stair case two Pehredaars (gaurds) stood. They asked each person if they really wanted to take Amrit and whether we have the correct Bana (dress) and Kakkaars (articles of faith). I arrived upstairs and there was a Pehredaar at the door of the Diwaan (room) where the Amrit Sanchaar was to take place. One by one we entered the Diwaan, did Matha Tekh and sat down. The Panj Piaare arrived and said, “Anyone who does not want to become the Guru’s today, who does not want to take Amrit, they are requested to leave the room now. This is your last chance. Only those who wish to take the Guru’s Amrit and become the Guru’s should remain seated, everyone else must leave now.” Waheguru. I felt a shiver in a body. “This is the day” I thought to myself.


I still felt weak and my head still felt heavy and dizzy, however with Guru Kirpa my heachache and dizziness left during the Amrit Sanchaar. I am not going to talk about the Amrit Sanchaar itself and what happened, because I believe taking Amrit is a personal experience. An experience between oneself and his or her Guru. Sharing it with anyone and everyone seems to take away the sacredness and intimateness of the experience. However, I will share that if you would like to read about how the Amrit Sanchaar is conducted then please read the Sikh Rehat Maryada.

One memory, which I don’t mind sharing is of hearing the Jathedaar (leader) of the Panj Piaaré give us the Hukam (order) of keeping Rehat (disciplined way of life and code of conduct) and how we should now live, what is expected of us, what we are promising today, what we should avoid and refrain from and how to keep Chardikala jeevan (high spirited positive life) was mesmerising. There was pin drop silence. It took about 1 - 2 hours to explain the Rehat and Rehni Behni of the Khalsa from birth to death and how one should live life from now on. Dhan Guru, Dhan Guru Piaare.

Afterwards I walked back down to the groundfloor of Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib. My mum and cousin were waiting for me, and my mum gave me one massive hug :)

ਹਰਿ ਤੁਮ ਵਡ ਵਡੇ ਵਡੇ ਵਡ ਊਚੇ ਸੋ ਕਰਹਿ ਜਿ ਤੁਧੁ ਭਾਵੀਸ ॥
har tum vadd vadde vadde vadd ooche so karehi je tudh bhaavees
O Lord, You are the Greatest of the Great, the Greatest of the Great, the most Lofty and High. You do whatever You please.

ਜਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਪੀਆ ਗੁਰਮਤੀ ਧਨੁ ਧੰਨੁ ਧਨੁ ਧੰਨੁ ਧੰਨੁ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਾਬੀਸ ॥੨॥੨॥੮॥
jan naanak amrit peeaa gurmatee dhan dhann dhan dhann dhann guroo saabees
Servant Nanak drinks the Amrit, spiritual life giving Nectar through the Guru's Teachings. Blessed, blessed, blessed, blessed, blessed and praised is the Guru. 228.
(Ang 1297)

Episode 3 of India Travels: Amrit is Only with Grace of the Guru

Extracts from diary when I went to Panjab in June-August 2003:

It’s Day 3 of the trip. Saturday 28^th June. I planned to beg for the gift of Amrit the next day at Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib (Amritsar). Amrit Sanchaars are held every Sunday and Wednesday at Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib (Amritsar) and Sri Keshgarh Sahib (Anandpur Sahib). However, we were unsure of the times. My Taayee jee (aunt) received Amrit from Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib in 1995. She said when she took Amrit the Amrit Sanchaar was in the evening and went into the night. However, I thought the Amrit Sanchaar was in the morning. Chalo, no one properly knew.


That night I was so excited. I went to sleep thinking of seeing the Guru-Roop Panj Piyaare and giving my head to Guru Sahib and pledging and committing my life to Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee and the Guru Khalsa Panth.

ਨੈਨ ਤਰਸਨ ਦਰਸ ਪਰਸਨ ਨਹ ਨੀਦ ਰੈਣਿ ਵਿਹਾਣੀਆ ॥
nain tarsan daras parsan, neh neend raiN vihaaNee-aa.
My eyes long for the Blessed Vision of Your Darshan; the night passes, but I cannot sleep.
(Ang 542, SGGS)

Waking up at Amrit-vela I did Ishnaan (bathed) and also did Keshi Ishnaan (washed my hair). After doing my morning Nitnem I was so excited. I did Ardaas asking Guru Sahib bless me with the gift of Amrit and take me into it his arms so that I can serve him all my life.


Everyone thought that the Amrit Sanchaar will probably be at 3pm. So in accordance to that we got ready. I tied my Dastaar and wore my new Kurta. It felt like getting ready to go to a wedding. I prepared Karhaah Parshaad and asked everyone to gather together. We do some Paath, 6 Paurees of Anand Sahib, followed by Ardaas. As a family we prayed for Guru Sahib to bestow the gift of Amrit. Sat Naam. My cousin drove us to Amritsar. My Taayee jee and mum came with us. Throughout the whole 2 or 3 hour journey we sang various shabads. My Taayee and I would take turns to sing shabads and did Simran together. Waheguru.


We arrived Amritsar and I bought a Sarbloh (iron) Kirpaan and Sarbloh Karha. My cousin and I did panj-ishnaan (bathed face, feet and hands) in the Sarowar (tank of pool) at Sri Darbaar Sahib. We the moved towardes Sri Darbaar Sahib and donated some Karhaah Parshaad and did Mathaa Tek. I did Ardaas at Guru jee’s Feet that may He shower the blessing of the gift of Amrit and Naam.

Then went to Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib. Waheguru! We had MISSED the Amrit Sanchaar. The doors for the Amrit Sanchaar were closed 30 minutes ago. Waheguru! It was 12.30pm now. And the Amrit Sanchaar started at 12pm. In mind I said, “Guru Sahib, please, please grace me with your gift of Amrit, please take me into your service, please hold my arm and make me Your son.” However, it was not written in my Karam (destiny) to take Amrit that day. We ate Guru-Ka-Langar and drove back home. I felt really sad, however continued my Ardaas to Guru Sahib.

ਨਾਨਕ ਪੂਰੈ ਕਰਮਿ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਮਿਲੈ ਹਰਿ ਜੀਉ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰੇ ਰਜਾਇ ॥੨॥
naanak poorai karam satgur milai, har jee-o kirpaa kare rajaa-e. 2
O Nanak, by perfect good karma, you shall meet the True Guru, and then the Dear Lord Waheguru, by His Sweet Will, shall bless you with His Mercy. 2
(Ang 591)

Audio of Keertan at Bheji Simrit Kaur's House

Rsingh has kindly uploaded the Keertan audio from last Saturday's programme:


Keertan by Bhaji Abinash Singh jee
ਸੂਖ ਦੂਖ ਇਸੁ ਮਨ ਕੀ ਬਿਰਥਾ ਤੁਝ ਹੀ ਆਗੈ ਸਾਰੈ ॥੧॥
sookh dookh es man kee birthaa, tujh hee aagai saarai. ||1||
I describe to You my pleasure and pain, and the state of this mind. ||1||
Read the Full Shabad

ਹਾਥ ਦੇਇ ਰਾਖੈ ਅਪਨੇ ਕਉ ਸਾਸਿ ਸਾਸਿ ਪ੍ਰਤਿਪਾਲੇ ॥੧॥
haath de-e raakhai ape kau, saas saas pratipaale. ||1||
Giving His hand, Waheguru protects His devotee; with each and every breath, He cherishes him. ||1||
Read the Full Shabad



Keertan by Bhaji Maninder Singh jee
ਕਾਟੇ ਕਸਟ ਪੂਰੇ ਗੁਰਦੇਵ ॥
kaatte kastt poore gurdev.
The Perfect Divine Guru has removed my sorrow.
Read the Full Shabad

ਦੁਖ ਭੰਜਨੁ ਤੇਰਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਜੀ ਦੁਖ ਭੰਜਨੁ ਤੇਰਾ ਨਾਮੁ ॥
dukh bhanjan teraa naam jee, dukh bhanjan teraa naam.
The Destroyer of sorrow is Your Name, Waheguru; the Destroyer of sorrow is Your Name.
Read the Full Shabad



Keertan by Daas:
ਇਕ ਅਰਦਾਸਿ ਭਾਟ ਕੀਰਤਿ ਕੀ ਗੁਰ ਰਾਮਦਾਸ ਰਾਖਹੁ ਸਰਣਾਈ ॥੪॥੫੮॥
ik ardaas bhaat keerat kee, gur raamdaas raakho sarNaa-ee. ||4||58||
Keerat the poet offers this one prayer: O Guru Raam Daas, save me! Take me into Your Sanctuary! ||4||58||
Read the Full Shabad

ਮਨੁ ਨ ਡਿਗੈ ਤਨੁ ਕਾਹੇ ਕਉ ਡਰਾਇ ॥
man na digai tan kaahay ka-o daraa-ay.
My mind was not shaken; why should my body be afraid?
Read the Full Shabad


More Keertan audios from the programme on Rsingh's blog
For photos check out Bhenji Simrit Kaur's blog

Episode 2 of India Travels: Guru Ka Langar?

Extracts from diary when I went to Panjab in June-August 2003:

We arrived at Amritsar airport Thursday night. My cousin came to pick us up. By the time we got to the house and said hi to everyone it was 3 o'clock in the morning. So I did ishnaan (bathed) and did my morning Nitnem (daily prayers).

Later in the morning I woke up and freshened up. I found out that there is an Akhand Paath da Bhog (the conclusion of 3 days of continous reading of Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee) at my cousin's inlaws house at RuRke (near Gorayia). So everyone got ready. My cousin, his wife (bhabi jee), my neice & nephew, my mum and I got ready and went to the programme.

We arrived at my cousin's inlaws house and we did Matha Tekh. I sat in the room where Guru jee was. Keertan was being sung. Chalo, Samaaptee happens (programme ends). Guru Sahib's saroop was to be taken from the house back to the Gurdwara Sahib (which was down the road). Sat Naam, WaaheGuroo! Guru Sahib's saroop was being carried by the Gurdwara Granthi Singh from upstairs to downstairs. The shocking thing was the only person to do Matha Tekh to Guru jee while walking past downstairs of the house (where the majority of the ladies were standing) were my mum and I. NO ONE ELSE bent down to do Matha Tekh. I couldn't believe it. WHATS HAPPENING?

I asked my mum whether she found that odd that no one did Matha Tekh as Guru Sahib walked pass (instead they slightly lowered their head and had their hands together). My mum agreed that it was strange.

Now it was Langar time. "Roti is ready! Go and eat roti! ...ਰੋਟੀ ਤਿਅਾਰ ਹੈ! ਅਾਜੋ ਰੋਟੀ ਛਕੋ!" Rab Bhalla Kare. "ROTI!" Is this what we have demeaned Langar to be? I said to my cousin and the rest of the men "Bhai Sahib, are we eating Roti or Guru-Ka-Langar?" They realised that they had belittled Langar and said, "No, Langar."

The Langar was meant to be served on the roof of the house. I was just about to walk up the stairs when I saw the "LANGAR" being cooked. Waheguroooo, Wahegurooo, Waheguroo! The "Langar" was being cooked by HALWAAEE (Cooks). Firstly, the cooking didn't look hygienic. Secondly, most of the workers looked non-Sikh. And lastly, most of them didn't even have their head covered!! Chalo, "don't be fussy" I thought to myself (I wasn't Amritdhari yet).

Suddenly these ladies arrived. They are called "BaazigarNeeaa." They are poor people who usually do odd jobs or dance at weddings to make money. Anyway, they came over and asked the family if they could have some Langar to eat. They looked poor and hungry by they look on their face. "GO AWAY!" was the response from the family. "DID YOU NOT HEAR, GO AWAY!" Sat Naam. Dhan Guru Nanak! Have we forgotten what langar is about? Have we forgotten the function of Langar, which is to feed the hungry person's stomach, and where the rich and poor sit together and eat? O dear me! I told my cousin, "Why you turning these people away?" "They will eat and then keep on asking for more and more food and take it with them home!" he replied. Well "I am sure you can at least give them a few Jaleebis (Indian sweets) each? It's not exactly "LANGAR" if you turn people away and only feed certain people!" Sadly they were turned away! Rab Bhalla Kare.



CAN THINGS GET ANY WORSE? I got up on the roof. "Langar Chhako! (Eat Langar)" O deary me. Perhaps I was better off calling the food "ROTI" than "langar"! It was a HELP YOURSELF BUFFET. Reminded me of Pizza Hut lunch time buffet. I felt sick. The plates looked dirty (all catering plates in India are DIRTY!). I thought O well "a man has to do what a man has to do." I tried to pick the plate, which LOOKED the cleanest (well they can't be CLEAN, because they are only washed with water!!). I poured a little bit of daal and sabji and 2 rotis.

A picture of Guru Arjan Dev Ji serving Langar, the way it should be served.


WHERE DO I SIT? Do I have choice? Phone a friend? 50/50? Or perhaps ask the Sangat. The options were either stand up or sit on chairs. I sat on a chair. Ate the food saying "Sat Naam, Waheguru!".

A picture showing how one usually sits when eating Guru-Ka-Langar in Pangat (the congregation).

I could have done with another roti but after I saw people eating and then going back for seconds without washing their hands and touching the rotis and salad with their unwashed hands, i thought "Ermm. I think I will leave it!" :)

In England we know know HOW TO EAT LANGAR! At this function all the men who wore rumaals (which was the MAJORITY), took their rumaals off their heads and ate "LANGAR" bareheaded. It was disturbing to see. I thought "What has happened here! Its like a scene in a horror film!"


The Granthi Singhs came back from the Gurdwara Sahib to the house. I asked them about this. Firstly, how come people didn't properly do Matha Tekh when Guru jee was being carried out of the house. Secondly, I asked him does he know what the Guru's Langar di maryada is (the Guru's tradition for conducting Langar). To the first question he said, "Welcome to Panjab. People don't have pyaar for Guru. They are doing Paath as a ritual." I thought fair enough. It's sad but what can he do.

To the second question he smiled and said, "Yes I know Langar di Maryada?" Then I asked, "Is that being followed here?" He said, "No Bhai Sahib! Welcome to Panjab. No one follows Gurmat. They pay us and expect us to keep quiet. If we spoke they will say "Go home!" to us. What can we do? This is our livelihood. We try to enforce Gurmat where we feel we can do so, but where people do their own way of doing things, we can't stop them."

How sad! :( My mum told the ladies of the family whose function it was that how Langar being served is not how it is should be done and is done in UK. The ladies had never thought about it! And they said "O yeah, I suppose thats true. It should be done like that. However, everyone does it like that in Panjab." I was shocked that people invited Guru jee to their home, have an Akhand Paath and have Keertan sung YET they can't be bothered to COOK Langar themselves, can't even bothered to SERVE langar, and on top of that can't be bothered to do MATHA TEKH to Guru Sahib when leaving the house. Isn't this PURE LAZINESS?


This was my first proper day in Panjab and it was a painful experience to wake up and realise how Sikhi had become a "Karam" (act), rather than "Dharam" (way of life). May Waheguru bless us all with wisdom and pyaar (love) for his Beloved Lotus Feet.