Kaurs United Camp 2006

Camp 2006

Here's your chance to connect with Kaurs during 4 fun-filled days with exciting workshops, personal and spiritual discussions, motivating lectures, recreational activities, and best of all, chilling with the daughters of Guru Gobind Singh ji and Mata Sahib Kaur ji!

When: July 28 - 31, 2006

Where: Crescent Beach (Camp Alexandra, 2916 McBride Avenue, Surrey, BC)

Who: Anyone who is 13 years of age or older may attend

Cost: $100

More details to be posted soon!

If you have any questions, concerns or feedback that would help us in any way, please feel free to contact us through one of the following methods:

Email:	mailto:kaursunited@yahoo.com
Phone:	604-782-1366
Fax:	604-527-9900
Address:	Guru Nanak Academy Unit #23, 12484 - 82 Avenue Surrey, B.C. Canada V3W 2P2

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Sikh women worldwide with the means to attend this camp should do so, not only to improve their own lives but give other sisters who do not have local Sangat the opportunity to improve their lives through your companionship.

Keep checking Kaurs United Website for updates!

Popular Sikh Forum Down

SikhSangat one of the biggest Sikh Internet forums is down after somebody has hacked into their servers and deleted alot of material.

Their site reports:

WJKK WJKF

Our servers are hacked again and this time it caused much damage. We lost our Pix gallery and many other websites (DarbarSaheb.com etc). We are not sure who are doing these un-sikh acts but we will find it out sooner or later. Forum is secured and will be up shortly.

Website that are deleted by the hacker party are:

DarbarSaheb.com
SikhGiving.com
Pix.SikhSangat.com
Gurkibani.com (Partner's Website)
media.Sikhsangat.com (all powerpoints/videos files)


WJKK WJKF
SSTeam
Sat, May 28th (10:30am PST)

Hopefully the site will be up soon. I dont understand why people would hack sikh websites, do we blame the RSS or the fundamental muslims?

In all reality its probably bored kids with nothing better to do and too much time on their hands.

Hopefully the sevadaars can fix the problem and prevent it from happening in the future.

THE LIFE STORY OF GIANI AMOLAK SINGH JI

THE JEEVAN OF GIANI AMOLAK SINGH JI


The Jeevan of Giani Amolak singh ji is amazing and his Seva is extensive. This article is a brief outline, but it can never do justice to such a Great Gursikh.

CHILDHOOD

Giani Amolak singh was born in the village Dhaat, Ludhiana, Punjab. His fathers name was Sardar Bogha Singh, and his mothers name was Mata Dhan kaur. After studying his Metric, Amolak singh went on to Punjab University, where he did the Giani course. Hence, he became affectionately known as Giani Amolak Singh ji.

Giani ji interest in Sikhism began from his parents. His father was devout soul. Everyday at Amritvela, he would take milk to the Gurdwara sahib, and sweep the floor. However the biggest influence in these early years was his Mama Ji. This was Master Joginder Singh, a well known Gursikh and close associate of Bhai Sahib Randhir Singh ji. Master is mentioned in many of Bhai sahib books.

From the age of 5 years, Giani was in the sangat of these blessed souls such as Master ji, Bhai Sahib and the Akhand Kirtan Jatha. In 1936, Master Joginder Singh ji did seva at Tarn Tarn Sahib. Giani ji regularly stayed there and was inspired to learn keertan. Such was the blessed soul of Giani ji, that by the age of 8 years, he realised his path in life, and partook Amrit.

EARLY SEVA

In 1944, Giani ji started attending the Gurmat Sahib Sudar College, Ludhiana. The group that ran this project were vibrant companions of Bhai Sahib Randhir Singh. They created a school which taught Pure Gurmat and was strict in discipline. The students of this school all became prominent Sikh activists and did a lot for the Panth. It was here that Giani ji started teaching tabla and harmonium.

Later on Giani ji found a job as a Punjabi teacher in a government school. Bhai Sahib Randhir Singh told Master Joginder Singh to write a letter to the Government, and tell them Giani Ji is resigning from that position. Giani ji accepted the will and pyaar of the Gursikhs and returned to the Gurmat Sahib Sudar College.

Bhai Sahib Randhir Singh ji was very prominent in the Panthik arena. There was wide recognition of his high Jeevan and Panthik Kurbani. Bhai Sahib and Baba Attar Singh with many other Gursikhs had brought a lot of change in the Panth via the Gurdwara Sudar Movement. They worked under the banner of the Panch Khalsa Divan. There was a huge conference at Patiala. This was organised by the Maharaja of Patiala. Bhai Sahib was given the Presidentship of the conference. However Bhai Sahib gave a powerful address in this conference condemning the corrupt forces in the Panth. Bhai sahib openly stated to the Maharaja, that his throne has been blessed to him by Satguru. He told him to give his Raj to the Panth, or he will lose it. Such has happened today. A lot of intimidation was put to Bhai sahib at that conference to not say what he believed. But Bhai Sahib was full of Tat Gurmat passion. It was Giani Amolak singh and other Gursikhs who stood side by side with Bhai sahib to make sure Tat Gurmat is stated.

LETTER FROM BHAI SAHIB

Bhai Sahib Randhir Singh ji was very fond of Giani ji. It has been mentioned to me before that Bhai Sahib had so much love for so many Gursikhs, but was fond of two youth in particular. One was Bhai Sahib Jeevan singh ji and the other Giani Amolak Singh ji. Both spent a lot of time with Bhai sahib, and even travelled to Kumaar Hatti with him.

Giani jis family has a letter written by Bhai Sahib. One day these will be put on the internet. In one letter Bhai Sahib recalls the Gurbani shabad, “Tum Vekh Vekh Hum Jeevann”. Bhai sahib states, “I have searched but I cannot find anyone who sings this shabad with the same satisfaction as you.”

ANAND KARAJ

In Bhai Sahib`s village of Narangwal, living next to Bhai sahib house was another Gurmat family. The two houses had a lot of love between them. Bhai sahib selected Giani jis life companion from this house. Bhai Sahib simply told Giani ji that his match had been found and he should marry. Giani humbly accepted his wishes. In 1949, Giani ji married Bibi Surjit Kaur ji.

AFRICA

A delegation came from Dar El Salam in Africa went to meet Bhai sahib. Many Sikhs had now moved to Africa and set up a Gurdwara. The delegation asked Bhai Sahib to recommend a good Granthi singh for seva. Bhai Sahib sent Giani ji. Giani ji left in 1956.

Giani did a lot of seva in Africa during his time of 1956 to 1967. At that time the Namdhari Gurudom of Jagjit Singh was very prominent in Africa. Giani ji was invited to a conference organised by the East Africa Council. Jagjit singh also spoke at this conference. It was here that Giani ji spoke vigorously on the subject of “Shabad Guru” and countering a lot of Namdhari propaganda. From that day Giani ji gained widespread prominence in Africa.

Everyday Giani ji would take personal charge of doing seva of Maharaj. He would ensure perfect rumallas, and encourage the sangat to learn how to do seva properly. The Sangat had great sharda in doing this seva.

Giani ji got a salary for the Singh sabha. But unlike modern Gurdwara Gianis, he never took one penny from the sangat. To compensate for him doing the Giani duty, he spent hours doing Niskam Seva. He would spend his day time doing free seva at the Khalsa School, from 4pm to 6pm teaching keertan. His passion was for Niskam seva.

SANGAT`S DUST IS YOUR CURE

Over time, Giani ji noticed that his kesh on one side of his moustache and beard where falling out. They had thinned significantly and it had become noticeable. Giani ji became quite concerned. He tried various medication, but to no avail. Giani ji decided to write a letter to Bhai Sahib Randhir Singh ji. Bhai Sahib wrote back telling Giani ji that the only cure is to everyday to “Joorian De Seva” (clean the dust of the shoes of the sangat), and wipe it on that area. Bhai sahib said that dust is your medication. Soon Giani ji`s kesh returned as normal.

MEETING WITH BABA PURAN SINGH

Giani ji went to Nairobi in Africa, while on holidays. He had heard of an abyassi Gursikh called Baba Puran Singh ji. They had reached late in the evening, and Giani asked about Baba Puran singh. In the morning at Amrit vela, Giani ji began doing Asa Di Var. Amongst the sangat in front the kirtanees was Baba Puran Singh ji. Giani ji had never met him, but instantly knew he was a blessed soul. While in kirtan Giani ji hinted to his companion, who is this Gursikh. His companion hinted back, that this is Baba Puran Singh Ji. Thus began Giani jis long association with the Niskam Sevak Jatha.

COMING TO THE UNITED KINGDOM

Giani ji realised the political situation in Africa, and also considering the education of his children, he moved to Southall in UK. The sangat was just forming in them days and Giani ji started doing keertan divans. The sangat was divided into 2 groups, one the Singh Sabha, and the other was the Sikh Cultural Society. Slowly Giani ji managed to get these two groups together. Then they brought a site for the Gurdwara. In the years 1967-68, the first Amrit Sanchaar in UK took place in Southall. Giani ji did seva in the Panj Pyares. There is a picture of this event in Bhai Rama singh jis autobiography. It was in this Amrit Sanchaar that Bhai Rama Singh ji amongst 15-20 other Gursikhs were blessed with Amrit.

In 1968, Giani ji with other Gursikhs from the Akhand Kirtani Jatha arranged the first UK Rainsbhai at the old Green Gurdwara. This was a huge achievement and these Rainsbhai flourish today joining hundreds of souls to keertan and Gurbani abyaass.

PANTHIK STATURE

Giani ji was also devoted to the affairs of the Panth. From his early days standing by Bhai Sahib Randhir singh till his last days. I have been fortunate to meet many Great Gursikhs. Too often today, they shy away, talking about protecting their Jeevans. But a true Sant-Siphai can never do this. He had too much Pride and Spirit to allow his Father’s Great Guru Khalsa Panth fall into the doldrums. Giani ji was one such person who was fully involved in local, national and Panthik affairs for over 30 years in UK.

Giani ji always maintained his Gristi Jeevan working in a biscuit factory. He did his seva in a Niskam manner, never using the Sangats money. Giani ji along with Bhai Madan singh were highly involved in the helmet case, children turban case for schools, and kirpan case, to give our generation freedom to wear our Bana. Giani ji was pivotal in organising the biggest UK demonstrations by Sikhs. The first was the one in 1983, supporting the Dharam Yudh Morcha in Punjab. The second was in 1984 showing the UK Sikhs anger at Operation Bluestar.

Giani ji first became President of Singh Sabha Southall in 1972-73. From then on he was involved directly or indirectly with the Gurdwara control until 1985. He was also involved heavily in the Akali Dal UK doing seva as President on numerous occasions over the 30 year period.

In the early 1980`s, when Jathedar Gurdyal Singh Ajohna passed away. Gurcharan Singh Tohra, who was President of SGPC, and Sant Harcharan Singh Logowal, who was President of Akali Dal, offered Giani ji the seva of the Akal Takht Jathedari. Giani ji politely declined, due to wanting to maintain his Gristi Jeevan, family responsibilities, and his difficulties with the meat issue in the Akal Thakht Rehit Maryada. He also openly said to the leaders that their friendship would be affected by his inability to be a puppet for them. He had a strong self-dignity and would speak his mind. He was further offered it on numerous occasions in the late 1980`s and 1990`s. But again he declined.

However he was a member of the Sikh intelligentsia, and numerous Panthik panels, such as the World Sikh Council and the Akal Thakht Advisory Board.

He also played leading part in the Akhand Kirtani Jatha doing smagams worldwide. He was also pivotal in establishing the Niskam Sevak Jatha on the Panthik stage. He played a major part in helping secure the kar seva of Darbar sahib, Keshgarh sahib, Hazoor Sahib and Fatehgarh sahib.

SMAGAMS

From an early age Giani ji never missed any smagams. He would immerse himself in seva and abyass with his fellow Gursikhs. He would do kirtan far and wide. He often went on Parchaar tours with the Akhand Kirtani Jatha and the Niskam Sevak Jatha. He travelled as far as Canada, America, Africa and Austrailia.

Many youth from Canada and America have also written memories of Giani ji as tributes, which shows the love he spread. He ensured no matter what he was occupied with, he always made time, for Sahib Guru Gobind singh ji Gurpurb smagam in Ludhiana, Delhi smagam, and Sahib Guru Nanak dev jis Jallundar smagam.

His kirtan is loved by youth in particular. On websites, his UK kirtan and North America are regularly downloaded. But much more than just a Guru ke Kirtannee, Giani ji was a great orator and kathakar. In his keertan he would regularly explain to the sangat, the amazing deep meanings of shabads, and spread the message of Sahib Siri Guru Nanak dev Ji.

LOVE BETWEEN GURSIKHS

We have already mentioned Giani jis love for Bhai Sahib Randhir Singh ji and Baba Puran Singh Ji. Giani ji also had a deep love with Bhai Rama Singh ji, Bhai Jeevan Singh Ji, and many others whose names could be mentioned, especially from Akhand Kirtani Jatha and Niskam Sevak Jatha. But Giani Ji in particularly appreciated the Sikh intelligentsia of which Giani ji was one. In this group, Bhai Joginder Singh Talwara was one soul who Giani ji had utmost respect for.

This whole week leading up to his funeral, Gurbani Keertan has been sang by those close to him. Sangat has come from as far as Toronto, California and Australia, which shows the pull of his love.

Aswell as many Premi Gursikhs, Giani ji has also left a Gurmat legacy on his children, who are also blessed by Guru jis Amrit. Upon leaving to the Sachaa Dargah, Giani ji leaves his two daughters, two sons, many grandchildren, and also three great grandchildren. Giani ji singhni passed away 15 years ago.

LEGACY

Looking at his jeevan, his legacy must be how he wanted everyone under one Banner – The Khalsa Panth. My personal view is that we have to look at Giani ji life and see how many different arenas and jathas he did seva in. Examining this, we can see he always made “the Seva is Pardaan”. He gave this most importance rather than groups, politics and associates.

Giani ji was also concerned how much the Akali Dal has become commercialised. I remember a conversation with him, where he showed his unhappiness at the Akali dal making a fundamentalist Hindu the head of Akali Dal in Ludhiana district. He said these modern day Akalis have no vision. He told me that, “once fundamentalist Hindus in Punjab said they will never let Sikhs build the Khalsa Colleges, but all of us Singhs did our kamar kasse and said we will build it. Stop us if you can!”

He also warned that our Dharam Parchaar groups were also going the same way. He wanted every Gursikh to be a missionary and spread the message of Sikhism. Very important to this is that they have high Jeevans. This does not mean hiding in our homes, or just attending keertan darbaars, but like Giani ji being active in Dharam Parchaar in a pioneering manner, and standing steadfast in our Gurdwaras upholding Gurmat. He was a real Sant-Siphai – that is his legacy – A True Son of Sahib Siri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Written by Bhai Jagjit Singh,

Information sourced from Bhai Surinder Singh and Bhai Jaswinder Singh, beloved sons of Giani Ji.

Waheguru Ji ke Khalsa, waheguru ji ke fateh

*****

Keertan by Giani Ji - Click Here

SikhNet Youth Film Festival

Wahe Guru Ji Ka Khalsa, Wahe Guru Ji Ki Fateh!

Greetings from SikhNet headquarters in sunny Espanola New Mexico where we are all very excited about the first ever online Sikh Youth Film Festival competition which is launching right now. The goal of this friendly competition is to support our Sikh Youth all over the world and to encourage and inspire them to get involved in media and film and use their creativity to produce interesting and educational pieces designed to spread the spirit of Sikhi, into our spirit, values and culture.

We are writing to you to personally ask for your help in letting everyone know about this very special event.

First, go to the Youth Film Festival page for more information about the event.

Second, please print out some Film Festival Flyers and post on your Gurdwara and Langar Hall bulletin boards. Also talk to your local Gurdwara management about announcing the project to your sangat. Nothing works better than actually talking to people about it.

Third, Forward this email around to friends or family that you think might be interested.

Fourth, If you have a website we have also created a few different small images which you can post on your website to help promote the youth film festival.

Fifth, If you would like to become a sponsor and support the Youth Film festival and SikhNet, please let me know.

However creative you can be, please spread the word about this event within your local community.

Now is the time! The deadline for entries is August 31st and the winners will be announced in September. In addition to significant cash prizes totaling $2,600 US Dollars, all winners and honorable mentions will receive official Film Festival award certificates from SikhNet.

This is a great summer project for any student and our expectation is that student entrants will be able to bring their summer film project back to school in the Fall for extra credit.

If you are a parent, encourage your children to get involved and create a video for the competition. No previous video experience required! We have created a special page to help you get started. Don't be shy, just do it, and have fun!

Thank you for your help in getting the word out!

Gurumustuk Singh Khalsa
SikhNet Webmaster

Leamington One Day Camp

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Gurmat Camp @ Leamington Spa

1pm-5pm in Hall No.2

First ever Gurmat Camp happening at Leamington and Warwick Gurdwara. The Camp has been organised for 400th Shaheedi anniverary of Dhan Dhan Guru Arjan Dev Ji Maharaj.

The Camp is aimed for children and the youth. There shall be a talk on history and significance of Guru Arjan Dev Ji's Shaheedi. The camp shall comprise of workshops such as meditation and Dhadi workshops, and informal discussions. There's no registration requirements, just turn up on the day

There's not much parchaar for the children and youth at Leamington. So we need your sangat. Bring your friends, brothers and sisters with you. There have been similar events at Leamington in the past such as "Awakening Your Soul" which happened just over a year ago. This Gurmat Camp is the 1st youth programme since that day.

There shall also be a Kirtan Darbar after the camp from 6pm-late that night


ADDRESS OF THE GURWARA:
Gurdwara Sahib Leamington & Warwick
Tachbrook Park Drive,
Leamington Spa,
Warwickshire
CV31 3LZ

2nd Entrance -
Queensway Estate, Queensway,
Leamington Spa,
Warwickshire
CV31 3LZ

Phone number: 01926 424297, 01926 43531

Snatam Kaur - UK Dates

Gurbani Kirtan Snatam Kaur with GuruGanesha & Krishan Snatam Kaur, GuruGanesha Singh, and Krishan Prakash Singh travel throughout the world, visiting many Gurdwaras and sharing their inspirational kirtan (devotional music) with many communities. Gurudwaras are free and open to all. No registration is required for these events.

Snatam Kaur, GuruGanesha Singh, and Krishan Prakash Singh travel throughout the world, visiting many Gurdwaras and sharing their inspirational kirtan (devotional music) with many communities.

Gurudwaras are free and open to all. No registration is required for these events.

Gurdwara means "Guru's Gate". It is a traditional Sikh gathering where the Shabad Guru, or Sacred Sound Current is celebrated. The focal point of the gathering is the Siri Guru Granth Sahib, which is a masterful collection of pure sound current from the Sikh Gurus and other enlightened masters of early India. The service consists of the recitation of this sound current in musical form. After the service a community meal, or langar is served to everyone.

Snatam Kaur said herself, "I serve my Guru which is the Shabad Guru, or Sacred Sound Current, and for me visiting Gurdwaras all over the world is a blessing for me. As I bow my head in each of these sacred sites I am connected with my Guru, and with each community that we visit. Gurdwara for me sustains and nourishes me for the peace mission that we are on. I welcome anyone who wants to come, no matter what their faith may be, because in my experience Gurdwara and connecting to the Guru is one of the most healing things on this planet."

People of all walks of life are welcome to come and be a part of the Gurdwara. If you have never been to a Gurdwara before, please be sure to bring a headcovering. For more information about Sikhism or Gurdwara please visit www.sikhnet.com

About the Instructor
Snatam Kaur was introduced to music and spiritual practice at an early age. Schooled in kirtan, meditation, and Gurmukhi, the Sanskrit-based language of Sikh scriptures from Northern India, the young Snatam Kaur began to develop the devotion and skills that have grown and blossomed into a compelling, profound talent.

Snatam Kaur's parents brought her up in the Sikh tradition as taught by Yogi Bhajan. From an early age, she practiced yoga and meditation daily and her mother taught her Gurmukhi. "My mother taught me the alphabet on my way to school every morning," recalls Snatam. Her Sikh community augmented these lessons with instruction in kirtan (devotional chanting). "Through these experiences, I learned the pronunciation," she says, "but also I learned the passion for what I was singing because these gatherings were so spiritual."

As a child, Snatam also had training in voice, violin, guitar, and percussion. She obtained a solid foundation in Western classical music while playing violin in an orchestra and giving solo performances. Her many opportunities to use and expand her musical talent in a spiritual setting emphasized for her the connection between her music and spirituality. "I learned about the importance of sound currents from Yogi Bhajan," she says, "but I also had the personal experience of how the energy of these sacred words can have a very real, positive effect."

Snatam further explored the power of sound in India. After high school, her love for the Indian musical tradition and for children took her to Miri Piri Academy, a boarding school for children in India. She spent time taking care of the young children, teaching physical education, and providing music for the children's morning and evening chanting. When she returned to the United States, she attended Mills College in Oakland, California, where she obtained a degree in biochemistry, taught yoga classes, and shared her chants with Western audiences. But India called her back. After touring and performing Kirtan in northern India, Snatam settled in Amritsar where she studied music with the accomplished ragi (Indian master of Sikh-style kirtan) Bhai Hari Singh. This was a great honor for her, and particularly meaningful because Singh was the same teacher who had taught her mother when she was just a little girl.

Snatam embraced everything that Singh taught her, from the technical aspects of the notes, to the ability to sing with presence and awareness. The lessons took place in Singh's home, where Snatam was welcomed by the entire family--daughters, sons, and grandchildren.

While in Amritsar, Snatam lived next door to the Golden Temple, considered the world's holiest Sikh temple. Sacred music resonates from inside the temple from about 2:30 in the morning to midnight every day-sounds created by world-class masters of Sikh kirtan. This enabled Snatam to continually soak in the essence of the Sound Current.

Upon returning to the US from India, Snatam began her career as a recording artist with a band called the Peace Family. She served as the band's lead singer and, with two skilled and accomplished musicians - Livtar Singh and GuruGanesha Singh, had her first opportunity to write songs. Two years later she began to develop her own sound and style and embarked on a very fruitful solo career.

Dates & Locations

Select the date for more information about the location, time, price, ticketing, and directions.

• 05/25/2006 Wolverhampton, UK
• 05/26/2006 Leicester, UK
• 05/27/2006 Leicester, UK
• 05/28/2006 Southall, UK
• 05/28/2006 London, UK
• 07/20/2006 Edmonton, Alberta
• 07/26/2006 Surrey, BC
• 08/06/2006 Eugene, OR
• 08/09/2006 Sacramento, CA
• 08/13/2006 Fremont, CA
  

Dhan Guru Amar Daas Sahib Ji - Happy Gurpurb!

ਭਲੇ ਅਮਰਦਾਸ ਗੁਣ ਤੇਰੇ ਤੇਰੀ ਉਪਮਾ ਤੋਹਿ ਬਨਿ ਆਵੈ ॥੧॥੨੨॥
bhale amardaas gun tere, teree upmaa tohi ban aavai.
O Guru Amar Daas Ji, Your Glorious Virtues are so sublime; Your Praises belong only to You.
(Ang 1396)

Sariaa Nu Lakh Lakh Vadhaaee Hove on today's Gurpurb. Today is the 527th Parkaash Diwas (Birth Day) of GURU AMAR DAAS SAHIB JI, the 3rd Jyot (Light) of Guru Nanak Sahib Ji, who was born at BASARKE, a small village in Amritsar district in 1479.


A GLIMPSE AT THE LIFE OF GURU AMAR DAAS SAHIB JI SAHIB


Need of Guru
Baba Amar Daas Sahib Ji was introduced to Path of Gurmat and Naam through Bibi Amro Ji, the daughter in-law of Baba Amar Daas Ji’s younger brother. Bibi Amro Ji was the daughter of the Second Nanak, Guru Angad Dev Sahib Ji. Through HEARING the Divine SHABAD being sung by Bibi Amro Ji, Baba Amar Daas Ji was introduced to the House of Guru Nanak Sahib Ji.

Despite being THIRTY YEARS OLDER, Baba Amar Daas Ji bowed to Guru Angad Dev Ji Sahib. This illustrated that AGE or RELATIONSHIPS (ਰਿਸ਼ਤੇ) have NO RELEVANCE.


Guruship
Baba Amar Daas Sahib Ji served Guru Angad Dev Sahib Ji with utmost devotion and dedication. Besides fetching water from the river Beas for Guru Sahib's daily bath, he would serve in the Guru Ka Langar. Every year Guru Angad Dev Sahib Ji acknowledged his services by conferring upon him a SIROPA (a robe of honour) which the Great Guru wrapped around his head. Baba Amar Daas Ji was honoured with a Siropa seven times. SEVA (selfless service) is one of the main tenets of the House of Guru Nanak Sahib Ji, exemplified through the lives of the Gurus. Guru Amar Daas Sahib Ji was the OLDEST aged Guru. This illustrated that EVEN THE OLD CAN MAKE CHANGE.


Responding to Hostility with Humility
Bhai Datu Ji, son of Guru Angad Dev Sahib Ji, considered himself to be the claimant of 'Gurgaddi' (the seat of Guruship), which he however could not ascend to. Deeply frustrated, Bhai Datu Ji KICKED Guru Amar Daas Sahib Ji with his foot while Guru Ji was seated on the throne. With a rare display of SWEETNESS and HUMILITY, Guru Sahib kept seated and did not utter a word of anguish. Rather, he grabbed Bhai Datu Ji’s foot and said, “Your foot must have been hurt by my hard bones.” Guru Sahib did not respond with a REACTION rather through displaying his compassion. The Guru showed that each situation requires a UNIQUE RESPONSE depending on the circumstances.


Rejection of Sati and Pardah
The reality of India at the time of the Guru Sahibs was that the author of Ramayan (Hindu mythological epic) had written that “The drum, Shudar (low caste) and woman are to beaten.” Guru Amar Daas Sahib Ji rejected the old age practice and tradition of women BURNING THEMSELVES in the funeral pyres of their husbands and women VEILING their faces. Guru Sahib taught that women are NOT a COMMODITY and implemented SOCIAL CHANGE.

Furthermore, Guru Amar Daas Sahib Ji promoted and propagated that WIDOW REMARRIAGE was acceptable. This was underlined by the principle that every single person is DIVINE (Man Too Jyot Saroop Hai, Apnaa Mool Pachhaan). However, we do not recognise this! Guru Sahib emphasised that why should we WASTE LIFE by committing Sati.


Established Manjees
Guru Sahib POLITICALLY developed the Sikh community. Four Sikh women were appointed as the RELIGIOUS HEADS of Sikh education centres. Districts under the charge of men were known as Manjeeaa(n), from manjee or string-bed. Those in the charge of women were known as PeeReeaa(n), form peehee or sitting-stools on which they sat to minister to the disciples. Their selection for this important task indicated the faith of the Guru in the capacity of women for ORGANISATIONAL WORK.


Founded Goindval
Guru Amar Daas Sahib Ji followed the steps of the earlier Gurus in CONSTRUCTING CITIES. This was part of the VISION of the Gurus to broaden the horizons of the Sikh People and show them that Sikhs should not confine themselves to thinking small but to THINK BIG. The Guru Sahibs were FORWARD THINKERS. Realising that the water of the River Beas was becoming not fit for human consumption, (which later become polluted) Guru Amar Daas Sahib Ji constructed a BAOLI (well) at Goindwal Sahib, covering the entire area with trees. This not only provided SAFE DRINKING WATER to the people but also helped to create an ECO-FRIENDLY environment.


Summary

ਗੁਰ ਅਮਰਦਾਸ ਕੀ ਅਕਥ ਕਥਾ ਹੈ ਇਕ ਜੀਹ ਕਛੁ ਕਹੀ ਨ ਜਾਈ ॥
gur amardaas kee akath kathaa hai ik jeeh kachh kahee na jaa-ee.
The Unspoken Speech of Guru Amar Daas Ji cannot be expressed with only one tongue.
(Ang 1406)

Bhai Nand Lal Singh Ji writes in his poetry that if one word could describe and summarise Guru Amar Daas Sahib Ji's life, that word be "EQUALITY."

Bhul Chuk Maaf.

Manvir Singh Khalsa

DHAN GURU AMAR DAAS SAHIB JI.

Sri Akal Takht Sahib Issues Sandesh in reaction to UK Gurdwara violations

BREAKING: Sri Akal Takht Sahib Issues Sandesh in reaction to UK Gurdwara violations
Wednesday 17th May, 2006
EXCLUSIVE: Panthic Weekly News Bureau

Amritsar Sahib, Punjab (KP) – Sri Akal Takht Sahib, the Sikh Supreme Authority of the Sikh Nation, has issued a 'Sandesh' (memorandum) on the prohibition of ‘saraab-kabaab’ (liquor and meat) at religious functions and marriages following a meeting held with representatives of the Respect Guru Ji Campaign (UK).

View the Sandesh in Gurmukhi

Panthic Weekly has brought to light in recent years that many UK Gurdwaras are using money from the Sikh Sangat or Gurdwara funds to open ‘recreational centres’ or ‘community centres’ which are then used to hire out for parties and where the use of sharab (alcohol), smoking of tobacco, other intoxicants and the preparation and consumption of meat are permitted. UK Gurdwara management committees, which allow such perversions of Gurmat, justify their acts as ‘catering to the needs of the community’. Also, a small number of Gurdwara management committees have allowed Pavitar Saroops of Satguru Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji to be taken to hotels, banquet halls and other premises where there is alcohol, intoxicants, meat and where lurid singing and dancing take place after the Anand Karaj.

With the help of the Budha Dal and Tarna Dal, members of the UK Sikh Sangat were granted an audience with Giani Joginder Singh Vendanti, Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib Ji. The meeting was held at Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Amritsar on 1st March 2006. Evidence and proof of abuse towards Satguru Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and of violations of Sikh principles in recent years, collected by the Respect for Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Campaign in the UK, were presented to the Singh Sahib and the Panj Piyarey (Five Sikhs) at Sri Akal Takht Sahib.

On reviewing the evidence presented before them, Sri Akal Takht Sahib has recognised the deep problem that exists in the UK. As the Sikhs’ supreme authority, Sri Akal Takht Sahib has voiced its concerns by issuing a new 'Sandesh' strongly reinforcing Sikh Rehit Maryada (Sikh Code of Conduct) and Gurmat (Sikh principles) on the following issues:

• Any form of intoxicants (alcohol, drugs etc) and preparation or consumption of foods such as meat, fish and eggs are not permitted on Gurdwara property.

• Guru-ka-Langar should be prepared and observed in accordance to Gurus' maryada (tradition).

• No person under the influence of intoxicants is allowed inside Gurdwara property.

• Inside the property of the Guru Sahibs, only the recital of Gurbani, katha, kirtan and reccounting of the Gurus' history are permitted.

• Buildings bought or constructed using the Daswand (one tenth of earnings) of the Sikh Sangat or Gurdwara donations are solely to be used to be used for Gurmat purposes and the betterment of society.

• Anand Karajs (Sikh wedding ceremonies) etc must be performed in Gurdwaras in accordance to Gurmat and the Panthic accepted Sikh Rehit Maryada.

• There is no permission granted for dancing and singing or any acts which go against the principles of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

Sri Akal Takht Sahib is clear on its position on the above abuses of Sikh principles and has unanimously condemned the abuses towards Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and the exploitation of Gurdwara Sahibs in the UK.

Gurdwaras are where Gurmat ( Guru Sahib’s principles) are implemented and maintained rather than manipulated or exploited. It is the duty of all Gurdwara management committees to adhere to the above and implement this Gur-Maryada (code of conduct sactioned by the Gurus) immediately for the betterment of the Sikh religion in UK.

The Respect Guru Ji Campaign (UK) told Panthic Weekly, “With increasing wakefulness of these issues, the UK Sikh Community will contribute in resolves that maintain the honor and prestige of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, our eternal Guru, and take a leading role within the global Sikh community.”

Full Link

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So now we have something recent, as in last month, to take to Gurudwara Sahibs to enforce the above problems.

Congratualations to the Global Sangat on this issue, now all we need to do is enforce it.

NeverForget84.com Poetry Competition

Something I recieved in an email:

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Khalsa Ji

A Poetry Competition in commemoration of the Victims of the Massacre of Operation Bluestar - 1984 has been organised. An example of a poem is enclosed, basically the idea behind the competition is to raise and provoke awareness and understanding particularly amoungst youth. PLs forward this message and promote in Punjabi/Gurmat classes.

The rules are simple. There are 3 age groups:

Under 11's

12-16

17+

* Poems MUST be original and cannot be copied from anyone else.

* All poems MUST be submitted via email to: 84poems@neverforget84.com / matilda13@hotmail.co.uk

* Poems MUST be submitted by 11:59pm (GMT) 28th May 2006. Late entries may not be counted.

* If your entry is successful you will be contacted via telephone/email and asked to read your poem to the Sangaton Sunday 4th June (if you wish to do so). If transport is required let us know in due course.

Humbly ask for your forgiveness for our endless flaws

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Wedding Season is ON

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa,
Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.



The SUMMER season is here and this means WEDDING SEASON is here. I came home for the weekend and found some wedding cards lying around. I have noticed that every single wedding card has Gurbaani printed on them. Popular lines from Gurbaani used in cards is:

ਲਖ ਖੁਸੀਆ ਪਾਤਿਸਾਹੀਆ ਜੇ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਨਦਰਿ ਕਰੇਇ ॥
lakh khushee-aa paatshaahee-aa, je satgur nadar kare-i.
Hundreds of thousands of princely pleasures are enjoyed, if the True Guru bestows His Glance of Grace.
(Ang 44)


ਨਾਨਕ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਤਿਨਾ ਮਿਲਾਇਆ ਜਿਨਾ ਧੁਰੇ ਪਇਆ ਸੰਜੋਗੁ ॥੧॥
naanak satgur tinaa milaa-i-aa jinaa Dhure pa-i-aa sanjog. ||1||
O Nanak, he alone meets the True Guru, who has such union pre-ordained. ||1||
(Ang 957)



I remember last summer we received a wedding card, which advertised the Anand Kaaraj and the reception PARTY on the same piece of card. It was IRONIC that a few lines up it had Gurbaani and few lines down it said, “COCKTAILS will be served” and “BEER BAR will be open”. Sat Naam, Waheguru.

Have we LOST THE PLOT?

Can you imagine a Muslim advertising a Muslim wedding and just underneath writing “PORK SCRATCHING will be served with refreshments”? I DON’T THINK SO. Nor can you imagine a Hindu wedding card saying “BEEF KEBABS will be served with chutney in lunch.” However, “Sikhs” advertise BOOZING and Anand Kaaraj on the same card. (Just the fact that people distribute SHARAAB (alcohol) after having Anand Kaaraj, which is taking an OATH to Waheguru with Guru Jee as the witness makes a mockery of the "VOWS"). Very depressing thought! Rab Bhalla Kare.

Gurbaani is the revealed Word of God.

ਬਾਣੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗੁਰੂ ਹੈ ਬਾਣੀ ਵਿਚਿ ਬਾਣੀ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਸਾਰੇ ॥
baaNee guroo, guroo hai baaNee, vich baaNee amrit saare.
The Word, the Baani is Guru, and Guru is the Baani. Within the Baani, the Spiritual-life giving Nectar is contained.
(Ang 982)

However, how much respect do we show Gurbaani? To make a card “LOOK NICE” we risk the beadbi (violation of sanctity) of Gurbaani. Most, if not all, wedding cards in UK and the West are thrown in the bins once the wedding has happened (unless you are Gursikh and show respect to Gurbaani or for some reason you have a hobby to collect and archive wedding cards!). I am shocked that no one realizes this and year on year every card has Gurbaani printed on them. How can we expect SUKH (peace and happiness) when we treat Gurbaani in such an intolerable (and sorry to say) cheap way. Rab Rakha!

Newspapers, for example DES PARDES and others, have Gurbaani printed in articles relating to Sikhi or on a top of an event poster printed. However, the same newspapers advertise JAADOO TOONAA (black-magic) and other wacky and silly stuff. Newspapers are generally thrown in the bin and sometimes while the newspaper is on the table people put their chaa da cup (cup of tea) on top of the newspaper) or some Auntian (aunties) use newspaper pages for covering the bottom of cupboards to keep the cupboards clean. Where is the SATKAAR (respect) for the WORD OF GOD printed on those pages?

We conveniently do Matha Tekh and say “Guru Jee, Guru Jee…” at the Gurdwara, but at home we print Gurbaani on cards, throw newspapers with Gurbaani in it in the bins etc. Is this not HYPROCISY?


So, what can we do about it?
… I think firstly if someone in your family is getting married then MAKE THEM AWARE of the abuse of Gurbaani and kindly ask them to print a card WITHOUT any Gurbaani. End of the day a simple card with adequate information is enough. Secondly, create awareness of the issue in your COMMUNITY. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of printing and simply make people STOP and THINK about the issue. Hopefully when someone sees Gurbaani on a wedding card, newspaper and calendar, they will think and realise not to put it on the floor, throw it in the bin or use it as a table mat.


Bhul chuk maaf.

Daas,
Manvir Singh

*********************

I'd just like to add:

Weddings in the UK usually equal beadbi - this is something which we cannot tolerate, so if you find out about a wedding taking place in a hall where alcohol/tobacco will be please do not hesitate to contact the R4G Campaign on:

Mobile : 07944 445651
E-Mail : SikhAlerts@yahoo.co.uk

Any correspondence is anonymous.

If there are any protests/telephone campaigns organised please ensure your attendance, if we're Sikhs and our Guru is being disrespected and we do nothing, then who's Sikhs are we??

Before You Act, Think....

Today before you think of saying an unkind word
Think of someone who can't speak

Before you complain about the taste of your food
Think of someone who has nothing to eat


Before you complain about your husband or wife
Think of someone who's crying out to God for a companion


Today before you complain about life
Think of someone who went too early to heaven

Before you complain about your children
Think of someone who desires children but they're barren

Before you argue about your dirty house; someone didn't clean or sweep
Think of the people who are living in the streets

Before whining about the distance you drive
Think of someone who walks the same distance with their feet

And when you are tired and complain about your job
Think of the unemployed, the disabled and those who wished they had your job


But before you think of pointing the finger or condemning another
Remember that not one of us are without sin and we all answer to one maker

And when depressing thoughts seem to get you down
Put a smile on your face and thank God you're alive and still around

Life is a gift
Live it...
Enjoy it...
Celebrate it...
And fulfill it.

Awsw mhlw 5 ]
aasaa mehlaa panjavaa(n) ]
Aasaa, Fifth Mehl:

BeI prwpiq mwnuK dyhurIAw ]
bha-ee paraapat maanukh dayhuree-aa.
This human body has been given to you.

goibMd imlx kI ieh qyrI brIAw ]
gobind milan kee ih tayree baree-aa.
This is your chance to meet the Lord of the Universe.

Avir kwj qyrY ikqY n kwm ]
avar kaaj tayrai kitai na kaam.
Nothing else will work.

imlu swDsMgiq Bju kyvl nwm ]1]
mil saadhsangat bhaj kayval naam. ||1||
Join the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy; vibrate and meditate on the Jewel of the Naam. ||1||

srMjwim lwgu Bvjl qrn kY ]
saranjaam laag bhavjal taran kai.
Make every effort to cross over this terrifying world-ocean.

jnmu ibRQw jwq rMig mwieAw kY ]1] rhwau ]
janam baritha jaat rang maa-i-aa kai. ||1|| rahaa-o||
You are squandering this life uselessly in the love of Maya. ||1||Pause||

jpu qpu sMjmu Drmu n kmwieAw ]
jap tap sanjam dharam na kamaa-i-aa.
I have not practiced meditation, self-discipline, self-restraint or righteous living.

syvw swD n jwinAw hir rwieAw ]
sayvaa saadh na jaani-aa har raa-i-aa.
I have not served the Holy; I have not acknowledged the Lord, my King.

khu nwnk hm nIc krMmw ]
kaho naanak ham neech karammaa.
Says Nanak, my actions are contemptible!

srix pry kI rwKhu srmw ]2]4]
saran paray kee raakho sarmaa. ||2||4||
O Lord, I seek Your Sanctuary; please, preserve my honor! ||2||4||

Rise of the Khalsa - New Animated Movie

Here is the latest film by the makers of "Sahibzadey" which tells the story of Banda Singh Bahadhur.

"The movie takes you along Babaji's journey from his first meeting with Dasmesh Pita at Nanded to conquering of Sirhind. Guruji ordained Babaji to reach Punjab to reorganize the Khalsa forces and put an end to tyranny and injustice."

Click on THIS LINK or visit their website for more information. The movie is in Punjabi with English sub-titles. I'll let you know how it is when I get a copy.

From: MrSikhNet.Com

R4G - Disrespect Stopped in the Midlands

West Midlands, UK – Saturday 6th May 2006

SANGAT STOP SRI GURU GRANTH SAHIB JI'S SAROOP BEING TAKEN TO OFF-LICENCE.

VaheguruJiKaKhalsaVaheguruJiKiFateh!

Reports were being received from various sources that Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji’s Saroop was arranged, by the local Gurdwara committee, to be taken to an “off-license” premises in order to recite the sacred Bani Sukhmani Sahib. Members of the UK Sikh Community were made aware of the situation on the night before.

As news of the potential blatant contempt of Sikh principles spread across the UK, members of the Sangat started arriving at the Guru Nanak Gurdwara, West Bromwich Street, Walsall in large numbers during the early hours of Saturday morning to resolve the situation by not allowing the Saroop of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaj to be taken to the “off-licence” premises.

At first, a meeting took place between the concerned members of the Sikh Community and the Gurdwara Parbhandak committee of Guru Nanak Gurdwara (West Bromwich Street, Walsall) to try and arrange a solution. The gathered Sangat were informed that the Gurudwara President had ‘cancelled’ the program, and were assured that Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji’s Saroop would not be taken to a place where alcohol and tobacco is stored and sold.

As the gathered Sangat were about to depart, Treasurer of the committee announced that the Guru Maharajs Saroop would indeed be taken, as the building was ‘separate’ from the “off-licence” shop and therefore acceptable.

The property had actually been visited by members of the Sangat and it was found that the building was not actually separated to differentiate between the intoxicants and the area where the Saroop of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaj would be placed.

After further discussions with the family and the Gurudwara Committee it was agreed that Guru Ji’s Saroop would not be disrespected, and that a local Granthi could recite the Bani from a Gutka Sahib. This resolution would not have been possible without the pressure from the large group of members of the UK Sikh Sangat who were peaceful protesting outside the Gurdwara.

This is a firm reminder to all Gurdwara Prabhandak Committees that they are responsible for where the Saroop for Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaj is taken. If they wish to lapse this responsibility than the Sangat will intervene.

To thank Guru Ji for showering His blessings, the large group assembled together to complete 5 Benti Chaupai Sahibs and Ardaas.

VaheguruJiKaKhalsaVaheguruJiKiFateh!

--------------------

Respect for Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Campaign


07944 445651

sikhalerts@yahoo.co.uk

www.GuruGranthSahibJi.com
www.SikhDreamWeddings.co.uk

Akali Singh and the Thugs

I have come across an amazing life of a nameless Akali Singh whose jeevan I feel very compelled to share with all of you. Akali jee was 81 years old in 1973, when his life was first written. Akali jee instructed the original author to withhold his name as he did not like to advertise his greatness. Akali jee always stayed in Akali baana and was never seen without shaster (weapons). He led a very simple life and was a great rassiya of Gurbani and Naam. His humility was unmatched and his speech was sweet as honey.

He was arrested by the British government in 1916 and till 1932 he stayed in jail for playing part in the independence of India. After getting released, he went to jail many times and in 1942 he was in jail with Jawahar Lal Nehru; the first prime minister of India. After the independence of India, Akali jee stayed fully independent of worldly responsibilities and led his life helping out others. He forever stayed merged in the Naam of Vaheguru. He would stay in one place for few months and then move on. He did not have any attachments in the world and had no belongings to worry about.

In 1962, he came to the Sipri town of Madhya Pardesh (largest state of India). Sipri town of Madhya Pardesh was greatly infected with crime at that time. There was a small Gurdwara Sahib in the town and Akali jee stayed there during his stay in this town.

One evening, Akali jee finished doing his Rehraas Sahib paath and went out for a walk. While he was coming back from the walk and was walking by a water tank, he heard the moaning of a woman that grew in a loud scream as if she heard someone walk by. Akali jee stopped and started walking towards the back of the water tank and saw about 8-10 men removing the clothes and jewelery of a struggling woman. He also saw a young man tied to a tree.

Akali jee tried to stop the thugs from committing this crime but they did not pay any attention to a old person. How could Akali jee tolerate such cruelty on a helpless woman right in front of him? He did realize his age which was about 71 years at that time, and that he was against about 10 badmaashs (thugs). He briefly closed his eyes and remembered Siri Guru Gobind Singh jee and reminded him of his bachan of Sava laakh se ek laraayoon i.e. I will make my Khalsa fight with 125,000 persons. Akali jee felt immense power at the end of the ardaas and he took his 2 feet long stick and started beating the thugs with it.

When the thugs got hurt with the stick, they all took out their Rampuri knives and attacked Akali jee. Akali jee who was an accomplished player of gatka, immediately changed his paintra and took out his kirpaan. He played gatka in such a way that no badmash could even come near him, let alone hit him. Many of the badmashs got severely injured with his attack. They could not believe that they were being beaten by a 70+ years old man. They tried to subdue him but all in vain. Eventually they all ran away.

Akali jee opened the ropes of the tied young man. He then tried to lift the half unconscious young woman, who was constantly repeating, bachaayo bachaayo (help me, help me). Akali jee took her head in his two hands, brought her near his heart, like a father would do to his distressed daughter, and said, Beta, oh chale gaye hunn. Chal ghar chaliye. (O daughter, they are gone now. Let us go home).

Hearing his comforting voice, she regained her consciousness and the three started walking back to their house. They went to the Gurdwara Sahib but the doors of the Gurdwara Sahib had been locked and the sewadaars did not open the doors even after heavy knocking. At this the three of them walked towards the couple house. The relatives were anxiously waiting for the couple as they had been gone for a long time. When they heard how Akali jee had saved their honour, they wanted to thank Akali jee, but Akali jee had left for the Gurdwara Sahib by then. He stayed outside the Gurdwara all night as the doors were closed.

The girl belonged to a very influential family in the town. At the rise of the day, when everyone found out about the incident, they all came to the Gurdwara Sahib to get the darshan of Akali jee. The Police chief himself came with a lot of people and the press to see Akali jee. The girl who was saved by Akali jee too was along with the huge crowd that came to the Gurdwara Sahib.

The police chief asked the girl about the person who had saved her honour and life. Hearing this the young woman, moved forward and tearfully hugged Akali jee and said, Yeh mere baapoo jee hain, Inhon ne meri jaan bachaayee thee (He is my father who saved my life and honour). This is all that the girl could say and then she burst into tears. The whole atmosphere became very emotional and Akali jee comforted the girl by slowly patting her back.

The people gathered a large amount of money and presented to Akali jee but Akali jee refused to accept it. When they persisted, Akali jee took the money and then in front of them placed the money in front of Siri Guru Granth Sahib jee. The police chief asked Akali jee to stay in the town and that he would ensure that Akali jee got pension for life. Akali jee politely declined the offer saying that after taking the amrit of Siri Guru Gobind Singh jee he has done naukri (job) of only Panth and did not want anything in return.

Hearing such high ideals of Akali jee, the whole crowd started praising him. How could a singh of Guru Gobind Singh jee hear his praise. The newspapers wrote about him too. He left the town and moved on to another unknown destination after that. This story was originally written by Sardar Chanda Singh Bareli and published in 1973.

Kulbir Singh

Dress up when it suits us.

(pardon the pun)

http://www.tapoban.org/phorum/read.php?f=1&i=81680&t=81680

Totally agree with this post. However, I'm a hypocrite.

Usually whenever we go to big keertans, or camps we dress differently to how we usually do. If we are going to see the same Guru Ji, then surely we are dressing up for the people?

Langar Article - Bring Back the OLDSCHOOL

What's become of Langar and How to revive the original spirit ?

When Guru Nanak started the tradition of Langar upon his return to Kartarpur; it was meant to be its literal meaning: ‘The Anchor’ to bind the community together under the principles of Vand Chhakana . A simple diet of produce and water which would not only satiate the basic dietary need of the visitors, but of the needy, the servers and the Guru alike in their physical, mental and spiritual quest. Guru Ka Langar since then embarked on its journey enriched by the sweetness of Mata Khivi, the dedication of Bhai Manjh, the humility of Emperor Akbar, and the revival of the true spirit of the principle of Langar by Bhai Nand Lal Ji.

Whatever the transformation, the basic principles remained the same. Langar was kept simple. It was there for everyone to partake. Needy people knew where to go to satisfy their hunger if they could not provide for their family, and the community was bound together.
Unfortunately, today in the Diaspora, Langar is losing its meaning. It has lost most of its original characteristics. Let us see how.

1. Langar today is anything but the simple nutritious food it was intended to be.
2. It is not reaching the truly needy and homeless.
3. It has become a burden and in some cases a competition.
4. The Spirit of gratefulness and appreciation with which it is received is somewhat gone.


Simple and Langar are antonyms today. Loaded with ghee and oils, deep fried items, dairy, sugars, spices, refined white flour and artificial colors, our Langar today is complicated and refined Indian cuisine. You feel like you are eating fancy Indian Restaurant food only on the floor and in Styrofoam plates. You are virtually unable to move after you stuff yourself with Langar on Sunday afternoons. Was that Guru Nanak’s intention for Langar?

And by the way, what happened to feeding the needy and homeless? Do they even know that something like Langar exits? Granted, often in North America Gurdwaras are not located in areas surrounded by people having to beg for food. However, even the leftover food is usually distributed among the Sangat instead of being carried to shelters or low-income areas.

In the past Langar was prepared from the collaborative dasvandh and by the sangat pooling in physical sewa together complete with humility and dedication. Today in many western Gurdwaras, it has become the responsibility of individual families as they take turns providing the sewa. In the quest to show off their skills and resources, Langar has become so elaborate that some people are scared to take the responsibility for fear of not being able to meet expectations. This, in turn, means that a limited number of families keep getting assigned to the sewa. The pleasure and gratitude of doing sewa for the Sangat then becomes a burden every time they have to take their turn.

Another complication is that we produce so much non biodegradable trash during Sunday Langars from the North American Gurdwaras that I am certain it contributes to the pollution of our environment, to Nature, and to the Cosmic Physical Entity.
The Baani says, “Pavan Guru Paani Pita Maata Dhart Mahat” – Environment is the Guru, Water the Father, Earth is the great mother. Yet, we go out of our way to prepare fancy dishes that are costly both in time and money when we could put that time and money towards buying and washing reusable steel plates.

The spirit of thankfulness in which the Langar is received today is gone. If it is anything less than a lavish party meal done to culinary perfection, you can hear comments being whispered. On the flip side, unnecessary encouragement on elaborate and lavish food deters families who want to keep it simple. Instead they are forced to be flexible and keep up with the trend.

If we transform the Langar back to a simple daal, whole grain roti and a side of slightly cooked vegetables or a salad, we can easily satisfy our stomachs. We save time, money and effort, which we can spend on spreading the mission of Langar and other useful programs. Besides, we ensure that we are providing only nutritious food to our body, mind and spirit in accordance with the Guru’s Hukam:
Unni Duniya toRe bandhanaa ann paani thoRa khaayaa: They burn away the bonds of the world, who eat a simple diet of grain and water (SGGS – Ang 467)

It is a simple task to incorporate ‘serving the needy’ element back into Langar. Most Churches have a marquee where they display a Sunday message. We could advertise something to the effect of “Free Nutritious Food For All – Sunday 1-2 PM”. A volunteer could be assigned to receive the visitors, explain Sikhi and make sure they are served. What a way to serve the hungry and reach out to the community at the same time! In addition we could advertise in other venues like homeless shelters, local food banks, offices and universities campuses (you can find a lot of hungry; short of money and, eager to learn students).

Also, by doing this we will alleviate the evils of competition and the problems that arise at times when Langar becomes a burden. If the Langar was going to be just the three items of daal, roti and vegetables, it will be so much easier that more people will be willing to sponsor it.


Fortunately, in spite of the shortcomings, to a great extent Langar today is still the anchor that holds the community together; which gives us the chance and hope to revive it completely in its true meaning as Bhai Nadlal Ji did.

For readers who are not familiar with the context; during Guru Gobind Singh’s time Langar did take a ritualistic flavor. They were offered only after a whole sequence of ceremonies, i.e. Path and Ardaas. It also was opened only at meal times when all the dishes were ready. Bhai Sahib felt that the spirit of Langar needed revival. So he opened Langar at his house where, irrespective of the time of day, whatever food was ready was rationed to any who came. Guru Ji visited Bhai Sahib’s Langar and was pleased with the true spirit.

And now it is time for us to revive the true spirit and practice of this wonderful tradition.

Men, discuss Langar with your families, including its simplicity, impact upon the environmental, and nutritional value as well as the need to provide it in a spirit of dedication to the Sangat and the needy alike.

Ladies, stop that competition and let go of the desire for praise of your culinary skills. Add a piece of fruit if you feel the need for sweets at the end of Langar. Don’t worry; with the plenty of beans, lentils, legumes available in the market your daal will not be boring. With the array of vegetables, herbs and fruits your sabzi or salad can be simple, highly nutritious yet, colorful with nature’s beauty and taste. With whole grain flour available at all grocery stores around the continent; you can make the goodness and wholesomeness of the traditional Langar parshaade felt once more.

Gurdwara Management Leaders, talk to the Sangat to make Langar simple. Mandate it. Start a project to fund raise for those reusable steel utensils and build large sinks. Encourage youth to take on the dish cleaning sewa. And, make sure to get those biodegradable dishwashing soaps to protect the water and earth.

Youngsters, stop pressuring your parents to cater Pizza and donuts for Langar. It is neither nutritious nor prepared with sewa bhavna (serving devotion); nor are the devotional traditions in preparations observed, i.e. heads covered; simaran done.

Let us take whatever steps we as individuals can take on this road to transformation.
Let us make the Gurdwaras once again a model that anchors the community, revives our physical, mental and spiritual bodies, and caters to the needy with eco-friendly, nutritious, simple meals.

More information on the tradition of Langar can be found at:
http://allaboutsikhs.com/way/langar.htm

Article from: http://gurmeetkaur.blogspot.com/