Beadbi in Watford Prevented by Sikh Community

Over a period of 2 months members of the British Sikh Community have been in discussion with the a group of so-called “Sikh” individuals from Watford who hold monthly diwans (Sikh religious gathering) at the Multi Racial Community Centre Hall in Watford. After numerous meetings with the Community Centre, Hertfordshire Police and Commission for Racial Equality (Hertfordshire), a small faction of this group of individuals were still adamant to proceed with taking Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji (Sikh Holy Religious Scriptures revered as the embodiment of God) to the Community Centre.

As per the Hukumnama (Order) of Sri Akal Takht Sahib (Sikh Seat of Sovereignty in Punjab, India) Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji cannot be taken to environments where alcohol, meat and tobacco are served and consumed. These individuals refused to work towards having the diwan at Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara, Watford (local Sikh Temple) for the reasons that they wanted to run the Sikh Gurdwara in Watford but were not voted in as Committee members. Pictured is one of the individuals that supported the Beadbi in Watford.

On 31 July 2006 over 80 Sikhs from around the United Kingdom gathered to peacefully protest at the Multi-Racial Community Centre, Watford and prevent the Saroop of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji from being taken into the complex.

After offering prayers at the Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara, Watford, the Sangat (Sikh Congregation) proceeded towards the Multi-Racial Community Centre. The Sangat continued attempts to persuade the faction of the “Sikh” individuals at MRCC committee to adhere to Sikh Rehit Maryada (Sikh Code of Conduct) and re-arrange the diwan to the local Gurdwara.

Unknowingly to the Sikh Congregation who had gathered to peacefully protest, the Saroop (embodiment) of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji was in a metal suitcase placed on the front seat of a car that was parked on the road opposite the Community Centre. This was deeply offensive, deceitful and extremely distressing not to mention one of the most disrespectful acts that could be carried out in the Sikh faith, as Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is never transported in a suitcase as a mere “object” of the Sikh Religion. Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is the eternal Guru of the Sikhs.

Once the gathered Sikh congregation became aware of this extremely hurtful and upsetting act, the shocked congregation sat around the car reciting prayers for over an hour. In that time the culprits who had carried out one of the most insulting acts in the Sikh religion could not come out of the car.

Present at this protest was Hertfordshire Police and representatives of Commission of Racial Equality (Hertfordshire). They all gave in to the conviction of the gathered Sikh congregation and agreed to their demand that five Sikhs will take the Saroop of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji to Watford Gurdwara and the diwan will not take place in the MMRC.

Sri Guru Granth Sahib was respectfully removed from the suitcase and re-clothed. Prayers were performed and the Sikh Congregation asked for forgiveness for any wrongdoing. The Saroop was respectfully taken to the Sachkhand (resting place for Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji) of Watford Gurdwara.

Further resolve was achieved when the “Sikh” individuals at MRCC committee verbally promised, in the presence of the Police and CRE representatives that this diwan, and therefore any other insulting act that would offend Sikhs, will never take place again in Watford. Also a young member representing this committee attended Watford Gurdwara after the incident and apologised for their behaviour and re-iterated that the diwan will never take place again. However, the resolve by Police and CRE intermediaries included a written statement promised from the individuals that diwan will not take place. The individuals must produce this documentation to give confidence that any disrespect towards Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and offence to the British Sikh community will not happen again.

The British Sikh Community will not allow individuals to exploit the Sikh Religion as a means of settling personal conflicts. Once again, the British Sikh Community has shown their love for their father Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The elders and youth who were present on the protest conducted themselves as true Khalsa and upheld the ideals of the Sikh Religion. With Guruji’s blessings the British Sikh Community continues to uphold respect for Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

An SSNews sewadar captured the moment when the Saroop of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Maharaj was retrieved from the disrespect of the suitcase after which the King of Kings was taken to the Sachkhand (resting place for Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji) of Watford Gurdwara:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bi2h-w7NPLg

Local News Report - Click Here

Sikh cremation is example of multicultural mess

13th July 2006

News article filed by BNP news team from the BNP Website

The Sikh community has demonstrated considerable loyalty to the British people throughout the last two hundred years, both at home and abroad in the former Empire and Commonwealth. There are hundreds of graves in Flanders bearing the names of Sikh soldiers who, buried alongside men from Dorset and Dundee, made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of this realm, its ancient traditions and values and its people. There are scores of Sikh recipients of the Victoria Cross, the the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

While their colourful headgear may seem strange and exotic to most indigenous Britons, Sikhs have, beyond the issue of motorcycle crash helmets and more controversially the issue of carrying kirpans (ceremonial knives) asked for few concessions to their religious needs. They are a noble and honourable people with, when needed, a sense of martial valour, as well as demonstrating strong family values and a robust work ethic which ensures that few Sikhs allow themselves to degenerate to drug or alcohol abuse, abject poverty, domestic violence and the many other ills plaguing modern society.

The BNP has consciously forged close links with members of Britain’s Sikh community over the past five or six years. These approaches have been reciprocated to the extent that community spokesman Rajinder Singh was present in Leeds Crown Court earlier this year to act as a defence witness for the Free Speech Two; a courageous and noble act which is testimony to the response of Sikhs when they hear about repression and persecution of the underdog.

Funeral pyre

It is therefore with a sense of sadness rather than condemnation that we learn of a decision by Northumbria Police who are to investigate the first British religious funeral pyre in modern times.

Its organiser Davender Ghai had claimed Northumbria Police chief Mike Craik had given his "blessing" before the secret service, despite it apparently breaking cremation laws.

Rajpal Mehat, a 31-year-old Indian-born Sikh, drowned in a canal in Southall, west London, in December last year, and the authorities would not allow his remains to be flown back to his native country.

Instead, his family asked Mr. Ghai, the president of the Newcastle-based Anglo-Asian Friendship Society (AAFS) to help them and he led the private ceremony in a remote Northumberland field.

He helped police trace Mr. Mehat's family and is also a leading campaigner for British funeral pyres, who claims the 1930 Cremation Act does not forbid bodies to be burned in the open air.

In a statement Northumbria Police said it was alerted "of an illegal cremation at a secret location somewhere in the force area".

Officers were dispatched to the AAFS's base in Gosforth and spoke to Mr. Ghai, who was with a group of mourners ready to set off.

When they were shown the relevant coroner's documents, and after a call to their superiors, officers allowed the funeral cars to proceed. It is understood officers did not follow the cars to Stamfordham, Northumberland, where the private ceremony took place.

Legislation

A spokesman for the Department of Constitutional Affairs said: "The plain fact is that any funeral pyre is illegal and to burn human remains in the open air is against the law. "The 1930 Cremation Act prohibits the cremation of human remains anywhere except in a crematorium."

There are sound environmental and health and safety issues for such a law and British laws should be obeyed by indigenous Britons and newcomers alike, and of course in our overcrowded island open air cremations cannot be held unlawfully which might open up a flood of similar activities making life unbearable for those who happen to live in places where the cremations take place.

Sikhs, Hindus and other religious groups, including the growing number of pagans, who choose to cremate their dead should obey the law of the land as it exists or, as we suggest, lobby the government to modify the 1930 Cremation Act so that privately owned land, after due consideration for any environmental impact, be permitted to accommodate a limited number of religious cremations.

All victims

Sikhs are, like the rest of us, victims of an enforced multicultural society where too often the values and wishes of one group conflict directly with those of another and with the long established values, laws and traditions of the indigenous majority. In an ideal world the Sikhs and other ethnic and religious groups would all have a stable homeland of their own where they can practice their own faiths, immerse themselves in their cultures and celebrate their own traditions. That is the essence of the modern nationalism to which we adhere and promote.

A representative for the Sikh community in the north east told the BNP website that he does not expect the police investigation will lead to any prosecution of mourners or relatives of the deceased.

This is such a rare activity in a remote location which has not caused any disturbance, or as far as we know any environmental damage, that we trust the police will drop the case and use their critically over-stretched resources to better effect tackling the growing militant Islamic presence in the area and dealing with the drug barons, the violent criminals and the teenage hoodlums on the housing schemes who make daily life for Tynesiders a misery.

****

Although Sikhs agree on the whole that what happened wasn't in accordance with traditional Sikh values, we must be aware of political parties such as the BNP. The only reason they talk so highly of the so called exotic head geared Sikhs is because they are trying to remove the 1.6 million Muslim people before they turn on us.

Although they have 'Sikh representatives' they are in no way actually representative of the people.

Let's open our eyes before we forge a relationship with untrustworthy people, like we did in 1947 with the Indian government.

It's not such a bad mistake if we learn from it...

Sangat victorious over Ek Niwaas

Congratulations to global Sangat regarding the Beadbi that WAS occuring at Ek Niwaas.

It has been confirmed in police presence that Maharaj will no longer be kept at Ek Niwaas and will be handed over to Akal Takht Sahib.

This is just another case where when the Sangat unites, under one flag, with one motive we can change anything.

Dhan Siri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaj

Ek Niwaas Update

The latest meeting (Sunday 2nd July, Sedgely Street Gurudwara) was created for the general Sangat to voice their views on Ek Niwaas's latest proposal. They had asked in a previous meeting with police and panthic representatives to build a Gurudwara. They were adamant that they would hold to Gurmat principles and follow the Akaal Takht Maryada.

Yesterdays meeting was therefore called to ask the Sikh Sangat one thing, "is Ek Niwaas allowed to build a Gurudwara Sahib?"

After a short while it was clear that there were two main points being voiced by the Sangat again and again:

Firstly Guru sahib could not be allowed to remain within Ek Niwaas.

This was due to the blatant disregard of Sikh principles with the dancing/idol worship going on within the same building.

Secondly, it was unanimously agreed that Ek Niwaas would not be allowed to build a Gurudwara Sahib.

This was because if the people building it are not Sikhs, it would essentially be a money making scheme. If the basic Gursikh principles we're not being followed by these people in everyday life then how can the Sikh panth grow?

One of the major events that happen at Gurudwara's are of course Amrit Sanchaars (initiation into the Sikh faith). How can this happen if the people at the Gurudwara Sahib don’t adhere to the basic Sikh ideals?

Further meetings are being arranged.

It is essential at this point to remind the youth that it is extremely important not to act thoughtlessly. There is no need to send death threats, graffiti Ek Niwaas or use violence.

This process is ofcourse a long one, but it is fair and right according to the countries laws that we live within. Gurmat law is higher; however we should wait for the police/courts to facilitate talks with our elders before giving the Sikh community a bad name by doing something we may regret over time.

Ek Niwas Open Meeting -This Sunday!!

For detailed information about disrespect to basic Sikh princles please visit:

Click here to view map

Meeting on 2nd July 2006, at 4pm:

Guru Nanak Sikh Temple

Sedgley Street off Duncan Street

Wolverhampton

West Midlands

WV2 3AJ

01902 459413

01902 458877

This is a request to any sangat who have views to put forward to attend this open meeting.

Meetings have previously been held with police and Ek Niwas officials to no avail so it is time to make an constructive effort to bring a close to this disrespect.

More updates soon....

Is Khalistan the answer?

Email I recieved through youtube.com, made me smile - hope it does the same for you people :)

"i am sikh and it saddens me that u choose to invest ur energy n time in useless propaganda like this.
but ur behaviour doesnt shock me, i must say. its because of people like u that the world is a mess. u people r incapable of forgetting the past n working towards a better future.
india, a great nation has faced turbulance in its entire history because of people like u. u calling india a terroist nation doesnt make it one, u sir, r the real terrorists.
you r fools to believe that punjab can be liberated. are u dumb enugh to not realize that punjab cannot survive as a nation? r u foolish enugh to not realize what is involved in making a strong n developed nation? u fools r bein misguided by pakistan and running after a impossible dream n killing many innocents in the process. the terrorism in punjab took its fair share of innocent lives too, not jus bluestar.
watever happened was not right, mistakes were made by both sides. but the people involved are all dead now. nothing will come from provoking the masses again, only more death and bloodshed.
are u fightin for the injustice done on innocent sikhs or are u jus propagating the mindless ideas of liberation of punjab? if it were the fight for justice to the innocent, i wud have joined u. but u are jus using the plight n misery of the innocent to propagate ur politics
i think the indian government owes no answers, no explanations to terrorists n fools like u.
bhinderwala sed that a sikh shud b a gud sikh, but have u all forgotten sikhism was born to protect the weak. v r corageous n righteous ppl who not only protect themselves but others around us. we are a genre who were born to hear the plight of others and to help others. the roots of sikhism is generosity n care. u r selfish bastards, u see nothing besides ur dumb ideas, not even the true meaning of being a sikh. every indian needs us today, but sum of my brothers r being fooled n trapped n wasted by u. u r not figting for punjab, or sikhs or sikhism, u r fighting for your greed.
india is at a turn point, despite of its major problems, we r on the verge to emerge as a world super power, an oppurtunity to make the lives of all indians better, if there is nothign that u assholes cant help to achieve that goal, then for the sake of sikhs if not india, u all shud kill urself. atleast then u wont b able to kill more innocent hindus n sikhs.
u r in no way opressed, punjab is the richest state in india, one of the most prosperous states. u r fighitng for greed n power, not for sikhism, not for the innocents.
first of all u will never succeed in ur stupid plans. even f u do, u will make the lives of all punjabis miserable, jus because u r foolish enugh to not realize that punjab can not survive widout india.
And the reason y u wont succeed is that bluestar will happen again if needed, and i and all the other true sikhs, the broadminded, and the sane people will be supporting it.
Stop fooling the youth, or we indians will kill u all again.
JAI HIND.
SATNAM WAHE GURU"

... And for more information please visit www.neverforget84.com

Call to Sikh Women Worldwide

(click on image to enlarge)

Sri Guru Jee’s writings help us understand the need for Saadh Sangat in the dark age of Kaljug, where the only true support is that of His Name. Kaurs United sevadaars have a dream to become that Saadh Sangat; the support and strength that many Kaurs are searching for.

Our first camp was graced with some very blessed and pure souls, who were able to contribute to every diwaan, langar, and discussion with all of their knowledge, seva bhaavna (intentions) and experiences. Some highlights from our first camp include the craft gift exchange, late-night simran, amrit vela diwaans, impersonal and personal discussions, the sharing of experiences, pains, and pressures, the divine aura of Guru Nanak Parkash Gurdwara Sahib itself, and the Sangat of so many blooming and blessed daughters of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

For Kaurs United's 2006 Camp, there will be a multitude of challenging, exciting, and inspiring activities. Campers will attend focused lectures and discussions, as well as participate in an array of physical activities like archery, Gatka, fun on the beach, and so much more! [Read full article]

With the infinite Kirpa of Guru Maharaj, Kaurs United hopes to support, inspire, and unite Sikh women around the globe. Please view the poster below and visit www.kaursunited.org for detailed information. Download THIS form to Register

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

UK/European women should really make an effort to attend this camp as it gives them a brilliant opportunity to network with the Canadians, possibly even set up similar camps on our side of the Atlantic.

It's important for the global sangat to get behind projects like this to encourage Sikh women, who are often forgotten when it comes to Sikhi in the mainstream, to ensure our future is as prosperous as our past.

Sikh Girls Under Attack

Click on image to view.

Forward to people, it might help save a naive sister.

Whenever a sister or brother gets converted to any other religion, its not their fault - its ours as a community.

The only reason it happens is because we don't plant the seed of Sikhi within them, they dont learn about their own religion and its greatness so they dont understand what it means to swap it for another.

Great Gursikh's like Bhai Taru Singh ji would rather give their life than their religion.

The Solution?

Learn about your religion through your Guru

Charity Bike Ride - B'ham to Leicester!!

Charity Bike Ride 2006

Sunday 18th June 2006

Birmingham >> Leicester

Birmingham to Leicester Sponsored Charity Bike Ride 2006! Sunday 18th June Come Challenge yourself! 400 years ago Guru Arjan Dev Jee, the beloved fifth Guru of the Sikh faith sacrificed his life in order to uphold the values of truth, equality and freedom of expression. His actions were truly courageous and inspiring to all. In an endeavor to pay a small tribute to the first Sikh martyr and to encourage us to sacrifice a little of our time, energy and good will in homage to Guru Arjan Dev Ji's ultimate sacrifice: BOSS, Midlands Sikh Societies and Young Sikhs Leicester in conjunction with National Bike Week and the local police authorities have come together to support some great causes and have some good-natured fun in the process! This exciting event will support, raise awareness and provide equipment to a couple of great charities. The Gurseva project work tirelessly to assist orphaned children in northern India and in addition to this a local charity will also benefit. (tbc) Leaving bright and early on Sunday 18th June we'll begin our trek from Guru Nanak Gurdwara Smethwick to Guru Tegh Bahadhur Gurdwara in sunny old Leicester! Enjoy the picturesque journey and feel the satisfaction of playing your part in helping those less fortunate than ourselves and sacrificing a little of your time and energy in memory of that great sacrifice made by our Guru. All we ask from you is that you come equipped with a road-worthy bike (no pindu style condition please!) a turban or helmet, loads of enthusiasm, some generous sponsors and most of all be ready for a bundle of laughs (and a bit of sweat!) on the way! Anyone and everyone is welcome. People of all abilities, aged from 14-101 years old! Instead of the usual Sunday sipping tea with uncle and aunty or surfing the net, come out, enjoy the sun, relish the company and do something worthwhile! At the end all participants will receive a t-shirt that your mates will envy, a shiny medal and a certificate so you can prove you completed the challenge! Riders will gain a free entry to a prize draw and there will be a wicked prize for the guy or gal who raises the most money! Now it couldn't get much better then that, could it? So if you can ride a bike and want to make a little difference, while getting fit and having fun in the process then what are you waiting for?? Fill in the application form, add your £10 entrance fee and send it off before the 31st May and be a part of this amazing event. It is limited to only 100 bikers so if you wanna be part of the exclusive network of bikers than hurry up and get those forms in! Check out the sites below for more information… Happy cycling! Application Form (38KB) Consent Form (45KB)

www.youngsikhs.org/bikeride www.bikeweek.org.uk www.gurseva.org bikeride@boss-uk.org

Sikh Video Media on YouTube.com

I've been uploading many of the videos from various websites onto one site for ease of access for the sangat over the past month:

Click Me

This will be gradually updated as time goes on.

** If I have made any errors in not crediting somebody for creating or designing a video please email me and I will edit the video information. **

Also if you know of any other videos that may benefit the global sangat please upload yourself or send the information to me.

Everybody wants to be......

Shaheed Bhai Sukhdev Singh Ji Babbar
(Jathedaar of Babbar Khalsa International)

Sant Jarnail Singh Ji Khalsa Bhindranwale
(14th Jathedaar of DamDami Taksal)

Everybody wants to wear these great Gursikhs on their chests and shout their names at protests and marches but when it comes to looking carefully at their lifestyles we fall short.

It's easy to carry a 3 foot Kirpan, a spear or even an AK47 if the country permits but to have the kamai of these people isnt even comprehendable by people like me.

Sant Jarnail Singh Ji used to read 5 Granthi, 125 Japji Sahibs and 25 ang of Siri Guru Granth Sahib ji as his everyday Nitnem.

The main reason why it was so hard to infiltrate the Babbar Khalsa was because you had to have the Jeevan of a Gursikh, not just the T-shirt. You had to have your 7 Bani's memorised for a start...

How many of the current day Sikhs can lay claim to do these things?

The Bani is the same, the Guru is the same - the weakness is within ourselves.

Start today, say your going to add something to your Nitnem. 5 Japji Sahibs, 1 Hour Vaheguru Simran, a Sukhmani Sahib - tommorow never comes.

The only person holding you back, is you.

Random Thought

"People don't convert to Sikhi,
They realise it within themselves..."

A child once said to a grown Sikh male, "I know about you, you can't cut your hair!!"

The man replied, "It's not that I cant cut my hair, it's that I dont want to".

Sikhi is not about restricting yourself so your forced to do it, its about realising the reasons why you act a certain way.

It's about walking down the street having sinful thoughts in your mind, be it anger, greed or pride and realising at that point "Oh my mind, why are you thinking in such a way"

It's about driving on a cold rainy day, and becoming overwhelmed by the complexitiy of every raindrop falling on your windshield. Being absorbed in the colours of the overcast sky. Being thankful for every emotion that you feel because its a gift to you, even if your mind interprets that as pain.

Only with good karam can we attain this understanding, and when we do - we should try our best to live by these teachings, this mat (Gurmat/Gurus understanding), bestowed upon us by Guru Sahib himself.

Searching, searching, searching, I have come to understand the essence of reality. Without the Naam, there is no peace at all, and the mortal will surely fail.

Many come and go; they die, and die again, and are reincarnated. Without understanding, they are totally useless, and they wander in reincarnation. || 5 || They alone join the Saadh Sangat, unto whom the Lord becomes Merciful. They chant and meditate on the Ambrosial Name of the Lord. || 6 || Uncounted millions, so many they are endless, search for Him. But only that one, who understands his own self, sees God near at hand. || 7 || Never forget me, O Great Giver - please bless me with Your Naam.To sing Your Glorious Praises day and night - O Nanak, this is my heart-felt desire. || 8 || 2 || 5 || 16 ||

Whatever pleases You is True. One who is blessed with true understanding, does not come and go. || 3 || Apply such an ointment to your eyes, which is pleasing to your Beloved. I realize, understand, know Him, only if He Himself causes me to know Him. He Himself shows me the Way, and He Himself leads me to it, attracting my mind.

O Nanak, the One who created the creation, watches over it; He alone bestows understanding. || 9 || 2 || 5 ||

The mind is comforted by the Comforter of the Naam. I fall at the Guru's feet - I am a sacrifice to Him; He has given me to understand the true understanding. || Pause ||

Restrain your fickle mind, and keep it steady within its own home; meeting the Guru, this understanding is obtained.

Prays Nanak, how rare are those who reflect and understand, the most sublime action in this world. The noblest deed is to sing the Lord's Praises, and so meet the Lord Himself. || 4 || 1 || 12 ||

Dear Lord, You Yourself bestow understanding. Dear Lord, I am forever a sacrifice to You; I am dedicated and devoted to Your Name. || Pause ||

Grays Gurdwara Committee Shuns Akal Takht Sandesh

Sunday 4th of June 2006

Panthic Weekly News Bureau

Sikh Temple, 6 Maidstone Road, Grays, Essex, RM17 6NF. Tel: 01735 - 376086

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!!

Grays Sikh Temple, Essex, is to construct a community centre specifically to cater for weddings and parties where meat and alcohol will be served. The total cost of the project is £480k, the Gurdwara will funding £80k of the total build cost.

This is direct violation of the 2006 Sandesh from Sri Akal Takht Sahib stating that Buildings bought or constructed using the Daswand (one tenth of earnings) of the Sikh Sangat or Gurdwara donations are solely to be used for Gurmat purposes and the betterment of society. This Community Centre is being constructed solely to cater for weddings and parties where meat & alcohol will be allowed onto the premises. The Sandesh also states that there is no permission granted for dancing and singing or any acts which go against the principles of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The Community Centre will promote acts against Gurmat.

The plan of the community centre shows that the Gurdwara and the community centre will share the same wall. Currently the community centre is adjoined to the langar hall where parties have been allowing meat and alcohol to be served. The Gurdwara itself is in need of immediate repair and there has been no consideration about refurbishment or improvements.

The initiator of this profane project is Gurdwara Stage Secretary Kewal Dhillion. The Gurdwara Committee have obtained Grant funding of £400k for the community centre.

Gurdwara committees sole purpose to adhere and implement Hukamana’s & Sandesh’s from Sri Akal Takht Sahib, however once the president Balbir Singh Gill & Gen Secretary Harjit Singh where informed about the Sandesh they absolutely refused to acknowledge these principles.

Currently the Gray Panjabi Community do not use the current Gurdwara community centre because it is poorly maintained. Instead, other local facilities are used. Gray Gurdwara is misusing Sangat monies to provide facilities that are not going to benefit the Grays Sikh Community in any way. The Community Centre will not be used for any other purpose apart from reception parties as the committee are unwilling to fund other activities within the centre.

The Gurdwara Committee is exploiting the Anand Karaj cememony by promoting Gurmat activities in the Gurdwara and Manmat (acts against Sikh Principles) Activities in the adjoining Community Centre.

The sole aim of this Gurdwara committee is to make money from selling Sikh Principles. This Gurdwara committee has to realise it position in Sikh Society as promoters of Sikh Principles rather that those who choose to ignore and manipulate Rehit Maryada for their own gains.

Grays Gurdwara committee has to reconsider its plans and not allow meat, alcohol or dancing to happen in a building adjoined to the Gurdwara. The Gurdwara Committee have to recognise the Sovereignty of Sri Akal Takht Sahib and understand that the sole purpose of a Gurdwara committee is to promote Gurmat, and not to partake in any other activity that demeans the status of a Gurdwara.

We ask the Gurdwara committee to confirm its adherence to Rehit Maryada and the Sandesh from Sri Akal Takht Sahib and that it will not use any of the Gurdwara facilities and funds to promote activities that are against Gurmat.

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!!

Respect For Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Campaign.
Tel: 07944-445651
Email: sikhalerts@yahoo.co.uk
www.GuruGranthSahibJi.com

Panthic Article can be found HERE

March For Freedom!!!

 
      

The UK Sikhs have produced a small video trailer for the upcoming
4th June March and Rally.

The dead don't have a voice, so lets make the effort so the world doesnt
forget what happened.

If we forget about '84, nobody else will remember.

Burning Words

"The hottest places in Hell are reserved for those who, in a period of moral crisis, maintain their neutrality."

The Village of Children

This sakhi is an adaption of one of Baba Isher Singh jee's audio tape saakhis.

Something about the village graveyard set it apart. During my travels I had seen literally hundreds of graveyards. Usually graveyards are somber and somewhat resigned under the weight of death. But this one was different: besides been well-kept - which in itself was not unusual - it was designed more like a garden of life than a cradle of death.

What set it truly apart was the cheerfulness of its structure. Its' shady trees and sunny flowers seductively invited me in. Graveyards were my favourite resting places. It seemed that as soon as one exited a womb, Maya (worldy attractions) became a human's sole companion until the gates of a graveyard. Perhaps it was the absence of Maya in such places that kept my hopes of enlightenment alive.

I had left home when I had turned twenty. Although I didn't know it then, I had set out to find a place free of illusions. I had travelled to majestic temples, sober ashrams, holy rivers, renowned sadhus and any other religious place I had been told about, yet my mind was as restless as it was when I had first started. The holy places and the holy people at these places were among the most devout followers of Maya. After more than twelve years of searching, I had given up hope and had reluctantly decided to return home and begin a worldly life. It was on my journey home that I came upon this unusual village graveyard.

Although it was only mid-morning, I gave in to the cry of my aching muscles and entered the graveyard through a small wooden door. I put down my knapsack and looked at some of the tombstones. The tombstones entries always reminded me of my transitory place on earth. But this graveyard was full of surprises. There were three entries on each stone: name of the deceased person, the year of birth and instead of the usual 'death of year' the third entry was 'years of life'. Even more peculiar was that the 'years of life' entries were usually well under twenty. Although it took me all morning, I visited each and every tombstone; and to my utter astonishment, I could not find any 'years of life' over thirty. The most common entry was between ten and twelve. And there were quite a few with zero years of life. I was a curious person by nature (otherwise I would not have been here) and I had seen my share of amazing places. But this place truly mystified me. I decided to look up this "village of children".

I walked about a mile to the village gate. I was surprised to see people of all ages in the village courtyard. The villagers were extremely friendly. They came and not unlike children, touched and greeted me, and offered me all sorts of refreshments and foods. I was quite overwhelmed by their attention and love. Almost all of the villager's manners resembled the innocent nature of children. Even their faces were quite smooth and somewhat glowed with purity.

There was a group of elders sitting around an old banyan tree. I decided to ask them about this heavenly place. I approached the men. They greeted me warmly and at an appropriate time I asked: "Respected sirs, I have seen many places and many people. But even at the most holiest of these places I could not find the life and love that pervades this place. Perhaps I am in a dream...", I trailed off. They all smiled. I hurriedly continued, "I would very much like it if you would kindly explain this rather peculiar place. I was also very intrigued by the graveyard at the entrance of the village. Is it where you bury your young ones?"

After a short pause, the most elderly man spoke: "Traveller, you look like a man who would benefit much from the story I will tell you. Listen carefully and it will change your life." All the men around sat attentively. All the villagers within earshot came and sat to hear the old man speak.

He began, "My grandfather was the Kazi of this village. Each morning, well before sunrise, he would call out to the people and to the heavens with his namaaz (muslim call to prayer). One such morning he was in midst of his prayer when he heard music from the outskirts of the village. He was a devout muslim and was quite horrified to hear music at such a holy hour. He immediately sent some of his followers to put an end to this paganism. But to his surprise, none of them came back. The music meanwhile continued. After a long wait he himself decided to put an end to this unholy activity. So, quite angrily, he strode towards the music. But the closer he got, the more he realized that it wasn't his anger that was responsible for his hurried strides, rather it was the exquisite beauty in the music. Finally when he got close enough to see the music makers, not only did his body lose the ability to move, his mind too stopped the madman's dance it had been doing since his birth. He literally stood rooted to a spot for the duration of the recital. The music cast a spell on him. He travelled inwards to subtle places he had read about only in the scriptures. He would often look back at that moment and dreamily acclaimed, "I drank life to the fullest during those hours".

There was a long pause during which the story teller and the story listeners let the stillness of the story enter the depths of their beings. The elderly man continued: "The music makers were the great Guru Nanak and his companion Mardana jee. I am sure you have heard of him." I meekly nodded and mumbled, "I have, but haven't had the grace of meeting any of his followers".


"That is perhaps why, my friend, you are here," the man prophetically said. "At the end of the recital, my grandfather and all the others present simply surrendered themselves to the Guru. This was largely just a symbolic act because the moment each of them had seen the Guru they had lost themselves to him. Guru Nanak graced this village for three days and three nights. My grandfather named those days the "stillness days" because he said it was during those days that he and others learnt about the One found only within the stillness of the mind. We observe those days like others observe their birthdays. Indeed those days were the birthday of the village's inner life." He chuckled, "If you are impressed with the village now, you should see the love of the villagers in those fine days."

"But, as is the nature of the human mind," the elder soberly continued, "it wasn't long after Guru Nanak's departure that the village started returning to its normal numb and dark existence. This greatly troubled my grandfather and others like him who become Guru Nanak's and Guru Nanak's only. They tried very hard, through teaching and preaching, to keep the message of the Guru alive. Finally, after all normal means failed they came up with the following village tradition: Each villager keeps a diary. It is mandatory that each night before sleep, each person make an entry in the diary. Even children and people who cannot read or write have to get this entry made. The entry is simply the amount of time during the day that was spent in simran or in seva. At the end of the person's life, the entries are accumulated and that, my dear traveller, is the 'years of life' entry you see on the tombstones."

The story teller paused to let the magnitude of what he had told me to sink into me. He continued, "It is perhaps that which allows us to be free with our love. We are reminded each and every day what real life is. The time spent in simran or seva is the only life we consider as been worthy of been called life."

I travelled and searched no more. This indeed was the illusion-less place I was seeking.

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

**********

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