Work In Progress

Florida Jail Refuses to Budge on Discriminatory Prison Policy

2008-10-11T08:24:00.007-04:00

The fight for Sikh prisoner Jagmohan Singh Ahuja's right to keep his kesh (unshorn hair) in prison continues after Duval County Jail (Duval is a county in Florida, USA)officials refused to change discriminatory prison policies to accommodate a Sikh’s religious beliefs within the Jail. It is against Sikh religious practice to cut one’s hair, as kesh (unshorn hair) covered by a dastaar (Sikh turban) is one of five articles of faith which a Sikh must keep at all times. UNITED SIKHS, co-sponsoring organizations, and concerned lawyers have been actively advocating for Jagmohan's religious rights, contacting and writing Governor of Florida Charlie Crist, Mayor John Peyton of Jacksonville/Duval County, Florida State Representatives, the Duval County Sheriff's Department (in charge of the jail), and various federal, state, and local governmental officials.

Even though the Federal Bureau of Prisons and other states accommodate kesh (unshorn hair) covered by a dastaar (Sikh turban), Duval County Jail and the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office have taken strong positions against accommodation. Commenting on the possibility of accommodation, Lauri-Ellen Smith, spokeswoman for the sheriff's office stated, "we cannot do so if the religious practices compromise the security and safety of the correctional facilities. As such, it is required that all sentenced inmates have short hair and not wear head coverings, in order to prevent hiding contraband and/or weapons."

Assistant Chief Redman of Duval County Jail declared the Jail's position stating, "We're well within our rights to cut his hair, and we will continue to do so." Officials did not comment as to why it was possible to accommodate kesh and dastaar in Federal prisons and several other state jails but not in Florida.

Commenting on the jail's position UNITED SIKHS Staff Attorney Jaspreet Singh stated, "we are very concerned that Jagmohan's hair will be cut again in the near future. It is deeply disturbing that the jail would refuse to make any accommodation where examples exist in other ostensibly more secure prisons. The poignant irony of Jagmohan's escape from religious persecution in Afghanistan to now facing it in America should strike a deep chord in any citizen concerned with protecting religious freedom in America." Arvind Singh, a Florida attorney and member of UNITED SIKHS' legal team added, "We [Sikh Americans] are very concerned with the state of our union when a person's inalienable rights are not protected as our founding fathers directed."

UNITED SIKHS is working aggressively on a possible in court solution as well, but the current law on the issue is not favorable to Jagmohan's position and it will be a difficult legal battle. Our legal team is working with various partner organizations and attorneys to research and overcome these legal hurdles, and have been in regular discussion with the Glenn Katon of the American Civil Liberties Union in Florida who has been actively researching and assessing the problematic legal issues in the case. Katon describes the case as one that presents serious difficulties, but states that he is "not convinced that this is un-winnable." Katon further expressed that, "the ACLU is very concerned about this important issue and would like to be on the forefront of changing Florida's discriminatory policy."

Following are some pictures of demonstration that Sikhs from far away places took part in. A bus full of Sikhs came from Miami, some drove in cars from Orlando, Gainesville, Atlanta,GA. There are only about 5 or 6 Sikh families who are resident of Duval county. Give or take, we had about 100 people at the demonstration.

Check out the world's population and other interesting facts...

2008-05-11T12:51:00.003-04:00

This is pretty cool. It’s a world clock and shows you many different things, such as population growth, cars, bicycles produced and lots of other things.

Click here to see the WORLD CLOCK.

Turkish lawmakers vote to lift headscarf ban

2008-02-09T18:36:00.000-05:00

Constitutional amendments alter rules for students, spur fierce opposition.

Turkey's parliament on Saturday approved two constitutional amendments that would lift a decades-old ban on Islamic headscarves in universities, despite the fierce opposition of the secular establishment.

Parliament voted 403-107 in favor of the amendment that would insert a paragraph into the Constitution stating that everyone has the right to equal treatment from state institutions

A Turkish Muslim girl holds the hand of a pupil, both with head scarf, as another one watches them during a pro-Islamist demonstration in Istanbul, Turkey, earlier this month.

Click here to read the complete story on msn.com....

Do we see a victory coming for Sikhs in france too ???? Anyone....

Barak O'bama denies that he is or ever was Muslim....

2008-01-22T18:31:00.000-05:00

I also cry out loud to people who think that I am a Muslim. Sikhs get mistaken to be from Middle East, and to be Muslims. It has been stressed a lot in the past after 9/11 that 99.9 percent of people who wear Turbans in USA are Sikhs. Forget the 99.9%, I say one hundred percent of the people who wear Turbans in USA are Sikhs and only SIKHS. No offense to Muslims and there is nothing wrong in being a Muslim. But it is just wrong for people to assume what religion someone follows based on some frivolous e-mail or based on the looks.

Click here to watch video clip of O'bama interview.

Click here to read the e-mail that has been circulated stating that Barak Obama is a Muslim.

(For people who do not know who Barak Obama is, he is one of the front runners Democratic Presidential Candiate. He hopes to be nominated so that he could contest the Nov. 2008 Presidential elections in the USA. Currently he is serving as a Senetor in the state of Illinois.)

More than Just Do It......

2008-01-13T22:50:00.000-05:00

Image shared from thelangarhall.com

CNN SIU : Pakistan Terror Central.

2007-12-30T14:20:00.001-05:00

Last night there was a special report that was presented on CNN under their special investigation unit title of which was "Pakistan, Terror Central".

In case you guys missed it, there will be I believe a re-run or last part in the series tonight of the same report. Time of telecast is 8 & 11 p.m. eastern, 5 & 8 p.m. pacific American/Canadian time. For other CNN viewrs, please check your local T.V. listings. It shows how wasted the aid of over 10 billion dollars given to Pakistan by United States has gone.

India has been shouting this out loud for many many years, but no one believed them. Now that U.S. see whats coming (specially after Ms. Bhutto's assassination), Americans are starting to believe what India had been stressing for so many years. I hope the next U.S. president declares Pakistan a terrorist state.

Click here to read the Transcript of the telecast.

CNN's Cafferty File.....

2007-12-07T12:25:00.001-05:00

The comments sent by me to one of the question posted by Jack Cafferty in Cafferty File section of Situation Room on CNN got published (and I think was also read on CNN, I missed it so I'm not sure about it).

Read the comments sent by me on Cafferty File

It is the second to last comment on the page.

Original ATC quotes list....

2007-11-25T11:31:00.000-05:00

Following are some hillarious communication recorded between the planes and the tower they are in contact with:

Tower: "Delta 351, you have traffic at 10 o'clock, 6 miles!"
Delta 351: "Give us another hint! We have digital watches!"

Tower: "TWA 2341, for noise abatement turn right 45 Degrees."
TWA 2341: "Centre, we are at 35,000 feet. How much noise can we make up here?"
Tower: "Sir, have you ever heard the noise a 747 makes when it hits a 727?"

A DC-10 had come in a little hot and thus had an exceedingly long roll out after touching down. Tower: "American 751, make a hard right turn at the end of the runway, if you are able. If you are not able, take the Guadalupe exit off Highway 101, make a right at the lights and return to the airport."

Speedbird 206: "Frankfurt, Speedbird 206 clear of active runway."
Ground: "Speedbird 206. Taxi to gate Alpha One-Seven."
The BA 747 pulled onto the main taxiway and slowed to a stop.
Ground: "Speedbird, do you not know where you are going?"
Speedbird 206: "Stand by, Ground, I'm looking up our gate location now."
Ground (with quite arrogant impatience): "Speedbird 206, have you not been to Frankfurt before?"
Speedbird 206 (coolly): "Yes, twice in 1944, but it was dark,... and I didn't land."

Second Officer: "Mumbai, what number am I in the landing sequence?"
Tower: "By the time you land, sir, you will be number one."

Guru Nanak De Vadiyaee....

2007-11-24T15:36:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to all on Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib jee's 538th Parkash Utsav. Following is some interesting information that I found on the net.

Blessed by Guru Nanak Dev jee, the Bhatti family of Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib in Pakistan) has been a shining example of Muslim-Sikh brotherhood for over half a millennium. Rai Bular Bhatti, a contemporary of Guru Nanak Dev jee and a devout Muslim, became Guru Nanak’s second disciple. After Bibi Nanki, Guru Nanak Dev jee’s sister, he was the second person to recognise that Guru Nanak was no ordinary mortal and that he was a divine soul.

Rai Bular Bhatti’s haveli in Nankana Sahib (Pakistan) was frequented by Guru Nanak Dev jee during his childhood.

According to historians, originally, the Rais were Bhatti Rajputs and Rai Bular, a contemporary of Guru Nanak Dev jee, was the ruler of Rai Bhoe di Talwandi where Nankana Sahib is now located (in Pakistan). Mehta Kalyan Das (Kalu), a well-read person of Bedi caste, was an employee of Rai Bular. Guru Nanak Dev Sahib jee was born to Mehta Kalu and his wife Mata Tripta in 1469, at a place now known as Janam Asthan in Nankana Sahib town, which is now also a district. Sakhis, pertaining to the life of Guru Nanak, feature Rai Bular repeatedly. In the sakhi where villagers are furious about Nanak's cattle eating their crop, it is Rai Bular who got the crop surveyed and found it to be undamaged. In yet another sakhi, Rai Bular is said to have spotted a hooded cobra providing shade to the sleeping Guru Nanak. This strengthened his belief that Guru Nanak was no ordinary mortal. The blessings the Bhatti family received have seen them prosper through 19 generations in five centuries.

Rai Saleem Bhatti (left, 19th generation) with his father Rai Akram Bhatti (18th generation) at their home in Nankana Sahib. Both have strong faith in Sikhism and regulary participate in Sikh congregations.

According to the ancient revenue records in possession of the family, Rai Bular gave 247 murabas of land to Gurdwara Janam Asthan along with an annual jagir of Rs 9996. He also gave another 220 murabas to Gurdwara Bal Lila and extended an annual jagir of Rs 31 and another 290 muraba and annual grant of Rs 50 to Gurdwara Mal Sahib. This entire land of Nanakana Sahib given to Guru Nanak by Rai Bular amounts to 757 murabas (approx. 18,750 acres) and is now controlled by the Evacuee Trust Property Board of Pakistan and leased out to the people of Nankana Sahib.Today the Nankana Sahib Estate consists of about 16,962 acres, mainly leased to farmers and residents of Nankana Sahib. Almost all houses in Nankana Sahib are built on the property donated by the Bhatti family. "Babaji" (as Guru Nanak is affectionately called by the Bhatti family), says Rai Mohammad Saleem Akram Bhatti, the 19th generation descendant of Rai Bular, "is revered by all of us as our father."

Rai Hadayat Bhatti (top), the 17th descendent of Rai Bular, lead a Sikh procession to mark Guru Nanak's 500th parkash utsav. Rai Hussain Bhatti (bottom) escorted 1000 sikhs to safety during India's partition.

Though all members of the family have always been close to the Sikh community, Rai Hadayat Khan Bhatti, the 17th descendant of Rai Bular, deserves a special mention as he devoted a lot of time to strengthening Sikh-Muslim relations. He led the Sikh procession on the occasion of the 500th anniversary of Guru Nanak. He inculcated the spirit of service in his two sons, Rai Aslam Bhatti and Rai Akram Bhatti (pictured in second photo from the top), who conducted Sikh pilgrims to the gurdwara and invited them for food at their house.

Rai Akram Bhatti, a practising lawyer at Nankana Sahib welcomes Sikh pilgrims with open arms to his house. His faith in Sikhism is so strong that he says that he owes the birth of his elder son Rai Mohammad Saleem Akram Bhatti to the blessings of Baba Nanak. Saleem, a young criminal lawyer at the Lahore High Court, says: "It is because of Baba Nanak that I am in this world. For us Babaji has a special place in our lives and our family is blessed because of the grace bestowed upon us by Baba Nanak."

Maharaja Ranjit Singh, too, had acknowledged the role of this extraordinary family and its immense contribution to Sikhsm. Ranjit Singh bestowed upon Rai Issa Khan (15th generation) the title of Rai Bhadur and he was made the in charge of a sub-jail in Thatta Issa village. He was also appointed honorary magistrate and given the duty to collect the revenue.

"Militancy in Punjab in the 1980s had a direct impact on the pilgrim flow to Nankana Sahib. We are happy that with the return of peace, the number of pilgrims has risen, giving the Bhattis an opportunity to serve them," says Rai Akram Bhatti.

Source : Article edited from Tribune.

Also, The Gurpurbs "Jyoti Jot Guru TegBahadur" and "Guru Gaddi Guru Gobind Rai" falls today.

Captured by Nature......

2007-11-23T16:25:00.000-05:00

Today I took my daughter to a near by park where she was amused to see the wildlife. She was so engrossed in watching birds and animals that I had a hard time to convince her to get back in the car to go home. That's why I chose the title : "Captured by Nature".

Some Pictures of 2007....

2007-11-20T09:16:00.001-05:00

A child labourer carries bricks in Bihar-e-Sharif town, about 60 km (37 miles) from Patna, India.

A bloodied and mud covered Eileen Shannon (C) is led away by Kieran Beer (L) and a policewoman from the scene of an explosion near Grand Central Station in New York, July 18, 2007. A transformer exploded in midtown Manhattan, creating a roar and a huge plume of smoke and sending pedestrians fleeing from the area in scenes reminiscent of the Sept. 11 attacks.

A worker cleans the windows of an apartment block in Beijing's central buisiness district.

A Sadhu, or holy man, holds a poster of Indian cricketers and shouts slogans for their good luck at Sangam, the confluence of three rivers, the Ganges, the Yamuna and the Saraswati, in the northern Indian city of Allahabad.

Desiree Fairooz of Texas, 50, jumps up in front of Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice before Rice testifies before the House Foreign Affairs Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington October 24, 2007. Fairooz, an anti-war protester waved blood-colored hands in Rice's face at a congressional hearing and shouted "war criminal!", but was pushed away and detained by police.

Pictures courtsey Reuters.

Southern California Wild Fires....

2007-10-31T07:28:00.000-04:00

Flying SIKHs or Flying While Sikh (in the USA)....

2007-10-26T18:09:00.000-04:00

Washington DC, (October 27, 2007) - Tomorrow the United States Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will implement new procedures for screening Sikh turbans. Sikh air travelers will have to know their rights in order to assert them properly during security screenings at U.S. airports.

To help you do that, the Sikh Coalition, UNITED SIKHS and SALDEF have developed the attached fact sheet for Sikh travelers. Read the fact sheet carefully before you go to the airport. It explains precisely what to expect, and tells you what your rights are as a Sikh passenger. Carry it with you when you fly.

REMEMBER, we have not finished this fight yet. The Sikh Coalition needs to keep track of how the TSA is implementing the new process, to make sure that Sikhs are not being singled out for additional screenings. If you travel through the U.S in the next few months, please tell us about your screening experience - good or bad. This will help us monitor problem airports and show the TSA how the new policy falls short.

To tell us about your screening experience, click here or visit our website at www.sikhcoalition.org.

Download Sikh Air Traveler's Guide and Bill of Rights in English.

Download Sikh Air Traveler's Guide and Bill of Rights in Punjabi.

Another Win for Sikh Coalition & the Sikhs...

2007-10-24T21:46:00.000-04:00

Brecksville, Ohio (October 24, 2007) - An AT&T office in Brecksville, Ohio has reversed its workplace ban against kirpans. Harcharan Singh (Sandhu), an IT consultant from India will be allowed to continue consulting for AT&T and will not be sent back to India. AT&T reversed its decision one week after the Sikh Coalition's intervention.

Harcharan Singh is an amritdhari Sikh employed by called Tech Mahindra. As mandated by his faith, he carries a kirpan. Tech Mahindra sent him from India to Brecksville, Ohio in May of 2007 to provide IT consulting services for AT&T. Shortly after Harcharan Singh started, he voluntarily disclosed to Tech Mahindra and AT&T that he carried a kirpan. Over the course of the summer the two companies discussed the issue of whether Mr. Sandhu should be allowed to carry his kirpan while working at AT&T.

Initially Told He Could Not Carry His Kirpan and that He Would Be Sent Back to IndiaOn September 18, 2007, Tech Mahindra informed Harcharan Singh that AT&T would not allow him to wear a kirpan in the workplace. They gave him an ultimatum: Give up his kirpan in the workplace, or give up his assignment and go back to India.

Harcharan Singh contacted the Sikh Coalition later that day. On the morning of September 19, 2007, the Coalition faxed a letter to a Senior Technical Director at AT&T that explained the significance of the kirpan and requested that the company reconsider its decision. The letter included the Coalition's now standard twenty-eight page compilation of legal argument and precedent on the kirpan and Sikhs' right to carry it.

After reading the letter and attachments, the Senior Technical Director expressed to Harcharan Singh his belief that the kirpan was religious article and should be allowed in the workplace. However, the Director's superiors at AT&T told him that they must first have staff from the corporate security department view his kirpan before making a final decision. AT&T allowed Harcharan Singh to continue working from its Brecksville, OH office pending its decision.
Final DecisionA week later, on September 26, 2007, a corporate security staff member from AT&T's office in Columbus, OH viewed his kirpan and took pictures of it. The next day, on September 27, 2007, AT&T informed Tech Mahindra that it would reverse its initial decision and allow him to carry his kirpan in its workplace.

Harcharan Singh remains in the U.S. and continues to proudly wear his kirpan in his workplace at AT&T.

The Coalition would like to thank AT&T for its prompt attention to its concerns and its work to ensure the workplace is respectful of America's diversity.

---------------------
We urge all Sikhs to practice their faith fearlessly. If someone tells you to remove your articles of faith, please report the incident online at www.sikhcoalition.org/ListReports.asp.

Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh!

SALDEF (Sikh) Struggle paid off......

2007-10-20T17:14:00.000-04:00

SALDEF Celebrates Achievements of Sikh Americans and Civil Rights Leaders at 2007 Civil Rights Awards Banquet

SALDEF receives Congressional Citation from Congressman Chris Van Hollen

Washington, D.C.: October 19, 2007 - On October 11, 2007, Sikh Americans and civil rights leaders from across the nation gathered to join the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF), the nation’s oldest and largest Sikh American civil rights and advocacy organization, to recognize individuals who have helped in the empowerment and development of the Sikh American Community.

The Reverand Dr. C. Welton Gaddy, President of the Interfaith Alliance, set the tone of the evening with his keynote address, “When the next chapter of the Civil Rights struggle is written, not only will there be the names of King and Height, Bond and Parks, there will be the names Singh and Kaur.” Rev. Gaddy reflected on the recent controversy over the turban screening policy, “Your current struggle in the Sikh community, your current struggle with the TSA, highlights the sad challenge that stems from ignorance about religion, and the fear that is eroding the foundation of our Constitution.” Rev. Gaddy praised the efforts of the Sikh community, “Of all of the religious traditions that I know of in this nation, the Sikh community has done a better job identifying itself to the American public than any other religious group.” View Rev. Gaddy's remarks here.

Congressman Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) presented a Congressional Citation to SALDEF for “working to guarantee civil rights…and encourage[ing] our community to embrace and appreciate its diversity.”

Sardar Ujagar Singh was honored with the Bhagat Singh Thind Community Empowerment Award for his decades of sewa (selfless-service) and dedication to Sikh American youth. Through Camp Chardi Kala, Sardar Ujagar Singh has educated and inspired countless Sikh American youth and filled them with the pride in their faith. Sardar Singh noted the success of his campers and the work SALDEF is doing for the community. Watch Sardar Ujagar Singh's remarks here.

Julian Bond, Chairman of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, received the Dorothy Height Coalition Building Award for his lifetime dedication to advancing the civil rights of all Americans. Rev. Gaddy praised Julian Bond as “a living example of a reason not to lose hope.” Mr. Bond shared, “You couldn’t help but sit through this evening and not recognize the commonality between us. If you are a human being you have equal rights, and those equal rights must be respected not only by your fellow humans, but by the states in which you live. It is encouraging to see others struggling for this common cause.” Watch Julian Bond's remarks here.

SALDEF Public Service Award recipient, Daniel Sutherland, Officer for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, Department of Homeland Security, said, “SALDEF has really been at the forefront of so many civil rights issues…[not] just in Washington, but…around the country.” Mr. Sutherland has been a dedicated government leader working to protect the nation and the civil rights of all Americans. Instrumental in educating the government about the Sikh American community, Mr. Sutherland provided his personal leadership and guidance for the creation of the poster, Sikh Americans and the Kirpan. View Daniel Sutherland's remarks here.

Sukhman Singh Dhami and Jaskaran Kaur received the SALDEF Youth Leadership Award for their work with ENSAAF, an international human rights organization working to end impunity and find justice for human rights victims in Punjab. Mr. Dhami and Ms. Kaur are examples of the inspiring dedication in ensuring that “injustices are never issues of the past” and “survivors of human rights abuses [see] justice and reparations.”

The Dalip Singh Saund Legislative Leadership Award was awarded to Congressman John Lewis (D-GA) for his dedication to championing the civil and human rights of all Americans.

Commissioner Stuart Ishimaru of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission shared his desire to continue to work with SALDEF and the Sikh American community to combat employment discrimination and ensure civil rights. “I am truly impressed at all of the work that has been done… but there is a lot of work to do. Keep it up.” View the Commissioner's remarks.

SALDEF thanks Sardar Ujagar Singh, Daniel Sutherland and the staff of the Office of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties at the Department Homeland Security, Sukhman Dhami, Jaskaran Kaur, Julian Bond, Reverend C. Welton Gaddy, Congressman John Lewis, Congressman Chris Van Hollen, Commissioner Stuart Ishimaru, and all of our friends and colleagues for their support of the Sikh American community.

SALDEF thanks our many sponsors and supporters, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Chardhi Kaala Sikh Community Center, R-Systems Inc, the Office of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties at the Department of Homeland Security, the Sikh Education and Charitable Trust, Discover Help, and the Sikh Center of the San Francisco Bay Area, and our many community sponsors and volunteers for their support for making this a memorable event.

SELECT A CANDIDATE FOR 2008 (US ELECTIONS)

2007-10-03T08:14:00.000-04:00

The following is an interesting exercise.... You answer a few questions then click the "find your candidate button" and the program selects the candidate who's position on the issues is most like your own... You may be surprised at what you find... I was.... Click the following link....

Select a Candidate for 2008 US presidential Elections.

Random web pictures.....

2007-09-25T08:38:00.000-04:00

Is the sun dying? Or just playing peek-a-boo?

Jet from the Sun? Or Sunjet Airways?

How much the world lives on energy drinks?

Stop Religious Profiling @ US Airports

2007-09-06T08:33:00.000-04:00

Many Sikhs are very concerned about a recent policy shift in screening procedures for the Sikh turban in United States airports. The Sikh Coalition has organized an online petition to Michael Chertoff, the Secretary of Homeland Secruty.

Sign the Petition

PS. Please put this up on your blog so that we can have as many singnatures as possible.

2007-08-26T10:05:00.000-04:00

A helicopter drops water onto the hotspots as it flies through the smoke caused by the fire near Tahoe City, California.

Collective Punishment Is Unjust

2007-08-11T14:06:00.000-04:00

Several religions promote stories about the destruction of entire settlements because of a perceived wrong. When Guru Nanak Dev ji reached Sialkot on one of his preaching tours, the people came to see him and tell him that they were greatly worried about their city. The Guru asked them what the reason was for this concern. They said that a Muslim mystic, or Pir, named Hamza Gaus had gone on a 40-day meditation to destroy the city and its residents. This was because he was angry with the behavior of one person. He made a decision to use his mystical powers to make the whole city sink into the earth and vanish forever. Guru Nanak Dev reassured the people that no such harm could come to them. He advised them to remember God and return to their daily routines.

The Guru went to the place where the Muslim Pir had locked himself in a chamber in which he sat meditating to destroy the city. Bhai Mardana was asked to play on the rebeck while the Guru started singing a shabad. The Pir heard the music and virtues of God sung outside his chamber. He broke his 40-day continuous meditation, opened the door and came out. He was surprised and angered to see the Guru and his associates. He asked them, "Who are you? Why have you come here and interrupted my meditation?"

The Guru told him to calm down and reminded him that holy men are expected to serve and help the people with the virtues God bestows on them. It is a sin to use holy authority to harm people. The Pir insisted that all the people of the city were evil. None possessed any goodness. They all deserved to be destroyed. The Guru decided to challenge him. He gave some money to his associate and sent him to the city to purchase a packet each of 'truth' and 'falsehood'.

The associate went to the city and moved from shop to shop asking for truth and falsehood. He always got a negative answer to his query. Finally, he contacted Bhai Moola. Bhai Moola took the money and wrote on a piece of paper, "Marna Sach, Jeona Jhuth - Truth is encountered in death, and falsehood in life."

The Guru showed this message to the Pir and warned him that he was totally wrong to think of doing any harm to someone who had such a deep understanding of morality. There were people in the town who knew and understood that life is temporary, while death is a surety. Hence, we should live according to this truth.

The Pir confessed that he was wrong to believe that everybody was bad and needed to be destroyed. He decided to use his authority to serve the people rather than frighten them.

Stereotyping entire groups based on the actions of a few is counterproductive and wrong, as it leads to a false sense of superiority.

A Sikh Director of a Government Body....

2007-07-30T11:23:00.001-04:00

Sardar Harpal Singh Kapoor is the Director of Miami Dade County Transit System in Florida, USA.

Another Video of the same session.

2007-07-30T11:18:00.001-04:00

Tough Sheriff - Joe Arpaio...

2007-07-18T15:36:00.001-04:00

Following is reproduction of the parts of an e-mail that I recieved today. I even left as it was, the color choice of the text that the sender selected.

TO THOSE OF YOU NOT FAMILIAR WITH JOE ARPAIO HE IS THE MARICOPA ARIZONA COUNTY SHERIFF AND HE KEEPS GETTING ELECTED OVER AND OVER.

THESE ARE THE REASONS WHY:

Sheriff Joe Arpaio (in Arizona) who created the "tent city jail": He has jail meals down to 40 cents a serving and charges the inmates for them. He stopped smoking and porno magazines in the jails. Took away their weights. Cut off all but "G" movies.

He started chain gangs so the inmates could do free work on county and city projects.

Then he started chain gangs for women so he wouldn't get sued for discrimination.

He took away cable TV until he found out there was a federal court order that required cable TV for jails. So he hooked up the cable TV again only let in the Disney channel and the weather channel. When asked why the weather channel he replied, so they will know how hot it's gonna be while they are working on my chain gangs.

He cut off coffee since it has zero nutritional value. When the inmates complained, he told them,"This isn't the Ritz/Carlton. If you don't like it, don't come back."

With temperatures being even hotter than usual in Phoenix(116 degrees just set a new record), the Associated Press reports: About 2,000 inmates living in a barbed-wire-surrounded tent encampment at the Maricopa County Jail have been given permission to strip down to their government-issued pink boxer shorts.

On Wednesday, hundreds of men wearing boxers were either curled up on their bunk beds or chatted in the tents, which reached 138 degrees inside, the week before. Many were also swathed in wet, pink towels as sweat collected on their chests and dripped down to their pink socks. "It feels like we are in a furnace," said James Zanzot, an inmate who has lived in the tents for 1 year. "It's in-humane."

Joe Arpaio, the tough-guy sheriff who created the tent city and long ago started making his prisoners wear pink,and eat bologna sandwiches, is not one bit sympathetic. He said Wednesday that he told all of the inmates:

"It's 120 degrees in Iraq and our soldiers are living in tents too,and they have to wear full battle gear, but they didn't commit any crimes, so shut your damned mouths!"

Way to go, Sheriff! Maybe if all prisons were like this one, there would be a lot less crime and/or repeat offenders. Criminals should be punished for their crimes - not live in luxury until it's time for their parole, only to go out and commit another crime so they can get back in to live on taxpayers money and enjoy things taxpayers can't afford to have for themselves.

Sheriff Joe was just reelected Sheriff in Maricopa County, Arizona.

Food for thought.....

2007-07-10T09:14:00.000-04:00

An American businessman was at the pier of a small coastal Mexican village when a small boat with just one fisherman docked. Inside the small boat were several large yellowfin tuna. The American complimented the Mexican on the quality of his fish and asked how long it took to catch them. The Mexican replied, "Only a little while, Senor."

The American then asked, "Why didn't you stay out longer and catch more fish?" The Mexican said he had enough to support his family's immediate needs. The American then asked, "But what do you do with the rest of your time?"

The Mexican fisherman said, "I sleep late, fish a little, play with my children, take siesta with my wife, Maria, stroll into the village each evening where I sip wine and play guitar with my amigos. I have a full and busy life, Senor."

The American scoffed, "I am a Harvard MBA and could help you. You should spend more time fishing and with the proceeds, buy a bigger boat. With the proceeds from the bigger boat you could buy several boats, eventually you would have a fleet of fishing boats. Instead of selling your catch to a middleman you would sell directly to theprocessor, eventually opening your own cannery. You would control the product, processing and distribution. You would need to leave this small coastal fishing village and move to Mexico City, then LA and eventually NYC where you will run your expanding enterprise."

The Mexican fisherman asked, "But Senor, how long will this all take?"

To which the American replied, "15-20 years."

"But what then, Senor?"

The American laughed and said, "That's the best part. When the time is right you would announce an IPO and sell your company stock to the public a nd become very rich, you would make millions."

"Millions, Senor? Then what?"

The American said, "Then you would retire. Move to a small coastal fishing village where you would sleep late, fish a little, play with your kids, take siesta with your wife, stroll to the village in the evenings where you could sip wine and play your guitar with your amigos."

"You mean being a Harvard MBA, you have to go through all that to finally get to where I already am, Senor?"

Ektaone.com has a new name....

2007-07-03T09:46:00.000-04:00

Ektaone.com is now Sikhroots.com

Bhagat Kabeer jeeoo...

2007-07-02T16:40:00.000-04:00

Kabir was one of India’s leading spiritual saints who lived in the northern part of India in (and around) the holy city of Benares (also called Varanasi). He is widely renowned for his pithy couplets and songs that connect life and spirituality in a simple yet powerful way. His words were in a universal language that, literally and figuratively, broke down barriers to experiencing the divine.

Very little appears to be known about Kabeer jee with any degree of certainty. Hindus want him to be a representative of their religion. They claim that he was born to a Hindu woman, even though he was raised by a Muslim family and that he was a disciple of a Hindu Guru, Ramananda. Muslims tend to emphasize his Muslim upbringing and his initiation into the Sufi traditions. The celibate/ascetic sects claim that Kabeer never married and if evidence of his marriage is presented, they retort that he never had an intimate relationship with his wife. Sikh and Shabad-based traditions say that the essence of Kabeer’s practice was based on tuning in to the internal sounds. Even though his exact birth and death times cannot be ascertained reliably, it is quite likely that he lived beyond the age of 50. He was not formally educated because his songs and couplets lack the erudite tone and have a refreshing rustic quality. That he may have been a weaver is evident from his songs and couplets that draw inspiration and metaphors from the weaving profession. It is also likely that he was born and brought up poor and continued to work throughout his life as he strongly upheld the working-to-earn way of life.

What is clear is that Kabeer was courageous enough to speak his truth even in face of societal pressures and coercion. From his work, we know that he was quite critical of hypocrisy especially among religious leaders. Even though we cannot ascertain whether he was tolerant of genuine devotees who worshipped physical forms of God, we can be reasonably confident that his own spiritual path was focused more on an internal form of devotion to God and Guru – terms that he often used interchangeably to convey the cosmic force. In essence, the core of Kabir’s life and teachings are based on honesty, truth, conviction and simplicity, renewed continuously by inner experience and propelled by an unceasing detachment from the web of physical and mental realities.

Kabeer speaks to us in a direct and uninhibited tone that invariably shakes us out of our slumber-like existence. His candid and frank style is so beautiful and refreshingly crisp. The instructions are simple yet deep, obvious yet multi-layered, challenging yet caring, powerful yet empowering, irreverent yet deeply devotional. Indeed, Kabeer, lived what he preached, or, more accurately, preached what he lived. Like a true master, he always spoke the highest truth regardless of the circumstances. Kabeer’s completeness and humility becomes obvious in how he addresses every seeker as a Sadhu and himself as the commoner, Kabeera. Sometimes one gets the feeling that the conversational teachings of Kabeer, are actually a dialog between Kabeer, the Master and Kabeer, the disciple, inside of him. Despite his open criticism of dogmas and sects, Kabeer is very embracing of every seeker and includes himself in that category.

Article by - Maalok.

Guru Nanak Dev Sahib jee & Duni Chand...

2007-06-22T07:41:00.000-04:00

The Guru proceeded to the river Ravi and then to Lahore. The Lahore territory was then taken care of, for the Emperor by a millionaire Khatri, whose name was Duni Chand. He was performing the ceremony of "Shradh" (a ritual where food is offered to holy men in a hope that it reaches the dead ancestors) for his deceased father, when he heard of Guru Nanak's arrival. He took the Guru to his house, and treated him with great affection. When everything was ready for the anniversary feast, Duni Chand began to feed the Brahmans.

The Guru, on being summoned, asked what the matter was. Duni Chand replied that it was his father's shradh, and that he had fed one hundred Brahmans in his name. The Guru replied, It is now two days since his father had eaten anything, and yet you say you have fed one hundred Brahmans for him. Duni Chand asked where his father was. The Guru replied that he had been re-incarnate as a wolf, which was now in a clump of trees in the near by forest. The reason his father's soul had entered a wolf was, that while he was on death bay, he had coveted meat which was being cooked by a neighbour, and had died in that desire.

The Guru, on seeing several flags over Duni Chand's door, asked why the flags were put there. He explained that each flag represents a lakh (100,000) rupees which Duni Chand had accumulated. On this the Guru gave him a needle, and told him to keep it until he asked for it in the next world. Duni Chand took the needle to his wife, and told her to put it by for the purpose indicated. She believed her husband has gone crazy, and asked him how a needle could go to the next world.

Duni Chand took the needle with his wife's message to the Guru, who said, 'If such a small and light thing as a needle cannot go to the next world, how can your wealth reach there?' Upon this Duni Chand fell at Guru ji feet, and prayed to tell him by what means his wealth should reach the next world. The Guru replied, "Give some of your wealth in God's name, feed the poor, and your wealth shall accompany you." Upon this Duni Chand distributed seven lakhs of treasure, for he understood that disobedience to the Guru's order would militate against his salvation. He then became a disciple of the Guru, and began to repeat the Naam.

Guru Nanak uttered the following Shabad on the occasion: (Asa Ki Var) SGGS p.468

salok ma 1
Salok, First Mehla:

koorr raajaa koorr parajaa koorr sabh sa(n)saar
False is the king, false are the subjects; false is the whole world.

koorr ma(n)ddap koorr maarree koorr baisanehaar
False is the mansion, false are the skyscrapers; false are those who live in them.

koorr sueinaa koorr rupaa koorr painhanehaar
False is gold, and false is silver; false are those who wear them.

koorr kaaeiaa koorr kaparr koorr roop apaar
False is the body, false are the clothes; false is incomparable beauty.

koorr meeaa koorr beebee khap hoeae khaar
False is the husband, false is the wife; they mourn and waste away.

koorr koorrai naehu lagaa visariaa karathaar
The false ones love falsehood, and forget their Creator.

kis naal keechai dhosathee sabh jag chalanehaar
With whom should I become friends, if all the world shall pass away?

koorr mit(h)aa koorr maakhio koorr ddobae poor
False is sweetness, false is honey; through falsehood, boat-loads of men have drowned.

naanak vakhaanai baenathee thudhh baajh koorro koorr 1
Nanak speaks this prayer: without You, Lord, everything is totally false. 1

source:sikhiwiki

Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Arjan Dev Sahib jee, Saheedan de Sartaj...

2007-06-15T11:05:00.000-04:00

June 16th is the Saheedi Gurupurb of Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Arjan Dev Sahib jee. Following is the brief account of the event leading to Guru Sahibs Saheedi. (compiled from various web-sites)

Mugal Emperor Akbar died and was succeeded by Jahangir. Jahangir was a person of lax morals, pleasure loving and fond of drinking. He left much of the administration duties of running his kingdom to others. Because of his lax morals Jahangir set out to please the orthodox Muslim clergy which he knew did not approve of the tolerant attitude that his father Akbar had previously displayed to other religions.

Jahangir wrote the following in his memoirs called Tuzak-i-Jehangiri; "At Goindwal on the banks of the river Beas, lived a Hindu, Arjan by name, in the garb of a Pir or Sheikh. Thus, many innocent Hindus and even foolish and ignorant Muslims he brought into his fold who beat the drum noisily of his self-appointed prophethood. He was called Guru. From all sides, worshippers came to offer their homage to him and put full trust in his word. For three or four generations, they had warmed up this shop. For a long time I had harbored the wish that I should set aside this shop of falsehood or I should bring him into the fold of Islam." Jahangir further writes; "In these days, Khusro (Jahangir's rebel son) passed through this way. The foolish person resolved to call on him. Khusro halted for a time at this place and this man came to see him and discoursed with him on many matters and also applied with saffron on his forehead what the Hindus call kashkeh (tilak) and consider a good omen. When I heard this account personally, I knew about his false pretenses. So I ordered that he be brought into my presence, that his property be confiscated and his sons and other possessions be made over to Murtaza Khan and he be dealt with in accordance with the political and common law of the land."

When Guru Arjan received the summons to appear before Jahangir, he knew that it was not a good sign. The Guru declared that his son Hargobind should be installed as the next Guru.

Upon reaching Lahore, Jahangir demanded that Guru Arjan Dev revise the Holy Granth, removing all references to Islam and Hinduism. This of course the Guru refused to do. Since Jahangir was on his way to Kashmir, he asked Murtaza Khan to deal with the Guru.

Murtaza Khan immediately jailed the Guru, and ordered the Guru Arjan Dev to be tortured to death if he did not agree to remove the alleged derogatory references in the Holy Granth. The Guru was cruelly tortured. He was made to sit on a red hot iron sheet. They poured burning hot sand on his body. The Guru was dipped in boiling water. He bore all of these brutalities with calm serenity, for five long days he was tortured. When the torturers found the Guru unresponsive to their torture they did not know what to do. On May 30, 1606 the Guru asked for a bath in the river Ravi by the side of the Mughal fort. Thousands of followers watched the Guru make his way to the river with tears in their eyes. His bare body was covered with blisters, Guru Arjan Dev repeated over and over; "Sweet is Your will, O God; the gift of your Name alone I seek." The Guru then calmly walked into the river bank, bidding his farewell to his followers and was gone forever, his body carried away by the currents. This act of brutality in ending such a saintly life with such cruelty was to forever change the course of Sikhism.

Stolen Car...

2007-06-09T01:39:00.000-04:00

The following joke made me laugh pretty hard....

A drunk phoned the police to report that thieves had broken in to his car.

"They've stolen the dashboard, steering wheel, break pedal, even the accelerator," he cried out.

However, before the police investigation could get under way the phone rang a second time, with the same voice came over the line. "Never mind," said the drunk with a hiccup, "I got in the backseat by mistake."

Michael Moore's SiCKO Trailer

2007-06-08T00:31:00.001-04:00

Amritdhaari Girl Converts To Islam?

2007-06-06T21:05:00.001-04:00

Above winning or losing.....

2007-06-06T16:26:00.000-04:00

This is an e-mail I have recieved that is a very touching story. I know it seems long to read but it is worth it. Read on....

At a fundraising dinner for a school that serves learning-disabled children,the father of one of the students delivered a speech that would never be forgotten by all who attended. After extolling the school and its dedicated staff, he offered a question: "When not interfered with by outside influences, everything nature does is done with perfection. Yet my son,Shay, cannot learn things as other children do. He cannot understand things as other children do. Where is the natural order of things in my son?"

The audience was stilled by the query.

The father continued. "I believe, that, when a child like Shay, physically and mentally handicapped comes into the world, an opportunity to realize true human nature presents itself, and it comes in the way other people treat that child."

Then he told the following story:

Shay and his father had walked past a park where some boys Shay knew were playing baseball. Shay asked, "Do you think they'll let me play?" Shay's father knew that most of the boys would not want someone like Shay on their team, but the father also understood that if his son were allowed to play,it would give him a much-needed sense of belonging and some confidence to be accepted by others in spite of his handicaps.

Shay's father approached one of the boys on the field and asked (notexpecting much) if Shay could play. The boy looked around for guidance and said, "We're losing by six runs and the game is in the eighth inning. I guess he can be on our team and we'll try to put him in to bat in the ninth inning."

Shay struggled over to the team's bench and, with a broad smile, put on a team shirt. His Father watched with a small tear in his eye and warmth in his heart. The boys saw the father's joy at his son being accepted. In the bottom of the eighth inning, Shay's team scored a few runs but was still behind by three. In the top of the ninth inning, Shay put on a glove and played in the right field. Even though no hits came his way, he was obviously ecstatic just to be in the game and on the field, grinning from ear to ear as his father waved to him from the stands. In the bottom of the ninth inning, Shay's team scored again. Now, with two outs and the bases loaded, the potential winning run was on base and Shay was scheduled to be next at bat.

At this juncture, do they let Shay bat and give away their chance to win the game? Surprisingly, Shay was given the bat. Everyone knew that a hit was all but impossible because Shay didn't even know how to hold the bat properly,much less connect with the ball.

However, as Shay stepped up to the plate, the pitcher, recognizing that the other team was putting winning aside for this moment in Shay's life, moved in a few steps to lob the ball in softly so Shay could at least make contact. The first pitch came and Shay swung clumsily and missed. The pitcher again took a few steps forward to toss the ball softly towards Shay. As the pitch came in, Shay swung at the ball and hit a slow ground ball right back to the pitcher.

The game would now be over. The pitcher picked up the soft grounder and could have easily thrown the ball to the first baseman. Shay would have been out and that would have been the end of the game.

Instead, the pitcher threw the ball right over the first baseman's head, outof reach of all team mates. Everyone from the stands and both teams started yelling, "Shay, run to first! Run to first!" Never in his life had Shay ever run that far, but he made it to first base. He scampered down the baseline,wide-eyed and startled.

Everyone yelled, "Run to second, run to second!" Catching his breath, Shay awkwardly ran towards second, gleaming and struggling to make it to the base. By the time Shay rounded towards second base, the right fielder had the ball ... the smallest guy on their team who now had his first chance to be the hero for his team. He could have thrown the ball to the second-baseman for the tag, but he understood the pitcher's intentions so he, too, intentionally threw the ball high and far over the third-baseman's head. Shay ran toward third base deliriously as the runners ahead of him circled the bases toward home.

All were screaming, "Shay, Shay, Shay, all the Way Shay". Shay reached third base because the opposing short stop ran to help him by turning him in the direction of third base, and shouted, "Run to third!Shay, run to third!"

As Shay rounded third, the boys from both teams, and the spectators, were ontheir feet screaming, "Shay, run home! Run home!" Shay ran to home, stepped on the plate, and was cheered as the hero who hit the grand slam and won thegame for his team.

"That day", said the father softly with tears now rolling down his face,"the boys from both teams helped bring a piece of true love and humanityinto this world".

Shay didn't make it to another summer. He died that winter, having never forgotten being the hero and making his father so happy, and coming home and seeing his Mother tearfully embrace her little hero of the day!

May your day, be a Shay Day.

May we all rise above the small petty things in life and instead of aggrevation bring happiness to others.

Illusion????

2007-06-03T09:59:00.000-04:00

Click on the images to view in full screen to appreciate the effects...

The image above appears to be moving though it is not. The key is to focus on the light color dots in the centre of each circle and the image will not appear to be moving.

The other end of the bridge appears to be upside down. Another optical illusion I believe created by doctoring the picture.

(Naklee) Sacha Sauda Dera Conflict....

2007-05-24T21:51:00.000-04:00

Following is the part of a post I read on some Tamilian Guy's blog. Without complete understanding of the whole issue, the guy calls the act of Gurmeet Ram Rahim as an act of humor to which Sikhs are over reacting.

"But alas some Sikh fanatics could not appreciate the sense of humor when Dera Sacha Sauda chief comically dressed himself like the Tenth Sikh Guru Gobind Singh. But what I found really hilarious was some sikhs calling this as 'Blasphemy'. I think 'Blasphemy' is a serious word more appropriate for conventional religions. Not so for quasi-sects like Sikhism. The failure to understand this has cost thousands of Indian lives in the past.

A brief history of Sikhism for upstarts. Punjab has been at the forefront of Hindu-Muslim clashes for close to 1300 years now. It has also been immersed in the waves of Sufism equally long. So Guru Nanak, who lived in the period of religious turmoil in Mughal India created a sect with concepts like 'there is no allah or ram, but only one god' and 'do your work, share the fruits' etc. I think he was more like the Shiridi Sai baba than likes of Buddha, Mahavira, Sankara etc.

Guru Nanak then nominated one Guru Angad as his successor, who also seems to have displayed some spiritual inclination. But after that 'Sikhism' was more pre-occupied with rituals and politics. All the other 'Gurus' who followed him were members of one single family and some fought like warlords against the Mughals. One such 'guru' was five years old at his ascent and 'nominated' his uncle as the successor when he died aged seven! And finally the Tenth Guru Gobind singh, who also established the Khalsa, nominated the Granth Sahib (the holy book) as the eternal 'guru'. This may have been because all his children and wife were killed by the Mughals. Now I cannot see what harm could have been caused if Baba Ram Rahim Singh had dressed himself like this tenth 'Guru'. You guys want to burn Punjab for this?

And whats worse, the whole Khalistan movement was started on such ludicrous competition between some sects of the sikh 'religion' before turning into a wholesale war against India. So for all people who follow similar 'gurus' or 'divines' like Sai baba, Shivshankar baba, Yagava Munivar, Ram Rahim Singh, Guru Gobind Singh etc, here's my humble request. Fights between your gurus may look very spiritual and important to you folks. But for outsiders like me, they look very funny. (Just as all religions look funny to agnostics and atheists). But when my fellow Indians get killed because of such fights, its no longer funny. Its disgusting. So please do not repeat the mistakes of the past".

Taken from : balajiworld.blogspot.com

If you think it is appropriate, visit this guy's blog and leave him a word or two. I already left a long comment that you might want to read. Also take time to read his reply to my comment which is further insulting. I guess his religion do not teach him to respect others.

2007 Samagam - Ft. Atkinson, WI.

2007-05-22T11:32:00.000-04:00

Shalok Bhagat Kabee jee Kay....

2007-05-16T05:55:00.000-04:00

Please click on the images to read in full screen

Bhagat jee says here that wasting time in discussions is of no use....

Here Bhagat Kabeer jee is emphasising on the importance of implementing what we recite....

For a Change...

2007-05-11T07:20:00.000-04:00

The most primitive kind of mobile phones.

For people who are always on the go. Gotta go gotta go gotta go right now, gotta go gotta go gotta go. Or simply, the Go Cart....

Another down and counting.....

Mission Impossible IV, in the making....

The end of rainbow, a happy ending (@ the beer store)

State of Blissfulness.....

2007-05-09T16:31:00.000-04:00

The Sakhi below was narrated by Kishen Singh jee at our local Gurdwara.

Once, a King went to see Guru Gobind Singh jee. He was in the court of Guru Gobind Singh jee and while going to retire Guru jee saw the King and stopped by the place he was sitting. He said to the King, “O Sikh, I am happy to see you here. Ask what you want and your wish will be fulfilled”. Upon this the King who was already rich, asked Guru Gobind Singh jee to shower his blessings (Kirpa) on him (so that he could be progressive spiritualy sa well). Guru Gobind Singh jee then looked at another Sikh and then turned to the King as asked him, “So should I turn you into a Sikh like him, Nihal Singh who is standing over there". The King for a moment saw Nihal Singh and thought in his mind that has the Guru gone crazy. Nihal Singh does not look in right state as his clothes were all shabby and the spade to which cow dung was sticking was on his shoulders and he was smelling aweful. The King asked the Guru that if he was showing his mercy (Kirpa) or his anger (Keher) by turning him (a King) into a person like Nihal Singh (peasent).

Then Guru Gobind Singh jee called Nihal Singh and also said to him, “O Sikh, I am happy to see you here. Ask what you want and your wish will be fulfilled”. Upon this Nihal Singh too asked Guru Gobind Singh jee to shower his blessings (Kirpa) on him. Guru Gobind Singh jee then looked at the King and then turned to Nihal Singh as asked him, “So should I turn you like that King who is standing over there. Upon this Nihal Singh humbly with folded hands asked the Guru that if he was showing his mercy (Kirpa) or his anger (Keher) on him by turning him into a person like the King.

Hearing this, the King was amazed. He thought that Nihal Singh would be glad to accept the Guru’s offer to turn him into a King, but Nihal Singh was not happy to be a King like him. Then the Guru explained to the King. He said, “O King, you thought Nihal Singh to be an ordinary man, but he is nothing ordinary. He is a devout Sikh who has a lots of Sewa and Simran behind him and he is in the blissful state of being one with the Almighty. When I asked you that should I turn you into a person like Nihal Singh, what I meant was spiritually. But O King, you only saw Nihal Singh’s outer appearance and though you also wanted to achieve the blissful state but you could not recognaize that Nihal Singh was in that state and you thought that I am going to turn you into a peasent. On the other hand, Nihal Singh when was offered to be turned into a King got scared that he will lose his Sewa and Simran by becoimg a King as he might get pride in his head, thus he declined to become a King and leave his state of blissfulness because once you reach that state, nothing entices you any more. The king felt real sorry for judging Nihal Singh just by what he looked and asked Guru jee for his forgiveness.

Shalok Bhagat Kabeer jee Kay.....

2007-05-03T07:41:00.000-04:00

Please click on the image to read in full screen....

Here Bhagat Kabeer jee is comparing all the worldly things to a mere candy....

Here Bhagat Kabeer jee is praising people who have a lot of self control....

Vasahki Celebration photos......

2007-04-30T11:03:00.000-04:00

Please click on the pictures to view in full size....

Vada Tera Darbar......

These pictures have been taken from one of the Sangat members's flickr account. I did not ask if I could put a link here to their account. If permitted, I will and you can view a lot more pictures of the day.

Above the Law.....

2007-04-28T15:26:00.000-04:00

A Delhi Traffic Police Tow Truck making an illegal right turn right where the warning on the board prohibits it. The Warning which is written in "Hindi" says, "Drivers Beware. No Right Turn Allowed."

Some funny/strange matter found on the Internet...

2007-04-25T18:35:00.000-04:00

Shalok Bhagat Kabeer jee Kay.....

2007-04-25T09:56:00.000-04:00

Please click on the images to read clearly in full screen.

Gurdwara Sees Ganj.....

2007-04-23T23:24:00.000-04:00

Gurdwara Majnu Ka Tila.....

2007-04-20T07:05:00.000-04:00

This Gurdwara is also dedicated to Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Nanak Dev jee Maharaaj who hallowed this place during his visit to Delhi in the 15th century. The small structure was expanded in the 1980s to a larger white marble structure with a cusped dome, which is planned to be covered with gold leaf work later. The interesting story of this Gurdwara talks about a Muslim hermit, who lived on this hillock during the reign of Sikander Lodhi and used to ferry people across River Yamuna free of charge. He so yearned for the glimpse of God that the local people called him 'Majnu'. It is said that he finally attained enlightenment by the blessings of Dhan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib jee and became Guru Sahib's devout disciple. Since then, his hermitage came to be known as Majnu ka Tila. The devout love of Majnu towards God and his radiant spirit attracted people, who built this shrine to commemorate him and Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib jee. There is also a well in the gurudwara compound.

When Guru Har Gobind, the Sixth Guru, was invited by Emperor Jahangir he stayed at Majnu-Ka-Tila. Guru Har Gobind started preaching here and many people thronged to him to listen to his spiritual discourses. The Emperor became suspicious and imprisoned Gur Sahib in the Fort of Gwalior. After his release from the prison, Guru Har Gobind again stayed at Majnu-Ka-Tila on his way back to Punjab.

Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee Maharaaj's darshan.

Darshan of Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee Maharaaj from another angle.

The well located outside the Gurdwara Majnu Ka Tila.

Close up view of the well. At times the picture of this well makes you confuse it with the Gurdwara Nanak Piao's well.

Gurdwara Nanak Piao, Delhi, India......

2007-04-19T12:17:00.000-04:00

Dedicated to the first Sikh Guru, Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib jee Maharaaj, Gurdwara Nanak Piao was built at the site, in the garden where Dhan Guru Nanak Dev jee camped when he visited Delhi in 1505 during the reign of Sultan Sikander Shah Lodhi. It is situated on Rana Pratap Road (also known as Grand Trunk Road). It is said that people flocked to the revered prophet and offered him and Bhai Mardana with precious gifts and offerings. Guru Nanak used to distribute all these offerings to the poor and needy. Besides these, he used to offer food and water to the hungry and thirsty, hence the name of the shrine. One can still see the well from which Guru Nanak served water in the shrine.

As any other Gurdwara, Gurdwara Nanak Piao has grown exponentially. It is not the same what it was 10 yrs ago. Side View (from North East Side).

Frontal view (from South)

Main Darbar Hall. Not as many people in the afternoon, but go there in morning and evening you find a lot of Sangat there.

Darshan of Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee Maharaaj.

Front close up view of Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee Maharaaj.

This is the well where Dhan Dhan Sri guru Nanak Dev Sahib jee Maharaaj served the travellers/passing people by providing them water to quench their thirst. Lucky were those souls who drank water from Maharaaj's hands.

Another view of the well fully enclosed and covered with marble structure. In the days when Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Sahib jee Maharaaj stayed at this place, it was just like any other ordinary well.

Bhai Jodhram jee cures his Mentality.....

2007-04-18T11:32:00.000-04:00

Once there lived a man by the name of Jodhram in the village Basarke. He was a high caste Brahmin and he was too much into caste system as was prevalent in those times. He was also very proud to be a high caste Brahmin and would look down on people of lower caste. At some point in his life he realized that he was mentally ill with the problem of discrimination and that of the pride of being a high class Brahmin. He would discuss it with his friends and family and someone told him that cure for his mental block was available in Khador Sahib with Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Angad Dev Sahib jee Maharaaj.

He decided to give the responsibility of the household to his sons and he decided to leave for Khador Sahib. After reaching Khador Sahib, he freshened up and went to see Guru Angad Dev jee. He told the Guru that he want to be here and be in the service of the Guru. Guru Angad Dev jee gave him the charge of the Langar and also told him to take care of the arrangement of boarding and lodging of the sangat who came from far and near. Jodhram got busy performing his duties and also learned a lot about Gurmat. He saw that after langar there were a lots of plates (in those days plates were made out of leaves) strewn around and it took a lot to clean up so he decided to make a high platform and requested the sangat to bring all their plates and leave it on that platform from where the garbage collector would come and pick up the waste. It worked and there was a lot less to clean and the same energy was directed to do better sewa of Sangat in other ways.

One day some Sikhs went to Guru Angad Dev jee and complained about Bhai Jodhram. They told Guru jee that they have been watching Jodhram for almost 2 & ½ years and never saw him eat Guru Ka Langar which is anti Gurmat. Guru jee called for Bhai Jodhram and asked him about the same. With his hands folded Bhai Jodhram replied that he has been eating langar everyday. Upon hearing this the Sikhs who complained to the Guru got furious and told the Guru that Bhai Jodhram was not only being disrespectful to the Gurmat by not eating langar, but he is now lying too. Guru jee told Bhai Jodhram that now he has two charges on him, one being anti Gurmat and other of having lied.

Bhai Jodhram again with folded hands replied to Guru jee. He said that when the diwan ends by 9 p.m. he goes around the Gurdwara cleaning and getting the Gurdwara ready for the next day. Then he goes out and checks on all the travelers who have come from far off to see the Guru and arranges for their stay. By the time he is done with all the activities it is around mid night. So he goes to the platform where people would leave their plates and would find that some Guru Ka Sikh had left some Dal in his plate, some Sikh left some Roti in his plate and he would gather the quantity he needed in a clean plate and then do ardaas to Dhan Dhan Guru Nanaks Jyot in Guru Angad Dev jee Maharaaj and eat the Langar. Upon hearing this Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Angad Dev jee Maharaaj got up from his seat and hugged Bhai Jodhram and told him that from today he should eat with the Sangat in the Langar hall as he is now cured from his mental illness of discrimination and being a high caste.

(This was a Sakhi Narrated in yesterday's evening diwan at the local gurdwara I go to.)

Bhai Lahina Was Guru Nanak's Friend

2007-04-17T07:05:00.000-04:00

A Yogi went to visit Guru Nanak to congratulate him on the large number of followers he had. The Guru said that he had very few true Sikhs. To test his disciples, he sent out a call for all true believers to meet together early the next morning.

The day dawned dark and cloudy. When the Guru appeared, he seemed to be someone other than their kind master, for he wore dirty clothes and a hunting knife and had a fierce dog with him. Several of his followers were terrified and ran away. The rest followed the Guru down a road through the forest. After they had walked for a short while, they found the road covered with copper coins. Some of the Sikhs stuffed the coins in their pockets and ran away. The rest of the group continued on down the road. Further along, they found the road covered with silver coins. More of the Sikhs grabbed the coins and ran away. Few Sikhs remained with the Guru and the Yogi. The small band continued travelling and soon found the road covered with gold coins. The other Sikhs grabbed the coins and fled until only two Sikhs, the Yogi, and the Guru's sevadar Lahina, remained.

They came into a clearing where they saw a corpse wrapped up in a white sheet next to a pile of wood. There was a terrible smell in the air. The Guru said to his Sikhs, "Let whoever wants to be a true Sikh of mine eat this with me " The other two Sikhs turned white and drew back in horror, but Lahina kneeled next to the corpse and said, " Master, should I start at the head or the feet?" The Guru told him to start at the waist. As Lahina lifted the sheet to begin eating, the corpse turned into a feast of delicious sacred food. Lahina offered the food to the Guru first and said he would have what was left over. Guru Nanak was delighted, and said, "You have obtained this sacred food because you desired to share it with others. You now know my secret; you are in my own image. I will share with you the secret which will bring you happiness now and forever." The Guru then taught Lahina the Mool Mantra, the beginning of Japji. The Yogi saw that the light in Nanak was the same as in Lahina. He said, "O Nanak, he shall be your Guru who comes from your body - ang." Upon this, the Guru hugged Lahina, named him Angad, and promised that he would be the next Guru.

source:punjabilok.com

And the KHALSA......

2007-04-14T06:26:00.000-04:00

Happy Vaisakhi to all.

The AMRIT.....

2007-04-13T07:06:00.000-04:00

Sur Naar Muni Jaan Amrit Khojde, So Amrit Guru Te Paya.....

pic. courtsey akalpurakh.blogspot.com

The KHANDA.....

2007-04-12T11:33:00.000-04:00

Placed centrally, the khanda is a double edged sword with a broad blade that is symbol of the primal and almighty power of the Creator. The whole symbol takes its name from this sword. The pair of Kirpans or the curved swords represent what Guru Hargobind Jee used to carry, one he called miri and the other one piri. Hence these are the names of the kirpans on the khanda. The circle or the chakker or the ring represents power was used by Sikhs to a great effect - being one of the most lethal blade weapons. It is thrown or hurled, either by being released after being twirled around the smooth inside edge by the forefinger (a favourite Sikh method) or released frisbee-like or discus style.

In light headed mode...

2007-04-10T18:21:00.000-04:00

It is not what you say that matters but how you say it.

Frustration can be easily shown. Here the person took all the effort to show his/her's. Pardon me for not changing the original work of the writer to a more appropriate word..

And here is someone making efforts to prove the person wrong.

On a Lighter Note.....

2007-04-10T14:15:00.000-04:00

I received an e-mail that had some jokes associated to being married. I hope I do not offend anyone by publishing them here.

Getting married is very much like going to a restaurant with friends. You order what you want, then when you see what the other person has, you wish you had ordered that.

Man: Is there any way for long life?
Dr: Get married.
Man: Will it help?
Dr: No, but the thought of long life will never come.

Why do couples hold hands during their wedding?
It's a formality just like two boxers shaking hands before the bout begins!

It's funny when people discuss Love Marriage vs Arranged.
It's like asking someone, if suicide is better or being murdered

It is difficult to understand GOD. He makes such beautiful things as women and then he turns them into Wives

If u r married please ignore this message.
For everyone else: Happy Independence Day.

Before marriage, a man will lie awake all night thinking about something a woman said.
After marriage, he'll fall asleep before she finishes what she was saying.

Prospective husband: Do you have a book called 'Man, The Master of Women'?
Salesgirl: The fiction department is on the other side, sir.

Fact of life: One woman brings you into this world crying & the other ensures you continue to do so for the rest of your life!

Q: Why doesn't law permit a man to marry a second woman?
A: Because as per law you cannot be punished twice for the same offence!

Share em with others if you find em funny. I did.

Sikh Calander....

2007-04-09T22:14:00.000-04:00

In present times, Sikh community use Nanakshahi Calendar and have left the use of Bikrami calendar which is said have lot of flaws. Starting from in 1999, all religious holidays for Sikh is observed according to the newly modified Nanakshahi Calendar. The years of the Nanakshahi calendar start with the birth of Guru Nanak Dev in 1469. Year 1998, is therefore, considered Nanakshahi 530. The modified calendar is based on the length of the tropical solar year instead of the lunar cycle. This ensures that the dates will not fluctuate from year to year, as was the case with the previously used Bikrami Calendar. Hence, the calendar helps Sikhs to correctly represent their historic events and move forward with a calendar of their own.

According to the Nanakshahi Calendar, Sikh New Year begins with Chet 1. This corresponds to March 14 in Gregorian or Common Era calendar. Nanakshahi calendar is gaining popularity in the Sikh diaspora and is likely to become the de facto standard of the Sikhs worldwide just as Christians have Gregorian calendar, Muslims have Hijri calendar, Hindus have Bikrami and Saka calendars and Bahais have their own distinct calendar.

In a Nanakshahi calendar or Sikh Calendar, the first day of each month is known as Sangrand, and correlates to dates on Common Era calendar as shown below.

Date in Nanakshahi ---------------- Date in Common Era

Chet 1 ------------------------------ March 14
Vaisakh 1 --------------------------- April 14
Jeth 1 ------------------------------- May 15
Harh 1 ------------------------------ June 15
Sawan 1 ---------------------------- July 16
Bhadon 1 --------------------------- August 16
Asu 1 -------------------------------- September 15
Katik 1 ------------------------------ October 15
Maghar 1 ---------------------------- November 14
Poh 1 -------------------------------- December 14
Magh 1 ------------------------------ January 13
Phagan 1 ---------------------------- February 12

So as it is seen, Sikh new year begins on March 14 and not on Baisakhi April the 14th.

A Call Centre Conversation....

2007-04-06T12:21:00.000-04:00

Caller : Hi there. I have a problem with my printer. I does not work.

CSR : What seems to be the problem?

Caller : The Mouse. The Mouse is jammed in the printer.

CSR : What has the Mouse to do with your Printer not working.

Click here to unfold the mystery of printer problem...

First Indian to grab 10 wickets...

2007-04-04T13:30:00.000-04:00

Anil Kumble, the First Indian to grab all 10 wickets in a Test match (against Pakistan).

First Indian to bag a Hat Trick...

2007-04-04T12:52:00.000-04:00

Harbhajan Singh, the first Indian ever to bag a Hat trick (3 consecutive wickets) in a test match.

These are incidents from the past but I hope in the wake of dismal performance India showed in the World Cup of 2007, this will cheer the cricket fans a lil bit.

10-foot wave wipes out village in Solomons...

2007-04-02T13:13:00.000-04:00

At least 13 dead in after bone-rattling earthquake, tsunami strike region.

A bone-rattling earthquake sparked a tsunami that sent 10-foot high waves crashing into parts of the Solomon Islands on Monday, wiping out one village and killing at least 13 people. The death toll was expected to rise.

The large waves struck the western town of Gizo, inundating buildings and causing widespread destruction within five minutes of the earthquake.

“There wasn’t any warning — the warning was the earth tremors,” Alex Lokopio, the premier of the Solomon’s Western Province, told New Zealand’s National Radio. “It shook us very, very strongly and we were frightened, and all of a sudden the sea was rising up.”

Click here for complete news...

April Fool's day....

2007-04-01T16:12:00.000-04:00

April Fool's Day or All Fool's Day occurs annually on April 1. The day is generally observed by playing a practical joke on a "victim" who soon becomes known as an April Fool. This custom is thought to have started in France during the 16th century but the British are credited with bringing it to the United States.

The commonly accepted origin of April Fool's Day involves changes in the calendar. At one time, the New Year celebration used to be on April 1st. However, in 1582, King Charles IX adopted the Gregorian calendar and accepted the beginning of the new year as January 1st. Those who refused to acknowledge the new date or simply forgot received foolish gifts and invitations to nonexistent parties. The butt of such a prank was known as a "poisson d'avril" or "April fish."

God and His Worshiper 2......

2007-03-27T14:37:00.000-04:00

Bhagat Naamdev jee were a very true worshiper of the One and only. For all of his life, Naamdev jee had worshipped God and had faith in Him for each and every moment. He did not worship anyone else but the one immortal God. He says, ‘The performance of countless millions of other devotions is not even equal to one devotion to the Name of God’ (Guru Granth Sahib, 1163). The materialistic things would not deter Naamdev’s spiritual path to meet God. He considered iron and gold alike. Once while sewing he wrote, “My needle is of gold and my thread is very expensive but my mind is attached with God” (Guru Granth Sahib, 485). He cared neither for gold nor silver, he was in love with God. Even though as a result of his true worship he had become a highly spiritual person, he was still completely devoid of pride. Naamdev knew that God does care for the person who recites His name and remembers Him all the time.

Once Naamdev went to Avandanagnath Temple situated in Maharashtra, India. The Hindu priests of that temple believed in the caste system. After reaching the temple Naamdev sat and started worshipping God but the Hindu priests grabbed his arm and drove him out of the temple. The priests said that Naamdev couldn’t visit the temple because he is of a low class. Naamdev was deeply hurt so he went to the back of the temple and started worshipping God. In his prayer he said, ‘Joyfully, I came to Your Temple, O Lord. While Naamdev was worshipping, he was driven out. I am of a low social class, O Lord; why was I born into a family of fabric dyers? I picked up my blanket and went back, to sit behind the temple’ (Guru Granth Sahib, 1164). Naamdev also said, ‘O Lord, please do not forget me because if You forget me then where should I go. There is nowhere else to go and no one else to believe in except You’. He further prayed, ‘Please do not forget me, do not forget me, please do not forget me, O Lord. The temple priests have doubts about this, and everyone is furious with me. Calling me low-caste and untouchable, they beat me and drove me out; what should I do now O Beloved Father Lord? If You give me salvation after I am dead, no one will know that I attained salvation. These Priests, these religious scholars, call me low born; when they say this, they tarnish Your honor as well. You are called kind and compassionate; the power of Your Arm is absolutely unrivalled’ (1292). ‘As Naamdev uttered the Glorious Praises of the Lord, The temple turned around to face the Lord's humble devotee’ (1164). ‘The Lord turned the temple around to face Naamdev and its back to the Priests’ (1292). That temple is still rotated. This is the symbol of the true love of God towards His true worshiper.

source:realsikhism.com

Sacrifice....

2007-03-26T21:51:00.000-04:00

Read this somewhere on the web. Forgot the source. It is not my material, hopefully the writer gets full credit for composing this.

Why are our children not attracted to going to the Gurdwara?
Why are our children drifting away from Sikhi?
Why are our children forgetting their great Sikh history?
Why are our children not respecting their parents?

Are the Gurdwaras to blame?
Are the schools to blame?
Is the Panth to blame?
The fundamental blame goes to the mothers and fathers.

Parents say that their children don't listen?
Parents say that their children are not interested?
Parents say that they don't have enough time?

”Kabeer, whether it is for an hour, half an hour, or half of that, whatever it is, it is worthwhile to speak with the Holy. 232”
(Ang 1377, SGGS)

How can we inspire our children to realise how precious and beautiful Sikhi is?
How can we inspire our children to realise how great our Guru is and how rich our history is?
How can we inspire our children to respect their parents and to become successful adults?

SACRIFICE!

Our Spiritual Father is Guru Gobind Singh Jee Maharaj.
Our Spiritual Mother is Mata Sahib Kaur Jee.
Our Brothers are the Four Sahibzadas (Princes).

Guru Gobind Singh Jee sacrificed his four sons for us!
Guru Gobind Singh Jee sacrificed his father for his us!
Guru Gobind Singh Jee sacrificed his home for us!

Who are we?
We are the children of Guru Gobind Singh Ji!
We are the family of Guru Gobind Singh Ji!
We are the sons & daughters of Guru Gobind Singh Ji!

However, how much have we listened to our Father?
How much have we accepted our Father's instructions?
How much respect have we shown our Father?
How are our children going to listen to us, if we don't listen to our Father.

How are our children going to respect us, when we don't respect our Father?
How are our children going to do what we say, when we don't do what Guru Gobind Singh Jee tells us to do?

SACRIFICE!

We leave our children with babysitters.
We leave our children in nurseries
We leave our children with their grandparents.

'I have no time to look after my child's Kes!'
'I have no time to discuss Sikhi with my children!'
'I have no time to send them to Panjabi classes!'

Where is the SACRIFICE?

”Telling the stories of one's ancestors make the children, good children.”
(Ang 951, SGGS)

Could you sacrifice 5 minutes for your children to read them bedtime stories about our great Gurus and Martyrs?

Could you sacrifice 5 minutes for your children to recite with them, the 'Mool Mantar' before they go to sleep?

Could you sacrifice 5 minutes for your children to discuss with them about life, their ambitions and the rewards of following Sikhi?

Do we want our children to grow up to be proud of who they are and where they come from?

Do we want our children to live happily and be successful, with the support and guidance of the Lord and Guru Ji?

Do we want our children to take care of our Father Guru Gobind Singh Jee's dastar [turban] and make it sparkle?

Involvement, love and participation are crucial if you want your children to do something.

Involve your children in the Gurdwara and they will take interest.

Involve your children and explore Sikhi and they will be inspired.

Involve your children and they will never forget

“Says Kabeer, Waheguru is obtained only by devotional worship. Through innocent love, Waheguru is met. 46”
(Ang 324, SGGS)

HOW MUCH SACRIFICE HAVE YOU MADE FOR YOUR CHILDREN?

Be inspired and inspire others! May Waheguru bless you all.

First Gurdwara in North America

2007-03-23T08:08:00.000-04:00

Here are some interesting facts I came across on the i-net on establishing of first Gurdwara on this continent.

The Sikhs came to North America sometime during the early 1890’s. They did not recognize themselves formally until the first decade of this century. As late as 1898 there was a press report that some unique kind of people (the Sikhs) were seen in Vancouver with uncut hair and turbans on their heads. It was in 1902 that Sikhs came to Vancouver in big groups. It is said the first sacred volume of the Adi Guru Granth Sahib was brought to Vancouver in 1904. The Sikh Sangat started holding their regular functions at that time. By 1906 they had organized themselves and purchased a property at West 2nd Avenue. The first formal Gurdwara was built there in 1908. The same organization, Khalsa Diwan Society, shifted the Gurdwara to its present site, 8000 Ross Street, Vancouver in 1969. It was declared to be the best building in 1978. The Sikhs in California, USA, organized themselves into the Pacific Coast Khalsa Diwan Society and built their first Gurdwara in 1911 at Stockton. Sikh Sangats had been formed earlier at other places as well but this was the first registered body of the Sikhs.

source:sikhmarg.com

Stress may have killed Pakistan cricket coach....

2007-03-21T18:02:00.000-04:00

KINGSTON: Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer may have died as a result of stress brought on by his job, his son Russell said today.

Woolmer, 58, died after being found unconscious in his hotel room the morning after his side's shock World Cup exit following its defeat by Ireland at Sabina Park. "We've been speaking to the doctors and they think it is either stress or a heart attack," Russell Woolmer told South African radio from Cape Town.

Click here to read the complete story

Bob Woolmer. (1948 - 2007)

Online Cricket...

2007-03-20T23:19:00.000-04:00

I play cricket online @ the following web-site. So far this is the most close to real world cricket I have found that can be played on computers. Yesterday, I was able to achieve highest score ever, since I started playing @ this site (about 1 year). Since cricket is in the air I thought cricket lovers may want to try their skills online. Let me know how you guys liked it.

Play Cricket Online

Click on the image to view it full size.

God and His Worshiper......

2007-03-20T13:40:00.000-04:00

Once a king in India went to Guru Nanak Dev Ji and asked, “ O Guru! As you told us that God Himself supports His true worshiper, but God has so many apostles, why does He have to take care of His worshiper Himself? Why does not He send His apostles to help the worshiper?” As the king said this, his own son who was playing at the bank of a river nearby slipped in the river.

The king did not waited for a second and jumped in the river as well to save his child. After saving his child he returned to the Guru. The Guru asked, “My dear friend, you were sitting here with me a minute ago and why did u jump in the river?” King explained that his son had slipped in the river and he went to save him. Then the Guru asked, “Dear friend, you have so many servants then why did you jumped in the river by yourself? Why did not you send you servants to save him?” The King said, “By the time I would have asked my servants, he would have drowned. I love my child very much and do not want to lose him at any cost.”

Then Guru said, “My dear friend, God loves His worshipers the same way as you love your son. That is why he Himself to saves His true worshiper.”

source : realsikhism.com

Discovery of Self through Naam-Simran : Part II

2007-03-15T08:02:00.000-04:00

An article by Gulshan Jeet Singh.

Continued from previous post....

Internalising the Divine Spirit: The word ‘Naam’ is the object of simran (meditation) whereas the word ‘Simran’ is remembering, uttering, or Jap in meditation. Thus ‘Naam-simran’ is remembrance of God’s Name. The question arises, what or whose name? The simple answer is Satnaam Waheguru the name of True Wonderful Lord, who is All-pervading True and Eternal. The Lord is One Alone, Who Ever was, Is Now and Ever shall be, - the Akal Purukh, ‘Waheguru’. His name is True. Guru Nanak and successor Gurus, throughout the holy Gurbani, maintain that one must contemplate upon formless God, Infinite God alone, Who is Creator, and dwells everywhere.

A Slow Process : We must understand that if our meagre and early practice of ‘Naam-simran’ does not produce any earth-shaking result we should not lose patience. We should feel encouraged by the belief that the path has been found out, and it is only a question of time when we will reach our destination.

There are some hymns which must necessarily be taken from the Guru Granth Sahib with the help of a pious friend, or elder or scholar - Granthi. The most popular technique is the repetition and daily reciting of Gurbani. ‘Sat Naam’ or ‘Waheguru’ is very powerful jaap; several practitioners reveal that without ‘Satnm, Waheguru’ the seeker cannot achieve his purpose. For the name and the object named are not different. When the heart is purified by the practice of Pranava, or Dhun/Naad, the practice hears same sound. In the first stage, one feels a thrilling sensation in the skin, gradually passes through several

Discovery of Self through Naam-Simran : Part I

2007-03-14T06:17:00.000-04:00

An article by Gulshan Jeet Singh.

Naam Simran is a purely spiritual experience within reach of all humanity irrespective of race creed on social status. Success varies and depends on the practitioner’s earnestness as well as the Master’s grace.

Why we must practice ‘Naam simran’? Because it brings inner tranquillity. This practice is superior to all other forms of worship. It is at the root of Gurbani. It places no restriction of time and space and does not need the help of any other person or material posture.Amongst all religious practices ‘Naam-simran’ is the simplest, a purifier for both mind and heart. It is like the all-pervasive light of the sun.

‘Naam-simran’ reins in the mind and intellect (man aur budhi) from within, order to understand the physical phenomenal word and transcend its wisdom. Naam is the holiest of the holy; practice of simran destroys the cause of our bondage, namely, our Karma (good or bad actions). Even the greatest sinner attains to the supreme position through Naam-simran. The only focus that one discovers by study of Guru Granth Sahib is that we must always and constantly meditate on Him and His Name. Just as the furnace melts gold and other metals so as to purify them, so the Name of the Lord acts as the best solvent of all problems of this world. No evil can befall one who is engrossed in Naam.

There are however some pitfalls. Sadly ‘Naam-simran’ has become a topic of discussion rather than of practice amongst our intellectuals. Argument is the antithesis of meditation. Efforts for conducting seminars on topic are merely intellectual exercises, missing the Naam - Amrit and initiation.

To be Continued.....

KP Gill's white lies.

2007-03-13T08:33:00.001-04:00

I was looking for some interesting matter on You Tube and I found this part White Lies video.

Carrots, here and there.....

2007-03-08T07:08:00.000-05:00

Carrots here

And there

Don't know why red carrots cannot be grown in this part of the world.

ps. red carrots picture was taken from someone's blog which I completely forgot who's blog it was. Please leave a comment if you think it was your's so that I can mention the source.

Miami Samagam 2007...

2007-03-07T06:45:00.000-05:00

Here is one shot of the Samagam Sangat..... I didnot shoot any but I'll try to get more from people who did.

Shalok Bhagat Kabeer jee kay...

2007-03-06T07:36:00.000-05:00

**Please click on the images to view full size for better readability**

Here Bhagat Kabeer jee is again emphasizing on what becomes of our body...

Here Kabeer jee say that if you see a poor person, thank the lord in the state he is keeping you....

PS. Apologize to all visitors for not being able to post for a week and a half as was busy with Samagam Sewa...

Miami Samagam, March 2007.

2007-02-24T06:10:00.000-05:00

Charhdi Kala......

2007-02-21T16:57:00.000-05:00

What exactly is Charhdi Kala? When we meet each other we often ask if we are in Charhdi Kala. I was surfing the net looking for the defination / or what is the state of Charhdi Kala and following is the answer I could find. I'm just quoting the whole text from that site.

Charhdi Kala signifies in the Sikh tradition a perennially blossoming, unwilting spirit, a perpetual state of certitude resting on the unwavering belief in Divine justice. The Kala of Sanskrit origin gives a dominant meaning which is ‘Energy’. Charhdi, in Punjabi means rising, ascending, soaring. So, Charhdi Kala would mean an intensely energized, ever–ascending state of the spirit of an individual or of a group. It is characterized by faith, confidence, cheerfulness, courage, fortitude, discipline and resolute willingness to uphold the cherished ideals and readiness to perform the assigned tasks even in the face of the most daunting challenge.

In Charhdi Kala there is confidence in the ultimate victory of Truth over falsehood and of Good over evil. Abiding Cheerfulness is its hallmark -

"Nanak Naam Charhdi Kala,Tere Bhane Sarbatt da Bhalaa".

Courage is that state or quality of mind and spirit which enables one to face dangers with self-possession and resolution. Discipline resulting from training that leads to controlled behavior, mentally and morally, is also an essential constituent of Charhdi Kala. Perpetual readiness to act is another - he pursues the ideals he cherishes, makes no noise over a good deed, and proceeds to another. Kala also means "fine art", so actions in Charhdi Kala become characterized by elegance and gracefulness. It also means playing a winning "Game" according to the accepted rules of the game.

To sum up , Charhdi Kala is not just high morale, but also unwavering faith in divine support, certainty of moral victory and sublimity of action. Even in the most adverse of circumstances, its constancy does not wane.

source:sikh.net

Shakol Bhagat Kabeer jee kay...

2007-02-20T13:08:00.000-05:00

***Please click on the images to view in full screen for better readability***

Here Bhagat Kabeer jee is emphasizing on what to do so that one could be remembered even after he/she is gone.

Here Kabeer jee stresses on what in the end becomes of the body that we take so much time and pride in taking care of.

We Should Never Forget......

2007-02-14T16:13:00.000-05:00

Indian Police High-handedness.......

2007-02-13T15:04:00.000-05:00

For Bhai Balbir Singh Bains, a UK resident for 25 years, his last visit to his motherland (in 1999), turned out to be a nightmare, separating him from his family, including his mentally and physically challenged daughter.

His is the story of victimisation, false imprisonment and frustrating delays. He faced brutal treatment at the hands of the Indian authorities as well as the British Home Office.

Wrongfully imprisoned in June 1999 by the Indian authorities on the charge of “terrorism”, he was physically and psychologically tortured.

After three years in jail without a conviction, he was subsequently found innocent of all charges, which were declared improper and unjust by Delhi’s Special Court. Whilst exonerating him, Judge said in his final judgement: “A balloon of falsehoods…the prosecution story stands falsified…It is well said that a lie does not have legs to stand on…Accordingly, I acquit the accused of the charges framed against him.”

It was even more shocking when shortly afterwards, an internal investigation conducted by the Intelligence Bureau (I.B) proved that the RDX explosives allegedly ‘found’ on Bhai Balbir Singh’s person were, in fact, from an operation unit of the police.”

After his acquittal in May 2002 Bhai Balbir Singh Bains expected to be immediately reunited with his long-suffering family. However, to his horror, he discovered that he was yet to face another two years of heart-wrenching separation from his wife and five children. Since the UK Home Office continued to consider him a threat to national security.

Mrs Manjit Kaur Gill From Gravesend, who represented Bhai Balbir Singh Bains, appealed to the Special Immigration Appeals Commission (SIAC) on August 18, 2003, against the decision not to allow him into the UK for reasons of national security. Substantive evidence in response to the Secretary of States evidence was filed in June 2004 as a result of which the Home Office had no option but to withdraw the case against him and issue him a returning resident visa to the UK.

I believe Bhai Balbir Singh is now suing the Delhi Police for over Rupees 1.5 corore that is Rs. 15,000,000 (15 milliones) due to which this incident has surfaced again in lime light.

Janam Sahibzada Ajit Singh jee (Feb 11, 1687)

2007-02-12T17:26:00.000-05:00

Sahibzada Ajit Singh, the eldest of four sons of Guru Gobind Singh jee, was born to Mata Jito jee (also known as Mata Sundari ji) at Paonta on 11 February 1687. The following year, Guru Gobind Singh returned with the family to Anandpur where Ajit Singh was brought up in the approved Sikh style. He was taught the religious texts, philosophy and history, and had training in the martial arts such as riding, swordsmanship, gatka and archery. He grew up to be a handsome young man, strong, intelligent and a natural leader of people.

In the prolonged siege of Anandpur in 1705, Sahibzada Ajit Singh again displayed his qualities of courage and steadfastness. When, at last, Anandpur was vacated on the night of 5-6 December 1705, he was given command of the rearguard. As the besiegers, violating their solemn promises for a safe conduct to the evacuees, attacked the column, he stoutly engaged them on a hill feature called Shahi Tibbi until relieved by Bhai Ude Singh. Sahibzada Ajit Singh crossed the Sarsa, then in spate, along with his father, his younger brother, Jujhar Singh, and some fifty Sikhs. Further reduced in numbers by casualties at the hands of a pursuing troop from Ropar, the column reached Chamkaur in the evening of 6 December 1705, and took up position in a garhi, highwalled fortified house. The host, since swelled by reinforcements from Malerkotia and Sirhind and from among the local Ranghars and Gujjars, soon caught up with them and threw a tight ring around Chamkaur.

An unequal but grim battle commenced with the sunrise on 7 December 1705 in the words of Guru Gobind Singh's Zafamamah, a mere forty defying a hundred thousand (lakh). The besieged, after they had exhausted the meagre stock of ammunition and arrows, made sallies in batches of five each to engage the encircling host with sword and spear. Sahibzada Ajit Singh led one of the sallies and laid down his life fighting in the thick of the battle. He was 18 years old at the time of his supreme sacrifice for his faith. Gurdwara Qatalgarh now marks the spot where he fell, followed by Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, who led the next sally. An annual fair is held in commemoration of their martyrdoms.

source:sikhiwiki

This is Cricket:A Smashing reply......

2007-02-10T07:28:00.000-05:00

***Please click the Play Button twice to play the Video***

This is the lower order, # 10 batsman Sreesanth, of India responding to the South African bowler Andre Nel's comment "Man, just don't swing your bat, ...have a heart to hit the ball", by hitting the very next ball for the maximum six runs and by showing his "heart" in front of Nel's face.... This was a test match played in South Africa sometime in mid Dec 2006. Indians performed pretty good and won the Test.

***Please click the Play Button twice to play the Video***

Another view of the same incident but this just shows the hitting of the ball for a six and then the dance performed by Sreesanth. The first video also gives the details of the previous ball when Nel instigated Sreesanth (which is a charecterstic of Nel) prior to hitting of the Six and the dance by Sreesanth.

This is a still shot of the shot played by Sreesanth that sent the delivery from Andre Nel over his (Nel's) head for Six runs. Brilliantly played.

And here is a still shot of the dance done by Sreesanth in the face of Andre Nel.

Greed for more....

2007-02-08T17:11:00.000-05:00

When I was a child, I read/heard this story. I believe everyone must have read/heard of this story in their childhood, but I am still posting it here for the generation after mine's (as they may have missed it as reading books in not in style today) and as a refresher for those who have already read it...

Once there were four good friends. They were friends from childhood and their friendship was very deep. One day they were going on a journey through a forest. As they were walking, they felt as if something was buried under the ground. They decided to explore it and started digging. After digging, they found a big box, which was full of gold coins.

They decided to make four parts of the gold coins and distribute among them equally but deep in their hearts each one of them wanted to have the whole box of gold coins to themselves. They took the box of gold coins with them but with each step they would take, their desire of having the whole box of gold coins increased.

The sun was about to set and the four of them decided to take shelter under a tree and have some food followed by sleep and continue their journey the next morning. They sat under the tree and decided that two of them will go in search of food and other two will guard the box. As the first two went in search of the food, they began to talk about that box of gold coins. The first one said that he wants to have as much gold as possible. The second one wanted the same. So after gathering some food, an evil thought came in their mind. They added poison to the food, so that their other two friends will die and they would share the box half and half.

On the other end, the other two friends that were guarding the box started to talk about gold. They want the same thing, to have as much as possible. To do so, they made an evil plan too. They sharpened their knives so that when their first two friends will arrive, they would kill them.

The moment came, their first two friends came with the food, and they placed the food on the box and began to sit down. As they were sitting, the other two friends with knives beheaded them in a fraction of a second. Their bodies lay dead on the ground. The other two friends were happy that they now would get the half of the gold coins each. Within their heart they were still thinking to kill the other so that they can have the whole box of gold coins. There was complete silence as they were thinking of the plans of their own. Some time passed and they decided to have some food. Few minutes after they ate the poisoned food, their lifeless bodies lay dead on the ground and neither one of them could get the gold coins.

source:realsikhism.com

Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Har Rai Sahib jee Maharaaj...

2007-01-30T14:01:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to all the Sikh Community around the globe on the eve of the Parkash Divas of the Seventh Patshah Sri Guru Har Rai Sahib. Prakash Divas falls on the 31st of this month.

Sri Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji were born in Kiratpur to Mata Nihal Kaur Ji and Baba Gurditta Ji (the eldest son of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji). From a very young age Gur Sahib exhibited sensitivity to all living things and endeared himself to his grandfather Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji.

Kiratpur was Guru Har Rai Sahib ji's permanent seat. The institution of langar, community eating, continued to flourish. Guru Har Rai Sahib ji chose himself the simplest fare, which was earned by the labor of his own hands. In the morning, Guru Sahib sat in the sangat and explained the Sikh doctrine. Guru Sahib always boosted the military spirit of the Sikhs, but Gur Sahib never himself indulged in any direct political and armed controversy with the contemporary Mughal Empire.

It is a well known incident that Guru Sahib's son Baba Ram Rai, when asked to interpret the logic behind the Gurbani, distorted the sacred Baani and misinterpreted the message of Sikhi in the Mughal court, fearing the wrath of Mughal emperor. Guru Sahib refused to acknowledge his son after this as the inheritor of Gurgaddi and instead blessed Sri Guru Har Krishan Sahib ji with the Guruship. Guru Har Rai Sahib ji always instructed his Sikhs strictly against any alteration of original verse in Guru Granth Sahib and the basic conventions set up by Guru Nanak Sahib ji.

Guru Sahib held the flag of Sikhi high in some very malevolent times, when ruthless emperor had ascended to the throne of Delhi the corrupt Masands, Dhir Mals and Minas were trying to preclude the advancement of Sikh religion. But never, even in the face of utter chaos, Guru Sahib stumbled. Gur Sahib shunned his own son, so that the true message of Sikhi may be protected and preserved.

Let us today celebrate Parkash Divas of this savior of the truth and torchbearer of Sikhi. Let us take a pledge today that we will put our faith only in the teaching of Sri Guru Granth Sahib and Gurbani of Guru Sahibaan and would not ever try to distract our soul from the true path laid before us by Guru Sahibaan.

May Akal Purkh Waheguru lead us all to the eternal light.

source:sikhpoint

Baba Banda Singh Bahadur.....

2007-01-24T11:19:00.000-05:00

While moving towards South at Jai pur, a Mahant Jait Ram came to pay his respect to the Guru Gobind Singh Sahib jee Maharaaj. Guru Sahib asked him to suggest for some good and holy persons. Mahant Jait Ram suggested some names and advised not to go to Madho Daas Bairagi, as he was very egoistic and insulted one and all. Instead, the Guru decided to face Madho Daas first of all rather than anybody else.

In September 1708 Guru Gobind Singh along with few sikhs reached at the Ashram of Madho Daas Bairagi, At that time he was not in his dera . The Guru took his seat and the sikhs spread all over the Dera to arrange and cook food. Followers of Madho Daas ran and informed him of all about the happenings. Madho Daas used all his occult powers to insult, harass and let-down the Guru but failed in all his efforts. Full of rage, he came running to the Dera and shouted at the Guru " Who are you, and how come you have entered my Ashram? The Guru very calmly replied " You have all the power, you should know."

He said that he knew nothing about him. The Guru asked him to be calm and think it over. After some time, he said" Is it that you are Guru Gobind Singh?" The Guru replied : "Yes I am, now tell me, who are you?" His hands were folded and he said to the Guru" I am your Banda (slave)." Banda also means a good human being. The Guru said" If you are my Banda, then work as a Banda ( a good human being). He assured Guru Sahib to do as per his advice.

With these words Madho Daas was at the feet of Guru sahib. The Guru stayed in his Dera for a few days. He was given Amrit ( baptized the Sikh way) and named Gur Bakhash Singh but remained famous with the name of Banda Singh Bahadur. It was not less than a miracle and was the magnetic like personality of Guru Gobind Singh at his 42 years of age that a 38 year old Rajput, at a place far away from his native, now a mystic, celibate, vegetarian, having occult powers, master of a big Ashram but very haughty and proud was turned into a devoted and disciplined soldier and made an army general by the Guru, who fell on the cruel rulers of Punjab like a storm and cloud burst.

source:santsepahi.com

King and his four wives.....

2007-01-17T17:36:00.000-05:00

Excerpt of an email received… Many may have read this before…

Once upon a time there was a King who had four wives. He loved the 4th wife the most and adorned her with rich robes and treated her to thefinest of delicacies. He gave her nothing but the best.

He also loved the 3rd wife very much and was always showing her off to neighboring kingdoms. However, he feared that one day she would leave him for another.

He also loved his 2nd wife. She was his confident and was always kind,considerate and patient with him. Whenever the King faced a problem, he could confide in her, and she would help him get through the difficult times.

The King's 1st wife was a very loyal partner and had made great contributions in maintaining his wealth and kingdom. However, he did not love the first wife. Although she loved him deeply, he hardly took notice of her!

One day, the King fell ill and he knew his time was short. He thought of his luxurious life and wondered, "I now have four wives with me, but when I die, I'll be all alone."

Thus, he asked the 4th wife, "I have loved you the most, endowed you with the finest clothing and showered great care over you. Now that I'm dying, will you follow me and keep me company?" "No way!" replied the 4th wife and she walked away without another word. Her answer cut like a sharpknife right into his heart.

The sad King then asked the 3rd wife, "I have loved you all my life. Nowthat I'm dying, will you follow me and keep me company?" "No!", replied the 3rd wife. "Life is too good! When you die, I'm going to remarry!" Hisheart sank and turned cold.

He then asked the 2nd wife, "I have always turned to you for help and you've always been there for me. When I die, will you follow me and keep me company?" "I'm sorry, I can't help you out this time!", replied the 2ndwife. "At the very most, I can only walk with you to your grave." Her answer struck him like a bolt of lightning, and the King was devastated.

Then a voice called out: "I'll go with you. I'll follow you no matter where you go." The King looked up, and there was his first wife. She was very skinny as she suffered from malnutrition and neglect. Greatly grieved, the King said, "I should have taken much better care of you when I had the chance!"

In truth, we all have the 4 wives in our lives:

Our 4th wife is our body. No matter how much time and effort we lavish inmaking it look good, it will leave us when we die.

Our 3rd wife is our possessions, status and wealth. When we die, it will all go to others.

Our 2nd wife is our family and friends. No matter how much they have been there for us, the furthest they can stay by us is up to the grave.

And our 1st wife is our Soul, often neglected in pursuit of wealth, power and pleasures of the world. However, our Soul is the only thing that will follow us wherever we go.Cultivate, strengthen and cherish it now, for it is the only part of us that will follow us to the throne of God and continue with us throughout Eternity.

Thought for the day:

Remember, when the world pushes you to your knees, you're in the perfect position to pray.

Ardas for Bhai Tejinderpal Singh jee's Chardi Kala.....

2007-01-15T20:05:00.000-05:00

Recently Bhai Tejenderpal Singh jee (Dulla Veerjee) had an accident while driving in poor visibility and driving conditions due to winter snowy weather. Veerjee had to be airlifted to a hospital where he was reported to be in stable condition (induced coma). However as per Hukam of Sri Akalpurakh ji, Veerjee's wife Bhenjee Bibi Jasbir Kaur jee passed away in this accident.

Click for more details.......

Turban, a savior....

2007-01-09T16:57:00.000-05:00

I was just randomly reading Testimonies online when I came across this one......

My turban has saved me so many times that I cannot even begin to explain. Like most, I am also filled with greed and lust. I even thought about looting or robbery in order to accumulate wealth. But everytime I think about it I think about my turban. A thought comes in my mind that how will my Guru feel if I do such a thing. I am a Sikh and a Sikh must walk on the path of humility and respect and live happily in whatever God has given me. If I have not had a turban on my head, I probably would have become a thief, a rogue, and probably a murderer. My turban saves me.

My turban saves me from bad company. Due to my turban the ill minded people do not approach me and neither do I go to the bars. When I was in high school, I saw a person who was talking to high school kids about taking drugs. He would approach the kids and show then a small packet containing the drug and would ask them to try it. But he did not talk to me, he did not come near me, he saw my turban and kept his distance. I sometimes think how would my life be if I have not had a turban on my head. It would be very easy to talk to be in contact with druggies and robbers. Having such a company I probably would have become a drunkard and a drug addict.

The symbol Guru ji gave me actually saves me. Now I know the importance of turban and its purpose. It is not just an identity of a Sikh but also keeps a Sikh away from bad thing and bad company.

By Jagjit Singh

(source:realsikhism.com)

Kinka Ek Jis Jeea Basaave, Taa Ki Mahima Gani Na Aave...

2007-01-05T00:24:00.000-05:00

Best wishes to all on the occassion of Parkash Utsav of Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Gobind Singh Sahib jee Maharaaj. I once listen to a CD by Late Bhai Jasbir Singh jee Khanawale where he was stressing on importance of Amrit. He said one line that resonates in my mind every now and then...He said, "We say that we respect Guru Gobind Singh Sahib jee Maharaaj, but we don't want to listen to what he said (Amrit Shakna)". He further said, "This is very wierd. We say that we respect our father, but we don't like our father telling us what to do".

I do not have word to praise Guru Sahib, but I have a Sakhi that I want to share with others. This is one of the lesser known Sakhis....

Once, a Sikh made a request before Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Gobind Singh Sahib jee Maharaaj, "O true King! I am grieved by the world. Eliminate the pain of birth and death. Save me from sins. I am in your protection. I am illiterate".

Guru Ji said, "Brother Sikh! You are blessed that you became detached (from the world). An fool cannot get sense without education. One should get education. An uneducated person cannot understand anything. The God meets him, whose pronunciation of 'Bani' is perfect. Brother! Do study.

Guru Ji asked the 'Granthi' to teach that Sikh with love. The 'Granthi' started to teach him. While teaching, he taught him this line of Anand Sahib prayer, "Anand bhya meree maaye, Satguroo main paaya." (The heavenly pleasure occurred, O my mother, for I have found my True Guru).

The Sikh recited this line with love and went reciting it. Sometimes, he would eat from 'langar' (the community kitchen). His faith increased reciting this line.

After six months, Guru Ji asked the Granthi, "Did he learn?" Granthi Singh replied, "He did not return after learning one line."

Guru Ji called for that Sikh and asked, "You were sent to learn."

He replied with folded hands, "Guru Ji! One line is enough. When the True Guru has been found, 'Anand' is gotten. (Without getting the 'Anand') more reciting is the act of 'Bemukhs'."

Guru Ji smiled and said, "You are 'nihaal' (bliss). Your cycle of birth and death has been curtailed."

source:sikh-info.com

Dukh Sukh........

2006-12-30T08:36:00.000-05:00

Two store owners had their stores next to one another. One store owner, Gurmukh used to close his shop early and go to see Guru Nanak Dev ji. The other store owner, Manmukh asked Gurmukh that why you close your shop early he said he goes to see Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Manmukh also started closing his store early but instead started going to gamble house. Both kept on going to their places.

One day Manmukh and Gurmukh agreed upon a place to meet after visiting their places, so that they can go to their homes together. Manmukh came to meeting place early because the doors to gamble house were locked. He found golden ring lying by the pile of ashes. He was very happy. Gurmukh was on his way to the meeting place and thorn (kanda) punctured his foot. So he was in pain and came to a meeting place limping and bleeding. Manmukh told Gurmukh that he used to go to gamble and do all sorts of bad things and found a golden ring but you used to go to good places and be in the company of holy and still are in pain. Gurmukh told Manmukh there may be something behind this and asked him to go to see Guru Nanak Dev Ji next day. Both asked Guru Ji why it happened like this. Guru ji asked " Do you know what you did in the past life?" Both said no. Guru you told Manmukh, you donated golden ring in the past life and in this life you were going to get many golden rings but every day you used to go to gamble house and do bad things, the golden rings turned into ashes. The one golden ring is left because you could not go to that place on the last day. Guru Ji told Gurmukh, you were supposed to be hanged but because you started coming to sadh sangat, hanging has changed to mere pain of a thorn.

Dukh and Sukh in our present life are the result of deeds done in our previous lives. Gurbani says on 1030 "Sukh dukh purab janam kay kiye, so jane jin datay diye. Kis tu dosh deh tu parani suh apna kiya karaa hai". We can reduce the pains and sufferings of this life by devoting time toward WaheGuru (Naam Japna, Paath, Keertan, doing good deeds etc.). This will neutralize the effects of bad deeds done in the previous lives. All should devote at least 2.5 hours daily for Nitnem and all the time say WaheGuru in your mind. Repeating WaheGuru WaheGuru ..... WaheGuru is the most powerful way especially at Amrit vela. Keep doing that everyday without any break, not only your this life will be better but you will reap the benefits after this life also.

source:sikh.net

Shalok Bhagat Kabeer jee kay....

2006-12-20T10:14:00.001-05:00

Here Bhagat Kabeer jee describes what his state of mind came to while watching the end of life...

Shalok Bhagat Kabeer jee kay....

2006-12-20T10:14:00.000-05:00

Here Bhagat Kabeer jee talks about difference between doing good deeds vs. carrying the load of misdeeds while ferrying across this ocean of life in this world....

Janam Baba Fateh Singh jee (Dec 12,1699)

2006-12-13T10:48:00.000-05:00

Baba Fateh Singh (1699-1705), the youngest of Guru Gobind Singh jee's four Sahibzadas, was born to Mata Jito ji (also known as Mata Sundari ji) at Anandpur on 12 December 1699. After the death of his mother, on 5 December 1700, he was brought up under the care of his grandmother, Mata Gujari Kaur ji, with whom he remained till the last.

On 26 December 1705, he was martyred at Sirhind along with his elder brother, Zorawar Singh. He is probably the youngest recorded martyr in history who knowingly laid down his life at the very tender age. Sahibzada Fateh Singh and his older brother, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh are among the most hallowed martyrs in Sikhism.

A combination of Mughals and hillmen besieged Anandpur Sahib on the orders of emperor Aurangzeb. The stock of food in the town ran out. The Mughals promised to leave the Sikhs alone if they would hand over the fortress of Anandpur. To this Guru Gobind Singh jee agreed and left the town with his family and a small band of retainers.

They had not gone very far when the Mughals, breaking their promise, came after them. Guru Gobind Singh jee entrusted his two younger sons, Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh as well as his mother, Mata Gujri, to the care of a cook in his household named Gangu.

Gangu brought Mata Gujri and the two Sahibzadas to his native village of Sahedi. Bribed by the Mughals, he turned in the three members of Guru Gobind Singh jee's family. They were then brought to Sirhind in the presence of Wazir Khan, the Nawab of Sirhind.

The two sons of Guru Gobind Singh jee, Zorawar (9 years old) and Fateh (6 years old) were offered safe passage if they became Muslims. With a courage that belied their years, both boys refused to do so.

Wazir Khan sentenced them to death. They were bricked alive. The place where the two sons of Guru Gobind Singh jee were bricked alive is today known as Fatehgarh Sahib

Although he did not know it then, but Wazir Khan was to pay for the crime that he had committed. After Guru Gobind jee's Jyoti Jyot (departure from this world), Madhodas Bairagi, a hermit from Nanded, whom the Guru baptised as Banda Bahadur, besieged the Punjab. After laying waste, the cities of Samana and Sandhaura, he moved towards Sirhind and after defeating the Mughal forces, killed Wazir Khan.

source:sikhiwiki.org

Inder Ghagga loses debates to Panthic Singhs in Toronto.....

2006-12-11T17:13:00.000-05:00

(Top) Bhai Kulbir Singh Ji of Toronto debating with Inder S. Ghagga (Bottom - center)

In the past few years, the public has seen an assortment of anti-Gurmat literature being produced by various individuals promoting Kala-Afghana/missionary lobby viewpoints. In their message, they viciously attack the very fundamentals that set the Sikh Panth apart for other faiths. Instead of utilizing sound logic and Gurbani as a basis of their arguments they often resort to ridicule and sarcasm in a sign of desperation and lack of confidence.

Click here to read the complete story.....

[PART 1] Gurbani Debate : Bhai Kulbir Singh of Toronto and Inder S. Ghagga

2006-12-04T11:17:00.000-05:00


[PART 1] Gurbani Debate : Bhai Kulbir Singh of Toronto and Inder S. Ghagga

[PART 2] Gurbani Debate : Bhai Kulbir Singh of Toronto and Inder S. Ghagga

2006-12-04T11:16:00.000-05:00


[PART 2] Gurbani Debate : Bhai Kulbir Singh of Toronto and Inder S. Ghagga

[PART 3] Gurbani Debate : Bhai Kulbir Singh of Toronto and Inder S. Ghagga

2006-12-04T11:15:00.001-05:00


[PART 3] Gurbani Debate : Bhai Kulbir Singh of Toronto and Inder S. Ghagga

[PART 4] Gurbani Debate : Bhai Kulbir Singh of Toronto and Inder S. Ghagga

2006-12-04T11:15:00.000-05:00


[PART 4] Gurbani Debate : Bhai Kulbir Singh of Toronto and Inder S. Ghagga

[PART 5] Gurbani Debate : Bhai Kulbir Singh of Toronto and Inder S. Ghagga

2006-12-04T11:11:00.001-05:00


[PART 5] Gurbani Debate : Bhai Kulbir Singh of Toronto and Inder S. Ghagga

[PART 6] Gurbani Debate : Bhai Kulbir Singh of Toronto and Inder S. Ghagga

2006-12-04T11:11:00.000-05:00


[PART 6] Gurbani Debate : Bhai Kulbir Singh of Toronto and Inder S. Ghagga

Janam BABA ZORAWAR SINGH JEE (Nov 28)....

2006-11-28T16:03:00.000-05:00

BABA ZORAWAR SINGH JEE(1696-1705), the third son of Guru Gobind Singh jee was born to Mata Jito ji (also known as Mata Sundari ji) at Aanandpur 28 November 1696 and was barely nine years old at the time of the evacuation of Aanandpur on the night of 5-6 December 1705. Since the death, on 5 December 1700, of Mata Jito ji, Mata Gujari his grandmother had been especially attached to young Zorawar Singh and his infant brother, Fateh Singh. She took charge of both as the column moved out of Aanandpur.

On the morning of 7 December 1705, the day of the fateful battle of Chamkaur Baba Zorawar Singh ji, along with Baba Fateh Singh ji and their grandmother, was taken into custody by Jani Khan and Mani Khan Ranghar. They were despatched on the following day to Sirhind where they were consigned to the Cold Tower (Thanda Burj) of the Fort.

Wazir Khan tried to lure the Sahibzadas to embrace Islam with promises of riches and honours, but they spurned the suggestion. He then threatened them with death, but they remained undaunted. Death sentence was finally pronounced. Upon Sher Muhammad Khan's intercession for the innocent children to be spared their lives, they were given some more time to ponder over the suggestion to convert. Sahibzada Zorawar Singh ji and his brother spent another two days of severe winter in their old grandmother's lap in the Cold Tower.

Still adamant, they were, on 11 December 1705, ordered to be sealed alive in a wall. According to tradition, as the masonry around their tender bodies reached chest high, it crumbled. The Sahibzadas were sent to the Cold Tower again for the night. The next day, 12 December 1705, the alternative of conversion being again turned down, Baba Zorawar Singh ji and Baba Fateh Singh ji were martyrd by sealing alive in a wall. The aged Mata Gujari Kaur ji, who had all along been kept in the Cold Tower, only a little distance away, breathed her last as the news reached her ears.

Seth Todar Mal, a wealthy merchant of Sirhind, performed the cremation of the three dead bodies the following day. The site of the fateful happenings, since christened Fatehgarh Sahib, close to the old town of Sirhind, is now marked by four Sikh shrines. A religious fair is held here from 25 to 28 December every year to honour the memory of the martyrs.

source : sikhiwiki.com

Dhan Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib jee....

2006-11-24T17:19:00.000-05:00

Shahidee of Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib jee Maharaaj falls Nov 24. following is a brief write up about circumstances leading to his sacrifice....

Aurangzeb who ruled over India started destroying/converting Hindu temples to Masjids. Though he started forced conversions in the whole country i.e. all the Southern states, Bengal, Bihar, Rajasthan, Gujarat etc., to achieve this, he started systematic and vigorous conversion of the high caste Brahmins of Kashmir, from Northern most side of the country. In about 1674 AD the Kashmiri Brahmins requested Guru Teg Bahadur, the 9th guru of the Sikhs to save them. To put an end to this cruel conversion, Guru Teg Bahadur after choosing his son the next successive Guru of the Sikhs, offered himself for the supreme sacrifice .

In 1675 AD Guru Teg Bagadur was arrested in Agra with few of his followers and brought back to Delhi. He was asked to: 1. Convert to Muslim Religion. 2. To prove to be a godly person, show some miracles. 3. Accept death.

His reply was:
1. It is an individual's right to choose religion of his own free will. 2. Showing miracles is going against the Will of God and against the laws of Nature. 3. There is no fear of death and he is prepared to die.

The Guru was imprisoned in an iron cage. To give fear of death, three of his followers were killed in his presence. One Sikh was cut longitudinally in two peaces with a saw by fixing him in wooden planks, another was boiled in water and the third was burnt in cotton. With their face towards the Guru, the three Sikhs sacrificed themselves without a pinch of remorse or sorrow. Name of God was residing in the heart of Guru and he remained untouched. After this he was beheaded. This occurred in the year 1675 AD. The place of this occurrence is called Gurudwara Sis Ganj at Delhi, very near to the historic Red Fort.

Thanking Whom??????

2006-11-22T10:34:00.000-05:00

Bhagat Sain Jee's job was Saved by God...

2006-11-15T06:26:00.000-05:00

Bhagat Sain jee was a poor man who would serve the king in his palace. “Hearing about the glory of Bhagat Kabeer jee, Bhagat Sain jee also turned to be a disciple. In the night he would immerse in loving devotion to God and in the morning he would serve at the door of the king. One night some saints came to him and the whole night was spent in singing the praises of God. Bhagat Sain jee could not leave company of the saints and consequently did not perform the king’s service the following morning. God himself took the form of Bhagat Sain and served the king in such a way that the king was overjoyed. Bidding farewell to the saints, Bhagat Sain jee embarrassedly arrived at the palace of the king. From a distance the king called him nearby. He took off his own robe and offered it to Bhagat Sain jee. ‘You have overpowered me today’, said the king and his words were heard by all people standing there.

God himself manifests the dignity of His devotee.

source:realsikhism.com