Essays, essays and essays. MAN I'm glad to get all of them out of the way. I've begun my sikh comic once again, starting from where I left off, it's starting to look good, but I'm doing it all myself so there's still a long way to go. I feel really inspired all of a sudden after the recent events in Punjab (see link at end of post) to get it finished in all the Shaheeds' (martyrs) honour.

I've begun the storyboard for Tom's movie now. It's going well. I began with the second act where one of the main characters gets hit by a car, which drives off and the female lead has to decide on whether to abandon him (since he mugged her earlier) or help him. It's really interesting and a lot of fun. The problem is, I don't feel motivated to do any law revision for my exam on the 17th, so I've done a timetable to try and organise my time and stuff....we'll see how that goes eh...

My grandmother has just come out of hospital after surgery and I've been back n forth home since she went in. I'm very relieved to have her back home and grateful that she is recovering well with the Grace of God. She's been more of a mother to me than my own mother...so it's been hard and I can't wait to see her on Thursday, when I go home next.

I have a 'spur of the moment' wedding to go to on Saturday, which will be great. All my cousins are coming back (like me) from Uni for it. I can't wait, it's going to be the biggest reunion since the summer, and a much needed one at that.

Christmas is coming ever nearer and I have yet to do my shopping for gifts. I have a secret santa gift to buy, birthday presents for my bro's (the three of us were all born in December) and xmas gifts for my Dad and Grandma...and mother depending on her behaviour up until then toward me (for the record things have been going well between us lately, so fingers crossed eh..)

I really am upset about what's going on in Punjab right now, and want to offer my prayers and condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in the recent struggles. The fake saints won't last long, we will triumph eventually...

koorr kapatt hathhiaar jio sach rakhavaalaa sileh sa(n)joaa

Falsehood is a fake weapon where as the Truth is protector like an iron-armour.

for more info on punjab events : http://manvirsingh.blogspot.com

to watch up to date coverage : http://www.sikhchannel.tv

Bliss

Do you ever have those days where absolutely everything just goes brilliantly? Well, I had one of 'em yesterday. Everything was just perfect - with the "dude upstairs'" good-grace. I pulled an all-nighter with my friends, watching real old cartoons and shows like 'Top Cat' and 'Wacky Racers', we stayed up 'til breakfast at 7am - a full english fry up (so that meant hash browns for me with weetabix and hot chocolate..blissssss) Then we came back to our rooms to chill or, in my case - to fall asleep whilst reading 'Goodfellas'. I woke up at 12, only to realise I had a meeting with a Student Film-Maker at 2! So I texted him to let him know I'd meet him at 3 instead and he was great about it. We met at Cafe Nero (way better than Starbucks and Costa by the way) and he bought me a hot chocolate with whipped cream and chocolate chip (I know, 2 hot chocolates in one day, could it get any better?) He took a look at some of my art-work, whilst I took a look at his script. I think this movie definately has some promise so I'm quite eager to do the storyboard work for him. He's a really great guy, who went to America in the summer to work with Jack Black on a new movie. He was surprised I'm not doing an art degree or anything... let's not get started on that eh.... He liked my art-work and it turned out we have a similar taste in comic books, i.e. the silver surfer (all time favourite of mine and his)... So he wants me to work for him once I take a proper look at his script, but I've already decided to take the job as I'd love to add this to my portfolio - who knows where it could lead?

After we went our seperate ways I walked around on the high street and the indoor marketplace in Oxford. It was a tad chilly, but otherwise gorgoeus. I went to a few second-hand bookstores and to my surprise found some amasing finds for next to no money! Julius Caesar (my all-time favourite Shakespearian work) published in 1910 for £1.50! I'm working on my autobiography as well, so I picked up Angelas Ashes for a quid (good book) to give me a hand. I also got Pickwick Papers by Dickens (terrific writer and story) , Nelson by Carola Oman (awesome character) and Hemingway's The Old Man and The Sea (gotta love Hemingway). All for less than a tenner - which was amasing! I love second-hand books. You can smell their age and the paper is so precious. They also look so good on the bookshelf hahaha...

I later found myself at the Oxfam charity store on Broad Street. It weren't so good books wise, but they have quite a good collection of LP's. Now, when I was a kid (before the Lord of The Rings was a motion-picture) my father used to speak of an old record he once owned which matched the story in music. He lent it to someone and never got it back. To my surprise at the Oxfam store, I FOUND THE RECORD! I can't wait to see my Papa's face when I show it to him. I know it will mean a lot to him.

So, after meandering the streets of Oxford Town for 3 hours, it was time for a lecture at Oxford Sikh Society about the Last Maharajah of the Sikhs - Duleep Singh - who was a very awesome and tragic character not just in sikh history but in history in general... I really recommend you do some research on him! We went to Pizza Hut afterwards and I ate tonnes of food followed by a cheesecake, over some really stimulating conversation and a good laugh...like I said, Blisssss....

I came home around 11.30 to find all my housemates shout 'congratulations' in the hallway - for getting the storyboard job, they made me tell them everything that happened. I love my housemates, they're such an amasing group of people. So loving. I could tell that they were genuinely happy for me. I was so overwhelmed, I'm STILL overwhelmed.

Such an amasing day.

To top it all off, I GOT MY STUDENT LOOOOAN!! So that burden's been alleviated somewhat :)

"A dish fit for the gods".

~Shakespeare's Julius Caesar~

Time

I've been so busy lately, it's not even funny. Drawing, writing, law work and more. It's hectic. On top of it is 'student life', trying to stay in touch with family AND be able to get up at Amrit Vela (early in the morning). *SIGH* I can't wait til Christmas...It'll be a nice break.

I've started writing my autobiography (unofficially)...I was talking to a friend lately and she was pretty astounded at my life-story so far (how do you write that without sounding conceited?)...she told me to write a book. So, yeah, I am. It's so difficult though. I've drawn up a timetable to try and fit everything into my day. Ontop of revision as well...maybe I'm doing too much at one time?

Someone asked me if I'm looking to get married recently. That was rather random to be honest. I haven't spoken to her in a while , and I got an SMS asking me the 'dreaded' question. But I was surprised at my own answer... Since I was a kid my parents pretty much scared the daylights out of me when it came to the issue of marriage (amongst other family members). When I went to answer, I actually found myself hesitating... Don't get me wrong - I said 'no'. But not because I feel I'm too young or I want a career or whatever... It was just timing and, I want to find my own husband - that's where this SMS was heading (it was to hook some Singh up) . I'm not afraid of the prospect of marriage, nor kids. I love kids. I brought my sister up, so there's nothing to fear there.

The text got me thinking though. I never REALLY thought stragetically about my future. (it gets kinda difficult if you live my life to be able to to predict what's gonna happen TOMORROW) hahaha. The past few days I've been kinda formulating a plan. I know, you never know what's gonna happen. But, at least now, I have a kinda goal in life...A light at the end of the tunnel to head toward.

For now though, I'm trying to live in the moment. I'm reading more, writing more, listening more, talking less, etc. (I'm sure you can imagine)....

The future is NOW.

Indeed

I haven't posted in the last few days. Simply because I was worried I'd write something I'd regret in anger and wouldn't be able to take it back. Anger can get the best of us, what can I say? I know the past 5 days have been pretty crucial writing times for sikhs but I gotta admit. I've been busy. It's reading week for the law students here. I got a lot of work to do my Monday (great...)
I've also been busying myself with writing to Indian Newspapers on their shocking bias and clear apathy in articles regarding 1984.
I'm not going to go into a history about 1984. There are countless websites on the issue (and no, I don't mean the novel - I'm talking about the anti-sikh pogroms of Delhi, d'uh!!!) I won't retell the tragic stories, which can also be read elsewhere. However, I will voice my disatisfaction with the Indian State and it's clear disregard for Human Rights - forget Sikhs, but christians, muslims, dalits, women and tribal people - anyone who's a minority basically is at risk in India of having to deal with; prejudice, attack, racism, segregation and much more. It gets me angry just thinking about it...........worlds' largest democracy my ass...
**DEEP BREATH**
Don't get me wrong, I still love India....I just don't like the State. I went to a lecture on Monday on the issues, the sequence of events etc. with sources and facts backed up by non-sikhs - which made the facts seem more 'real' in a sense (not that sikh sources are any lower - just sometimes you need to hear things from 'other' people). It was really good.

ANYWAY.....

My brother is coming to stay with me tomorrow!! It's gonna be epic. We've really missed eachother since I moved out - since we're so close in age (less than a year) and spend so much time together. I can't wait!
I have SO much work to do - but simultaniously I'm working for a script for a film for next years sikhnet film festival ( I was inspired by Atlanta's Angad Singh). I can't wait to start shooting in January, if all goes well! Wish me luck.
I'm also trying to fit in painting AND work on my graphic novel on sikhism - which was put on hold a LONG time ago cos of college work n the whole family dilemma. SO at the moment all seems to be going well.... we shall see eh??

This doesn't really go with what I wrote about just now, but I like it - stood out to me :

galee bhisath n jaaeeai shhuttai sach kamaae

By mere talk, people do not earn passage to Heaven. Salvation comes only from the practice of Truth.

Get off your ass!

The British National Party (known for nazi/fascist views and policies) has come into the spotlight recently in the UK, since they featured on BBC's Question Time. Now, I don't disagree with the principle that these views should be listened to - else how else can we counter them? Voltaire said something like 'I dissaprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it...' We live in a democracy and as such we have to respect other peoples rights to freedom of speech. However, it is widely known that the BNP's views insight hatred much like the many 'islamic militant fundamentalists' they oppose, the only difference is the BNP is a political party! Therefore their right to say things on a public platform is quite controversial (as I'm sure you can imagine)...

Then again if we don't let these views come to the platform; they''ll end up being forced underground; will create more anonymous support; and hatred will spread; with violence increasing.

If we expose their policies and show them up for the sham that they are, we can do a lot more.

Also, it is the responsibility of every BNP-hating person out there to stand up and take some responsibility. Throwing eggs will not make a difference, but work against us in the sense that we create sympathy for these...fiends. We can talk about this in our own little communities and all of us can repeat the same message - 'screw the BNP' , 'sod the BNP' blah blah blah, but we won't get anywhere.

The only way to counter the BNP is to fight back with brains and not brawn. Go to a primary school and/or a high school and do a talk about tolerance! Talk about the many different people, religions, ethinicities we have in this beautiful world. Talk about humanity. We are ONE. We have to educate people from a 'grass root level' or the next generation will follow in the BNP/NF footsteps. We need to spread a message of peace and love and tolerance. All British people, no matter what colour or creed should stand up united against these people.

Most of the people who voted for them tend to be ignorant and poorly educated. They are prejudiced from the beginning.

And don't just go to schools where the population is already pretty diverse - kids are smart, they already tend to be pretty accepting here - go to schools in the middle of nowhere , where they haven't seen a coloured person 'cept on TV. Go to places like Bristol - where racism with youths is rampant.

We can fight this! We just have to get off our asses and make the change ourselves. There's no use in moaning when the storm has already passed and we're picking up the pieces. Think ahead!

It is not mine but YOUR responsibility. YOU are going to do something about it. I will tell you exactly what to do, I will give you the tools but YOU can't wait for someone else to solve this problem. That is why we have a situation we have toda...y. The world does not know about us because we as individuals wait for our community or leaders to do our job. But who is the community, who are the leaders ? It is YOU and I. (Angad Singh Atlanta, Georgia - 16 year old peace activist)

BE THE CHANGE YOU WANNA SEE IN THE WORLD!!!

eehaa khaatt chalahu har laahaa aagai basan suhaelaa 1

In this world, earn the profit of the Lord's Name, and hereafter, you shall dwell in peace. 1

EARN THAT PEACE!

Leave a mark

I was thinking some, I guess 'depressing', thoughts today for some inexplicable reason. I was thinking. I'm a member of twitter, facebook, a blogger and have a lot of "friends" overseas through things like msn, yahoo etc. So I was thinking if I died today, none of them would ever know.

My status would probably stay the same on Facebook and twitter and I've left my blog alone for long periods of time before, so nothing new there eh? Nobody would ever know that I passed away.

That's when Bani really hit me. We talk about how short-term and inpermanent this life is, but I've never truthfully taken it seriously before. I don't think I'm afraid of death, rather I'm afraid...of the prospect of leaving nothing behind.

I'm not self-conceted. I don't want loads of mourners at my funeral or anything like that. But I think I don't want to leave this world having left nothing good behind for me to feel good about...I want to leave a mark (in the good way - not the psychotic Hitler way).

Before any of you start I know that that's not the reason for us being in this world. I do know that. We're here to merge with the Greatest. I know that.

But I consider my 'mark' to be my second priority. And I WILL leave one.

We're footprints in sand close to the shore. We feel firm and bold at first, but slowly we merge with the rest of the beach and we're no more.

pRB kY ismrin dUKu jmu nsY ]

prabh kai simaran dhookh jam nasai

Remembering God, the pain of death is dispelled

Bandi Chhor and Divali

Taken from a facebook message sent to me today. Today is the auspicious occassion of Bandi Chhor Divas (the day of emancipation.)

Divali – Keeping the flame of freedom alight Sikhs throughout the globe will celebrate Divali in October. Divas/lamps will be alight, a jovial festival atmosphere will prevail. Sweets and samosas will be enjoyed, fireworks will set alight the moonlit sky. But why do we really celebrate? Apart from the annual calendar significance? What does Divali mean for us as Sikhs?

The sixth Guru, Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Jee was falsely imprisoned for spurious reasons by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. After some months it was declared that Guru Jee could walk free. Like Guru Jee there were other prisoners of conscience in Gwalior Fort (the prison), specifically 52 Hindu Kings who made a heartfelt plea to Guru Jee begging him to negotiate their release also. The ocean of mercy Guru Jee listened attentively to their plea and showered his grace upon them and told them not to worry and that he would negotiate their release.Guru Jee told the Emperor he would only leave the prison on the condition that the 52 Hindu Kings are freed also.

The Emperor being a man entangled in his own ego and pride of intelligence, replied that Guru Jee could walk free with as many Kings who could hold onto his clothing on the day of his release. Guru the fountain of knowledge easily got around the condition by getting a robe tailored with 52 tassels on it. On the day of His release Guru Jee walked out of Gwalior Fort with all 52 Hindu Kings holding onto one tassel each, this auspicious occasion is referred to as “Bandi Shorr Divas – the day of emancipation.” Guru Jee did not only free the 52 Hindu Kings from prison, He also showered His grace upon them and freed them from the transmigration of the soul, freeing them from the cycle of births and deaths.

Each and everyone of us also begs for this freedom: forsaking all other doors I have come to your door. Preserve my honour by offering the support of your arm, liberate me, I am your humble servant. (Sri Guru Gobind Singh Jee)I have come to the sanctuary of the formless and emancipating Lord, who destroys all sufferings. (Sri Guru Arjan Dev Jee, ang 624 – Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee) May Guru Jee bless us with spiritual and physical liberation also. Bandhi Shorr Divas was months prior to Divali. Upon release from Gwalior Fort Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Jee made a tour of Delhi and other regions, then arrangements to go to Sri Darbar Sahib (Golden Temple), Amritsar were made. When he reached Amritsar Sahib it was Divali and the Sikhs celebrated the release of Guru Jee with fireworks and festivities.

Relevance today:

The world over there are countless prisoners of consciousness, held under false fabricated charges and/or those held for standing up for justice, freedom and righteousness. Please light a candle for these prisoners, non-Sikhs and Sikhs, don’t forget Guru Jee’s example offreeing Hindu Kings. He was benevolent, humane and had a profound love for one and all, may we develop such divine virtues. May we all endeavour to assist and support such prisoners and at the very least we can all make a heartfelt prayer that Guru Jee blesses all prisoners with Chardi Kala/High Spirits.One cannot begin to imagine losing freedom of movement and action, we can only try to empathise with such prisoners. Regardless of the regime and it’s tyranny, no man-made authority can imprison the Sikh Spirit and Sikhs still happily go to the gallows for standing up for justice, freedom and righteousness. The Sikh Spirit cannot be imprisoned.

Prominent Sikhs currently imprisoned include Dr. Davinderpal Singh Bhullar, Bhai Deya Singh Lahoria, Bhai Balwant Singh, Bhai Paramjeet Singh Bheora, Bhai Jagtar Singh Hawara, Bhai Paramjeet Singh Dhadhi and the list goes on and on.

Just imagine being the parent of a child who entered militancy or quite simply ‘disappeared’ in the 80’s and 90’s in Punjab. Many of these parents light a candle at Divali, praying and wishing that the light of hope may still bless them with a vision of a fit and well son or daughter. Or they pray in despair that may God nurture their offspring wherever they may be. So when you light a candle and eat a sweet at Divali, please spare a thought, that you are free and are not bound by the restraints of prison life. Lest we forget, lets light a lamp to ensure the rays of freedom shine through all of humanity.

ahinis bhagath karae dhin raathee houmai maar nicha(n)dh

Night and day, they perform devotional worship, day and night; subduing their ego, they are carefree...

Guroo Amar Daas Ji 29

Harjinder Singh www.akaalpublishers.com

SEE

People say that sikhs are blind. Sikhs aren't blind. They pretend to be. Rather, they are asleep - and need to wake up! A lot of people have e-mailed me (anonomously can I add) about 1984 recently. Perhaps it's because I'm not a 'typical' Khalistani, so they think they can influence my opinions with outrageous propaganda and popicock (to use the nice word). They ACTUALLY believe Sikhs had it coming and that we were behaving like terrorists! This hurts a lot. Albeit I was not born at this time, fine. And, true I'm not the 'typical' Khalistani but that does not mean I don't have a connection with every man, woman and child who was brutally murdered at the hands of tyrants (to say the least). That doesn't mean that I don't support and respect Sant Jarnail Singh and the other Shaheeds. I'm not going to go into the history of Bluestar. There are a billion websites that would do it more justice. But I HAVE to say. It was an unprecedented attack on innocent people (pilgrims actually), planned WELL before it took place, systematically to suppress (if not wipe out) sikhs. No matter what anyone says, the Army was not justified to even set foot in Punjab. Congress has a lot of questions to answer.

The Delhi Riots were NOT riots. There's significant evidence which supports the fact that they were planned in advance with the support of the ruling Congress Party members. Come on, why else were trucks of gasoline, iron bars and machetes brought into the city within moments of Indhira Gandhi's inevitable death, I wouldn't be surprised if they left for their destinations before she died! (but that's just my 2 cents ;P) AND, on top of it all - there were lists of almost every sikh dwelling and business in Delhi! I mean guys seriously, if you're telling me it was 'spur of the moment'....you're seriously deluded.

So this goes out to all the 'sikhs' and 'hindus' out there who sent me a barrage of e-mails after my last "anti-typical khalistani" post....

WAKE UP! Open your eyes and SEE, don't look, SEE...

bhram mehi soee sagal jagath dhha(n)dhh a(n)dhh

The whole world is asleep in doubt; it is blinded by worldly entanglements.

Shahid e Azam

In honour of Amar Shaheed Bhagat Singh Ji's 101st birthday (which I know, was last month); I've decided to post about his sacrifice and what it means to me.

I feel like not enough people know about Bhagat Singh. For me, he was my greatest inspiration - even more than Sri Guroo Gobind Singh Ji and all. It's mostly because I read and researched Bhagat Singh well before learning anything about Sikhi.

Bhagat Singh filled me with the urge and passion to make a difference in India. After learning about his eternal sacrifice, I don't think I could handle it if I did absolutely nothing to try and make India even a smidge better. Bhagat Singh died with the belief that he would make the youth in India 'rise to the occassion'. In some respects it happened, but after 1947, Indians have become complacent, India is not free, despite the removal of the British. All Indians are a slave to themselves and to it's tyrannical government. India is one of the most corrupt countries in the world depsite it's being the 'largest democracy'. I'm sure Bhagat Singh would 'turn in his grave' if he saw what's going on right now.

Bhagat Singh was in favour of secularism and socialism. Now, I'm not really a socialist (because I don't think that mankind is quite ready for socialism), but I suppose I do have some socialist values - I suppose quite in line with traditional Labour views....but I'm a secularist despite being and amritdhari sikh (ironic eh).

People always ask me "Why are you not Khalistani? What has 'mother India' ever done for her Sikhs? What about all those Shaheed sikhs slaughtered by their fellow brothers in the 1980's-90's?"

To tell you the truth, my answers seem weak to those people, but to me they are what keep me going. Belief in mankind...is that such a bad thing? How can you look into the face of an impoverished child and ignore him, simply because he is not sikh or a khalistani? or because his father may have been a rioter? I hate to use the phrase 'to tarr all with the same brush is an injustice' - but it's TRUE. I believe in a Khalistan (a land of the pure) to some extent. But not what the common idea of Khalistan is (read previous post on Khalistan for more info).

India is really a glorious place, and despite what many sikhs belief, it consists of much more than just Punjab :O I love India and I love Indians. I have so many Indian friends from all over the subcontinent - Gujurat, Goa, Mumbai, Tamil Nadu, Bangalore, Delhi, Bihar, Calcutta and more. And, despite a common misconception, not all Indians hate Sikhs...it's true, I swear!

The problem with India is the Government and it's Institutions , as well as the Police. The judiciary is BEGINNING to become more independent but it's taking time. I know it sounds so simple and easy to say but if every child/youth (and there's a HECK of a lot) cut down on the bollywood films and desi clubbing and drugging; and got up and joined the police force, judiciary, government etc. then India would change a heck of a lot faster. The problem is persuading people to do this. The typical 'what can vone man do yaar?' comes out and the revolution has ended before it's started....And yet when you go on Youtube and Internet Forums you read the posts from Internet warriors who are ready to fight to the death in support of Truth...I wish we could all practise what we preach (including me, before you say it).

It's so easy to sit in the UK and USA and whatever and say these things I know. But until I can do my part physically, this is how I'm going to do it... haha with 'Internet Parchaar'. If I can inspire just ONE person, then I'm content. This is my seva. You can take it or leave it.

Focussing on helping Sikhs is not a bad thing either! I really rate the people going out to India everyday to help the Widows as a result of the Delhi Riots, the people getting youths off of drugs in Punjab, helping the families of Shaheeds and much more.

I think it's just human nature to serve those we have some kind of common identity or affiliation with.

Baghat Singh, Batukeshwar Dutt, Rajguru, Sukhdev, Chandrashekar Azad, Ramprasad Bismil, Ashfaqullah Khan, Roshan Singh, Rajendra Lahiri, Kartar Singh Sarabha and many more fought for the freedom and spirit of ALL Indians and in their honour, so do I. Haha I know these are big words coming from a 19 year old, but Bhagat Singh was only 24 years old when he tasted the cold steel of martyrdom.

Inquilaab Zindaabad.

Some interesting films (if you don't like reading haha) on Bhagat Singh and more :

'The Legend Of Bhagat Singh' by Rajkumar Santoshi

'Rang De Basanti' by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra

'Yuva' by Mani Ratnam

Read:

'Why Am I An Atheist' by Bhagat Singh

http://shahidbhagatsingh.org/

Sri Guroo Raam Daas Ji

Sri Guroo Raam Daas Ji born, Jetha....Vaheguroo, what can I say about such a true Mahatma (great soul) i'm not going to go into His whole life story as so many websites are available which would be able to do a better job.

Today is a special day as it is Guroo Ji's Avtaar Purab - the day that Guroo Ji came into this world.

Through His love and devotion Jetha became Guroo Raam Daas as Guroo Amar Daas' successor who subsequently continued the building of what we now know as Amritsar (was then Raamdaaspur)....Guroo Ji encouraged His sikhs to partake in the joy and sorrow of others and not only quiet meditation; this is also a way of ridding the soul of Ego - which seperates us from the One.

Guroo Ji kept a veeery long beard- as many of the subsequent paintings of him illustrate.

One day Sri Chand - Sri Guroo Naanak Dev Ji's eldest son who was the leader of the Udaasi Sect (ascetics) came to visit Guroo Ji. Baba Sri Chand asked Guroo Ji, in an aim to try and belittle him, why he kept such a long beard? Sri Guroo Raam Daas Ji's reply was as follows:

"So I that I can wipe the dust off of the feet of Holy men such as yourself."

He then proceeded to perform this supreme act of humility...before Baba Sri Chand could stop him and embrace him, explaining, "That's enough. So, this is why I have been deprived of my ancestral heritage - through behaviour and humilty such as this. Now, what more is left of me, that I could offer you for your piety and goodness of heart?"

(Baba Sri Chand had been angry at having Gurooship passed over him when Sri Guroo Nanak dev his father initiated Sri Guroo Angad Dev Ji as successor. Hoping to alter the direction that his father had set down for His sikhs, Baba Sri Chand attempted to install himself as the second Guroo.)

Sri Guroo Raam Daas, I believe is the supreme inspiration of many Western Sikhs - much like Sri Guroo Nanak Dev Ji and Sri Guroo Gobind Singh Ji are to others. But Guroo Ji has a place in all of our hearts for many different reasons.

Dhan Dhan Raam Daas Gur, Jin Siriyaa Thine Suvaariaa

Blessed, Blessed is Guroo Raam Daas, He who created You, exalted You.

Pooree Hooee Karaaamaath Aap Sirajanehaare Dhaaria

Perfect is Your miracle; the Creater Lord Himself has installed You on the throne.

Sources: http://www.mrsikhnet.com/ , http://www.sikhnet.com/, http://www.sikhiwiki.com/

listen live to kirtan at Sri Guroo Raam Daas Ashram Espanola:

www.fateh.sikhnet.com/s/sundaygurudwara

Kirpan Update

Here Ye, Here Ye....Let it be known that with Maharaj's Beant Kirpa and the support of United Sikhs and other Gupt Sangata(n)...I am allowed to carry on wearing my Kirpan at University! The diversity officer at Oxford Brookes University supported my appeal and also confirmed my rights as per UK laws. A big thank you to all those involved.

I've the understanding that a secondary school pupil, J Singh, recently was not as fortunate as I in a similar matter at a Barnet (UK) school.... my love, prayers and support go out to you....may vaheguroo help you in this difficult time, as I know how frustrating it can be.

For more information: http://www.unitedsikhs.org/PressReleases/PRSRLS-08-10-2009-00.html

ho maan thaan karo thaeraa ho jaano aapaa

I stand tall: You are my strength. I know that you are mine.

UNI!!!!

Vaheguroo Ji Ka Khalsa Vaheguroo Ji Ki Fateh

Sat Naam!

It's been just over a week since I moved to University. And, as promised, I'm posting about my experiences here so far....

First off, I have to say to anyone who doubts Akaal Purakh's power - come to Oxford to witness it. Oxford is the most beautiful City I have ever visited. It is amasingly well maintained; filled with very old (I think medievil) style buildings, glorious parks and fields, a lovely town centre, looooads of old churches and, of course - it's home to both MY university (Oxford Brookes) and Oxford University. I wouldn't compare the campuses because Oxford buildings are by far spectacularly older and Oxford Brookes is more modern as it's a much younger university. The primary mode of transport for most dwellers are, I think, bikes, buses and walkers - which I love because they're much more friendly to the environment and ourselves haha.

There is also a small Gurudwara here as well!! I'm making a visit tomorrow to see where exactly it is, but I'm so glad that Sri Guru Granth Sahib is in my city, so I dont have to go back to London everyweek.

My housemates at Harcourt Hill campus (5 miles from my regular campus) are stars. We all get along incredibly well, they're not heavy drinkers or smokers (thank God) and they're very open-minded people...It's only been a week but we're already a little family haha.

The past week was taken up by inductions, tours, enrolement, karaoke and the joining of societies. THERE'S NO SIKH SOCIETY AT BROOKES!!! The other sikh students prefer their punjabi origins and created a PUNJABI Society (why am I not surprised) and those interested in Sikhi have to join the Oxford Uni Sikh Soc. but I joined the tennis, law and snowsports society. I've met so many different people here, from many different walks fo life - I'm so glad I didn't go to an 'Asian' Uni - where all the punjabi's, pakistani's etc. go because I wanted to be able to spread my wings a bit in a different atmosphere to West London - the world's a MUCH bigger place.

I've had some trouble in the last few days about my Kirpan though, which was kind of a downer to be honest. BUT I've spoken to United Sikhs and they're behind me so if it comes to the crunch - I'll have their backing...I'm currently awaiting a verdict on whether I can have it on campus (can I point out I DON'T even wear it openly outside!!! That's the funny part...) However, the staff have all been very polite and nice about the matter, they just don't (unsurprisingly) know anything about sikhi.... but it's all in Akaal Purakhs' hands, I leave it to Them to make the decision - another test I suppose....

Man(n)ai muhi chottaa naa khaae

The faithful shall never be struck across the face

Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Jap Ji Sahib

Khalsa Camp 2009

Tomorrow, I move into my university room in Oxford... I cannot wait, it really has been a long time coming, with Maharaj's kirpa all seems well...

I know I haven't posted in donkey's but I'm gonna try and make a conscious effort to do so from now on...so you get the perspective of a fully fledged sikh-uni-student...although why you'd wanna read about that is beyond me!

Last month I attended Khalsa Camp for a week. It was my very first sikh camp and I have to say...

One of the greatest experiences of my life. the lectures were absolutely spot on (every one), the sangat is uplifting, the kirtan is beyond devotional and the overall atmosphere is breathtaking.

I would definately recommend sangat to attend next year for a trully spiritual experience.

Stay in Chardi Kalaa!

Peace and LOVE

Time to Wake Up

Technically, it's Vaisakhi today, but a lot of people are celebrating tomorrow. I'm gonna talk today cos I have the time woopee(!)....

My brother turned around and asked me a pretty innocent question yesterday... 'Why do we celebrate Vaisakhi?' I explained but...I was really shocked....I dunno why, I mean I went on facebook today and more people have written about some punjabi singer's death than vaisakhi...

I talk to my brother about my thoughts and it's 'here we go again'.... What's that about? I'm not trying to force amrit on him nor do I preach and tell him to grow his kes. But a little itihaas surely wont kill him or the rest of the youth who 'yawn' at sikh sakian.

I can't wait til I finish school, I'll finally have the free time on my hands to do some english parchaar in gurughars and school more often. Again it's not about force it's about the fact that but knowledge of who we are gives our youths a sense of identity.

You ask any muslim who Mohammeds first wife was they can tell you it was Khadija, or his daughter was Fatima or he established the city of Medina and they've almost certainly read the Qu'ran once in their lifetime at least. You can ask a hindu who Sita was and they can tell you she was the wife of Raam. If you ask them to recite the Gayatri Mantra and they wouldn't hesitate. But if you ask a sikh who the panj pyare was you'd get silence, get em to tell you the names of all the Guru Ji's and they'd hesitate. if they got the names they wouldn't know the order. Ask them to recite at least the first verse of Sri Jap Ji Sahib and they'd look at you blank....

I may sound a little negative and pessimistic, but sometimes you gotta open your eyes in order to change things. There's no point in walking around with your eyes clothes 'staying positive' and ignoring our problems. That's how things get worse. Which is why I have a lot of respect of Mahaan Sant Jarnail Singh Ji because they woke up a lot of youths and did more for the panth that we could possibly imagine.

It's time the panth woke up and smelt the coffee beans....

Love life, live life

“Life is full of beauty. Notice it. Notice the bumble bee, the small child, and the smiling faces. Smell the rain, and feel the wind. Live your life to the fullest potential, and fight for your dreams.” Ashley Smith

I actually love this quote. I think it's an amasing outlook on love. I would love to fulfill this quote before I die. If it's one thing I can say, it's that I do not wish to die in vain. I life without purpose, fulfilled dreams and goals and excitement; to me is just not worth anything. I have a hundred things I wanna do before I move on. Actually appreciating this wonderful life that Akaal Purakh has given me is one of them.

jwxo siq hovMqo mrxo idRstyx imiQAw ]

jaano sath hova(n)tho marano dhrisattaen mithhiaa

Know for sure that death will come; whatever is seen is false.

Maula

When you hear the song it's even nicer....but I can't find a link for it...so here are the lyrics, translated for those of you who cannot speak urdu...

Arziyaan Sari Mein, Chehre Pe Likh Ke Laaya Hoon

(All m requests, I have them written on my face)

Tumse Kya Mangu Mein, Tum Khud Hi Samjah Lo...

(What can I ask from you, you yourself understand)

Ya Maula..., Maula Maula Maula Mere Maula

(O Lord... My Lord)

Dararein Dararein Bandhein Pe Maula

(Obstacles, Obstacles on my shoulders, O lord)

Maramat Mukdar Ki Kar Do Maula, Mere Maula..

(Take a control of fate/ fortune, my Lord)

Tere Dar Pe Jhuka Hoon Meeta Hoon Bana Hoon

(Am bowing at your feet, have fallen, and recovered)

Marammat Mukdar Ki Kar Doo Maula..

(Improve my fortune/destiny, O Lord)

Jo Bhi Tere Dar Aaya, Juhkne Jo Sar Aaya

(Whoever has come to you, has bowed at your feet)

Mastiyan Piye Sabko, Jhoomta Nazar Aaya

(drunk with frolic, were seen dancing away)

Pyaas Le Ke Aaya Tha, Dariya Woh Bhar Laya

(coming to you with immense thirst, he left taking with him a river)

Noor Ki Barish Mein Beeghta Sa Tar Aaya

(In the beam of light raining over them they come to see you)

Maula Maula Mere Maula)

Dararein Dararein Maathe Pe Maula

(Obstacles obstacles suround me o Lord)

Maramat Mukdar Ki Kar Do Maula, Mere Maula.

(Improve my fate/destiny O lord)

O Ek Khusbu Aati Thi

(There came a fragrance)

Mein Bhatakta Jata Tha,

(I would lose control)

Reshmi Si Maya Thi

(There was a silky image of attachment)

Aur Mein Takta Jata Tha

(And I would kep looking)

Jab Teri Gali Aaya, Sach Tabhi Nazar Aaya(When I came to your street, was I saw)

Mujhe Mein Woh Khusboo Thi, Jisse Tune Milwaya(I possessed that fragrance, which you introduced me to)

Maula Maula Maula Mere Maula

Dararein Dararein Hai Maathe Pe Maula Maramat Mukdar Ki Kar Do Maula, Mere Maula..Aaa Aaaa...

Tut Ke Bikharna Mujhko Zarur Aata Hai

(Scattering into pieces, I really am able to do so)

Varna Ibbadat Wala Sarur Aata Hai

(Otherwise I can only pray)

Sajde Mein Rehne Do, Abb Kahin Na Jaunga

(Let me stay at your feet[in prayer], I shall never leave now)

Abb Jo Tumne Tukhraya To Sawar Na Paunga

(Now if you were to leave me, I would not be able to recover)

Maula Maula Maula Mere Maula

Dararein Dararein Hai Maathe Pe Maula Maramat Mukdar Ki Kar Do Maula, Mere Maula.

Sar Utha Ke Mene To Kitni Khwahishe Ki Thi

(I had looked up and dreamed for so many things)

Kitne Khwaab Dekhe The Kitni Kaushishe Ki Thi

(I had seen so many dreams, and had tried to so many times)

Jab Tu Rubaru Aaya...

(When you appeared in full)

Jab Tu Rubaru Aaya Nazarein Na Mila Paya(When you showed yourself, I could not look into your eyes[I shied away])

Sar Jhuka Ke Ek Pal Mein... Oooh

(for a moment I bowed my head)

Sar Jhuka Ke Ek Pal Mein Mene Kya Nahi Paya

(With a bowing head for moment, what haven't I been able to receive?)

Maula Maula Maula Mere MaulaMaula Maula Maula MaulaMaula Maula Maula Mere Maula, Mere Maula..Maula Maula Maula Maula Mere Maula..

Mora Piya Ghar Aaya, Mora Piya Ghar Aaya

(My husband lord has come home)

Maula Maula Maula Mere MaulaMaula Maula Maula Maula Mere Maula Maula Maula MaulaMere Maula Maula Maula Maula, Mere Maula..

A Year Old

Yesterday I turned a year old as an amritdhari... I gotta say, it IS weird even now, to say that I am an amritdhari... haha a year later and I'm still getting used to it. Anyways, alongside my birthday is Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji's Gurpurabh...my father..okay OUR father :P

My fellow blogging Bhenji 'Mai Kaur' has posted up a real good letter from the Chairman of the IHRO.

Here's the link:

http://roadtokhalistan.blogspot.com/2009/01/guru-gobind-singh-spiritual-warrior.html