akjforever

http://keertan.waheguroo.com/index.wn?viewCat=28 Bay Area, California Simran 22 February 2003 Rainsbaee - Simran Bhai Harpreet Singh Ji http://www.gursikhi.org/keertan.htm bottom of page vwihgurU jI kw Kwlsw! vwihgurU jI kI &iqh!!

If you have cut your hair, you are not a Sikh anymore, no matter what you believe in your heart. Being a Sikh is not only in the inside, it is the outside as well, being a 50% Sikh doesn't count. He alone is a Sikh, a friend, a relative and a sibling, who follows the Way of the Guru's Will. One who follows according to his own will, O Siblings of Destiny, suffers displeasure of separation from the Lord. (Sorath M3, P601) Waheguroo Jee Ka Khalsa! Waheguroo Jee Kee Fateh!!

Actually Sikhism came about as an alternative to Hinduism and Islam. Ideas like woman are not equal to men (Islam) or having thousands of Gods (Hinduism) and many others did not appeal to everyone. So Sikhism spread by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and all of the 10 Gurus caught on. vwihgurU jI kw Kwlsw! vwihgurU jI kI &iqh!!

Here are few more favs: That's Bhai Chanee Ji on the tabla, and in the center is Bhai Mehar Singh Ji, and then of course Bhai Randheer Singh Ji doing kirtan. :umm: That's Bhai Amolak Singh Ji (Australia) on left. That's Shaheed Bhai Fauja Singh Ji on the right. vwihgurU jI kw Kwlsw! vwihgurU jI kI &iqh!!

I love this pic.... That's Bhai Jeevan Singh Ji on the right, and on the left is Bhai Darshan Singh Ji. More pics: http://photos.waheguroo.com/categories.ppa?cat_id=27 http://www.akj.org.uk/gallery/display.asp?...=t&item=puratan vwihgurU jI kw Kwlsw! vwihgurU jI kI &iqh!!

I believe during Bhai Sahib's time recording technology wasn't easily available. So his recordings would be hard to find. There are however spool recording's of other AKJ kirtanees from the 1960's at akj.org vwihgurU jI kw Kwlsw! vwihgurU jI kI &iqh!!

Anyone can sing kirtan, but when a Chardee Kala vala Gursikh does kirtan, such as Bhai Randheer Singh Ji, it is extra special. There are AKJ kirtan recordings from the 1960's at akj.org vwihgurU jI kw Kwlsw! vwihgurU jI kI &iqh!!

http://keertan.waheguroo.com/index.wn?viewCat=8 click LA Samagam 30 November 2002 Rainsbaee check out the 70th minute amazing stuff check out the links in my sig vwihgurU jI kw Kwlsw! vwihgurU jI kI &iqh!!

If you go to any AKJ kirtan, there is always a table with a bunch of Sikhism books and cds and whatnot, available for free. Most of the books mentioned in this thread are available there. vwihgurU jI kw Kwlsw! vwihgurU jI kI &iqh!!

Another vote for Bhai Randhir Singh Ji's autobiography, amazing book. Also check out the book Ranglay Sajjan. Pretty much all of Bhai Randhir Singh Ji's books are great. Waheguroo Jee Ka Khalsa! Waheguroo Jee Kee Fateh!!

Kirtan and Pics from the Aug 2003 London AKJ Samagam have been added. This is a nice pic of the Sangat: vwihgurU jI kw Kwlsw! vwihgurU jI kI &iqh!!

I agree with your post, I am not saying AKJ is perfect and is the only way. It has had a big influence on my life, that's all. The only thing being that there are many pakhandees and anti Sikhi cults out there, one has to be careful to not be caught up in those. Waheguroo Jee Ka Khalsa! Waheguroo Jee Kee Fateh!!

I am talking about America, I myself am born raised in the good ol USA, most American born Sikhs my age that I know started listening to AKJ style kirtan because of the style, which lead them to learning kirtan. I even have a friend who kept his hair after he started listening to AKJ style kirtan. I have a special place for AKJ, it has influenced my life a great deal. Waheguroo Jee Ka Khalsa! Waheguroo Jee Kee Fateh!!

Also, I know many young Sikhs, if it weren't for AKJ style kirtan, they wouldn't be listening to kirtan or doing kirtan for that matter. And along with AKJ kirtan, they wouldn't be following Sikhi, if it weren't for the influence of AKJ. Waheguroo Jee Ka Khalsa! Waheguroo Jee Kee Fateh!!

This was posted on another forum, someone replied to me: Kirtanis should be informed that " Nomore" hindi songs tunes and come back to Gurus Gurmat sangeet which is based on purely on Ragas. Here is article for you AKJ-Forever. And AKJ Kirtan is pure Manmat. Taken from: http://www.sikhreview.org/may2002/music.htm Musical Framework of Guru Granth Sahib Amardeep Singh* Gurbani Keertan today has been commercialized to such an extent that, barring a few, most singers are only concerned with making quick money. Their limitations to experiment within the prescribed vastness of Guru Granth Sahib is camouflaged in the excuse that the Sangat does not prefer to listen to Keertan in Raags as prescribed by the Gurus and thus it is easier to convey the message of Gurbani in catchy tunes. This shallow argument poses questions, like: "What does Guru Granth Sahib, our eternal Guru command us on the subject of Keertan? Why is it that the Gurus chose raags to classify Gurbani? What is the relation between Shabad and raag? Do we need the aid of experimental music to propagate the message of Guru Granth Sahib? Have our Keertanias experimented with the vastness of raags and taals as prescribed by Gurus? What impact will experimentation have on the future generation of Sikhs? Hymns in Guru Granth Sahib are in poetical-metric forms; associated with them raags and ghars (beats/taals). Does this mean that Gurus have left no scope for experimentation with the music to accompany the Shabads? The indication of raag and ghar (beat) with every Shabad implies that Gurus had a definite motive behind fixing a framework. This framework was not set to limit the ability of the human mind to experiment with music but to act as an aid in spiritual development. A simple mathematical permutation and combination on notes of any raag will indicate that each raag offers thousands of tunes to experiment with. Complementary: Poetry (the form in which Gurbani is written) and music (raags) are two sides of the same coin. They are independent and yet complement each other. Music versifies and provides melody, uniformity and cadence to poetry. The factor that binds music and poetry is their metrical-form (ghar or beat). Music (Raag) is based on sound (swar - notes) and a combination of notes produce distinct musical effects. Poetry is determined by Word (Shabad), which communicates a message to the mind. Music (Raag) on the other hand conveys a feeling to the heart and is therefore universal. Spirituality, after all, is striking the right balance between mind and heart. Therefore, when the poetic Gurbani is complemented with raag (music) and bound by ghar (beat), the resulting effect on mind and heart can become a catalyst for spiritual transformation. The raag conveys a feeling and Shabad a message. Every raag is capable of touching the heart with feelings like joy, sorrow, detachment, etc. Upon studying the structure of Guru Granth Sahib it can be seen that Shabads relating to common themes are generally placed under each raag. When the broad themes of Shabads are overlaid with feelings conveyed by these raags, there emerges a reason behind grouping of Shabads under a broad classification of thirty-one raags. Common Themes of Shabads placed under Raags of Guru Granth Sahib 1. Soohi - Being away from home. The soul being away from the House of Lord and the joy of meeting the true ‘husband.’ 2. Bilaaval - beautification of soul, happiness. 3. Gaund - Separation, union, surprise. 4. Sri - Maya and detachment 5. Maajh - yearning to merge with Lord, giving up of negative values. 6. Gauri - Principles, serious, thoughtfulness, composed 7. Aasa - Hope 8. Gujri - Prayer (Pooja) 9. Devgandhari - Merging with spouse, self - realization 10. Bihaagra - Yearning due to separation of soul and happiness due to meeting the Lord. 11. Sorath - Merits of God 12. Dhanasari - Mixed theme 13. Jaitsree - Stability 14. Todi - Maya, separation 15. Bairagi - motivation to sing praises of Lord 16. Tilang - many words from the vocabulary of Islamic origin are used, sadness, beautification. 17. Raamkali - to give up the life of a wandering Jogi. 18. Nat Narayan - Joy of meeting the Lord 19. Maali Gaura - Happiness 20. Maaru - Bravery, profound philosophy. 21. Tukhari - Separation and union with Lord 22. Kedara - Love 23. Bhairav - Man’s state of hell 24. Basant - Happiness 25. Sarang - Thirst to meet God 26. Malaar - State of separated and united soul 27. Jaijawanti - Vairaag (Detachment) 28. Kalyaan - Bhakti (Prayer) Ras 29. Vadhans - Vairaag (Detachment) 30. Prabhati - Bhakti (Prayer) 31. Kaanra - Bhakti (Prayer) Feelings communicated by the music of Raags: 1. Soohi - joy and separation 2. Bilaaval - happiness 3. Gaund - strangeness, surprise, beauty 4. Sri - satisfaction and balance 5. Maajh - separation, beautification 6. Gauri - seriousness 7. Aasa - making effort 8. Gujri - satisfaction, softness of heart, sadness 9. Devgandhari - no specific feeling but the Raag has a softness 10. Bihaagra - beautification 11. Sorath - motivation 12. Dhanasari - inspiration, motivation 13. Jaitsree - softness, satisfaction, sadness 14, Todi - this being a flexible Raag it is apt for communicating many feelings 15. Bhairaavi - sadness, (Gurus have, however, used it for the message of Bhakti) 16. Tilang - this is a favourite Raag of Sufi Muslims. It denotes feeling of beautification and yearning. 17. Raamkali - calmness 18. Nat Narayan - happiness 19. Maali Gaura - happiness 20. Maaru - giving up of cowardice 21. Tukhari - beautification 22. Kedara - love and beautification 23. Bhairav - seriousness, brings stability of mind 24. Basant - happiness 25. Sarang - sadness 26. Malaar - separation 27. Jaijawanti – Victory (Detachment indicates a victory of spiritual plane) 28. Kalyaan - Bhakti Ras 29. Vadhans - vairaag, loss (that is why Alahniya is sung in this Raag when someone passes away) 30. Prabhati - Bhakti and seriousness 31. Kaanra - Bhakti and seriousness It’s clear that the Gurus used raags to increase the delivery power of shabad to our mind by invoking complementary feelings in our hearts through usage of the prescribed raags. Another interesting aspect of raag and Gurbani classification is understood by studying daily time-cycles. A raag has a preferred timing associated with it. There are some morning raags, evening raags, afternoon raags, etc. The timings of raags also complement the changes in human moods and heart during a twenty-four hour time cycle. Upon classification of thirty-one main raags used in Guru Granth Sahib based on the prescribed raag timings, we find that no raags fall under the time zone 12 AM - 3 AM. It is interesting that the Gurus chose not to use any raag with a time cycle of 12AM – 3 AM, because one would normally sleep between 10PM - 4AM. Timings of Raags: 6 AM - 9AM: Bhairaagi, Devgandhari 9 AM - 12 PM: Saarang, Suhi, Bilaaval, Gujri, Gond, Todi 12 PM - 3 PM: Vadhans, Maru, Dhanasari 3 PM - 6 PM: Maanjh, Gauri, Tilang, Tukhari 6 PM - 9 PM: Sri, Basant, Maali Gaura, Jaitsree, Kedara, Kalyaan 9 PM - 12 AM: Bihaagra, Nat Narayan, Sorath, Malaar, Kaanra, Jaijawanti 12 AM - 3 AM: No Raags from Guru Granth Sahib 3AM - 6AM: Aasa, Raamkali, Bhairav, Parbhati Some raags also have seasons associated with them as seasons also denote feelings. Seasonality of Raags: 1. Basant raag can be sung at any time in Basant season. Shabads with the theme of happine ss are clustered under this raag in Guru Granth Sahib. 2. Malaar raag can be sung at any time in the rainy season. Shabads with the theme of separation are clustered under this raag in Guru Granth Sahib. The Gurus have also indicated the beats associated with the poetry of every Shabad. In Guru Granth Sahib seventeen ghars (taal - beat) are mentioned. These seventeen ghars denote the following beats: GHAR 1 - DADRA TAAL (There are 1 Taalis and the Beat has 6 Maatraas) GHAR 2 - RUPAK TAAL (There are 2 Taalis and the Beat has 7 Maatraas) GHAR 3 - TEEN TAAL (There 3 Taalis and the Beat has 16 Maatraas) GHAR 4 - CHAAR TAAL (There are 4 Taalis and the Beat has 12 Maatraas) GHAR 5 - PUNJ TAAL (There are 5 Taalis and the Beat has 15 Maatraas) GHAR 6 - KHUT TAAL (There are 6 Taalis and the Beat has 18 Maatraas) GHAR 7 - MUT TAAL (There are 7 Taalis and the Beat has 21 Maatraas) GHAR 8 - ASHT MANGAL TAAL (There are 8 Taalis and the Beat has 22 Maatraas) GHAR 9 - MOHINI TAAL (There are 9 Taalis and the Beat has 23 Maatraas) GHAR 10 - BRAHAM TAAL (There are 10 Taalis and the Beat has 28 Maatraas) GHAR 11 - RUDRA TAAL (There are 11 Taalis and the Beat has 32 Maatraas) GHAR 12 - VISHNU TAAL (There are 12 Taalis and the Beat has 36 Maatraas) GHAR 13 - MUCHKUND TAAL (There are 13 Taalis and the Beat has 34 Maatraas) GHAR 14 - MAHASHANI TAAL (There are 14 Taalis and the Beat has 42 Maatraas) GHAR 15 - MISHR BARAN TAAL (There are 15 Taalis and the Beat has 47 Maatraas) GHAR 16 - KUL TAAL (There are 16 Taalis and the Beat has 42 Maatraas) GHAR 17 - CHRCHARI TAAL (There are 17 Taalis and the Beat has 40 Maatraas) Within the rules of Indian Classical Music, uncountable raags can be created. In fact, any form of music (non-Indian and non-classical) can be classified under some form of raag. Hence it is a misconception that raags are something highly classical and beyond the realm of the common man’s understanding. In fact, any form of music can be classified int o a raag. But in Guru Granth Sahib, the Gurus have gone into depths of poetry, music and metrical forms to lay the framework that is best suited to convey the feeling and message of the Shabad simultaneously to the human mind and heart. When each of the prescribed raags offers uncountable permutations and combinations of musical compositions, then why is it that modern Keertanias are not experimenting within the prescribed framework of the Gurus? Are they camouflaging their limitations in the excuse that Sangat prefers only catchy tunes? Gurbani says: "Among all raags, that one is sublime, O Siblings of Destiny, by which Go

There is another new AKJ kirtan site, check it out, www.keertan.org WJKK WJKF

http://news.waheguroo.com/?633Q6-17274-696...-49443-Q3335-35 SIKH BOY SCALPED IN RACIAL ATTACK Sunday Mercury, UK Sunday, 24th August 2003 A TEENAGE Sikh paper-boy was scalped by Islamic extremists who cut his unshorn locks with scissors after ambushing him on his round. Five youths hurled racist abuse at the 14 year-old victim before slashing his T-shirt and cutting his three-foot long hair which he had been growing since birth. The racially motivated attack in Birmingham last month has heightened tensions between the two religious groups. Last night community leaders from both sides appealed for calm after Sikh youths vowed revenge for the attack, which is considered a serious religious affront. The boy's family, who wish to remain anonymous, said that the incident had left him traumatised and afraid to go out. His distraught mother told the Sunday Mercury: 'He has not been himself for weeks after the attack, which has left him with deep mental scars. 'He is lacking in confidence and is afraid that he will be targeted again. It is heartbreaking to see him in this state through no fault of his own except that he is a Sikh. 'Immediately after the attack he said he was in tears and said he did not want to grow it back. 'But he changed his mind when he realised that was exactly what his attackers wanted him to do. What hurts even more is that they took the hair with them.' Keeping long hair (kesh) is a basic tenet of the Sikh religion and is one of the five Ks which the last Sikh guru Gobind Singh instructed his followers to adopt. Last night Sikh community leaders said that the incident was another example of Sikhs being targeted by Islamic fundamentalists. Last night Mohan Singh, President of the Stratford Road Sikh temple in Birmingham, said: 'Historically speaking, there has been some rivalry between Sikhs and Islam going back to the days of the Mughal empire in India. 'But Sikhs and Muslims have lived peacefully together in this country for years and this incident has come as a massive shock to the community. Long hair is a religious symbol of Sikhism and for it to be defiled in this way is considered a sacrilege.' But he added: 'There is a tiny minority of Islamic extremists who deem their faith to be better than others and who are seeking to forcibly convert others. 'They are targeting people of all faiths, not just Sikhs.' Amrik Desi, of the Sikh Youth and Community Service, warned Sikh youths not to retaliate but said that attacks on Birmingham's 60,000 Sikhs were increasing. He said: 'After September 11 Sikhs were targeted because people saw our turbans and thought we were Afghan Taliban. Yet Sikhs are increasingly being attacked by Muslim zealots. 'The fear is that we will go back to the situation we had some 15 years ago when there was a lot of friction between Sikh and Muslim youths in the Midlands. 'What would help is the creation of racial harassment reporting centres which monitor inter-ethnic crime rather than just black and white incidents.' Tory Councillor for Aston Mr Gulfram Khan, a Muslim, said: 'The people who carried out this despicable attack cannot call themselves Muslims and my apologies go out to the family.' A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: 'We can confirm that a 14 year-old boy was the victim of a racially aggravated assault on July 21 in Stockdale Place, Edgbaston. 'He was attacked by five Asian males, one was 5ft 7ins aged about 17 and wearing a cream hooded top. 'Another was 5ft 8ins, thin, aged 17-18 and wearing a black jacket with McKenzie logo on the front and numbers and stripes on the sleeves.'

I got this from another forum, it's worth reading: Author: Jagjit Singh Date: 08-22-03 05:29 Excellent Italy Samagam 2003 & Kirpaan Situation In Italy For many years now, Gursikhs from Akhand Kirtani Jatha UK, have travelled to foreign countries for Gurmat Parchaar. These tours have been in August, to destinations were Gurmat Parchaar is needed, and few Parcharaks go. This year, Gursikhs from AKJ UK, with Guru Maharajs Kirpa, went to Italy. Almost 120 Gursikhs from UK went to the Smagam. The smagam happened from 5th August till 10 August 2003. Aswell as the Gursikhs from Uk, many others Gursikhs arrived from Holland, France and Germany. He first group of 45 Gursikhs left Uk on Tuesday arriving at Bergemo. They divided into two groups. The first group went the main Italy Gurdwara of Reggio Milia. Here the Gursikhs did a Childrens Gurmat Camp and Shabad Guru Smagam, with simran, keertan, and katha, every morning and evening. The other group went to other Gurdwaras - Singh Sabha, Pordenone and Gurdwara Sadh Sangat, Trivizo, and then joined up with the first group at Reggio Milia on Thursday. Local sangat at all Gurdawras showed so much love for the Gursikhs, with many travelling many hours to attend the Diwans in temperatures of over 40 degrees. The Jatha was shown a lot of Satkar, and Muki-sevadaars were given Saroopas in every Gurdwara. On Thursday, the main large group of Gursikhs arrived in Italy from Uk. The daily programme at the Gurdwara was Abyass 2-4am, 4-5am Simran, 5-6am Nitnem, 6-9am Asa Di //, 10am – 2pm Gurmat Camp, 2-4pm Gathka. Then 6-9pm Reharas sahib, Keertan and Gurmat Vichaar. Pics of Di wans http://www.akj.org.uk/italy/Sangat2.jpg http://www.akj.org.uk/italy/Sangat.jpg On Saturday 9th August, the Smagam staged a large Gathka Event outside the Main Town Hall in Reggio Millia. It was attended by many local people, and the Mayor and Head of Italian Police in the District. Gathka Akharas who showed their skills were Bhai Fauja Singh Akhara from Leeds, Paris Gathka Akhara, and Ranjit Akhara from Italy. A total of 45 youth played Gathka, and it was the first time a demonstration with kirpans was allowed in Italy. Pics of gatkha http://www.akj.org.uk/italy/Gatka2.jpg http://www.akj.org.uk/italy/Gatka1.jpg After this event at Reggio Millia Gurdwara, there was International Rainsbhai keertan. Again despite intense heat, all the sangat enjoyed Bani all night long. Sunday morning again, Gursikhs from AKJ UK held Diwans in four Italian Gurdwaras. The Amrit Sanchaar was held on Sunday morning with 40 sikhs accepting Guru Ji`s blessings of Amrit. The Panj Pyare and the Gursikhs entered the Sunday diwan and were an amazing sight. Pics http://www.akj.org.uk/italy/PanjPyarai.jpg http://www.akj.org.uk/italy/PanjPyarai2.jpg The Akhand Kirtani jatha in Italy had been established many years ago. But this year choose to formerly register itself, and choose five muki sevadaars, from with they choose Bhai Amarjit Singh Italy as their first jathedar. These five Gursikhs were recognised by the Sadh Sangat. The Gurdwara Pardaan thanked all the Gursikhs who did seva all week, and recognised some Gursikhs were Siropas, and commente d on the way all the Gursikhs were always “Thare-par-Thare” and dedicated to Guru and Panth. On Sunday evening, the majority of the Gursikhs came back on the same Ryanair plane. The majority of the plane was full by the 100+ Gursikhs in full Bhana. The flight attendants got a bit of a shock by the Jaikaras when the flight took off, and landed, but saw the amusing side of it. THE KIRPAN SITUATION IN ITALY On Thursday, three Amritdhari Gursikhs from UK, and two from Italy were at the local supermarket outside Reggio Millia, getting food for the Childrens Gurmat Camp. The security noticed their Kirpaans, and called the Police. They were arrested. Upon hearing this at the Gurdwara, a group of 15 Gursikhs went to the Police Station to get their release. After explaining the situation, they were released, and the Police offered an apology to the UK Gursikhs. Upon return to the Gurdwara, the local sangat informed us, that this is a regular occurance. Approximately, every month or two someone gets arrested. The Gurdwara had started dialogue with authorities but with no avail. Kirpaans are banned in Italy, and even the local Gathka akhara is not allowed to have any. Furthermore, we were told that Sikhs outside the Reggio millia area regularly have to put up with abuse about being called Bin Laden. The AKJ UK representatives decided to take matters in their own hands, and all the local press were summoned, on Friday morning. Representatives from AKJ UK and Bhai Amarjit Singh, Italy spoke to the press in detail about the kirpan issue, Sikh identity and racism Sikhs had to deal with, and the Humanitarian message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Plus we invited all citizens of the District to come to the Gurdwara anytime and have langar and find out about Sikhism. That evening the “Gazette de Reggio”, their version of the Evening Standard, had an excellent article about Sikhs with pictures on the front page, discussing all the issues we mentioned. Another paper from another district after hearing about the arrests, contacted the Indian Embassy. They gave a very negative message about Sikhs being terrorists and troublemakers. But with Guru Maharaj Kirpa, the new youth in Italy contacted all the National papers and the European. On Saturday, many of the these papers interviewed us about Sikh Identity, the kakaars, Sikhi saroop and the message of Sahib Siri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. These appeared in the papers, ad showed Sikhs in a very positive light. The local sangat was so impressed by these reports and how quickly Guru Maharaj had taken seva from his Gursikhs, that they pledged to stand by this Campaign. On Saturday evening, when all the sangat went to the Town hall to see the Gathka. Every Amritdhari Gursikh wore his/her Kirpaan on top of their clothes, which is unheard of in Italy. Sevadaars gave free refreshments to all the visitors, with many local Italians who came to watch. Even the local Mayor, asked us to tie a dastaar on his head. He has for a long time been very supportive of Sikhs, and often stood up for them, thanks to sterling seva by Gursikhs like Bhai Amarjit Singh. For the first time on Italian soil, as far as we are aware, gathka was played with kirpaans. The Head of Police and Mayor was guests at the event, as well as all the local press and TV. After the event, the Mayor was presented with a shield and kirpan, and he pledged his full support to the campaign. This was also echoed by the Head of Police. Dignatories in background of pic http://www.akj.org.uk/italy/Gatka1.jpg The Campaign for Sikh Indentity and legalising the Kirpaan is ongoing, but Guru Maharaj gave it a huge boost, with now press and local dignatories fully behind the cause. One of the national papers has know offered the services of its solicitors for fighting the case. It has been brought to the attention of Silvio Berlesconi. The press reports have also made clear that the authority who represents Sikhs is not the Indian Government or its embassies, but the Siri Akal Takht Sahib. Pictures of Jathedar Joginder Singh with his kirpaan meeting the Pope were also shown. In conclusion, a very productive and Laha Filled Smagam. Many names could be mentioned by all graditude goes to Guru Maharaj, for it is he that blesses everything. (Aape Karanehar) Waheguru ji kekhalsa, waheguru ji ke fateh Other pics – more will be available of Akj Uk website soon. http://www.akj.org.uk/italy/BhaiApardeepSi...hDoingKirta.jpg http://www.akj.org.uk/italy/BhaiHazooraSin...DoingKirtan.jpg http://www.akj.org.uk/italy/BhaiSurjitSing...hDoingKatha.jpg http://www.akj.org.uk/italy/BibiBhinderpal...urDoingKirt.jpg

Check out the kirtan here: http://www.ikirtan.com/index.ppa?q=f&f=%2F...gam_August_2003 Enjoy!! vwihgurU jI kw Kwlsw! vwihgurU jI kI &iqh!!

The name Dulla Veerji was given to him by Bhai Randheer Singh Ji. vwihgurU jI kw Kwlsw! vwihgurU jI kI &iqh!!

I found this on another board, http://www.tapoban.org/phorum/read.ppa?f=1&i=141&t=141 and http://www.tapoban.org/phorum/read.ppa?f=1...1&i=2924&t=2924 ******************************************************************************** ****************** Author: Daas Date: 07-16-03 10:47 Waheguru jee ka Khalsa, Waheguru jee ke Fateh !! I was raised in a family where there was quite good awareness of Gurbani. My father studied in Akali Kaur Singh jee's Ashram and was loved very much by Akali jee. We were taught 5 Nitname Bannis by our father at a very young age. Even though our family knew about Sikhi concepts, but we were not aware of Nam. I left my house to do my Engg. in southern part of India. I had an urge from a long time to be Amrit Dhari, hence during my first months in Engg. college, i went to Huzoor sahib for Amrit Chakh. I was very much loved by the Amrit-Dhari Singhs in our college. Fortunately, there was a small group of AKJ Singhs in my college. One of the Chardi-Kala Singh used to do kirtan in his room during evening and in morning by himself and also told me to join him. He was a Sarab-Lohi Singh and used to cook his food in his small room by himself. He never used to talk much, but if someone ask him any questions about Sikhi, he used to have many copies of these three books: 1) Jail-chittian, 2) Ranglae-sajan and lastly 3) Sikh dharam ate maas sharab – by J.P Sangat Singh) and used to give those set of books to read. Who ever read those books, was totally changed and within weeks were Amrit-Dhari, hence a very different way of spreading Siki concepts. Once, i asked him something and he gave me Jail-Chittian to read. I started this book and i was so into it that i read it in one night. This Singh was a very Gupt Singh and used to always refer Bhai Veer Singh jee quotes that "maano chupae rahan dee chah" and used to tell that Bhai Veer Singh says that "if you are a farmer and are sowing seeds, then you have to hide the seed from external environment and if a farmer keep exposing the seed all the time then his seeds will die. In the same way the seed of Naam should not be exposed to external waves of Ustat & Vadayee. These things will also kill the seed of Naam". We always used to think that he is a very lazy bum, because he used to go to sleep at 7:00 PM and when we used to get up for college at 7:00 AM he was still asleep (in our view). Actually, once i was suspicious and wanted to know his schedule and hence planned to watch him. At 12:00 night, he used to get up and used to go to Gurdwara sahib (besides hostel) to clean all the toilets and then do Isnan (bathe) and then spend his morning doing Simran and Gurbani. While he was cleaning toilets i just followed him and then patted him at the back, looking at me he started crying and was down there into my feet requesting me not to let anyone know. I was really impressed by his way of Seva and humbleness. As he was not allowed to do Kirtan at nights, hence he used to sneak out from Hostel and go to a "Sumshan ghar" (funeral place) at back of the Gurughar. This Singh used to do kirtan at night for many hours and i can not express the kind of Kirtan and the love this Singh had for Guru sahib jee. While, other students used to sneak out at night to watch late night movies, but this Singh used to sneak out for Kirtan. With Guru jee Grace and Sangat of AKJ Singhs i was able to attend Samagams. Students from my town used to g o home in holidays, but we used to attend Samagams. It was great time and I really miss that time and Sangat and love of Gurusikhs. Hence, my Engg. College was a kind of Sikhi School for me where with Guru jee dee kirpa, i was able to understand Gursikhi. There were also other very chardi-kala singhs in our college, whom i had seen with my eyes sleeping at night and Simran continuously flowing out from their body. When i finished my Engg. degree i came to my home town and was amazed to know that there was also a great increase in AKJ sangat. Hence, with guru jee dee kirpa i was able to have love of sangat from long time. Daas Author: Daas Date: 07-17-03 21:42 Waheguru jee ka Khalsa, Waheguru jee ke Fateh !! Thanks for asking for more information. I am really proud that Gurusikhs still have same kind for love for Sikhi. I only have one request for Gurusikhs to do ardas for me so that i can be in Guru sahib jee dee yaad all the time. The GUPT singh i mentioned in my text earlier, is still in India. He was very famous in our college as Khalsa Jee. All the students and even the Principle of our college was scared of him due to his rehani-sehani (Gurusikhi life style). He was an amazing kirtani, his voice was like a Lion (BABAR SHER). He never needed speaker in front of him while doing kirtan. He was an amazing Akhand-Pathi. All his exams were passed, without him studing. Just remembed, that once we all were doing kirtan in cremation ground at night and when we were done and we opened our eyes, we saw many dogs surrounding us and sitting in a peace. It seemed that they even were thirsty for something from a long long time. I think there are lots and lots of Guru jee dae chardi-kala singhs all around the world. We can write tons of books on their life history and Pyaar for GURU JEE. What i have seen that the only thing about all these Singhs were that they were very PAKKAE in their rehani-behanie. Khalsa jee even if had to remain hungry for many days, he will never compromise on anything else. They have very strict Rehat and used to read Gurubani all the time and Naam Jaap. I have seen that when these AKJ singhs from my college used to get together or visit each other, they never used to talk about worldy things. They used to sit together at once and either do Naam Jaap or keep reading Gurbani or do kirtan. I have never seen them talking about anything else. Gurbani was flowing in their blood streams and was reflected in their jeevan, full of utmost Nimrata and Payar for everyone. Khalsa jee always used to hide in the Joora ghar (Shoe Place) at the back and used to polish sangat shoes. He never disclosed what he had, but as guru jee says that those kinds of souls automatically get known to all, due to their Jeevan. I remember he used to make Mango Lassi in his Sarab-loh Pots and used to serve us first. I can still feel the taste of that Lassi and had never tasted anything like that in my life. Even if we were not Sarab-lohi he always, used to feed others first and what ever was left used to eat himself. I also want to mention one thing that those singhs used to do simran in a very chardi-kala mode. The way they used to do is explained in Bhai Sahib jee's "Naam-Abyas Kamie" book, in the last chapter --- where Bhai sahib jee says about "Faratae and Garate". There is one more Singh in my home town in India. At that time he was Jathadar of AKJ in my home town. He is a very good Kirtini and most of the AKJ Singhs in my home town are Sarab-Lohi. He has a unique way of doing seva. He is well known in my home town to all the general public, even hindus and muslims. When ever anyone dies they call him and let him know that such and such person died (regardless of religion). He is a teacher and owns a van and he then calls others AKJ singhs at night to be ready to pick them up, to do kirtan in the house where someone died. He took me many times to these programs at night. When he enters the house, where people are crying because somone died, he and all the Singhs goes in the room where the dead body is placed and start doing kirtan and keep on doing it for many many hours, even for whole night. Through kirtan he makes deceased relatives understand that how wrong is to cry and what Guru jee says. In this way it gives them comfort through Gurubani and when he starts kirtan, pin-drop silence starts. These Kirtan programs are real thrillers and make our wondring mind realize the truth. I think he is doing a great seeva. I saw that during BHOG of kirtan relatives pledging him to stay and do kirtan to comfort them. I think it is enough for now and hope everyone enjoyed these little glimpses from Gurusikhs jeevan. Daas ******************************************************************************** **************** I was just curious at what point in your life you knew that you wanted to be a Sikh, were there any obstacles for you? WJKK WJKF

I'll be there aswell, who else is coming? WJKK WJKF

AKJ NY Ren Sabahee Kirtan August 2, 2003 Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ke Fateh! Mil mil sakhee gun kaho merey prabh ke lae sathgur kee math dheer ||3|| Come, and join together, O my companions; let's sing the Glorious Praises of my God, and follow the comforting advice of the True Guru. ||3|| The sangat from New York invites the sangat from all around the world to come join us in our Annual AKJ Akhand Keertan Samagam. The dates of the Samagam will be from August 1 to August 3. The programs will be as follows, Friday Morning: Asa Di //, at Gurdwara Sikh Cultural Society: 95-30 118 Street, Richmond Hill, Queens New York 11419 Time: 6 am - 11 am Friday Night: Keertan Darbar, at Gurdwara Sikh Culural Society: 95-30 118 Street, Richmond Hill, Queens New York 11419 Time: 6 pm- 9 pm Saturday Morning: Asa Di Vaar, at: Gurdwara Makhan Shah Lubana 113-10 101 Ave, Richmond Hill, Queens New York 11419 Time: 6 am - 11 am And Saturday Night to Sunday Morning: Raensabae Keertan, at: Gurdwara Makkan Shah Lubana 113-10 101 Ave, Richmond Hill, Queens New York 11419 Time: 7 pm - 6 am For any other info and seva regarding the Samagam: Bhai Charan jeet Singh Jee : 718-846-6165 Bhai Ranjeet Singh Jee : 718-847-7375 (wazirranjit75@yahoo.com) Bhai Deedar Singh Jee : deemx118@aol.com Bhai Jagjit Singh Jee : jagjitssaggu@# Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ke Fateh!

Nice site veer, for some more awesome kirtan check out the links in my sig, WJKK WJKF