Sukhdeep Singhh

The other day I saw some great post on Tapoban.org on Bhai Sahibs book Gurmat Ramza. Bhai Kulbir Singh Ji has translated part of the book. Bhai Randhri Singh Ji which was such a great Gurbani Scholar. He never relied on Hindu thought , nor did he rely on Non- AMrit Dhari Nirmaleys to undersand the teachings of our Great Guru. Bhai Sahib always intepreted Gurbani stictly on Gurmat Naam. His translation do such a great justice to promote an awakening for Naam with the Jagasoo. In his writings he would always explain the mysteries of words written in Gurbani. For example at times Veechar often means Naam Abhyiaas. Bhai Sahibs translations are so profound and so in tuned to Gurmat that his translations provoke the reader to search deeper and deeper in the mystical ocean of Gurbani. Here are the writings translated by Bhai Randhir Singh Ji 1) Aatmik Rass and Mental Rass (Mystical or Spiritual pleasure Vs Mental pleasure) Only after tasting Aatmik Rass, Vismaad (wonderous) rass can be tasted. In Atmik Rass alone, Vismaad Rass can be tasted or known right inside this body. Below this Aatmik Rass are the Mental Rass that can be tasted through the mann but these mental rass are all frivolous because they don’t have any trace of Vismaad rass in them. 2) Spiritual life is not a subject of mental intelligence: Often people try to measure and explain the Aatmik jeevan (Gurmat Spiritual life) through intelligence but in order to understand the deep and profound spiritual secrets how can intellectualism suffice. All these attempts to understand spiritualism through intellectualism are just futile. Even the topmost philosophers and scholars of philosophy and intellectualism cannot fathom the truth of Gurmat spirituality and divinity. It is not appropriate to try to understand Gurmat spiritualism through worldly intelligence and using measures of intellectualism. 3) Worldly Morality / Ethics and Divine or True Wisdom Worldly goodness, ethics and morality have a worldly status or level. Many friends unwittingly consider worldly wisdom as true wisdom but they don’t know that real wisdom or the true wisdom is realized only in “Sehaj Avastha” and this true wisdom is unique from the reasoning of philosophers. Sehaj Avastha has been explained in the following Pankiti: ਕਰਮੀਸਹਜੁਨਊਪਜੈਵਿਣਸਹਜੈਸਹਸਾਨਜਾਇ॥…………. ਕਹੈਨਾਨਕਗੁਰਪਰਸਾਦੀਸਹਜੁਉਪਜੈਇਹੁਸਹਸਾਇਵਜਾਇ॥ 4) Naam Simran and Earning Sach Naam simran and earning Sach are not two different things but same. Actually, Naam simran is earning Sach (sach laaha) as this Gurvaak says: ਸਚਿਸਿਮਰਿਐਹੋਵੈਪਰਗਾਸੁ……..॥ Which means that through Naam Simran alone Parkash (enlightenment) happens; therefore doing Naam simran is earning Sach. 5) Elimination of Haume As per Gurmat, Haume is destroyed only through Naam. In support of this principle there are many Gurvaaks. The medicine that can destroy Haume is only Naam. Only through Naam Haume is destroyed and through Naam only Liv (smadhi) occurs. ***************End of Translation************* The above is a meager attempt to translate some of Bhai Sahib Randhir Singh jee’s writings. It is impossible to translate Bhai Sahib’s writings in English and I don’t claim the above to be an accurate translation. Please refer to the original text in case of a doubt. Below is a humble attempt to translate next 5 Ramza written by Bhai Sahib Randhir Singh jee. Bhai Sahib wrote in total 31 Gurmat Ramza. In the coming days we will attempt to translate the rest of the Ramza. Bhai Sahib has expressed some very profound spiritual thoughts in these Ramza. They are highly beneficial to the seekers of Vaheguru. Reading these Ramza, inspire one to Japp Naam with added vigour. ------------------Translation Begins----------------------- 6) The form of Real Knowledge (Tatt Gyaan): The form of real knowledge appears or manifests in the Hirda (a place, short distance above Naabhi), then it illuminates the inside, as per this Gurvaak: ਜਾ ਕੈ ਰਿਦੈ ਬਿਸ੍ਵਾਸੁ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਆਇਆ ॥ ਤਤੁ ਗਿਆਨੁ ਤਿਸੁ ਮਨਿ ਪ੍ਰਗਟਾਇਆ ॥ 7) Self Realization: After getting concentration in Naam, self realization occurs, as per this Gurvaak: ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਆਪੁ ਪਛਾਣੈ ਸੰਤਹੁ ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮਿ ਲਿਵ ਲਾਈ ॥੮॥ 8) Greatest Hukam (order) – Sifat Salaah (Praising Vaheguru): Guru Sahib’s greatest Hukam is Sifat-Salaah i.e. Naam Simran. Per Gurvaak: ਏਕੋ ਨਾਮੁ ਹੁਕਮੁ ਹੈ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਤਿਗੁਰਿ ਦੀਆ ਬੁਝਾਇ ਜੀਉ ॥੫॥ Therefore obeying the Hukam actually means to chant Naam, or to earn the profit of Gurmantr or Gur-Shabad. ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਆਪਣਾ ਮਨੁ ਮਾਰਿਆ ਸਬਦਿ ਕਸਵਟੀ ਲਾਇ ॥ Meaning, through the touchstone of Paaras roop Gur-shabad (Naam), Gurmukhs bring their mind under control; this is what is meant by destruction of Haume (ego). By taking refuge of Satguru and by being at the doorstep of Guru and then through Gurmat Naam alone does the mind get purified; as is mentioned in the following Gurvaak: ਮਨ ਮੇਰੇ ਗੁਰ ਸਰਣਿ ਆਵੈ ਤਾ ਨਿਰਮਲੁ ਹੋਇ ॥ Otherwise the Nigura (Guru less) person does not even have Naam, then how can he purify his mind, as is mentioned in the Gurvaak: ਮਨਮੁਖ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਕਰਿ ਥਕੇ ਮੈਲੁ ਨ ਸਕੀ ਧੋਇ ॥੧॥ 9) Reading Gurmat books is a mean of controlling the mind: One of the means of controlling the mind is reading Gurmat books. For this reason reading Gurmat related books don’t go in vain. Reading non-Sikhi are definitely a waste because by reading them one cannot derive any spiritual taste nor they provide any mean to control the mind: ਪੜਣਾ ਗੁੜਣਾ ਸੰਸਾਰ ਕੀ ਕਾਰ ਹੈ ਅੰਦਰਿ ਤ੍ਰਿਸਨਾ ਵਿਕਾਰੁ ॥ ਹਉਮੈ ਵਿਚਿ ਸਭਿ ਪੜਿ ਥਕੇ ਦੂਜੈ ਭਾਇ ਖੁਆਰੁ ॥ ਸੋ ਪੜਿਆ ਸੋ ਪੰਡਿਤੁ ਬੀਨਾ ਗੁਰ ਸਬਦਿ ਕਰੇ ਵੀਚਾਰੁ ॥ 10) By chanting Naam, vices are eliminated: By earning Gurshabad i.e. by chanting Naam, vices get eliminated because Naam is a medicine: ਨਾਮ ਅਉਖਧੁ ਜਿਹ ਰਿਦੈ ਹਿਤਾਵੈ ॥ ਤਾਹਿ ਰੋਗੁ ਸੁਪਨੈ ਨਹੀ ਆਵੈ ॥ ਭਰੀਐ ਮਤਿ ਪਾਪਾ ਕੈ ਸੰਗਿ ॥ ਓਹੁ ਧੋਪੈ ਨਾਵੈ ਕੈ ਰੰਗਿ ॥ This does not make sense that first your vices should get eliminated and then you can attain Naam. -----------------------Translation Ends-------------------------------- More to follow soon. Kulbir Singh

These are very strange explanations I went to the store today aarth- Gurmukhs always love God I - Gurmukh Store- Love Today- God Bloom why are you referring to some people as Gurmukhs who believe in Raag Mala while others like Bhai Randhir Singh Ji as Gursikh. Bhai Randhir Singh Ji was the greatest Gurbani Scholar of the 20 the century. Singhstah- The Mahapursh in your avtar pic did not believe in Raag Mala anyody who things they did is seriously confused. Bhai Randhir Singh Ji said it has no Gurmat principles. Once someone like Bhai Randhir SIngh Ji says something he never changes his mind later because he always based his decisions on Gurmat. Chatanga- mUrKY nwil n luJIAY ]19] moorakhai naal n lujheeai ||19|| Don't argue with fools. ||19|| Admin- please do not delete this post Im not making argument about Raag Mala im just addressing the claims on other people on this thread

I agree there was always a Takht at Hazoor Sahib why before Ranjit Singhs time. It has been there since Guru Sahibs time. Bhai Daya Singh Ji and I think Bhai Sahib Singh Ji mention in their rehatnamas addressed to the SInghs in PUnjab and elswhere, that if you want Darshan of Guru Sahib and reach liberation then come to Abhchal Nagar ( Hazoor Sahib). Many tru to twist these rehatnamas around and say if you come to Hazoor Sahib before you are 60 you will reach liberation. No need for Amirt, Rehat just come to Hazoor Sahib before you are 60. What a great way to scare older people to go on a pilgramage to Hazoor Sahib, lol

sukhdeep singhji, you havent asnwered the questions i asked you over 2 weeks ago about in the topic about vajas, why are you here asking others questions when you dont feel inclined to answer any yourself? you know the question. please oblige us with an answer. then ask any questions you may have. i will thank you in advance. I have provided enough answers to that post. You have never addressed any of my points . It seems like you are in the business of just debating about things . Why else would you come on this thread and ask such a naive question? If you wanted a reply you can have PM'd me. So my reply to you is mUrKY nwil n luJIAY ]19] moorakhai naal n lujheeai ||19|| Don't argue with fools. ||19||

Sikhi does not accept intimate relations with anyone who is not Amritdhari. There is a rehatnama that states not to have relations with a Muslim women. That does not mean we cant have relations only with women. Had Hindus ruled India during those times the rehatnama would have read dont have relations with Hindu women. This rehatnama was intended for those Singhs who were surviving in the jungles. In the ancient times the Mughals tried to bribe the captured Singhs with delicious food, water, and women. The Turkhs would capture the Singhs and take them to the ruler of a partciular province. That ruler then would bring women from the Harem ( palace of Sex-servants belonging to king,governor,etc) and try to seduce the Singhs in giving information. They would also offer food ( meat, fruit, bread) , and water. They knew Singhs went on for long periods of time without such these items so they were used to seduce the Singhs. There is another rehatnama that says "do not take water from the hands of women". Obviously this does not mean do not take water from all women. We must look at the historical context when understanding this rehatnama and take into account previous and proceeding Rehatnamas. This particualr rehatnama is referring to taking beverages from those women servants of the harem. The Singhs would prefer death then taking beverages from such people because Guru Sahib says sUl surwhI KMjr ipAwlw ibMg ksweIAW dw sihxw ] by accepting such bribes to avoid torture is the true torture of the Soul/concscience. So I think your statement "Sikhs have never accepted intimacy with Muslim women" is misleading. Sikhs are not to have have relations with anyone other then their Amritdhari spouse. Your statement makes it as though Muslims are lower then Hindus. In the eyes of Guru Sahib all are equal ihMdU qurk koaU rwPjI iemwm swPI mwns kI jwq sbY eykY pihcwnbo ] Some are Hindus and others are Muslims. someone is lliifazi (ashiah=renouncer-follower of Ali) and another an Imam-Shafi (Sunni=adherent of the Prophet) but ye recognize all human race as one. Ranjit Singh- Anand Karaj is meant for Amritdhari Men and Women who intend to live a high spiritual life with one another and recieve liberation. A person who does not want: Mukti, to take Amrit, and have any intentions of living a high spritual life with their spouse really has no need to be part of the Anand Karaj ceremony. Because then it just becomes a ritual and doesnt serve any purpose.

What type of advice is this? Wanting to take Amrit will cloud your judgement? Did the Abhilakhis in 1699 who wanted to take Amrit after seeing all injustices in India have clouded judgment? What about all the abhilakhis in the 70' and 80's who offer themselves to Guru Ji after seeing all the injustices of the world did they have clouded judgement as well? This the type of progaganda/advice that noormehlia cult propagate. They want to kill the Lions, Bahamanize the Lioness's , and confuse the cubs. Apnepart2 are you the same APnepart on Discover SIkhi who use to preach against rehat and amrit. Rehat Pyaarey Mujh Ko Sikh Pyaarey Nahi- - rehat is more important then a person who calls themsevles Sikh. Sri Guru Gobind Singh Jis bachan to Bhai Desa Singh Ji Ladli- Fauj Ji rehat is the foundation of a Gursikhs faith. The stronger the foundation the stronger your faith will be in Guru Ji. The rehatnamas which support Gurmat are no different then Hukumnamas . By following each of Gurus rehat/hukum you are taking a step closer to Guru Ji and then Guru Ji takes care of the rest. But obidience and discipline to Guru Jis hukum is a must. Guru Nanak Dev Ji gave a Hukum to Bhai Lehna Ji to eat a dead corpse . Because of his obidience, Bhai Leha Ji happily submitted and won Guru Jis grace. So by obeying commands of Guru Ji we recieve all his gifts . Guru Sahib states rihxI rhY soeI isK myrw ]Euh Twkuru mY aus kw cyrw ] that person who stays in the code of conduct is my Sikh. He is my master and I am his servant. Depending on a persons dedication and attitude it takes time to follow some of the harder rehats like waking up for Amrit Vela, doing nitnem etc, but overtime with Gurus Grace these rehats become more easier . If we offer our head to Guru ji there is no need to worry about people expectations or not fullfilling the code of conduct. Our head now belongs to Guru Ji and he will take care of things, even the hardest rehats become easier when we submit to Guru Jis command. ALso there will be a Youth Sikh camp in California this month you can check out the website at http://www.wcsikhicamp.com, and there will be a Rainsubaee in Tracy on December 19th http://www.ekhalsa.com/programs.php Your Post Are amazing bro... are you from california. yes i am from bay area, San Francisco. I want to take amrit at the Gurmat Prakash Manteca which is Damdami Taksal. Tracy also is DDT, but I have gone to manteca many times and seen the Singhs there many times. THanks for infrmation bro, When you wake up at Amrit vela what is like right correction of things you do like the order, nitnem simran etc Yes Im from California I live in the bay but now I live in the valley. I havent had the opportunity to go to the Manteca Gurdwara yet, but I have been to Tracy Gurdwara and it seems like a Gurdwara that follows Gurmat Maryada. Do you know Harwinder Singh from Fremont? He usually knows when Manteca Singhs have Amrit Sanchar. When I first took Amrit I use to do Nitnem first, then I would go to the Gurdwara and do Naam Simran. But then I switched it so I could spend more time with the sangat and do naam simran and then do nitnem afterwards. But since I live in the valley now and I have no sangat to do Naam Simran with I prefer to do Nitnem first then do Naam Simran. I prefer to do Nitnem first because Gurus Bani motivates me to do Naam Simran. According to my understanding of Bhai Nand Lal Singh Jis rehatnamas of a "Gursikhs daily routine" upon waking we are to recite Gurmantar, then ishnaan, Panj Baniaa, then Naam Abhyiaas. But if you prefer to do Naam Abhyiaas then Nitnem that is good as well . As long as you do both you will recieve Guru Jis blessings.

I saw a very detailed article on panthic.org about the Shaheedi of Baba Ji. Its such a wonderful articles perphaps one of the best I have read since it provides and quotes accounts from puratan text. SARBLOHEE JATHEDAR BABA GURBAKSH SINGH JEE TRANSLATED BY ADMINS TAPOBAN.ORG n Baba Gurbaksh Singh jee was a very well known and respected Singh, who had the honour of being martyred while defending Sree Darbaar Sahib. Baba jee was of village Leel and had received amrit at Sree Amritsar Sahib, due to the inspiration of Bhai Manee Singh jee. About Baba Jee Baba Gurbaksh Singh was always dressed in blue baaNaa and kept a very strong rehit. He would awake at amrit vela and do ishnaan and while reciting baaNee, would tie his dumalla. Baba jee loved Sarbloh, he would offer his respect to his sarbloh shastars i.e. kirpans, chakars, toRaas (metal cable tied around dastaar), kaRas, etc and then put them on. He would finally put on a mala of sarbloh around his neck and also many sarbloh kaRas and simarnaas. Baba jee's dastaar also had many toRaas tied into it. He would also wear a sarbloh armour. ਸਵਾ ਪਹਿਰ ਨਿਸ ਕਰੈ ਸ਼ਨਾਨ I ਬਾਣੀ ਪੜ੍ਹੇ ਖੜ ਪੱਗ ਬਧਾਨ I ਸਰਬ ਲੋਹ ਕੀ ਪੂਜਾ ਕਰੈ I ਨਮਸਕਾਰ ਕਰ ਸ਼ਸਤਰ ਫੜੈ I੩I ਸਰਬ ਲੋਹ ਗਲ ਮਾਲਾ ਪਾਵੈ I ਕੰਗਣ ਸਿਮਰਨ ਲੋਹ ਸੁਹਾਵੈ I ਲੋਹ ਚਕ੍ਰ ਲੋਹ ਤੋੜੇ ਧਾਰੈ I ਸਰਬ ਲੋਹ ਕੀ ਰਖਯ ਉਚਾਰੈ I੪I Other features Panth Parkash mentions about the way Baba jee looked was that he wore a very long 1.5 yard kacherra and always kept a long stick with him. Every amrit vela then, after dressing himself in his baaNaa, Baba jee sat in the divaan at Sree Akaal Takhat Sahib. It did not matter who came to meet him, whether a powerful Sardar or a lowly peasant, he greeted all people in the same way and with the same respect. He had absolutely no worldly aspirations or greed. Whenever there was a battle, Baba jee would always go and confront the enemy. He would take the Nishaan Sahib himself and advance. With the beat of the nagara, Baba jee used to be in the forefront to confront the enemy. Abdali's Oppression and the Khalsa Scatters The Khalsa had scattered when Ahmed Shah Abdali brought his army through the Punjab. Some Singhs went to the mountains where they were looted by the mountain-people; others went and hid around the rivers where they were not only looted but also attacked by lions and other animals. Those Singhs who decided to stay in Majha and not retreat were turned over to the Afghans by traitors and informers. In Malwa, the Singhs also fared no better and had to go from house to house like beggars. At Sree Amritsar, the Sarbat Khalsa gathered one day and after the night divaan, decided to abandon Sree Amritsar and leave together for Malwa. Baba Jee Offers His Shaheedee Baba Gurbaksh Singh then rose and addressed the Singhs and said, "Is there any Singh in the Panth today, who would fight with the Afghans and sacrifice his head and then go to Dargah and with his sacrifice have Karta-Purakh listen to his request and ensure the Chardi Kala of the Panth? One who could do ardaas to Karta-Purakh and bring an end to these dark days? Is there any Singh who is so determined and is such a devotee of naam and one who is so strong in rehit? Is there anyone who will give his life for the rest of the Khalsa and with his sacrifice be able to wipe out the enemy?" [it is said that when the enemy kills a bhagat of Vahiguru, the bad karma of committing such an act results in the enemy also being wiped out. Baba jee was asking if there was such a bhagat in the Panth who could give such a sacrifice]. "ਹੈ ਕੋਉ ਸਿੰਘ ਇਸ ਪੰਥ ਮਝਾਰੀ I ਲਾਇ ਸੀਸ ਕਰੈ ਦਰਗਹਿ ਪੁਕਾਰ I ਸੋ ਪੁਕਾਰ ਉਸ ਮੰਨੈ ਕਰਤਾਰ I੨੩I ਹਠੀਆ ਤਪੀਆ ਜਪੀਆ ਜੋਇ I ਰਹਤਵਾਨ ਸਚਿਆਰ ਭੀ ਹੋਇ I The Singhs listened to Baba Gurbaksh Singh and replied, "Baba jee, is there any Singh better for this than you? There is no one with more kamaiee. No one else has the power to abandon their body and go to Dargah like you do. No one else's request will be more acceptable to Vahiguru than yours." Baba jee listened to these words and then bowed his head and agreed to the request. Baba jee then called out, "I want to be Shaheed! If there is any other Gurmukh who wishes to come with me to Dargah, then let them also come. When there is a marriage, the groom goes with his Sarbaalha (best man) and with a large baraat (marriage party). I am going to marry the bride of Death. Are there Singhs who would be my Sarbaalhas?" Hearing Baba jee's call, many Singhs rose and stood with Baba jee. They said, "We were waiting for your call. With your permission we will be your Sarbaalhas." Seeing these Singhs stand, many more Singhs also rose and said "then we all will come with you in the baraat!" Baba jee then adressed all the Singhs and said, "Khalsa jee! You have all agreed to join my wedding party. We will give our heads in this Dharam Yudh and in this way we will be married. We will get Shaheedee and Guru Sahib will give us all Kingships. No, even bigger rewards than kingships. That Singh who gives his head in battle will be the King of Kings. " The Singhs Prepare for The "Wedding" By this time, Ahmed Shah Abdali had arrived in Lahore. He was preparing to go to Delhi when he heard about the gathering of the Khalsa at Sree Amritsar. He decided that on the way to Delhi, he would stop at Sree Amritsar and slaughter all the Sikhs. Hearing of the advance of Abdali, some of the cowards who had remained at Sree Amritsar with Baba jee ran away. Baba jee also encouraged them to leave and said "Go! Leave now, otherwise we won't let you leave later!" Only a few Singhs remained now. The remaining Singhs were all chardee kala naam abhyaasee Gursikhs. They prepared for their death like a groom prepares for his wedding. They all had new cholas sewn. Some decided to sew blue, and others wore white and others kesree. They gathered in front of Sree Akaal Takhat Sahib and eagerly awaited the enemy. ਬਸਤਰ ਸ਼ਸਤਰ ਪਹਿਰ ਸਿੰਘ ਭਏ ਤਬੇ ਸਵਧਾਨ I ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਬਾਣੀ ਪੜ੍ਹੀ ਗੁਰ ਨਾਨਕ ਪਗ ਧਰ ਧਯਾਨ I੩੭I They would stand on their toes to see if the enemy was yet visible on the horizon. They were discussing how they would give their Shaheedees and then in Dargah would stop the Afghan attacks forever. The day the Afghans were expected to attack, the Singhs all rose at amrit vela. They began to prepare like it was their wedding day. They sprinkled themselves with attar and rose scents, and rubbed sandal paste on their bodies. As they did this, they sang "GhoReeaa(n)" shabads from Sree Guru Granth Sahib. They then bathed in Sree Amritsar Sahib and then gathered at Sree Akaal Takhat. Baba jee was looking very impressive in his new dress. He was wearing a blue chola over his new kacherra and was wearing a very tight dumalla, which was tied especially for battle. The dumalla had many chakars and kirpaans tied into it. The Singhs then gathered and offered obeisance to Sree Guru Granth Sahib. After reading 5 pauRees of Anand Sahib and doing ardaas The Singhs distributed Degh and then as a group left for darshan of Sree Darbaar Sahib. The group of Singhs was led by a Nishaan Sahib and nagaaras were beating. Baba jee asked the Singhs to sing shabads of happiness as this was their wedding day and the wedding party was now moving. Baba jee and the other Singhs also gave away all the money they had to the needy. They arrived at Sree Darbaar Sahib and did parkarma. Once inside, they showered Sree Guru Granth Sahib with flowers and then did Ardaas. Baba jee standing before Satguru Granth Sahib spoke the following words, "True Emperor, protector of the poor! Your Khalsa is going now to marry the bride of Death. We are going to battle the Dushts. Satguru jee! May our Sikhee and our kesh stay intact through our final breaths." ਹਰਿਮੰਦਰ ਕੇ ਹਜੂਰ ਇਮ ਖੜ ਕਰ ਕਰੀ ਅਰਦਾਸ I "ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸਿੱਖੀ ਸੰਗ ਨਿਭੈ ਸੀਸ ਕੇਸਨ ਕੇ ਸਾਸ I੪੮I" The Afghans in the meantime had began to move towards Sree Amritsar. They had prepared for a massive battle and brought a large army. They were wearing armour and metal helmets. They had decided to do battle in such a way that the Singhs would be killed but they themselves would incur minimal casualties. They had brought long weapons which could kill from a distance such as large guns. Baba jee, after offering ardaas at Sree Darbaar Sahib, returned with the Singhs to Sree Akaal Takhat Sahib to listen to keertan and await the enemy. The keertanees began to recite keertan and the Singhs would ask that certain shabads they wanted to hear be sung. The GhoReeaa(n) shabads were again recited. In this way, the entire night passed in listening to keertan. At day break, the enemy had arrived. The Afghans Arrive & The Battle Begins The Singhs upon seeing the Afghan army came down from Sree Akaal Takhat Sahib. They bowed to their shastars (kirpaans, kataars and talwaars) and then grabbed them. Some Singhs grabbed very big sticks and others mounted horses. The Singhs vied to go ahead of each other and kept moving forward. The Singhs argued about who had the right to attain Shaheedee first. The Nishaan Sahibs were furling and the beat of nagaaraas was echoing. The Singhs were like grooms anxious to marry a beautiful wife and seeing the time come closer, becoming more and more excited. Some Singhs then ran forward and began the battle. The Singhs would sprint forward and began to embrace Shaheedee and complete their weddings with death. The Singhs were surrounded on all four sides and the Afghans began to close in. Baba jee called out to all the Singhs, "Singhs! Step forward and embrace martyrdom! "ਹੋ ਸ਼ਹੀਦ ਪਗ ਅੱਗੈ ਧਾਰ I੫੭I" If we step forward, our honour remains intact, if we step back, they will say we are retreating! Do not look for assistance anymore, just go forward! Now go forward and give your heads!" . Hearing Baba jee's cry, the Singhs all charged forward, not one Singh took a step back. ਹੋਹੁ ਸ਼ਹੀਦ ਅਬ ਹੈ ਦੇਰ ਕਹੀ I੬੫I ਤੌ ਲਗ ਗਿਲਜੋ ਔਰ ਆਇ ਪੜੇ I ਲੜ ਲੜ ਮਰੈ ਜਹੀਂ ਸਿੰਘ ਅੜੇ I ਨਾਂਹਿ ਪੈਰ ਕਿਨ ਪਿੱਛੈ ਮੋਰਾ I ਸਿੰਘਨ ਪੈਰ ਸੁ ਅੱਗੈ ਤੋਰਾ I੬੬I They fell upon the Afghans like a lion on deer. The Singhs were all eager to become Shaheed as quickly as possible. They had no hope for life. Baba jee again called out, "Khalsa jee! Become Shaheed and cross this world-ocean! Let us go to the court of Satguru jee and ask that the Afghans never attack here again and that the Khalsa should rule! What is the delay now? Fall upon the enemy!" Wherever the Singhs stood their ground against the Afghans, they eventually fell. Afghan reinforcements also arrived. The Singhs never looked back, some Afghans even began to run away. Seeing this, Baba jee bellowed, "Don't let them go Khalsa jee! Stand and fight this Dharam Yudh!" The Afghans did not understand what Baba jee was saying and were surprised to the see the Singhs run after them. They then trained their guns upon the Singhs. Many Singhs standing with Baba jee fell to the rain of bullets. Baba jee then took out his heavy Tegha and ran towards the enemy. He swung his Tegha with such force that it cut through the armour of the Afghans. Baba jee would aim for the face and neck where there was less armour. The Afghans all then began to cover their faces with their shields. The Singhs seeing the cowardice of the Afghans threw aside their own shields and challenged, "look! We've thrown aside our shields, do you have the bravery to do the same? We'll take your blows without any shield, will you take ours?" The Singhs continued to run forward and did not show any fear of death. They did not so much as look backwards. The Afghans continued to fall back and began to wonder why such a small group was not finishing and whether these few Singhs would cause their defeat. They could not bear the brunt of the Singhs' sword blows. They fell back and began to fire bullets and arrows. Baba Jee's Shaheedee Baba jee's body was pierced by many bullets and arrows and his wounds could not be counted. Some cut through his skin and others broke bones. But neither did the Singhs accept defeat nor would they acknowledge any pain. Baba jee's body was pouring blood like a spring. But Baba jee kept moving forward and was demanding Shaheedee and asking Guru Jee to keep his Laaj "ਪੈਜ ਬਿਰਦ ਕੀ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਰਾਖੈ I ਲਾਜ ਨ ਲਾਗੇ" ਯੌ ਸਿੰਘ ਆਖੈ I "ਹਇ ਸ਼ਹੀਦੀ ਮੇਰੀ ਪੂਰੀ"I ਬਾਰ ਬਾਰ ਸਿੰਘ ਮੰਗੈ ਜ਼ਰੂਰੀ I੭੭I Baba jee was soaked in blood like he had just been playing Holi with colours. Eventually because of loss of blood, Baba jee became very weak. He could not walk anymore and became very tired. But with every ounce of strength in his being, he put one foot ahead of the other. He was careful that no one would say he retreated. "ਮਤ ਕਤ ਆਖੈ ਜਗਤ ਕੋ ਸਿੰਘ ਮੁਯੋ ਮੁਖ ਫੇਰ ਪਿਛਾਹਿਂ I੮੦I Baba jee called to the remaining Singhs, "Singhs! Do not shame the BaaNaa we wear! May our Shaheedees be perfect and may we fall in the battlefield!" By this time, even more Afghan reinforcements arrived. The new Afghans surrounded the wounded Baba jee and pierced him with their long spears. Baba jee with great effort used his khanda to cut off the spears and the Afghans again fell back. Baba jee would not look back but the enemy had surrounded him and knocked him to the ground from behind with a blow from a spear. Baba jee fell to his knees. Baba jee thought in his mind, "I cannot let go of my khanda. If I let it go, the enemy may consider me helpless and not attack. I will not be able to become Shaheed and my wish will not be fulfilled. If I do not take care of this moment, who knows if I ever get the opportunity for Shaheedee again?" Baba Jee kept fighting even after falling on his knees and never let go of his Talvaar ਸਿੰਘ ਸੁ ਗਿਰਯੋ ਗੋਡਨ ਕੇ ਭਾਰ I ਤਊ ਨ ਛੋਡੀ ਸਿੰਘ ਤਲਵਾਰ I ੮੧I Baba jee then again raised his khanda and called to the Afghans, "Come! Try to take my head!" He put his head forward like an offering. Again the enemy surrounded him and fighting on his knees, Baba jee was beheaded by the enemy and in this way attained Shaheedee. ਅਬ ਧੜ ਤੈ ਸੀਸ ਉਤਰਾਈਐ ਕੋਇ ਝਲ ਤਿੱਖੀ ਤਲਵਾਰ I ੮੨I Baba jee's vow was completed , he offered his Sis in the same fashion as Sree Guru Tegh Bahadur Jee. ਦਯੋ ਸੀਸ ਉਨ ਆਗੈ ਨਿਵਾਇ I ਜਿਮ ਤੇਗ ਬਹਾਦਰ ਗੁਰ ਕੀਓ ਦਾਇ I੮੩I Shaheed Khalsa The enemy rejoiced at the Shaheedee of Baba Gurbaksh Singh jee and shouted out slogans in relief. The Khalsa too rejoiced at the Shaheedee of Baba jee in its own way. Shaheed Khalsa was waiting in anticipation of Baba Gurbaksh Singh Jee. ਸ਼ਹੀਦਨ ਕੈ ਮਧ ਭਈ ਵਧਾਈ I ਹੁਤੇ ਉਡੀਕਤ ਗੁਰਬਖਸ਼ ਸਿੰਘ ਭਾਈ I Baba Gurbaksh Singh jee was received in Grandeur and carried on royal carriage with Shaheed Khalsa wearing Blue and holding Nishan Sahibs and Nagarey. ਨਿਸ਼ਾਨ ਨਿਗਾਰੈ ਸ਼ਹੀਦਨ ਫੜੇ I ਨੀਲੇ ਬਾਣੇ ਪਹਿਰ ਸੁ ਖੜੇ I ੮੬I The Aftermath Night fell and the Afghans were in shock after seeing such a bloody battle. They set up camp near the Bhangi fort and fell into a deep sleep. The Singhs in the area though rose at night and attacked the camp. The Singhs stole horses and slaughtered the Afghans. The remaining Afghans could not sleep and at daybreak, quickly ran from the area. The same night, some Singhs came to the scene of the battle to see what had happened. They saw the headless bodies of the Singhs and many many Afghans. The Singhs decided to make one big pyre and cremate all the bodies together. Behind Sree Akaal Takhat Sahib, a lot of wood was gathered and all the bodies were cremated together. Degh was distributed and the Singhs celebrated as though a great wedding had taken place. The whole Panth was saying Dhan Dhan ਧੰਨ ਧੰਨ ਪੰਥ ਸਭੋ ਉਸ ਆਖੈ I ਮਾਤ ਪਿਤਾ ਸਭ ਧਨ ਉਸ ਭਾਖੈਂ I The Khalsa decided to erect a Shaheed Ganj in memory of Baba Gurbaksh Singh and the rest of the Singhs. This place was seen by many to have a very strong presence of Kala and nothing would seem to come near it. ਐਸੀ ਕਲਾ ਉਸ ਜਗਾ ਹੋਈ I ਭੂਤ ਦਰਸ ਤਹਿਂ ਰਹੈ ਨ ਕੋਈ I Baba jee's Shaheedee was glorious and indeed, the Afghan power did begin to fall after this point. The Panth believed that Baba Jee's benti was heard at the feet of Guru Jee, within a few years, the Sikhs began to rule Punjab and the Sikh Kingdoms were established. ਜਬ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਬਚ ਸਿੰਘ ਲਏ ਮੰਨ I ਤਬ ਹੀ ਭਯੋ ਖਾਲਸਾ ਧੰਨ I੧੦੫I Source: Pracheen Panth Parkaash by Rattaan Singh Bhangoo

What type of advice is this? Wanting to take Amrit will cloud your judgement? Did the Abhilakhis in 1699 who wanted to take Amrit after seeing all injustices in India have clouded judgment? What about all the abhilakhis in the 70' and 80's who offer themselves to Guru Ji after seeing all the injustices of the world did they have clouded judgement as well? This the type of progaganda/advice that noormehlia cult propagate. They want to kill the Lions, Bahamanize the Lioness's , and confuse the cubs. Apnepart2 are you the same APnepart on Discover SIkhi who use to preach against rehat and amrit. Rehat Pyaarey Mujh Ko Sikh Pyaarey Nahi- - rehat is more important then a person who calls themsevles Sikh. Sri Guru Gobind Singh Jis bachan to Bhai Desa Singh Ji Ladli- Fauj Ji rehat is the foundation of a Gursikhs faith. The stronger the foundation the stronger your faith will be in Guru Ji. The rehatnamas which support Gurmat are no different then Hukumnamas . By following each of Gurus rehat/hukum you are taking a step closer to Guru Ji and then Guru Ji takes care of the rest. But obidience and discipline to Guru Jis hukum is a must. Guru Nanak Dev Ji gave a Hukum to Bhai Lehna Ji to eat a dead corpse . Because of his obidience, Bhai Leha Ji happily submitted and won Guru Jis grace. So by obeying commands of Guru Ji we recieve all his gifts . Guru Sahib states rihxI rhY soeI isK myrw ]Euh Twkuru mY aus kw cyrw ] that person who stays in the code of conduct is my Sikh. He is my master and I am his servant. Depending on a persons dedication and attitude it takes time to follow some of the harder rehats like waking up for Amrit Vela, doing nitnem etc, but overtime with Gurus Grace these rehats become more easier . If we offer our head to Guru ji there is no need to worry about people expectations or not fullfilling the code of conduct. Our head now belongs to Guru Ji and he will take care of things, even the hardest rehats become easier when we submit to Guru Jis command. ALso there will be a Youth Sikh camp in California this month you can check out the website at http://www.wcsikhicamp.com, and there will be a Rainsubaee in Tracy on December 19th http://www.ekhalsa.com/programs.php

I have always thought Agan Bheth was the method of disposing kes that comes out naturally but I have never heard of Jal Parvah. Is this written in a Puratan Rehatnama can you provide the source? thanks

Thats great news! I was reading another post you wrote and it seems that you are from the Bay Area. There are many Singhs in the Bay Area who can answer all your questions. If you want I can PM you their information. ALso there is Amrit Vela 7 daYS A week at Fremont GUrdwara from 1 - 4am. DOing Naam Simran with Sangat is a great way to make you strong in your Sikhi before you take Amrit. Because Kes is a blessed gift from WaaheGuru Ji its always best to show it utmost respect. Meaning we should wash, comb it twice, and cover it with a dastar daily. By doing so we will get Guru Jis happiness/approval.

Im not that much into spirituality, but I am trying and still learning. So I will try to share with you from my own experiences I think you are overly too concerned about what others are doing. You should really focus on your own atma. Without understanding your own atma you will continue to be in doubt. jn nwnk ibnu Awpw cInY imtY n BRm kI kweI ]2]1] jan naanak bin aapaa cheenai mittai n bhram kee kaaee ||2||1|| O servant Nanak, without knowing one's own self, the moss of doubt is not removed. ||2||1|| Originally we originated from GOds light but our soujourn to this world has made up completely forgetful. We (I) have become so uncultured we dont even know true ourselves. mn qUM joiq srUpu hY Awpxw mUlu pCwxu ] man thoo joth saroop hai aapanaa mool pashhaan || O my mind, you are the embodiment of the Divine Light - recognize your own origin. We have made this temporary place our home and have become complete foreigners to our true home. We have become so foreign to this original source that we have begun to live like animals. Thus our mind has become so blunt that it has been darkened from its original light. Without understanding ourselves this foreign mentality will continue to prevail. We will keep coming to this foreign land untill we reach our true home thus our death will be a true death. Bhagat Kabir states kbIrw mrqw mrqw jgu muAw mir iB n jwnY koie ] kabeeraa marathaa marathaa jag muaa mar bh n jaanai koe || Kabeer, the world is dying - dying to death, but no one knows how to truly die. AYsI mrnI jo mrY bhuir n mrnw hoie ]1] aisee maranee jo marai bahur n maranaa hoe ||1|| Whoever dies, let him die such a death, that he does not have to die again. ||1||

Where did you get that source from. I have been looking for the original Hukumnamas of GUru Sahib online but I cant find them anywhere.

In 52 Hukumnamas given by Sri Guru Gobind SIngh JI Guru Ji advises to study other faiths so its not wrong. I think there are some advantages of studying other faiths which includes the following: 1) Learning about other faiths gives you the understanding of different religions; so when people like the RSS, NIrankaris, Radhsoami, Jehovah Witnesses, Evangelicals, Fanatical <Edited> Muslims try to confuse you and claim their faith is the true path you can use their own religious text to refute their claims. 2)Learning about other faiths gives you the understanding of different religions which is a great way to converse and have good, friendly, and positive relations with people belonging to different spiritual paths. Surely this is a good thing because Guru Ji has always taught us tolerance and acceptance of other people. We live in a multicultural society so its good to learn about other peoples belief systems. I think its ok to learn about others as long as one doesnt do the following: 1) try to relate different religious text to Gurmat. Gurmat is distinct we cant compare half-baked philosophies to the complete truth contained in Gurmat. True many faiths have things in common and we should celebrate and respect these similarities. But when interpreting or understanding Gurbani, we should never relate Hindu, Abrahamic ,etc concepts to Gurmat. For example Gurmat does not agree with the after life/mukhti disciple master-relationship concepts of HIndus and Muslims ; thus, we should not be making efforts to make such connections between SIkhi or any other faith. 2) Learning about other faiths , but neglecting the study of your own faith is a major transgression. In fact one is considered a Tankhayia if one does so. For example, if one starts learning about Islam or Christian sometime during the day, but did not wake up for Amirt Vela, do their Nitnem, and Naam Simran then one is considered a Tankhayia. If one makes an attempt to study the life story of Jesus but does not make efforts to learn life story of GUru Sahiban then they are considered Tankhayia.Sikih is about being firm and unshakable in Sikhi so its important to have strong beliefs in Sikhi before beginning the pursuit of studying other faiths.

Bhai Sahib since you have taken the liberty to translate these writings please do give us a brief explanation on the following questions 1. Who wrote Rag Mala? 2. Why is the numbering system so different compared to the Gurbani in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji? 3. Most importantly what is the Gurmat principle behind Rag Mala? Meaning what is the Hukum of Raag Mala? thanks in advance

you can get a book 52 Hukumnamas by Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji also many rehatnamas are the bachans of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji You can get a Professor Pyaara Singh Padams rehatnama book which contains many puratan rehatnamas which come directly from Guru Sahib.

there is no such think as unorthodox sikh or orthodox Sikh. There is only Gursikh- those that have taken AMrit from thje hands of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj. Even if the Panj Pyaarey do not mention this topic it doesnt mean its ok to consume eat. i never heard of Panj Pyaarey encouraging to eat meat. Its common sense not to eat it so it doesnt need to be discussed. The whole idea for a religious person to eat meat derives from HIndu Ritualism, and Paganism which the Abrahamic faiths dervived from. Sikhi is a distinct path which strictly forbids eating meat according to Gurbani. Anybody who eats meat is not a Sikh, they do not understand what it means to be committed strictly to Guru Ji. They follow other traditions and their own thinking instead of staying grounded strictly within Gurmat.

It turned out the dinner was a great way to get publicity for Sikhis. A couple uninvited crashed the presidential dinner and their photo with Obama was shown frequently across the globe. Lucky for us Manmohan SIngh was in the background of the pic. Hopefully this will educate the wider public about the differences between SIkhs and Arabs.

What a great jeevan! I think the above has been written by Bhai Kublir SIngh Ji but it seems like someone else is trying to take credit for the hard work and time it must of took to translate different texts to provide the Jeevan of Baba Sunder Singh Ji. Here is the original source http://www.tapoban.org/forum/read.php?1,171,270#msg-270

I too have had this problem in the past. Im speaking from my own experiences so please do not get offended by my blunt words. You get a greater sense of concentration when you are alone because generally when a person is in solitude they concentrate better. For example if a person goes out in the woods or in a cave they get much more awareness then trying to do Naam abhyiaas in a bus of ordinary people. So does this mean that awareness is not possible in the midst of Sadh Sangat? Heck No! Sadh Sangat is where ones manmat animalistic thinking gets elevated to higher Godly thinking ( Gurmat) Sadh Sangat is the true cave of solitude where one gets a supreme heightened sense of concentration/awareness. GUru Sahib states kIrqnu inrmolk hIrw ] keerathan niramolak heeraa || The Kirtan of the Lord's Praise is a priceless diamond. Awnµd guxI ghIrw ] aana(n)dh gunee geheeraa || It is the ocean of bliss and virtue. Anhd bwxI pUMjI ] anehadh baanee poo(n)jee || In the Word of the Guru's Bani is the wealth of the unstruck sound current. sMqn hiQ rwKI kUMjI ]2] sa(n)than hathh raakhee koo(n)jee ||2|| The Saints hold the key to it in their hands. ||2|| suMn smwiD guPw qh Awsnu ] su(n)n samaadhh gufaa theh aasan || They sit there, in the cave of deep Samaadhi; kyvl bRhm pUrn qh bwsnu ] kaeval breham pooran theh baasan ||the unique, perfect Lord God dwells there. So sangat is the place in which the Saintly company reside and one gets easy passage to the true wealth. Most likely your problem is that you dont regard the Sadh Sangat with high reverence thus the monkey( maya) does not leave you alone. When a person serves and respects the Sadh Sangat then maya becomes fearful of such people and runs away. Thus it is important to have respect around the sangat you are doing Naam Abhyiaas with even your parents should be regarded with reverence when you are doing Paat Seva, because anybody who takes time out of there schedule to listen to Guru Ji with attention should be treated with respect. Generally the monkey wont touch you if you serve the sangat with respect. If your reverence for the sangat is not high then upon entering the Gurdwara you should do seva of the sangat . For example, you can go to the langar hall and do seva. If you do the seva with devotion then the monkey will not harm you during kirtan. Even a simple things like offering a SIngh a glass of water will aid you greatly during Naam Abhyiaas. Even if you dont do physical seva of the sangat you should always think of yourself lower then the sangat. Do not regard Sadh Sangat as normal people. When we regard sadh sangat as normal people then our mind starts to wonder. Regard them as the image of the Guru. gurU srUp Kwlsw heIey ] ijn kI tihl prmsuK lhIey ]22] guroo saroop khaalasaa heeeae || jin kee ttehil paramasukh leheeeae ||22|| The Khalsa is the image of the Guru. Serving them, eternal peace is obtained. Rehatnama Bhai Desa Singh So with reverence sit in solitude within Guru Jis lap and the concentration will increase through constant practice. Remember sangat are not normal people their company is our true cave of solitude. Throughout Gurbani, GUru Ji ask for the dust of the sangats feet so when we offer our heard to Guru Ji whenever we matha tekh we should think of ourselves as lower then everyone thus our attendance in the darbar sahib will be accepted without the nuisance of the monkey. When the Sadh Sangat from Kabul came to seek Guru Jis Darshan and hear Guru Jis bani ; Guru Sahib showed us through example that we should give respect to Sadh Sangat upon seeking his Darshan. So please do not have the mentality that I need to avoid sangat and increase my own awareness individually. I had this mentality in the past and the monkey really did a number on me. Trust me I wouldnt want you to go through this experience. swDsMgiq gur guPY bih shij smwiD AgwiD invwsI] saadhhasa(n)gath gur gufai behi sehaj samaadhh agaadhh nivaasee|| Sitting in the cave in the form of Holy Congregation, they reside in unfathomable equipoise. haumY rog Arog hoie kir sMjogu ivjog KlwsI] houmai rog arog hoe kar sa(n)jog vijog khalaasee|| Getting cured of the ailment of ego, they are liberated from the bonds of comings and goings (birth and death). swDsMgiq durmiq swbwsI ]15] saadhhasa(n)gath dhuramath saabaasee ||15|| Holy Congregation is applauded because of the wisdom of the Guru that resides in it.(15) I see it one to many times when SInghs have differences amongst each other over politics, personal conflicts, jatha affiliation etc, thus the monkey never seems to leave them. I know of some SInghs who wont even go to Rainsuabaees because they regard it as " AKJ " affiliated. We should always recongize those Gursikhs who seek Guru Jis blessing as the sadh sangat regardless whatever "group" they belong to.

In regards to learning Gurmukhi its always best to learn from a person, BUt if this is not a possible there are many sites on the net which teach the basic pronunciation of Gurmukhi alphabet. Learn from these sites. You can also listen to paat on a mp3 player and follow along with a Gutka this will help you recognize and pronounce certain words in Gurmukhi. Then you should start reading yourself Im not in any position to give advice about having a strong Gurmat routine because I myself am lacking in many ways but I have learned that its never to late to change your daily routine. If you are waking up at 12 pm then there is a chance you are going to sleep late. If you are not waking up in the morning the reason is because you are lacking motivation. Once we make har keerat our daily routine then things will change naturally. Gurbani has this very mystical effect. The more you make it a part of your life the more Gurbani wants you. So try to make GurBani a big part of your life. If you wake up late then dont let this defeat you. Do as much paat upon waking especially in the evening do as much as possible ,and enjoy it. Then do Ardas and ask to wake for AMrit Vela ,etc, and if you do so with a sincerity and faith then you will wake up. Depending on the person it takes time to build faith, Bani is the greatest aid in strengthening ones faith. Learn the meanings of Gurbani this will also encourage to want to do more and more paat,and do as much Naam Simran when you are available. Try not to judge your Sikhi with other Gursikhs. Be inspired by Gursikhs but dont lose faith if you not at the same level. We all have to start somewhere even if it means pushing yourself to wake up for AMrit Vela and doing Naam Simran for 15 minutes. this effort will be accepted in GUru Jis dargah and eventually that 15 minutes will double Again if you are struggling with Amrit Vela, Panj Bania I suggest you go all out in the evening time and do as much Paat as possible. Avoid watching TV and other things that are going to ruin your concentration. At the same time you should push yourself to wake up for Amrit vela even if its only 5 minutes. If you make the effort of taking one step towards Guru Ji , Guru Ji will handle the rest and put you on the right track.

nice reply

I think the first important thing you can learn about the SIkh religion is that it is seperate from Punjabi Culture. SOme people try to dilute SIkhi by mixing it with Punjabi Culture. But Sikhi is a distinct path which solely based on spirituality.

Does anybody have Keertan Notations for the following Shabads Mittar Pyaarey Noon Nasro Mansoor Guru Gobind SIngh! Waaho Waaho Gobind Singh Aapey Guru Chela I would be extremely grateful if somebody can provide the notations.

Why are you referring it to as Gurus Rabab. The Rabab existed before Guru Jis time. You are trying to give the Rabab some kind of sacred status by associating it as Gurus Rabab. Guru gave us method to experience GuruShabad and this is what all spiritual seekers want to experience. IF you want to ritualize your experience by being infatuated by the wordly sounds of the physical senses instead of the spiritual sounds within which is the true hard work then thats your choice. A person can do kirtan with any instrument they want. Lets not forget Kirtan is about Keerat its not about music or sounding nice. The ears need to be focused on the True GurShabad. The instruments are just there as a tool to stir more emotions for Kirtan. In regard to Langar Maryada. This is about Dharmic Principle. Which is all are equal , we all sit in humility,and enjoy Guru Ka Langar. What Dharmic Principle does classical kirtan have? Im not saying Classical Kirtan is a bad thing. It is a good thing if it gets you closer to the True Gurshabad, but its not mandatory for you to have a spiritual experience. The only thing mandatory in kirtan is sincere devotion. The origianl poster posted a very good and sincere post about learning Kirtan. Kirtan is part of a Gursikhs rehat which should be either listenend to or sung everyday. Its the food of our soul and its the Highest in this age of Kaljug. By enjoying/eating the ras from Kirtan all our wordly pleasures are destroyed and then we get anand. For the original poster I would suggest you to hang around with people who truly enjoy Kirtan, and ask someone to teach you how to play the vaja,Rabab, or any instrument which you like. guir suB idRsit sB aUpir krI ] gur subh dhrisatt sabh oopar karee || The Guru has bestowed His Glance of Grace upon all, ijs kY ihrdY mMqRü dy hrI ] jis kai hiradhai ma(n)thra dhae haree || within whose hearts the Lord has implanted His Mantra. AKMf kIrqnu iqin Bojnu cUrw ] akha(n)dd keerathan thin bhojan chooraa || The unbroken Kirtan of the Lord's Praises is their food and nourishment. khu nwnk ijsu siqguru pUrw ]8]2] kahu naanak jis sathigur pooraa ||8||2|| Says Nanak, they have the Perfect True Guru. ||8||2||

KIrtan is primarily about praising our beloved SatGuru Ji. All of the Kirtan should be centered on the True GurShabd. The playing of the instruments is only the mechanical aspect of Kirtan. Again Kirtan is about doing Keerat ( praise ) of our True Satguru Ji. But then again I dont think these NaamDharis at Raj Academy will teach you to do satkar on the True Guru, if anything they are going to give you doubts about the Gurshabad and try to make kirtan a whole ritualistic exercise. THe point of kirtan is to get so intune of the True SatgUru Ji that we stop the instruments and vibrate on the Anahat Shabad carelessly- Sat Sat SaTGuru Ji. As Gurmat Yogis tHe instrument is our cave while the GurShabad is the point of focus. If you have learned a classical instrument that is great. You should learn more and more and teach others. But I dont think its so wise to undermine kirtan by assuming that certain instruments need to be played. Kirtan is God and God is not dependent on any worldly instruments.