RaagDarbar

VJKVJKF Please attend tonight's Bhog of Siri Akhand path sahib at 5pm. Followed by the Sant Smagam. It's gonna be amazing possibly the only chance this year to get sangat with these amazing souls in one place. Check the event section for more details, and benti to moderators to leave this here just for today to obtain maximum coverage, thanks.

This is Baba Hari Singh Randhave vale ji.

Sant Baba Aaya Singh Ji Part 1 Sant Aaya Singh Ji was born in village Shamojhi, zila Peshawar, tehsil Kaatlang now in Pakistan in the year 1862 to parents Ramey Shah Arora and Mata Chattar Kaur. In order to complete the vow they had made (that the child would serve the dera for forty days), the family left Sant Aaya Singh Ji at the dera when He was a child. Even though He was just a child but He still had a great resolve to serve the devotees who came to the dera. He would not think about his health and would throughout the day serve the devotees with a lot of love and affection. Everyone was surprised to see the young child serving the devotees with such resolve. On the completion of forty days, His father came to the dera to take back Sant Aaya Singh Ji. Sant Aaya Singh Ji’s father took Him along to pay obeisance to Sant Karam Singh Ji and asked for permission to leave. MahaPurush asked the father “What is the boy’s name?”. Ramey Shah replied “Baba Ji! The boys name is Aaya Singh but at home everyone lovingly calls him Aayo. There was a false case lodged on the family. We had resolved that if we were freed then we would serve the dera for 40 days. And now since 40 days have completed, we ask for your leave”. MahaPurush Ji then asked the boy “Kaka, your name is Aayo and if you have come to the dera then now why do you want to go back?” Sant Aaya Singh Ji replied “Baba Ji, I am ready to stay back but my father is not letting me do so”. Sant Aaya Singh Ji’s father then paid obeisance to Sant Karam Singh Ji and brought the child back home. Only 4-5 days had passed that Sant Aaya Singh Ji’s head was filled with ticks. Everyone in the family, neighbors, etc tried all possible medications but nothing worked. The family then understood that this was the outcome having earned the displeasure of Sant Karam Singh Ji by not listening to Him. After consultations, they sent back Sant Aaya Singh Ji to the dera. After a few days, the ticks automatically disappeared. Sant Aaya Singh continued to serve the MahaPurush and all the devotees that visited the dera. Sant Karam Singh Ji was very happy with the service rendered by Sant Aaya Singh Ji. Then one day, at an opportune moment, Sant Karam Singh Ji called Sant Aaya Singh Ji and said “I want you to take over my responsibilities”. Sant Aaya Singh Ji said that He would not be able to carry out such a huge responsibility. But Sant Karam Singh Ji reiterated to Sant Aaya Singh Ji “You will have to carry out this responsibility” and blessed Him saying “You will handle responsibilities that will be one and a quarter times of what I had. Continue to handle these responsibilities.” Sant Karam Singh Ji’s utterances turned out to be true; everything was now one and a quarter times of what it was before. Sant Karam Singh Ji’s utterances resulted in blessings and prosperity................................

Yes G5sikhmedia will be taking audio recordings of the event.

For all other information please contact the numbers provided on the poster.

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Upon the request of Sant Jagjit Singh Ji Harkowal The Barsi of Sant Baba Aaya Singh Ji Hoti Mardanvale will be celebrated for the first time in the UK. An Akhand Path Sahib will be held on Thursday the 13th of October where the Aramb will be at 6pm. The Bhog will then be on Saturday the 15th of October at 6pm after which the Sant Smagam will take place till 11pm. Several Mahapurkhs will gather at the Sant Smagam to celebrate this auspicious occasion. Mahapurakhs attending: Sant Jagjit Singh Ji Harkowal Sant Joginder Singh Ji Damelivale Bhai Sahib Bhai Mohinder Singh Ji Guru Nanak Nishkam Sevak Jatha Sant Baljinder Singh Ji Rarasahibvale Along with some proclaimed Kirtani Jathe and Parchariks presently in the UK. This will be a Katha & Kirtan Darbar, where we can all learn about Baba Aaya Singh Ji's Jeevan and Kamai and also the benefit of having such Great Mahapursh in our Panth. 'My soul, body and wealth belong to the Saints; my mind longs for the dust of the Saints. And by the radiant grace of the Saints, all my doubts have been erased. O Nanak, I have met the Lord.' (Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaaj) This is a humble benti from the Sangat from Guru Har Rai Gurdvara to please attend with your family & friends and gain laha from this special event. 128 High Street West Bromwich, West Midlands B70 6JW Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

A Sant Smagam is not confirmed at the moment, but if there is one we will try not to clash with any other programs.

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa. Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh. Pyaari Saadh Sangat Ji, with Vaheguru's kirpa, panth de rattan Sant Jagjit Singh Ji Harkowale is arriving in the UK on Wednesday night. Thier first four programmes will be held at Guru Har Rai Gurdvara, West Bromwich. 126-128 High st B70 6JW From Thursday to Saturday the programme will be at 7:15pm and On Sunday it will be at 14:00pm. Sant Baljinder Singh Ji Rarasahibvale will be at Fridays programme along with Sant Joginder Singh Ji Damelivale. Please attend with family and friends and pass the message on to fellow Gurmukhs. Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa. Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh.

vjkk!vjkf! Benti to the sangat to Attend so that we can all appreciate this great Mahapurkh. I am sure that it will also be a good opportunity to find out more about Baba Ji's jeevan and high avastha. Will defo be a good smagam.

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Baba Santokh Singh Ji was a true Mahapursh and a priceless gem that will be missed by the panth. Another Mahapurkh told me that Baba Ji was the pillar of the state of sirhand, as their nimrata and high jeevan had an impact on anybody that came across them....................Its such a loss, true gurmukhs like baba ji are very hard to find, and those who have had their darshan should feel very blessed, and to those who did not have their darshan, can have darshan by listening to sakhis and the jeevan of baba ji. Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Piyari Sadhsangat ji, the Sangat of Guru Har Rai Gurdvara would like to thank everybody who attended. With Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji Maharaaj's kirpa the Raag Darbar was amazing. Without the blessings of Guru Sahib and the Sadhsangat this could never have been possible. Our only benti to the Sangat is to appreciate Gurmat Sangeet and make it an essential part of your lives, whether you choose to listen to Raag Kirtan or if you decide to learn Kirtan. Once again we would like to thank those who attended, if we made any mistakes please forgive us. Please do Ardaas to Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaaj to bless us with further seva of the Sadhsangat. Audio will be available in a few days on G5sikhmedia Video will also be available soon. syvw mMgY syvko lweIAW ApunI syv ] saevaa ma(n)gai saevako laaeeaaa(n) apunee saev || Your servant begs to serve those who are enjoined to Your service. swDU sMgu mskqy qUTY pwvw dyv ] saadhhoo sa(n)g masakathae thoot(h)ai paavaa dhaev || The opportunity to work hard serving the Saadh Sangat is obtained, when the Divine Lord is pleased. sBu ikCu vsgiq swihbY Awpy krx kryv ] sabh kishh vasagath saahibai aapae karan karaev || Everything is in the Hands of our Lord and Master; He Himself is the Doer of deeds. siqgur kY bilhwrxY mnsw sB pUryv ]3] sathigur kai balihaaranai manasaa sabh pooraev ||3|| I am a sacrifice to the True Guru, who fulfills all hopes and desires. ||3|| Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh! This is a humble benti from the sangat of Guru Har Rai Gurdvara West Bromwich to attend and recieve the blessings of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji Maharaaj. This Darbar is for our 9th King, if it wasn't for Guru Sahib's sacrifice the world would be a completely different place........ By giving shaheedi Guru Sahib not only preserved humanity but also preserved our rich Sikh heritage. Amongst our heritage, is the great treasure of Gurmat Sangeet, it is important that Gurmat Sangeet is preserved and appreciated so that future generations can come to understand it and gain from it. So again a humble benti to please take time out to spend a blissful evening in Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaaj's Darbar. than dhhan sa(n)pai sukh dheeou ar jih neekae dhhaam || He has given you your body, wealth, property, peace and beautiful mansions. kahu naanak sun rae manaa simarath kaahi n raam ||8|| Says Nanak, listen, mind: why don't you remember the Lord in meditation? Salok Mahalla Nava Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

MARTYRDOM OF GURU TEGH BAHADUR SAHIB JI MAHARAAJ Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Upon this it was ordered that the Guru be imprisoned with sufficient guards around him. Again the Guru was sent for and was told that if he embraced Islam, every service would be performed for him otherwise he would be severely tortured. He replied that he would never embrace Islam and thus, remained in Delhi jail for eight days. He was given three choices: firstly to embrace Islam; secondly to perform a miracle; and thirdly to prepare himself to court death. The Guru responded that to show a miracle was against the Will of God and thus he would not consent to the Emperor's proposals and the Emperor might act as he pleased. The Guru was then put to extreme tortures. It is said that there was conversation between the Guru and his disciple Bhai Mati Das. He told Mati Das that Guru Nanak had blessed Emperor Babar with the continuation of his empire for a long time. Since the Mughal Emperors started committing great enormities, their line would be exterminated if he (Guru) laid down his life. In consequence of this conversation which was overheard by a priest, Bhai Mati Das was bound between two pillars and his body was sawn asunder. When the executioners put the saw on his head, he began to recite Sri Japji Sahib Ji (the first Bani in Guru Granth Sahib). It is said that when his body was cut into two, he continued reciting Sri Japji Sahib Ji and he was silent only when the recitation of Japji was complete. This was a wonder of Guru's Grace. Bhai Dayala was boiled to death in a cauldron of hot water. The third companion Bhai Sati Das was roasted alive with cotton wrapped round his body. The authorities thought that these tortures of his Sikhs might shake the Guru. Nothing could and nothing can shake the Divine Light (the Guru). It is generally believed in Sikh circles that there was some communication between the Guru and his son(Guru Gobind Singh Ji) when the Guru was being detained in Delhi jail before his execution. The story runs that Guru Tegh Bahadur foreseeing his execution, wanted to test the capability of his nine years old son and so he wrote the following couplet (Slok) and sent it through a messenger to Anandpur Sahib: "All power shattered, humanity in fetters and availeth no resource; Saith Nanak, God is now only refuge; He should succor as He did the elephant." (Slok Mohalla 9 (53), p-1429) It is being assumed that the Guru's nine years old son wrote back: "With power, fetters break, availeth all in grace Divine; Nanak, everything is in Thy power, it is only Thou Who canst assist." (Slok Mohalla 9 (54), p-1429) It is the common opinion that upon receiving this reply, the Guru was convinced that his son was capable to take reigns of the Guruship. The final message was given to the Guru," You are to accept the religion of Islam or show a miracle. If you work a miracle, you may remain a Guru. If you accept Islam, then you will be advanced to an exalted position. If you fail to accept these offers, you shall be put to death. This is the final decision." The Guru emphasized," I will never abandon my faith. I have no interest in your offers; my interests are with the supreme being. The threat of death possesses no terrors for me. For death I am prepared and I cheerfully accept it." Hearing this reply it was ordered that the Guru should be executed. Saiyid Adam Shah accompanied by courtiers and Muslim priests came with a warrant for the Guru's execution. Many people turned out to witness the execution. Guru Ji was then taken out of his cage and allowed to perform his ablutions. Guru Ji sat under the banyan-tree where he recited Sri Japji Sahib. The executioner, Jalal-ud-din of Samana (some say it was Adam Shah) took his sword and in a split of second, severed Guru's head from the body. This happened on the afternoon of Thursday, the fifth day of the light half of the month of Maghar in Sambat 1732 (November 11, 1675) at Chandni Chowk, Delhi where now stands Gurdwara Sis Ganj in his memory. This Gurdwara was constructed by Sardar Baghel Singh Karor-Singheiye in 1790. History has recorded that a furious storm raged immediately after this brutal deed which filled every one's eyes with dust. Bhai Jaita dashed out of the crowd and instantaneously took away the holy head of the Guru to Anandpur. He reached Kiratpur on the 15th of November, 1675. From there the Guru's Sees (head) was taken to Anandpur with full honor and on the 16th of November, 1675, it was cremated with full ceremonies. There is a Gurdwara called Sees Ganj at Anandpur where the Sees (head) of the Guru was cremated. The tenth Guru received Bhai Jaita who belonged to backward classes, embraced him and said," Rangrettei Guru ke bettei" (Rangrettei were the sons of the Guru, Rangrettei was Bhai Jaita's caste). Bhai Jaita told the young Guru and his family how Guru Tegh Bahadur had sent for five paise and a coco- nut and bowed to his son Gobind Rai, made him the successor and infused his Light unto him. Lakhi Shah Labana was a famous contractor in Delhi and he was also a follower of the Guru. He emptied his carts laden with lime near the Red Fort, taking advantage of the darkness and the carelessness of the Mughal sentries, and with the help of his sons, Nagahiya, Hema, Harhi and his friend Dhuma, whisked away the sacred body of the Guru, in one of their carts. Apprehensive of the government reprisal, Lakhi Shah and his sons then built up a pyre inside their own house and set fire to it. When the body was duly reduced to ashes, they cried out that their house had caught fire and called upon their neighbors to assist them in extinguishing it. Next day they collected the Guru's remains and buried them in a copper vessel called 'gaggar' in the earth under his funeral pyre. On this spot there stands a Gurdwara, Rakab Ganj, near Parliament House in New Delhi. "Having broken his potsherd on the head of the king of Delhi, he departed for Paradise; No one else coming into the world acted like Tegh Bahadur. The world was in mourning for the departure of Tegh Bahadur; There was weeping for him in the whole world, but rejoicing in paradise." (Guru Gobind Singh- Bachitar Natak) DHAN DHAN DHAN SAHIB SRI GURU TEGH BAHADUR SAHIB JI MAHARAAJ Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

MARTYRDOM OF GURU TEGH BAHADUR SAHIB JI MAHARAAJ Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh! The Guru took leave of his family and his devoted Sikhs and began his journey to Delhi sometimes in June-July. From Anandpur Sahib he passed through Kiratpur, Rupar and various villages before reaching Saifabad in Patiala state to see his Muslim friend Saif-ul-din. He stayed for sometimes with him. Saif-ul-din became Guru's disciple. Thence he went to Samana where he met another disciple called Mohammad Bakhsh. The Guru continued his journey through Kaithal, Lakhan Majra, Rohtak and other places, conferring temporal and spiritual favors on his disciples, and finally he reached Agra where he encamped in a garden outside the city. After the rainy season, the Emperor again sent his messenger to hasten the Guru's presence to Delhi. When the messengers were unable to find the Guru, they reported that the Guru had fled. Orders were issued all over the empire to find and arrest him. There are different views about the place of Guru's arrest. Some writers say that he was arrested at Dhamdhan; some say that he was arrested at Malikpur near Ropar and others say that the arrest was effected at Delhi while others still account for his arrest at Agra. According to Sikh accounts there lived a poor old man, Hasan Ali, at Agra. He knew that there were orders about Guru's arrest and the person who could effect his arrest, would receive one thousand rupees as a reward. Hasan Ali prayed," O true Guru, if ever you want to get arrested, please do it through me. This will fetch me some money to bring my family out of the clutches of miserable poverty." The Guru being the searcher of hearts, came to Agra to get arrested through Hasan Ali. The Guru saw a shepherd boy in the garden whom he gave his gold ring studded with diamonds and asked him to pledge it and bring him two rupees worth of sweets. When the boy told him that he had no cloth to wrap the sweets, the Guru gave him his valuable shawl for that purpose. The boy took his grandfather, Hasan Ali along with him and stopped at the confectioner's shop, gave him the ring and asked for sweets to be wrapped in the shawl. On seeing the ring and the valuable shawl, the confectioner was astonished and asked the boy from whom he had received those articles. The boy told him the truth but the confectioner became suspicious and took them to the police. The police went to the garden with the boy and asked the Guru who he was. When the Guru disclosed his identity, the police officer was delighted that he would get a large reward from the Emperor for his capture. The Guru was thus imprisoned. The Governor of the fort reported the arrest to the Emperor. Ultimately he was brought to Delhi. There were three Sikhs, Bhai Mati Das, Bhai Dayala and Bhai Sati Das with the Guru (Some writers account for five Sikhs- Mati Das, Gurditta, Uda, Chima and Dayala) who were arrested with him and were brought to Delhi. The Emperor explained that God appeared to him in a vision and told him to convert the whole world to Islam. Those who were to embrace Islam, would be rewarded with wealth, appointments, land revenue grants and lands. The Emperor tried to lure him," In this way you will have many disciples, and you will become a great priest of Islam. Therefore accept my religion- Islam, and you will receive from me whatever your heart desire." The Guru asked for one and one-quarter of maan (about 100 pounds) of black pepper. When it was brought, it was put into a heap and was ignited. The heap of pepper was let burning for twenty-four hours and was apparently reduced to ashes. The heap was then pounded and sifted. Three pepper pods came out as whole. The Guru addressed," O Emperor, you desire that there should be only one religion (Islam) out of two religions (Hinduism and Islam), but as these three pepper pods have been saved from the fire, God wishes to make three religions out of two. So there shall be three religions- Hinduism, Islam, and Sikhism in the future."....................... Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Yes some of the Kirtani will be performing the Raags given by Guru Sahib Ji as well as many other Raags. With Maharaaj's kirpa the Raag darbar this year is intended to have a Bairaagi yet Anandmei feel to it (due to Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji's bani), but that will be for the sangat to decide....................

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Today is the day when Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji gave Shaheedi for all of humanity, we should be so grateful for having such a guru who was true then and will remain true forever. May we find the courage to walk on this true path of righteousness that Guru Sahib Ji laid out for us. Please attend the Raag Darbar this saturday so that we can sing the glorious praises of vaheguru in rememberance of Guru Sahib. Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

KASHMIRI BRAHMANS COME TO GURU SAHIB Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh! A deputation of Kashmiri Pandits (Brahmans) came to Anandpur Sahib and among tears of agony, they narrated their tales of woe and suffering to the Master. The Guru's eight year old son,Gobind Rai appeared on the scene and asked his father why those people had tears in their eyes. The Guru replied," The Emperor of India is converting the Hindus to Islam at the point of the sword and thus there is no end to the misery of these people." "What is the remedy, father?" asked Gobind Rai. The Guru replied," This requires sacrifice- sacrifice of a holy and supreme soul." His son responded," O dear father, who is more holy than you in this age? Go and offer yourself and save these people and their religion." On hearing this the Guru asked the Kashmiri Brahmans to go to the Emperor and make the following representation to him," Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru is now seated on the throne of the great Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who is the protector of faith and religion. First make the Guru a Musalman and then all the people, including ourselves, will of our own accord adopt the faith of Islam." The Pandits obeyed the Guru and conveyed the proposal to the Emperor. On hearing this proposal, the Emperor was very much pleased because he thought that it was much easier to convert one person than the whole lot. He retorted," If the Guru does not become Musalman, he will then at least show us a miracle." He was hopeful that once the Guru was converted, there would be a large accession of Hindu and Sikh converts. The Emperor, therefore, sent his emissary to the Guru to invite him to Delhi. The Guru received Emperor's message and wrote in reply that he would come to Delhi after the rainy season. Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

AURANGZEB'S CAMPAIGN OF RELIGIOUS PERSECUTION Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh! As Aurangzeb ascended the throne of India by imprisoning his father and murdering his brothers, he decided to enlist the sympathies of the fanatical section of his co-religionists. His idea was to exterminate the idolatrous Hindus and to convert the whole of India to Islam. In order to achieve this objective he tried to go through four fundamental means to deal with the Hindus. Firstly he made peaceful overtures; secondly he offered money; thirdly he threatened punishment and lastly he tried to cause dissention among them. When all these measures failed, he resorted to forcible conversion. Orders were issued to the governors of all the provinces that they should destroy the schools and temples of the infidels and thereby put an end to educational activities as well as the practices of the religion of the Kafirs (non-Muslims meant Hindus). Many temples at Mathura and Banaras were destroyed. Even a Sikh temple in Buriya in Khizrabad pargna of Sirhind had been demolished and a mosque was built on the site. Some Sikhs, however, attacked the mosque and killed the priest. This type of incidents had become common occurrences. In order to force conversion to Islam, all possible means were adopted. In the field of taxation, the policy of discrimination was launched with great vigor. Jaziya and pilgrimage taxes were re-levied. Five percent custom duty was levied on the Hindus while the Muslims were charged only half of that. The proselytizing zeal of the officials, with their campaign of religious persecution and their conversion at the point of the sword, had sent the wave of terror throughout the country. Sher Afghan Khan, the Emperor's viceroy in Kashmir, set about converting the Kashmiri Hindus by force and massacred those who opposed to embrace Islam. Even the Mohammadans who in any way assisted the Hindus, were mercilessly put to death. In extreme agony of too much slaughter, the Brahman priests of Kashmir prayed to their gods. It is said that the Kashmiri Brahmans heard a supernatural voice who told them," Guru Nanak is the spiritual king in this age. Guru Tegh Bahadur is now seated on his throne. Go to him, he will protect your honor and your religion." Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

BIRTH OF A SON Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh! While the Guru was at Dacca, a messenger arrived from Patna to inform him of the birth of his son. He was born on the seventh day of the light half of the month of Poh, Sammat 1723 (December 26, 1666) at Patna. Before his departure the Guru had directed his wife to name the child as Gobind Rai, who would be born in his absence. He wrote a letter of thanks to the Sikh Sangat of Patna for looking after his family. There lived in the city of Kuhram a Muslim saint, Bhikan Shah. On the morning of Gobind Rai's birth, Bhikan Shah looked and bowed towards the east (towards Patna). His disciples asked why he bowed towards the east which was contrary to Muslim custom. He replied that there had just been born a spiritual and temporal king in the east who should establish true religion and destroy evil. Bhikan Shah set out for Patna along with his disciples to behold the young prince. When he reached Patna, the Muslim saint asked to have darshan (sight) of the newly-born child. When the infant was brought, Bhikan Shah bowed at the young prince's feet. He placed before him two earthen vessels covered with muslin, one containing milk and the other with water. The child touched both the vessels. Upon this Bhikan Shah thanked them for the opportunity given to him to behold the child and then prepared to leave. He was asked what he meant by the two vessels. Bhikan Shah explained that one vessel was marked for the Hindus and the other for the Muslims. He wanted to know whether he would favor the Hindus or the Muslims. As the child touched both the vessels, it meant that he should abide by both the Hindus and the Muslims and he should include both of them in his religion. The Guru then left Assam early in 1670 and reached Patna via Bangaigaon, Siliguri and Kathiar. From there after giving instructions to his brother-in-law, Kirpal Chand left for Punjab. He travelled through Jaunpur, Ayudhya, Lucknow, Shah Jahanpur, Muradabad and reached Chack Nanaki (Anandpur). The Guru soon sent for his family who joined him later on at Anandpur. Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Raags and Gurbani Part 2 Before the advent of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaaj, in the fifteenth century, a clear dichotomy existed between North Indian (Hindustani) and South Indian (Carnatic) music. In addition Bhaktas such as Jayadeva, Surdas and Mirabai had starting using music to spread their message of personal devotion to God among common people. Guru Nanak Dev Ji also adopted music and Ragas as the primary medium for propagating his Bani.. Guru Nanak Dev Ji and other Gurus after him, evolved the existing traditions of devotional, classical and folk music significantly through many unique contributions and innovations, into the form of music that is known today as Gurmat Sangeet. Bhai Mardana, Guru Nanak Dev Ji's beloved disciple, a fine singer and musician and an accomplished player of the Rabab was instrumental in delivering Guru Nanak Dev Ji's message. Bhai Mardana accompanied Guru Nanak Dev Ji on all of his Udasis or travels throughout the world. It is said that Guru Nanak Dev Ji commissioned Bhai Firanda, a well known musician from Kapurthala, who may have been Bhai Mardana's teacher to build a special Rabab for him, suitable for the rigors of travel. Janamsakhi accounts indicate that Gur Nank Dev Ji actively used music as the primary means of disseminating his message during his travels. Bhai Mardana would play his Rabab, people would gather around and Guru Nanak Dev Ji would then share his Bani with them. Guru Nanak Dev Ji's use of music as a medium for his message, while nominally similar to the use of Bhakti Sangeet, had a lasting and far reaching impact on the practice and traditions of the new faith that he created. Gurmat Sangeet, is an integral part of the practice of Sikhsim today, hundreds of years after his passing. The traditions of Raga, Tala and the practice of singing Bani are as prevelant today as they were in Guru Nanak Dev Ji's time, as a result of his directly encouraging his followers to sing the praises of God day and night. The enduring of Gurmat Sangeet as one of the fundamental elements of the practice of Sikhism is surely not an accident. Guru Nank Dev Ji, in his Bani has provided several precise directions and indications on how the Bani is to be sung. First and foremost is the indication of the Raga; this is unequivocally the Raga in which the shabad is to be sung. The word 'Rahao' or pause, signals that the preceding line encapsulates the central theme of the shabad. This is the line that is to be sung as the Sthai or refrain. All other lines in the shabad are to be sung as Antras, usually set to notes different from the Sthai and often employing higher notes in the register, from the set of notes permitted in the Raga the shabad is being sung in Guru Nanak Dev Ji has referred to himself as a 'Dadhi' or Minstrel in his Bani. His compositions were set to 38 unique Ragas and employed many poetic forms. His eclectic approach to music is reflected in the diversity of Ragas used and influences that can be traced to many different musical forms and schools, in addition to his own innovations. Despite the clear dichotomy that existed between the music of the North and the South in his time, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, composed Bani in at least 7 Ragas from the South Indian school : Gaudi Dakhni, Wadhans Dakhni, Maru Dakhni, Bilawal Dakhni, Ramkali Dakhni and Prabhati Dakhni. In addition to these, Guru Nanak Dev Ji composed Bani in the following major Ragas : Sri, Majh, Gaudi, Asa, Gujri, Devgandhari, Bihagada, Wadhans, Sorath, Dhanasri, Tilang, Suhi, Bilawal, Ramkali, Maru, Tukhari, Bhairav, Basant, Sarang, Malhar and Prabhati. Of these, Majh and Tukhari are unique innovations, references to which are not found in any classical texts on Indian Music. Guru Nanak Dev Ji also compsed Bani in the following composite Ragas : Gaudi Guareri, Gaudi Cheti, Gaudi Bairagan, Gaudi Deepki, Gaudi Purbi, Asa Kafi, Suhi Kafi, Maru Kafi, Basant Hindol and Prabhati Vibhas. Sarbpreet Singh Hopkinton, MA

FOUNDATION OF ANANDPUR SAHIB Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh! Leaving Amritsar the Guru passed through the Majha and Malwa regions before reaching Kiratpur sometimes in May, 1665. He attended the last rites of Raja Dip Singh of Bilaspur and expressed his desire to build a new settlement near Kiratpur and also showed his inclination to buy a suitable land for that purpose. The Rani of Bilaspur offered to donate the site of Makhowal. The offer was accepted, a token price of about five hundred rupees was paid. The foundation stone of new settlement, Chak Nanaki was laid in June, 1665, after the revered name of Guru's mother. In the course of time, a beautiful town called Anandpur grew up around it. GURU SAHIB ON MISSIONARY TOUR After founding the new settlement, the Guru did not stay there long. However he entrusted the construction work to his trustworthy followers. It is said that the Guru undertook his missionary tour of the east in response to the invitation of his Sikhs from that area, Bhai Bulaki Das and Bhai Hulas Chand from Dacca and Bhai Darbara and Bhai Chain Sukh from Patna. These Sikhs had met the Guru at Kiratpur and begged him to visit their land in the east with his family. The Guru left Anandpur in August, 1665. After leaving Anandpur he passed through Ghanauli, Rupar, Dadoomajra and Lung village and then reached Mulowal in Patiala state. The people of Mulowal complained to him that they did not have drinking water nearby and for that purpose they had to travel a long distance. There was a well nearby but its water was brackish and unwholesome. The Guru told them to first repeat God's Name, then draw water, and they would find it pure and sweet. From that day the well yielded sweet water and it is known Guru's well. The Guru then proceeded to Pharwali, Handiaya, Bhandehar, Khiwa and Bhikki. He gave religious instructions wherever he stopped and instructed the people not to worship idols and tombs, but worship only One God, the Formless. He passed through the villages of Dhaleo, Alisheir, Khiala and reached Maur where he was awaited by a great concourse of people to whom he preached true Name. He induced the people to sink a well over there. He then went to Maisarkhana and thence to Sabo ki Talwandi, now known as Damdama Sahib and then travelled to Kot Dharmwala, Bachhoana, Gobindpura, Sangheri, Gurna and reached Dhamdhan in the Bangar tract. The Guru presented the Chaudhri of the village with funds to construct a well and a dharmsala for the reception of the travellers. The Guru was accompanied by a Sikh, Ramdev, who was totally devoted to his service. He drew water, brought firewood from the forest for the kitchen, and performed all the services for the Guru. He always kept a cushion on his head to lift the burdens and it was continually wet from water and as a consequence his head festered. One day as he put his pitcher of water down, his cushion and turban fell off when maggots were seen from a sore in his head. It was brought to the notice of the Guru who sent for him. Being pleased with his devotion to service, the Guru gave him a robe of honor, named him Bhai Mihan and promised him that he would be a Mahant or a superior of religious order. On the Guru's instruction he preached Sikh religion. His generation is called today Mihan Shahi or Mihan Dasiay. The Guru then proceeded to Tekpur and he stayed for a few days in the house of a carpenter who conducted him as far as Kaithal. Thence he reached Barna. He preached here against the use of tobacco. Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Raags & Gurbani Part 1 The significance of Bani in Sri Guru Granth Sahib, being set to Ragas is an interesting question to ponder. Primary sources such as Bhai Gurdas Ji's Vaars unfortunately do not offer many clues as to why the Gurus employed Ragas in their ucharan of Bani. Perhaps the best clue comes from Sri Guru Granth Sahib (Tilang Mahala 1; Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Ang 722) : As the Word of the Lord comes to me So do I express it, O Lalo Perhaps this is how Bani was revealed to the Guru Sahiban and they just faithfully documented it, in the Ragas that it was revealed to them. Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji refers to himself as a Dhadi or minstrel. Jamamsakhi accounts recount numerous occasions when Guru Nanak Dev Ji asks Bhai Mardana to play his Rabab and proceeds to sing his Bani. It is said that the Gurus were very accomplished musicians and that they found that music was an excellent way of reaching the masses; in this sense Ragas and music served as a vehicle for message that was contained in the Bani. Some scholars believe that the way the Bani is set to Ragas is primarily the expression of Guru Arjan's genius. When the Guru Granth Sahib was being composed., there was on-going conflict on the matter of succession to the Guru Gaddi and there were conflicting claims about he teachings of the past Gurus. Guru Arjan wanted to produce a compilation that would be definitive and put to rest controversies and counter-claims. Having collected all the manuscripts that contained the writings of the Guru Sahiban before him, Guru Arjan proceeded to add his own compositions, deleted the compositions of some Bhagats, simplified others and proceeded to arrange the bani in such a way as to make alteration almost impossible without violating the rhythm and the musical setting. In 'The Sikhs, their religious beliefs and practices' , W.O.Cole and P.S.Sambhi state : "Generally speaking, ragas are composed to suit various moods. Some are appropriate to the morning, others to the evening, some to joy and some to grief. Guru Arjan Dev Ji indicated that faith should produce a balanced outlook, tempering both happiness and sadness, so for example between Angs 917 and 924 [in the Adi Granth] are found both the Anand, Guru Amar Das Ji's hymn of joy and Sunder's dirge on the Guru's death. The setting is Ramkali Raag, which relates to the season of Besant in March shortly before the harvest. The mood is one of yearning. The rag was often favoured by yogis. Another example is the inclusion of songs sung by ladies at wedding parties and laments put on adjacent pages under Raag Wadhans (ANG 575-81)." Whatever the motivation, one thing is abundantly clear. There is clear indication in Sri Guru Granth Sahib that Shabdas are to be sung according to the specified Raga, which is reiterated before practically every shabad. (Malhar Mahala 1, as an example indicates that the shabad that follows was revealed to Guru Nanak Dev Ji in Raga Malhar etc.) In addition nine tunes or Dhunis are prescribed for the singing of some of the Vars in The Guru Granth Sahib. These Dhunis are : Majh Ki Malik Murid Tatha Chandrhada Sohiya Ki Dhuni Gaudi Ki // Kamal Di Mojdi Di // Ki Dhuni Asa Ki // Tunde Asraje Ki Dhuni Gujri Ki // Kikandar Birahim Ki // Ki Dhuni Vadhans Ki // Lalla Bahlima Ki Dhuni Ramkali Ki // Jodhai Veerai Purbani Ki Dhuni Sarang Ki // Mahmai Hasnay Ki Dhuni Malkar Ki Kailas Tatha Mal Do Ki Dhuni Kahnare Ki // Muse Ki // Ki Dhuni In all likelihood, these Dhunis or tunes were popular and well known when the Guru Granth Sahib was compiled. By prescribing these popular tunes, the Gurus brought a synthesis of the elements of Raga based music with folk music. It is a matter of great sorrow that these Dhunis are all but lost today. The lack of a written tradition in the context of Gurmat Sangeet has resulted in uneven propagation of these musical traditions. One can often hear many Ragis present their version of a particular Dhuni. Unfortunately their renditions are divergent and make it impossible to identify the genuine traditional tune. Some source material on Dhunis has been obtained, which will be analyzed and presented in a separate paper. Sarbpreet Singh Hopkinton, MA

'Gur Ladho Re Gur Ladho Re' Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji ki Fateh! Baba Bakale', was the only clue given by Guru Har Krishen Sahib Ji for his successor. As this word reached the village Bakala, twenty-two Sodhis including Baba Dhir Mal, the grandson of Guru Har Gobind Sahib Ji, set up their shops and claimed themselves as the ninth Guru. The Sikhs were in great confusion as they could not know who the real Guru was. Makhan Shah Labana of Jehlem district was a trade merchant. When his vessel full of merchandise was sinking, he had invoked Guru Nanak and had vowed to offer five hundred gold mohars (coins) if the vessel reached the shore safely (some say that he vowed 101 gold mohars). Makhan Shah came to the village of Bakala to pay his offering to the Guru. He was surprised to find that twenty-two Sodhis had installed themselves as Gurus. In that state of confusion and uncertainty, he resolved to try the pretenders. He thought to put two mohars before each impostor and the real Guru being the searcher of hearts, would ask for the balance of his promised offering. He visited all the 22 impostors and made each of them offering of two gold mohars, but none of them asked for the balance. He then inquired if there was any one else in Bakala. Someone informed him about Guru Tegh Bahadur. Makhan Shah went and as usual made his offering of two gold mohars. Upon this Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji asked," How now, O Sikh, thou art trying to wheedle the Guru by presenting him with only two gold mohars? Where are the balance of five hundred gold mohars you had promised when your ship was sinking?" Mukhan Shah was delighted and prostrated himself before the Guru. He then went to the roof of the house and screamed," Gur Ladho! Gur Ladho!" 'I have found the Guru! I have found the Guru!' Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji was the fifth and the youngest son of Guru Har Gobind Sahib Ji and was born on first of April, 1621 to Mata Nanaki at Amritsar, Guru ke Mahal. He was married to Mata Gujri, daughter of Lal Chand of Kartarpur in Jullundhur district. Guru Sahib with his mother, Mata Nanaki and his wife went to live in Bakala. Makhan Shah's discovery of the genuine Guru put an end to the pretensions of the false Gurus. Dhir Mal could not reconcile with the situation and was determined to snatch the Guruship by force. One day he communicated his feelings to his masand, Sihan who promised to put an end to his enemy (Guru). Accordingly the masand, along with a score of people, set forth to kill the Guru. He fired and the bullet struck Guru's shoulder without serious wound who remained calm and full of composure. The other men plundered the property of the Guru and went away. When Makhan Shah heard of this incident, he proceeded with a body of Sikhs to Dhir Mal's residence. Dhir Mal closed his doors but they burst it open and seized him and his accomplices, tied his masand's hands at his back and brought them before the Guru. They brought back all the property of the Guru and they also took Dhir Mal's property. They brought back the original copy of the Aad(i) Granth which was in the possession of Dhir Mal and placed it before the Guru. The masand Sihan fell at the feet of the Guru and asked for forgiveness for his sins. The Guru pardoned the masand and ordered Makhan Shah to return all the property of Dhir Mal including the Aad(i) Granth. He preached Makhan Shah and his other Sikhs that the Dhan Guru Nanak Dev Ji Sahib gave them the wealth of Naam which was sufficient for all their needs. Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Promo of the darbar can be seen here : Raag Darbar Promo

VAHEGURU JI KA KHALSA! VAHEGURU JI KI FATEH! dhha(n)n s raag sura(n)garrae aalaapath sabh thikh jaae || Blessed are those beautiful Ragas which, when chanted, quench all thirst. To commemorate the shaheedi purab of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji Maharaaj a Raag Darbar is taking place, where all Kirtan will be performed in the Raags that Guru Sahib gave to us. Therefore this is a humble Benti to attend and experience this unique event. Where we can all come together and remember the great sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji Maharaaj. Our Gurus have gifted us with the golden treasure of gurmat sangeet for which we should be proud of and feel blessed to have. Jathe include : Sant Joginder Singh Ji Damelivale Padam Sri Nirmal Singh Ji Khalsa (Sri Darbar Sahib) Bhai Harjinder Singh Lallie (Gurmat Sangeet Acadamy) Bhai Amarjit Singh Ji (Nanaksar Thath) Bhai Jasbir Singh Ji Khalsa (Sri Darbar Sahib) Bhai Harpal Singh Ji Dehlivale Bhai Gurdev Singh Ji Seera Chandigarhvale Bhai Harbaljeet Singh Ji Batalavale Guru Har Rai Gurudvara 126-128 High Street West Bromwich West Midlands B70 6JW Saturday 27th November 6:00 PM till Midnight Contact: Jagdish Singh 07883003652 sabhanaa raagaa(n) vich so bhalaa bhaaee jith vasiaa man aae || Among all Ragas, that one is sublime, O Siblings of Destiny, by which the Lord comes to abide in the mind. raag naadh sabh sach hai keemath kehee n jaae || Those Ragas which are in the Sound-current of the Naad are totally true; their value cannot be expressed. raagai naadhai baaharaa einee hukam n boojhiaa jaae || Those Ragas which are not in the Sound-current of the Naad - by these, the Lord's Will cannot be understood. VAHEGURU JI KA KHALSA! VAHEGURU JI KI FATEH!