Freed

Maharaja Brijinder Singh of Faridkot MALERKOTLA The current Nawab of Malerkotla standing infront of a portrait of Nawab Ahmad Ali Khan of Malerkotla ****Pictures and References from : The Sikhs Images of a Heritage - T S Randhawa - Prakash Books - 2000 The Maharaja - Sharada Dwivedi - Roli Books - 1999 The Unforgettable Maharajas - E Jaiwant Paul & Pramod Kapoor - 2003 Made for Maharajas - Amin Jaffer - New Holland - 2006 Indian Princely Medals - Tony McClenaghan - Lancer - 1996 Gurdwaras - Patwant Singh - Himalayan - 1992 The Illustrated History of the Sikhs (1947-1978) - Gur Rattan Pal Singh - 1979 Sikh Shrines in West Pakistan - Khan Mohammed Waliullah Khan - Govt of Pakistan - 1962 The Maharajas - John lord - Random House - 1971 Khalsa Panth - Khushwant Singh Raghu Rai - Tricolour - 1984 Gurshabad Rattanakar Mahan Kosh - Kahn Singh Nabha Sale Catalogue - Dix Noonan Webb - 'Nishan-i- Phul' - July 2003 Hope you enjoyed the photographs ! Bhul Chuk Maaf Ranjit Singh 'Freed'

Sita Devi 1935 by Cecil Beaton 1940 1940s Maharani Brinda Devi of Kapurthala - oil by Laszlo The Current Maharaja - Brig. Sukhjit Singh Sukhjit Singh with Tikka , heir Shatrujit Singh JIND The maharaja Ranbir Singh and his Romanian wife Olive The marriage of Yuvraj Rajbir Singh of Jind 1939 - with 'Chhattar' above his head to ward off the 'evil eye' FARIDKOT The Maharaja Balbir Singh of Faridkot

Jagatjit Singh playing tennis Jagatjit Singh in Europe 1893 - with his wife - said to have been smuggled out dressed as a man - as women were not allowed out of the palace or travel ! The Kapurthala Palace modelled on Versailles Jagatjit Singh on a Tricycle - it is said that he was too large to mount or dis mount without help - when he drove around Kapurthala - the sweet shop vendors would tease him by saying come inside and have some sweets - knowing he couldn't get off the tricycle - even if he wanted to ! The Kapurthala Princes the princes dressed in European clothes Kapurthala was known for it's taste and extravagance - and also it's glamour - here is a collection highlighting the Lavish and glamourous 1920s and 1930s Amrit Kaur - daughter of Jagatjit Singh and Rani of Mandi Amrit Kaur and children Rani Sita Devi of Kapurthala - by Andre Durst 1934 Sita Devi by Cecil Beaton 1937

Note the Torch / Flashlight - a new toy ! The Maharaja Bhupinder Singh Patiala with the Maharaja of Kapurthala Jagatjit Singh Maharaja Yadvinder Singh wearing the Cartier necklace The wedding of Captain Amrinder Singh and Preneet Kaur Captain Amrinder Singh - the current Maharaja Amrinder Singh with Giani Zail Singh The Tikka Sahib - the heir of Patiala - Raninder Singh NABHA Maharaja Hira Singh with his heir Ripudaman Singh KAPURTHALA The Maharaja Jagatjit Singh of Kapurthala - as a pampered chubby child - he shows no signs of the cultured 'Francophile' he became in later life - note the stripey socks and ill fitting 'mojey' shoes.

The Patiala Cricket team - the Patiala XI at Chail - the highest crickect ground in the world The Patiala Palace - Motibagh Bhupinder Singh in all his finery The Patiala Necklace made by Cartier - their biggest ever commission - a total of 962.25 carats - including the De Beers 'yellow' 234.65 carat diamond Bhupinder Singh and the ladies of his family - photo by Van Dyke one is wearing a Cartier Ruby necklace An informal sitting - Bhupinder Singh without his trademark Turban , a pair of glasses perched on his forehead- sitting with his daughters - photo by Van Dyke The Patiala Children - including Yadvinder Singh - Father of Amrinder Singh - the Current Maharaja

Here are the Royal Houses of Punjab PATIALA Ala Singh - Founder of Patiala Maharaja Mohindar Singh of Patiala (died 1876) Maharaja Rajindar Singh Patiala The visit of the Viceroy Lord Ripon in 1884 - Patiala ( Maharaja Rajindar Singh) The Maharaja Bhupindar Singh as a boy - note the dwarf - a lucky mascot - on the left as a boy Bhupindar Singh hunting with the Prince of Wales ( later to abdicate in the Wallace Simpson crisis) On horseback Bhupindar Singh on the roof of the Savoy Hotel, London Bhupinder Singh wearing the 'Nishan-i-Phul' and medals

Gurfateh ! The Royal Houses of Punjab with their rich history and Lavish lifestyles have have always fascinated me.The Five Sikh Houses of Patiala, Jind, Nabha, Kapurthala and Faridkot along with the Muslim state of Malerkotla all carry the Blessings of the Guru Sahiban. The Phulkian states of Patiala, Jind, and Nabha all descend from Phul of the Brar Bans, born AD 1627 .After the Battle of Gurusar (AD1631), Phul came to Guru Hargobind Sahib with his brother Sandaali and his 'chacha' , Uncle, Kala. In the diwan of Guru Sahib, Phul began to beat his belly to indicate he was hungry. Guru Hargobind Sahib gave Phul the blessing that Guru Nanak would bless Phul with the capacity to feed thousands and he would one day have a kingdom. Guru Har Rai Sahib also blessed Phul on his travels in Malva (AD 1646) The sons of Phul - Tilokh Singh and Ram Singh were blessed with Khande di Amrit from Guru Gobind Singh at Damdama Sahib - They were blessed with the 'Apaar kirpa' of Guru Gobind Singh - evidence of this can be seen in the Patiala Hukumnama sent by Guru Sahib in 1696 Text of the Hukumnama ; ੴ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੂ ਜੀ । ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਜੀਉ ਕੀ ਆਗਿਆ ਹੈ ਭਾਈ ਤੇਲੋਕਾ ਭਾਈ ਰਾਮਾ ਸਰਬਤ ਸੰਗਤ ਗੁਰੂ ਰਖੈਗਾ ਤੁਧ ਜਮੀਅਤ ਲੈਕੇ ਅਸਾਡੇ ਹਜੂਰ ਆਵਣਾ ਮੇਰੀ ਤੇਰੇ ਉਪਰਿ ਬਹੁਤ ਖੁਸੀ ਹੈ ਤੇਰਾ ਘਰੁ ਮੇਰਾ ਹੈ ਤੁਥੁ ਹੁਕਮੁ ਦੇਖਦਿਆ ਹੀ ਛੇਤੀ ਅਸਾਡੇ ਹਜੂਰ ਆਵਣਾ ਤੇਰਾ ਘਰੁ ਮੇਰਾ ਅਸੈ¹ ਤੁਧੁ ਸਿਤਾਬੀ ਹੁਕਮ ਦੇਖਦਿਆ ਹੀ ਆਵਣਾ ਤੁਸਾਂ ਅਸਵਾਰ ਲੈਕੇ ਆਵਣਾ ਜਰੂਰ ਆਵਣਾ ਤੇਰੇ ਉਤੈ ਅਸਾਡੀ ਭਾਰੀ ਮਿਹਰਵਾਨਗੀ ਅਸੈ ਤੈ ਆਵਣਾ ਇਕ ਜੋੜਾ ਭੇਜਾ ਹੈ ਰਖਾਵਣਾ ਭਾਦੋਂ ੨. ਸੰਮਤ ੫੩।” (੧੭੫੩) Translation (from the 2003 Dix Noonan Webb sale catalogue for the Sale of the 'Nishan-i-Phul') There is one God. The Guru is great. It is the order of the Guru. Bhai Rama and Bhai Tilokha, the Guru will protect all. You are required to come with your contingent. I am much pleased with you. Your house is my refuge. On seeing this letter you should come in my presence. Your house is my refuge. You should come to me immediately. On seeing this letter you should arrive with horsemen. Do come. I have sent one robe of honour. Keep it with you. Written order, hukamnama, from Guru Gobind Singh to the brothers Rama and Tilokha, dated 2 August 1696. In the Hukumnama the brothers are asked to come to Anandpur with Soldiers, arms and horses ( as all Sikhs were ordered to ) to help Guru Sahib in his Battles with the Hill Rajas - Guru Sahib states that "Your house is my refuge" - 'Tera Ghar Mera Asey' - This has become the Patiala motto - seen on the 'order of Phul' and other medals and decorations. It is said that it is because of this blessing from Guru Sahib that the 11 Missals never attacked the Phulkian States despite some 'dubious' behaviour on their part. Ram Singh went on to form the House of Patiala and Tilokh Singh the Houses of Nabha and Jind. These Houses are from the Brar Bans , Patiala being Sidhu-Brars, the house of Faridkot is also Brar - In the Zafar Nama Guru Gobind Singh states to Aurangzeb that " ਹਮਹ ਕ਼ੌਮ ਬੈਰਾੜ ਹੁਕਮੇ ਮਰਾਸ੍ਤ " - 'The Brars are with me and are under my command' - evidence of the special blessing of Guru Gobind Singh. The House of Kapurthala descends from Sardar Jassa Singh Ahluwalia born AD 1718 - the Sardar of the Ahluwalia Missal - leader of the Dal Khalsa. He was brought up by and received the "Ashirwaad" - Blessing, of Mata Sundari Ji (Wife of Guru Gobind Singh ji) in Delhi. On his return to Punjab he received a 'Gurj' - Mace , sword, a shield, a bow and a quiver full of arrows, a dress and a silver staff from Mata Ji - predicting that he would rise to eminence. Jassa Singh Alhuwalia succeeded Nawab Kapoor Singh - who had adopted him as a son and taught him Shastar vidia - Kapoor Singh gave him the sword of Guru Gobind Singh Ji - now kept in the Kapurthala treasury. Jassa Singh was well respected by all - it is he who blessed the Maharaja of Patiala - Amar Singh with Khande di Amrit. Jassa Singh had no heir and was succeded by Bhag Singh his cousin. The House of Faridkot was founded by Bhallan - who had helped Guru Hargobind Sahib at the battle of Mehraj. His descendent Kapura declined to help Guru Gobind Singh by not allowing the use of his fort at KotKapura - because he feared angering the Mughals - however he did help in a covert fashion at the battle of Muktsar in 1705. The House of Malerkotla - is a Pathan Muslim state - The Nawab of Malerkotla,Sher Mohammed Khan, was present when the Cchote Sahibzadas were sentenced to death by his relative Wazir Khan in Sirhind - he lodged his protest saying it was against the tenets of Islam and walked out of the Durbar in protest. When Guru Gobind Singh Ji came to hear of this, he blessed the nawab with a hukumnama and a sword . It is because of this blessing that Malerkotla saw no sectarian violence during Partition in 1947 and still remains a predominately muslim area in East Punjab. Here is a collection of Photographs - some of my favourite images - that document the Lavish Lifestyle of the Maharajas of Punjab. They are beautiful images captured by some of the worlds finest photographers. I'll start with the Blessings of the Guru Sahiban Phul at the Durbar of Guru Hargobind Sahib - beats his belly and receives a bountiful Blessing - which took the form of the Phulkian Kingdoms The Patiala Hukumnama The Nisan of Guru Gobind Singh Ji Details The 'Patiala Motto' the words of Guru Sahib - "Your house is my refuge" - 'Tera Ghar Mera Asey' The 'Nishan-i-Phul' or Order of Phul - with the 'Patiala motto'

Waheguru ji ka Khalsa Waheguru ji ki Fateh ! Caught in the Crossfire - Punjab - Rule of the Gun Here is a documentary on the 'Troubles' in Punjab - it was shown on BBC 2 UK in 1991 - it is an examination of the Killings, torture and 'Troubles' in Punjab,and includes interviews with KPS Gill, Simranjit Singh Mann , Patwant Singh, Khushwant Singh and the 'Kharkhu Singhs and Singhnia' of the Bhindranwale Tiger Force of Khalistan. It does not make easy viewing and may upset some viewers ( The BBC gave a warning before the showing ) I'll let you the viewer decide if the programme is 'biased' in any way- it does use some very 'Loaded' language such as 'Terrorist' 'Militant' etc - I'll make no comment other than - please watch it Here is the Link http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=...60&hl=en-GB Gurfateh Ranjit Singh 'Freed'

Waheguru ji ka Khalsa Waheguru ji ki Fateh ! "Maia Vich(i) Udasi" Bhai Gurdas Ji - Vaar 10 Pauri 5 Dharna - Sant Isher Singh Ji Rara Sahib Vale - Luton, Bedfordshire UK - 27 June 1975 Click link to see ; http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=...61&hl=en-GB Vaar 10 Pauri 5 - Raja Janak (* from Varan Bhai Gurdas - Text,Transliteration and Translation. - Dr Jodh Singh - V&V - 1998. Vol 1 page 252) Ranjit Singh 'Freed'

Nihangs hair Massage Dumalla tying at Amritsar A Nihangni A very colourful and pointy style ! Afghan Style - a picture from a pharmacy in Kunduz, Afghanistan - showing an Afghan Sardar Ji - wearing the distinctive Dastar worn by the Afghan Sangat. The Maharaja of Patiala - Bhupinder Singh , known for his beautiful turban - The Patiala Shahi Style - here shown in Madrid , Spain 1928 Divine Light Hope you enjoyed this HUGE post - please post your 'coping stragegies' and experiences - I am sure they will be of help to all our youngsters. Sat Siri Akaal GurBar Akaal ! Waheguru ji ka Khalsa waheguru ji ki Fateh ! Ranjit Singh 'Freed'

The Dastar Bandi of Sant Ji Extract from 'The Style of the Lion' - Jasprit and Teresa Singh 1998 Sikh Children at School assembly in England Beautiful Kesh - Interesting and Beautiful Dastaars Some examples of American Sikh Turbans In this 1970s picture the womens turbans are tied further back - showing their hair line In these pictures you can see examples of the tall 'Stove pipe' turban Dumalla Anand Karaj a flowery style

A young namdharee boy The first Sikh in the London police - Special Constable Jabbal 1970 Sikhs in the UK fought many cases for the right to wear turbans at work and at school Here is Kulbinder Singh Vahmra of Wolverhampton - who along side Gurinder Singh Mandla - fought cases that led to Sikhs being classed as a Nation/ Race under the Race Relations Act - and outlawed discrimination against turbans ( *Daily Telegraph May 4 1979 ) Sikh Women also had to fight to wear the Dastaar (* Daily Telegraph 7 September 1979) The First generation of Sikh women to wear turbans to English schools (* From Des Pardes Weekly ) Demonstration against the Lord Denning ruling that Sikh were not a Nation - Later reversed --- I remember going to this demonstration - with my friends from Gurdwara - we shouted 'Jaikaras' so loud all day we all had sore throats the next day ! One way Parents can boost the self esteem of children with Kesh is to make a 'fuss' when they first begin to tie turbans - this shows the importance and can help in the sometimes difficult transition from Jura/patka to full dastar. The Dastar bandi ceremony is a great way to make a child feel special ( Some argue the ceremony should be called 'Dastar Sajna' - as Dastar Bandi is a ceremony only performed when the head of the family dies and a dastar is tied on the new head /Heir) 1970s Dastar ceremony 1980s Dastar Ceremony 1990s

Waheguru ji ka Khalsa Waheguru ji ki Fateh !! This post is dedicated to all those Sikhs who have and contine to maintain their Kesh and Dastaar with pride regardless of any obstacle. One of the many challenges that face Sikhs is the hostility many of us face on a daily basis towards our turbans. Sikh parents face the challenge of nuturing and protecting their children from the sometimes very violent reaction our turbans and kesh receive at schools. Sikh children face very real and difficult problems at school - which impact on their self esteem and quality of life. Sikh Parents need to be aware of the challenges children with Kesh face at school and take proactive steps to 'arm' their children with the skills to combat these challenges, and to build their self esteem so they can wear their Kesh and turbans with pride. I grew up in the England of the 1970s - and went to a Church of England School - I was the only Singh and the teachers didn't really know how to deal with me - so treated me no different from the other children - which I liked. We had daily religious assembly, I was in the choir and we used to sing hymns in the local church. I still know all the words to many hymns when they are shown on 'Songs of Praise' - our school song was John Bunyan's - 'He who valiant be'. My parents were very aware of the need to equip me with the required 'Sikhi skills' - and always made an effort to buy me books and sent me to learn Punjabi on Saturdays in the neighbouring town. Going to a Church School and being the only Singh probably made me more aware of being a Sikh than if I didn't. At School we had a Religious Education teacher - Mrs Miller - who would teach us Bible stories and parables - I would always give these stories a 'Sikh' twist in my own 7 year old head - feeding of the 5000 was 'Sacha sauda' - The 'Good Samaritan' was Sajjan Thug and perhaps the strangest - Joan of Arc and the life of Saint Alban - particular favourites of Mrs Miller - were Banda Bahadur and the Great Shaheeds of the 18th century !! In other words my parents made a special effort - which made a huge difference to me. The issue of Kesh looms large in all the lives of Sikh children. At school I had all the usual questions - 'are you a girl' - 'why do you wear that?' - 'Bobble head' - 'Mr Topsy Turvy' - 'How long is your hair' - etc etc People calling me all sorts of names etc. - but mostly just curiousity - having to explain only strengthened my Sikhi. It was when I went to High School that I had problems. I started to wear a Dastar at age 11 and was again the only Singh at a large All Boys School. I am a real believer in proactive action and very soon every one knew if you touched my turban you got a punch in the face. However the older boys were a harder problem. I lived throught violent times - a Neo Nazi renaissance - Skinheads, Football hooliganism and Psychobillies were all a big trend and there was open racial hostility. I could deal with the verbal abuse - even when large crowds of very intimidating older boys would shout at me or sing Football Chants like - 'Where did you get that hat ?' or 'If you want to wear a turban clap your hands' - but if anyone came near my turban I used my fists. The Skinheads and I locked horns - They would attempt to punch my turban off my head - I had daily fights and would come home and secretly wash the blood stains off my uniform - so as not to worry my parents. My parents instilled Sikhi Spirit in me - we were told off if ever we put turban material or Chunees on the floor , we were taught of the sacrifices made so we could wear our Turbans. My Mother especially gave me the strength to be different and wear my Dastar with pride. I always said to myself - I will not let the dastar, given to me by Guru Gobind Singh, fall on the ground. I would face the punches - and give as many back, even though I was only 11 and they were a lot older. This lasted a good few weeks - one time having a full fist fight after school we were caught and stopped by a tearcher. He happened to be my Maths Teacher - he was one of those good teachers - a laugh but you didn't mess with him. You have to remember this was a different time and many teachers were openly hostile themselves or were not very sympathetic. This particular teacher was different - he used to call me 'Samson' - He said to me why didn't you say you were getting this sort of harrassment. After that it was all sorted out. You have to remember this was a different time - a time of corporal punishment and authoritarian teachers - the Cane and 'slipper' were used regularly in our school - every teacher had a size 12 slipper in their desk. The skinheads were 'sorted out' by my maths teacher - they were all caned infront of me - in those days if you got on the wrong side of a teacher he could make your life hell -- I never had a problem again. Now this is my story - it was not very typical - some children faced and face enormous problems - you hear of horror stories of kids in remote places like the Mid West of USA. Parents need to equip kids with the skills to pre empt the problems and how to deal with them. It is harder said than done - I didn't tell anyone, parents or teachers - but it is vital that children tell a trusted person about what is happening to them. Try not to let things get too far - I sorted out my peers by making them aware my turban was not to be touched - don't let even the little things slide - make people aware. One thing parents can do is make kids aware their Kesh may be a target. Make sure they can look after it - many parents 'baby' their kids , you see many kids even teenagers who cannot tie their turbans or their Kesh. Kids should know how to tie up their hair , so they do not 'Freak out' if it does come undone. I think we should all share our experiences and any stragegies we have to cope with hostile behaviour at school - How did you cope ? etc. -- all this will help our youngsters. I don't wear my experiences on my sleeve - I think they made me who I am - because I was 'allowed' to sort them out myself - they made me strong and resilient. In fact my sister told me a funny story quite recently , that I didn't know - She said at her school (a nearby Girls school) I was seen as among the hardest/ toughest kids at school - She nearly wet herself with laughter when one of her friends told her - anyone who knows me will know that, OK I may look like a hardnut ( because of Guru Ji's bakhshi Sardari) - but I am a real softie - one who can be 'tickled' into submission and who cannot recite 'Shabad Hazarey' without crying! -- But because my parents instilled Sikhi into me - I could invoke the 'Strength' to deal with any hardship. Parents need to listen to their children - be vigilant and look for early signs of 'trouble' - they also need to address their childrens' fears and explain any questions they have fully - in other words take the time to nurture them not just physically but emotionally and spiritually. In this post I hope you will give your experiences and pass on any stragegies or ways you coped with experiences at school - to help our younger Brothers and Sisters. Isn't it amazing how in this world all you need to do is tie a piece of material around your head and all hell breaks loose ? you hear many horror stories - that lead children to cut their kesh - some say we should move with the times and not place such a burden on our children. Many People believe it is a modern phenomen that young Sikhs are cutting their kesh and say it was 'easier' before and we should 'Go with the times'. In Sooraj Prakash an incident is narrated where Guru Gobind Singh is asked by Naunidh what is the need for Kesh and Shaster in this day and age - we should 'Change with the times' - Guru Ji gives a beautiful reply, using Gurbani - that the same Moon Stars and mountains are still the same and - they haven't changed - it is only we who have changed and look for the easy way. Kesh and Shaster are ancient Royal symbols - Sardari given to the Khalsa. Here is that particular incident - with an English synopsis from The Encl. of Sikhism - Ed. Harbans Singh (*from Sri Gur Pratap Sooraj Granth - Kavi Chooramann Bhai Santokh Singh Ji - edited by Bhai Sahib Dr Veer Singh -Bhasha Vibhag Punjab - 1992 edition - Vol 14 (Rut 6 aain 1 ansu 47) page 6203 NAUNIDH NAUNIDH, Bhandari Khatri of Agra, waited upon Guru Gobind Singh during his visit to the city in AD 1707. According to Bhai Santokh Singh, Sri Gur Pratap Suraj Granth, he enquired about the reason for prescribing unshorn hair for the Sikhs. The Guru explained that keeping long hair was no innovation because this had been an old tradition. "But the times have changed," argued Naunidh. The Guru said,"What times have changed? Aren't they the same sun, the same moon, the same water, air, fire and earth as have ever been? The fault lies in us. We have become too lazy and readily resort to such excuses." Naunidh went away chastened. References 1. Santokh Singh, Bhai, Sri Gur Pratap Suraj Granth. Amritsar, 1927-35 2. Gian Singh, Giani, Twarikh Guru Khalsa [Reprint], Patiala, 1970 The Shabad cited by Guru Gobind Singh ( Ang 902) ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੧ ਅਸਟਪਦੀਆ raamkalee mehlaa 1 asatpadee-aa Raamkalee, First Mehl, Ashtapadees: ੴ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ॥ ik-oNkaar satgur parsaad. One Universal Creator God. By The Grace Of The True Guru: ਸੋਈ ਚੰਦੁ ਚੜਹਿ ਸੇ ਤਾਰੇ ਸੋਈ ਦਿਨੀਅਰੁ ਤਪਤ ਰਹੈ ॥ so-ee chand charheh say taaray so-ee dinee-ar tapat rahai. The same moon rises, and the same stars; the same sun shines in the sky. ਸਾ ਧਰਤੀ ਸੋ ਪਉਣੁ ਝੁਲਾਰੇ ਜੁਗ ਜੀਅ ਖੇਲੇ ਥਾਵ ਕੈਸੇ ॥੧॥ saa Dhartee so pa-un jhulaaray jug jee-a khaylay thaav kaisay. ||1|| The earth is the same, and the same wind blows. The age in which we dwell affects living beings, but not these places. ||1|| Here are some pictures and more inspirational material -- Please do post you own experiences and any coping strategies The 1970s Skinheads/racism - In East London in areas like Little Ilford young school children were attacked by adults - when youths started defending themselves - they were arrested - The Newham 7 and the Newham 8 School Children on strike in support of the Newham 8 an Anti Racist Rally Ringa a Roses - kids playing in the park - note the tight braids/ plaits - also known as 'Kareley' or door knockers ! A great 1970s example of the so called 'African Pugh'

Gurfateh ! Vaisakhi, Anandpur. 1999 Celebrations at Anandpur for the 300th Vaisakhi - a home movie with a soundtrack provided by my taxi driver ! Apologies for the shaky camera work - but it gives you an idea of the pushing 'sea of humanity' - the film includes a glimpse of the Nihang Cchauni (camp) at Shaheedi Bagh. The film is short and sweet - after a while I gave up trying to capture the event on film and just 'enjoyed it ' ! Look out for the Nihang Singh and his dog - aw bless ! Click link to view : http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=...71&hl=en-GB Enjoy - I won't get any Oscars for my film making I think ! Ranjit Singh 'Freed'

Gurfateh ! Here is a video I recently rediscovered of Shivcharan Singh of Karam Kriya London. It is from a AKJ UK Hola Maholla event for young children and Students. Give it a watch it is interesting - even if it's only to see Bhai Sahib's magnificent Red Beard !! Seriously though - It gives food for thought and Bhai Sahib has a great definition of who is a Sikh - which I'll try to paraphrase - " Every moment I remember and honour Waheguru - I am a Sikh - Every moment I don't I am not a Sikh " Shivcharan Singh - Sri Guru Singh Sabha , Slough. UK - 19 March 1995 Click to view ; http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=...41&hl=en-GB Ranjit Singh 'Freed'

That's really freaky - "Manchester_Sikhi" -- I was having a very similar discussion about the exact same thing a few days ago ! Here is what we "Found out " -- (PLEASE read the disclaimer :nihungsmile: ) ***Disclaimer - This post was the result of one of those stupid late night discussions - It is meant to be tongue-in-cheek and lighthearted.It is not intended to insult or offend - If it does please accept my sincere apologies. Oh and before anyone jumps to any conclusions NO the discussion was not fuelled by 'THC' or any other stimulant - unless of course you count milky tea with lots of toast covered in strawberry jam and topped with slabs of cheese - as a stimulant !! **** If you've been to Ladbroke Grove, other parts of West London or parts of South London (Or of course Jamaica or Trinidad) you may of seen Bobo Shanti Rastafarians - I don't know a Single Sikh who hasn't had to do a double Take and look again to see if they've just seen a Black Singh ! Bobo Shanti Rastafarians - unlike other branches of Rastafari who tend to wear woolen or leather 'Tams' to cover their Dreadlocks - wear tightly wound headwraps or turbans to cover their dreadlocks. They wear special robes and turbans - usually white on the Sabbath - but many wear brightly coloured high turbans on other days - They believe their hair contains the 'Power of Self' - it is only shown to partners and family - Many resemble Nihangs and their High Dumallas. This got me thinking and led to a big discussion - and here are some of the similarities between Nihangs and Bobo Shanti Rastafarians we found. OK - we'll get the OBVIOUS one out of the way first - Bobo Shanti believe Marijuana is a sacrament - it is only taken in private, never in public and it's use is preceded by special prayers. sound familiar ? Anyone who has spent time with Rastas, Nihangs or your common-or-garden imbiber of Marijuana - will know there are side effects - these are not just 'The Munchies' or 'Intense Paranoia' - but - how can I put it delicately for a 'polite' audience - um - a certain 'prostate on a rock' situation - this means there are a whole number of funny stories that are told . Nihangs have loads of these funny stories - perhaps they are bragging - but those in the 'know' - will have heard the legendary tales of 'amour' !!! say no more ! Rastas are no different! Rastafarians also use marijuana as a medicine - it is often applied onto wounds - mixed with a liquid or saliva. Now we've got that out of the way - here are some interesting points Language - Nihangs have their own way of talking ,never refering to themselves as one but as a 'fauj' and other special Bolas - Rastas also have special way of using language - there is no 'You' in their language - they use 'I' and 'I and I' - to show God is part of them - there is no 'you' - They say 'First there was 'I' then the Devil created 'You' an example of their language is ' I and I must not understand but overstand, Seen ' note the changing of under to over - changing a negative into a positive . Rastafarians believe they are living in Babylon - deprived of Zion (Ethiopia) by Slavers who stole them from their 'rightful place' , so they live in exile until the time they can gain their rightful place. Similar to 'Malech' SGPC stealing the 'rightful place' of the Dal Panth - the Akal Bunga ??? rastafarians observe strict Old Testament 'Jewish Mosaic Law' - they tend to be vegetarians - though some may eat fish but not shellfish. They are very particular and do not eat processed foods. - Not unlike 'Bibeck' ? Rastafarians have a strong resistance to 'Structure' and 'Tyranny' and are fighters against all forms of 'Injustice' - They are vocal protesters against all forms of Violence. Familiar yes ? True rastafarians - speak of 'Fashion dreads' or 'Funky Dreads' - those who take on the appearance of Rastas but have not taken the vows or do not give the vows due respect ---- Not unlike' #N*a%n£g$s' ( The N word as used by Nihangs- not the US variety ! in case it doesnt show up ) - don't you think ? What do you think ??? Yes I have got WAY too much time on my hands - yes I know and respect the fine and ancient traditions of Nihangs and know Rastas are an early 20th century phenomenon - but hey it cheered me up and filled a rather boring evening with some good discussion. ONCE AGAIN - This IS lighthearted - please don't take offence - I fully respect ALL traditions of ALL world communities - I just think it shows how we are all God's Children and more similar than different. Any way I'll get back to what I do best - and that's not inter- community comparison ! - But pictures - here they come A group of Bob Shanti Men - a cursory glance and you would think they were Singhs Bob Shanti on the Sabbath - in white robes Bobo Shanti Musicians - Reggae artists like Capelton are 'Bobo Shanti' rastafarians - though purists would say he hasn't taken 'full vows' a Bobo Shanti young man - in his turban - not unlike the small dumalay UK youngsters wear A Bobo Shanti woman - they also cover their hair Oh I forgot - here is a video of what I think is a young 'Jattadhari' Udasi - an udasi with jatta - matted locks - covered with a turban - correct me if I'm wrong. The video is from Shaheedi Bagh , Anandpur - vaisakhi 1999 The 'Udasi' only makes a fleeting appearance this is a still This is the film clip ; http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=...43&hl=en-GB MORE connections and similarities !! There you go - should I be expecting a 'Late Night' visit or Cchittar Parade ?? I hope not ! Love and Peace Freed ! :nihungsmile: :lol:

Waheguru ji ka Khalsa Waheguru ji ki Fateh !! Here are two films of Beautiful Keertan , performed by Bhai Manjit Singh Ji Glasgow. The First is from the AKJ UK Hola Mohalla Rain Sabai - Southall UK 1997, the second from a 1998 AKJ UK Rain Sabai Keertan in Coventry UK. The Shabads are beautiful and always move me to tears - they are truly amazing and inspirational. Please click on the links and gather the 'Laha' of this precious Gurbani . (The videos have been worn from repeated viewings so there are a few jumps - apologies) Ranjit Singh 'Freed' Link http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=...58&hl=en-GB Smagam : Southall, UK - 30 March 1997 Shabads; 'Bavare te Gian Beechar na Paia' 'Kion na Aradho Mil Kar Sadho' 'Hoe ikatr milhu mere Bhai' 'Mil ke karh Kahnaia' ' Din raati Aaradhi Piaro' Link http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=...90&hl=en-GB Smagam ; Coventry, UK - 19 December 1998 Shabads ; 'Tum Milte Mera Man Jio' 'Visar nahi Daatar' 'hum rulte firte' 'Rakho apni Sharan Prabh' 'Nanak Nam Mile ta jeeva' ਜਿਸੁ ਸਿਮਰਤ ਮਨਿ ਹੋਤ ਅਨੰਦਾ ਉਤਰੈ ਮਨਹੁ ਜੰਗੀਲਾ ਗੂਜਰੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੫ (੪੯੮) jis simrat man hot anandaa utrai manhu jangeelaa. Remembering Him, my mind is in bliss, and the rust of my mind is removed.

Gurfateh ! As requested here is the complete video of Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan at the Ramgarhia Sabha Gurdwara - on New Years Eve 1989 It includes the Shabads 'Koi Bole Ram Ram' ( Guru Arjan Sahib) 'Awal Allah Noor Upaiya' (Bhagat Kabir Ji) and 'Mitr Pyare Noo' ( Guru Gobind Singh Ji) as well as praise of Guru Nanak Sahib. At the end Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan receives a siropa and right at the end of the film gives a short speech. click link to see ; http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=...56&hl=en-GB Ranjit Singh 'Freed'

Gurfateh ! Here are some more images of the octaganol marble slab , that was said to mark the spot of Baba Deep Singh Ji's Shaheedi. The Marker was not that old perhaps laid in the early 1950s. It has now been replaced , as has most of the parikarma - with new slabs. Here is some footage - from the Punjabi film 'Nanak Nam Jahaz Hai' - which shows the marble slab ( and it also shows the Toshekhana the 'Jilau da Samaan' including the Canopy donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh (a gift from the Nizam of Hyderabad) destroyed in the army attack of 1984) and you can also see the original Akal Takht Sahib. http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=...19&hl=en-GB 'palamrinder' ji has mentioned the gilded panel on the Darshani Deori describing a Miracle - 'Kudrati Chamatkar' at Siri Darbar Sahib - you can see that in this post http://www.sikhsangat.com/index.php?showtopic=24712&hl= - If anyone has more information about that panel and the 'Chamatkar' please post it Many Thanks Ranjit Singh 'Freed'

Gurfateh ! On the left hand side of the Darshani Deori of Siri Darbar Sahib, there is a gilded panel that is inscribed with the description of a 'Kudrati Chamatkar' - a 'Miracle of Nature' that occured in 1877 - where a ball of light appeared in Sri Darbar Sahib at amrit vele. Does any one have any details about this ? - The Darshani Deori and the panel - on the left A detail A very sweet unknown 'Gurmukh Piara' who when he saw me filming the panel in 1999 - gave an impromptu 'voice over' - before I had a chance to thank him, he had disappeared - Siri Darbar Sahib is always full of beautiful people like that - I always have great experiences and the joy of meeting Beautiful Gursikhs. The film and 'voice over' (Apologies for the shaky camera work) http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=...73&hl=en-GB The text of the panel ਸ੍ਰੀ ਹਰਿਮੰਦਰ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਵਿਚ ਕੁਦਰਤੀ ਚਮਤਕਾਰ ਸਭਨਾਂ ਦੀ ਗਯਾਤ ਲਈ ਦਸਿਆ ਜਾਂਦਾ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਹਰਿਮੰਦਰ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਵਿਚ ੩੦ ਅਪ੍ਰੈਲ ੧੮੭੭ ਨੂੰ ਸਵੇਰੇ ਦੇ ੪-੩੦ ਵਜੇ ਇਕ ਅਜਬ ਖੇਲ ਵਰਤਿਆ | ਕੋਈ ਚਾਰ ਕੁ ਸੌ ਪ੍ਰੇਮੀ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਹਰਿਮੰਦਰ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਵਿਚ ਕੀਰਤਨ ਦਾ ਆਨੰਦ ਲੈ ਰਹੇ ਸਨ ਜਦ ਕਿ ਅਚਨਚੇਤ ਹੀ ਬਿਜਲੀ ਦੀ ਲਿਸ਼ਕ ਦਿਸੀ | ਉਹ ਇਕ ਵੱਡੀ ਰੌਸ਼ਨੀ ਦੀ ਸ਼ਕਲ ਵਿਚ ਪਹਾੜ ਦੀ ਬਾਹੀ ਦੇ ਦਰਵਾਜ਼ੇ ਵਿਚੌਂ ਆਈ ਤੇ ਠੀਕ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਸਾਹਮਣੇ ਗੋਲਾ ਜਿਹਾ ਬਣਕੇ ਫਟੀ ਅਤੇ ਚਾਨਣ ਹੀ ਚਾਨਣ ਕਰਕੇ ਦਖਣੀ ਦਰਵਾਜ਼ੇ ਥਾਣੀ ਇਕ ਰੌਸ਼ਨੀ ਦੀ ਲੀਕ ਹੋਕੇ ਨਿਕਲ ਗਈ | ਭਾਵੇਂ ਇਸ ਦੇ ਫਟਣ ਸਮੇਂ ਬੜੀ ਭਿਆਨਕ ਤੇ ਜ਼ੋਰ ਦੀ ਆਵਾਜ਼ ਆਈ ਪਰ ਅੰਦਰ ਬੈਠੇ ਕਿਸੇ ਪ੍ਰੇਮੀ, ਅਮਾਰਤ ਜਾਂ ਚੀਜ਼ ਨੂੰ ਕਿਸੇ ਪ੍ਰਕਾਰ ਦਾ ਕੋਈ ਨੁਕਸਾਨ ਨਾ ਪੁਜਾ | ਇਸ ਅਲੌਕਿਕ ਦਿ੍ਰਸ਼ ਨੂੰ ਸਭ ਲੋਕੀ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਰਾਮ ਦਾਸ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦਾ ਆਪਣਾ ਕੌਤਕ ਦਸਦੇ ਹਨ | Please post any information you may have Many Thanks Ranjit Singh 'Freed'

Gurfateh Amrita Sher-Gil at the Tate Modern - Bankside runs from 28 February – 22 April 2007 and it's FREE http://tate.org.uk/modern/exhibitions/shergil/

Gurfateh and pyar bhari Sat Siri Akaal to all the Cyber sangatan and heritage lovers ! I always receive positive feedback for my posts on the wealth of Sikh and Punjabi heritage - in this post I have a humble Benti and request. As this is the season when many of us go to Punjab I am posting an inventory of Nineteenth century Murals. It is my hope that this will inspire you to visit the sites and - here comes the humble request - PLEASE photograph what you find - and then PLEASE share your findings with the world - You can put watermarks on them,( if you're worried someone will steal them), you can post them on Flickr or on any of the many Sikh sites - but please SHARE them and help to archive the fast disappearing heritage of Punjab. The inventory is over 20 years old so many may not exist or you may have trouble getting access - but that's part of the fun - 'the hunt'. Majha Malva and Doaba are all represented and if your going to Pakistani Punjab so is West Punjab - So unless you get bogged down with the 'visiting long lost relatives' part of a trip to Punjab you've got no excuse - take your camera everywhere and remember SHARE your findings! **Note - I must admit - the request is not that 'humble' or innocent - as you all know I have an obssession for pictures so I'm always looking for new ones - but hey my heart is in the right place - isn't it ? ! Here is the inventory * Taken from Punjab Painting - R P Srivatava - Abhinav - 1983 Get out there and take some pictures !! Gurfateh Ranjit Singh 'Freed'

Sardar Jassa Singh Ji ! Fateh Parvan ! I love your signature ਸੜ ਨਾ ਰੀਸ ਕਰ (Sarh Na Rees kar) - It is so true !!!!! Bring back your old avatar picture - the one with the "Kundian Mucchan" - you looked really fierce !! GURBAR AKAAL !!

Need cheering up ? - here are some great videos highlighting the rich folk heritage of Punjab - the videos are of varying quality There's the excellent Malvai Giddha ( or babean da giddha) - with classic funny bolian - great stuff ! There's Jagmohan Kaur - singing Bulleh Shah and there's Gurdas Mann singing 'Challa' - There's also the 'Great Indian dancers' of Southall - while they may not be as 'Lithe' and Athletic as Punjabi college Bhangra teams - they are really just a bunch of Dads and Uncles , with some that have stomachs obviously maintained by pints of Mild ! - but they do a good job - with nice bolian and matching moves. I love the opening sequence name checking the 5 rivers and the " Sir te Kaffan ban de " bit . Hope they bring you as much joy to you, as they do to me ! Malwai Giddha - http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=...98&hl=en-GB Gurdas Mann - Challa (From 1987) http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=...40&hl=en-GB Jagmohan Kaur - Bulleh Shah (From 1984) http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=...89&hl=en-GB The Great Indian Dancers - (from 1987) http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=...03&hl=en-GB If that has whetted your appetite check out this site - it has some great Traditional Artistes and tracks of not just Punjab but all India and some great videos and tracks to download. http://www.beatofindia.com/mainpages/artists.htm ENJOY ! Freed

Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan sings from the Kafis of Baba Bulleh Shah (1680 - 1758 AD) - One of the finest Punjabi Sufi poets. A Kafi is a poem of spiritual love - Bulleh Shah's writing shows the influence not only of Sufi Islam but also Sikhi and Buddhism. The kafi sung here is an adaptation of this one - Meri Bukal de vich chor Meri bukkal de vich chor Sadho kisnu kuk sunava Meri bukkal de vich chor Kitey Ramdas kitey Fateh Muhammed Iho kadimi shor Musalman sive to chrhde Hindu chirhde gor Chuk gaya jhagre jhere Nikal gaya koi hor Sadho kisnu kuk sunava Meri bukkal de vich chor Jis dhudia tis payo nahi Jhur Jhur hoya mor Ap Sahib jis nu bhal laye Mainu use di gat zor Jehra lekh mathe da likhya Kaun kare bhan tor Sadho kis nu kuk sunava Meri bukkal de vich chor Pir Pira Baghdad asada Murshid Takhat Lahore Uh asi sabh ikko koi Ap guddi ap dor Tusi pakar laho main dasna ha Bulha Shah da chugal Khor Sadho kis nu kuk sunava Meri Bukkal de vich Chor. There is a thief in the wrappings around me ( my bosom) There is a thief in the wrappings around me ( my bosom) O hermits, whom should I tell There is a thief in the wrappings around me ( my bosom) Somewhere He is RamDas, somewhere He is Fateh Muhammad this is the cry from ancient times Muslims fear being cremated and Hindus fear burial All quarrels have ended now - someone else has Appeared O hermits, whom should I tell that There is a thief in the wrappings around me ( my bosom) The one who sought Him could not attain Him he pined away like a peacock Whoever the Lord seeks and finds I feel stronger because of him Whatever is written there on their forehead who can change that ? O hermits , whom shall I tell There is a thief in the wrappings around me ( my bosom) My spritual guide is at Baghdad and preceptor at Lahore They are one with me like the kite and the cord Catch him and I shall tell you who is the back-biter of Bulleh Shah O hermits, whom shall I tell There is a thief in the wrappings around me ( my bosom). Enjoy the video - it's beautiful ! ( recorded 1989) http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=...33&hl=en-GB Ranjit Singh 'Freed'