Sundri - The Brave Kaur (Animation Movie)

Based on a popular folk song and set in the historical period of Mir Manu that is notorious for large scale massacre of the Sikhs, Sundri is a symbolic representative of that milieu. Nawabs and courtiers were bent upon annihilating the Sikhs. The rulers were lustful and tyrannical. Hindus as a class failed to meet the challenge. At the best they could offer compensation to get back the captured girls.

The story depicts incidents and events which inculcate universal brotherhood and love for humanity. A Sikh girl treats an injured Moghul sepoy but on learning that she is a Sikh woman he attacks with his dagger. Surasti, the earlier name of Sundri, was forcibly taken away by the Moghul official and left to the destiny by her own husband and father.

Sundri depicts the story of the Sikh women during those hard times, where they remained steadfast and composed, facing ordeals and hardships but still smiling in the name of the Guru.

SCREENING AT CROYDON GURUDWARA SOON!!!

MORE GREAT SIKHI ANIMATION MOVIES!

To buy these DVD's go to the link below:
http://www.sikhdvd.com/ListDVD.aspx

Sikh Warriors

It was a documented fact that Sikh warriors were the most feared and fearless warriors on the battle field, the Mughals, the Persians & even the British documented this in their diarys and reports to their superiors and officers...

They did not get this reputation by just eating Alu Pratha... They trained to the max! Not just physically but spiritually as well! Each soldier was trained to kill anything that moved within a 30 yard radius and they were so good that it is said that each man was equivalent to fifty of any other army’s of that time. Each Sikh warrior was called Fauj which literally means a battalion.

Didn't get his reputation merely by eating Alu Paratha

They achieved this reputation by training in armed, unarmed combat & meditating countless numbers of hours. The martial art they trained in was Shastar Vidya, literally meaning Science of weapons but i interpret it as the science of making your body a weapon.

I leave you with this quotation written in the Jang Namah (battle chronicles) by Quzi Nur Mohammed in 1765, He was a staunch enemy of the Sikhs but he goes into a rosary of praise when he goes into defining qualities of Sikh Warriors.

” … If you cherish the desire of learning the art of war, face them on the battle field. When they hold their mighty sword, they gallop from Hind to Sind. Nobody however strong and wealthy dare oppose them. If their sword struck a coat of mail, the coat itself becomes the enemy’s shroud. Each and every one of them look like massive boulders of rock. In a grandeur, each one of them excels fifty men…

Spoken Words - Time 2 Act

Take a seat sit down and relax, im just gona point out a few facts
so listen up carefully cos it’s the time to act
Through out our history we've been sacrificing
We’ve been boiled alive, hacked to pieces and yet still surviving
We need to learn and educate our selves
Through this time of kaljug we gotta learn to survive
Remembering the lord all through the day and night
And learning the difference between wrong and right
Singh is known to be a king
Only when he follows Guru’s hukam
He meditates on the words of God
Frees himself from kaam krodh lobh moh hankaar
And in front of guru granth sahib ji he becomes the shining star
Mighty warriors such as Baba Deep Dingh Ji and Banda Singh Bahadur,
the Khalsa stands up for human rights inspired by Guru Tegh Bahadur,
our history is full of so many martys
we keep the legacies alive inspired by our forefathers
so here’s a small benti to all you out there
It’s nearly the end of year 2008
Let’s not hold anymore debates
Stand as the Khalsa strong and straight
Lets get our act together, before its too late..

By Anonymous Singh & Kaur

Supreme Sacrifice By Guru Tegh Bahadur Jee

Born in Amritsar, Guru Tegh Bahadur was the ninth of the ten Gurus who founded Sikhi.

He is honoured and remembered as the man who championed the rights for all religious freedom

Contributions:
He taught liberation from attachment, fear and dependence. Strength should be gained through truth, worship, sacrifice and knowledge.

During the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, Islam was imposed on the people. Hindu temples were demolished and turned into mosques, higher taxes were charged to non-Muslims and the Emperor persecuted those who would not conform to Islamic law.

Guru Tegh Bahadur spoke out amid this persecution. He refused to convert to Islam and in 1675, he was beheaded in Delhi. The site of his execution was later turned into an important Gurdwara.

He married Bibi Gujjari and they had one son: the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh.

He founded the city of Anandpur which later became a centre of Sikhi.

He is also remembered for his poetry, much of which is included in the Guru Granth Sahib.

(The video below is the Bani of Guru Tegh Bahadur)

Story Of The Shahibzade

Deh Shiva - Sikh National Anthem sung in Raag

Tribute To Shaheed Mata Gujri Ji

Glimpse at the life of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji

1. Guru Nanak Dev Ji

(1469 - 1539 & Guruship: 1469 - 1539)

Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the Sikh religion, was born in 1469 A.D. in the village of Rai-Bhoi-di Talwandi (now called Nankana Sahib, named after the Guru), in the Sheikhupura district, 65 km. west of Lahore (in Pakistan). Guru Nanak Sahib's birthday according to the tradition is celebrated on Kartik Puranmashi i.e. full moon day of the month Kartik. His father, Mehta Kalyan Das, more popularly known as Mehta Kalu, was an official in the town's local revenue administration. His mother was Mata Tripta Ji, a simple, pious and extremely religious woman. He also had an elder sister called Bebe Nanki, who always cherished her younger brother.

The life and activities of Guru Nanak were remarkable from early childhood. His father was keen that his son should adopt a respectable and lucrative profession. At the age of 12, his father wanted him to be a trader and thus gave him 20 rupees and asked him to use the given money to strike some good and profitable bargain. Instead of doing so, Guru Ji, bought food with the money he had, and distributed everything among the sadhus, who had not eaten anything for days. When his father asked him what happened to the money? He replied that he had done a "True business" by feeding the hungry holy men. His father was angry that his son had wasted the money, but his elder sister, Nanki, stood by her dear brother and strongly defended his actions.

Such noble actions of the young Nanak and his refusal to hoard worldly wealth indicated that he was no ordinary man, but one who was destined to be the Guru, the spiritual teacher of mankind. Today, at the place where Guru Nanak Dev Ji had fed the poor, stands a Gurdwara names, Sacha Sauda.
At the age of seven, He learnt Hindi and Sanskrit. He surprised his teachers with the sublimity of his extra-ordinary knowledge about divine things. At the age of 13, He learned Persian and Sanskrit and at the age of 16, He was the most learned man in the region.
Guru Nanak was married in 1487 to Sri Sulakhani Ji, daughter of Mul Chand. Guru Ji was blessed with two sons, Baba Sri Chand Ji born in 1491 and Baba Lakhami Das Ji born in 1496.

	In November 1504, Guru Nanak's elder sister Nanaki ji took him to Sultanpurlodhi where her husband Jai Ram ji got him the Job of storekeeper in the Modikhana of the local Nawab, Daulat Khan Lodhi. It is there that he came into contact with Mardana, a low caste (Mirasi) Muslim minstrel who was ten years senior in age.
	At the age of 38, in August 1507, Guru Nanak Sahib heard God's call to dedicate himself to the service
of humanity after bathing in "Vain Nadi" (a small river) near Sultanpur Lodhi. The very first sentence which he uttered then was, "There is no Hindu, no Musalman". He now undertook long travels to preach his unique and divine doctrine (Sikhism). After visiting different places in Punjab, he decided to proceed on four long tours covering different religious places in India and abroad. These tours are called Char Udasis of Guru Nanak Sahib.
During the four journeys, Guru Nanak Sahib visited different religious places preaching Sikhism. He went to Kurukshetra, Haridwar, Joshi Math, Ratha Sahib, Gorakh Matta (Nanak Matta), Audhya, Prayag, Varanasi, Gaya, Patna, Dhubri and Gauhati in Assam, Dacca, Puri, Cuttock, Rameshwaram, Ceylon, Bidar, Baroach, Somnath, Dwarka, Janagarh, Ujjain, Ajmer, Mathura, Pakpattan, Talwandi, Lahore, Sultanpur, Bilaspur, Rawalsar, Jawalaji, Spiti Valley, Tibet, Ladakh, Kargil, Amarnath, Srinagar and Baramula.
Guru Nanak Sahib also paid visit to Muslim holy places. In this regard he went to Mecca, Medina, Baghdad via Multan, Peshawar Sakhar, Son Miani, Hinglaj etc. Some accounts say that Guru Sahib reached Mecca by sea-route. Guru Sahib also visited Syria, Turkey and Tehran (the present capital of Iran). From Tehran Guru Sahib set out on the caravan route and covered Kabul, Kandhar and Jalalabad. The real aim of the tour was awakening the people to realize the truth about God and to introduce Sikhism. He established a network of preaching centres of Sikhism which were called "Manjis". He appointed able and committed followers as its head (preacher of Sikhism). The basic principles of Sikhism were willfully conceived by the people from all walks of life. The seeds of Sikhism were sown all over India and abroad in well-planned manner.

Apart from conveying his message and rendering help to the weak, he preached, both by precept and practice, against caste distinctions ritualism, idol worship and the pseudo-religious beliefs that had no spiritual content. He chose to mix with all. He dined and lived with men of the lowest castes and classes. Considering the then prevailing cultural practices and traditions, this was something socially and religiously unheard of in those days of rigid Hindu caste system sanctioned by the scriptures and the religiously approved notions of untouchables and pollution. It is a matter of great significance that at the very beginning of his mission, the Guru's first companion was a low caste Muslim, called Mardana. The offerings he received during his tours were distributed among the poor. Any surplus collected was given to his hosts to maintain a common kitchen, where all could sit and eat together without any distinction of caste and status. This institution of common kitchen or langar became a major instrument of helping the poor, and a nucleus for religious gatherings of his society and of establishing the basic equality of all castes, classes and sexes.
	Despite the hazards of travel in those times, Guru Ji performed four long tours all over the country to visit religious places and preach. He explained and exposed through his preaching the incongruities and fruitlessness of ritualistic and ascetic practices. Guru Ji was against all outward show of religion and all superstitions.
	In the year 1520, Babar attacked India. His troops slaughtered thousands of innocent civilians of all walks of life. Women and children were made captives and all their property looted at Amiabad. Guru Nanak Sahib challenged this act of barbarity in strong words. He was arrested and released, shortly after making Babar realizing his blunder. All the prisoners were also released.
He spent 25 years preaching from place to place. Many of his hymns were composed during this period. They represent answers to the major religious and social problems of the day and cogent responses to the situations and incidents that he came across. Some of the hymns convey dialogues with Yogis in the Punjab and elsewhere. He denounced their methods of living and their religious views. During these tours he studied other religious systems like Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism and Islam. At the same time, he preached the doctrines of his new religion and mission at the places and centres he visited. Since his mystic system almost completely reversed the trends, principles and practices of the then prevailing religions, he criticized and rejected virtually all the old beliefs, rituals and harmful practices existing in the country. This explains the necessity of his long and arduous tours and the variety and profusion of his hymns on all the religious, social, political and theological issues, practices and institutions of his period.

Guru Nanak Sahib settled down at Kartarpur city (now in Pakistan) which was founded by him in 1522 and spent the rest of his life there (1522-1539). There was daily Kirtan and the institution of Langar (free kitchen) was introduced. Knowing that the end was drawing near, Guru Nanak Sahib, after testing his two sons and some followers, installed Bhai Lehna ji (Guru Angad Sahib) as the Second Nanak in 1539, and after a few days passed into Sachkhand in September, 1539.

This ended the worldly journey of this God-gifted Master (Guru). He rejected the path of renunciation Tyaga or Yoga, the authority of the Vedas and the Hindu caste system. Guru Nanak Sahib emphasized the leading of householder's life (Grista), unattached to gross materialism. The services of mankind Sewa, Kirtan, Satsang and faith in 'One' Omnipotent God are the basic concepts of Sikhism established by Guru Nanak Sahib. Thus he laid the foundations of Sikhism. He preached new idea of God as Supreme, Universal, All-powerful and truthful. God is Formless (Nirankar), the Sole, the Creator, the self-existent, the Incomprehensible and the Ever-lasting and the creator of all things (Karta Purakh). God is infinite, All knowing, True, All-giver, Nirvair, and Omnipotent. He is Satnam, the Eternal and Absolute Truth.

As a social reformer Guru Nanak Sahib upheld the cause of women, downtrodden and the poor. He attacked the citadel of caste system of Hindus and theocracy of Muslim rulers. He was a born poet. He wrote 947 hymns comprising Japji Sahib, Asa-Di-Var, Bara-Mah, Sidh-Gosht, Onkar (Dakhani) and these were included in Guru Granth Sahib by Guru Arjan Sahib.
He was also a perfect musician. He, with the company of Bhai Mardana, composed such tunes in various Indian classical Ragas that charmed and thawed wild creatures like Babar, subdued saging kings, raved bigots and tyrants, made thugs and robbers' saint. He was a reformer as well as a revolutionary. God had endowed him with a contemplative mind and pious disposition. Guru Arjan Sahib called him "the image of God, nay, God Himself".
"EK ONKAR" - There is one and only God Almighty, the Creator. All men are equal before him whether they are Hindus or Muslims. Only good and noble actions count, not showing piety or visits to holy places, if these are not performed with sincere devotion. This was Guru Nanak's message to the world.

The Dawn Of Guru Nanak

Sri Guru Nanak Dev Jee came to this earth in mortal form 539 years ago and Sikhs all over the globe will be celebrating the arrival of Guru Nanak on the 13th November. But why did Guru Nanak need to come to the earth?

The benefactor Lord listened to the cries (of humanity) and sent Guru Nanak to this world ... Guru Nanak came to redeem humanity in Kalyug. (Bhai Gurdas Jee)

The path of righteousness had become clouded by ritualistic and hypocritical practices and the true path to self-realisation was very hard to decipher. Sri Guru Nanak Dev Jee came and roared like a lion in the wilderness of the world and reinstated true practice of faith. He put Hindus & Muslims back on to their respective paths of self-realisation, no faith was denounced. He founded the Sikh faith which was a pure and simple path to follow.

With the emergence of the True Guru Nanak, the mist cleared and the light scattered all around. Similar to the rising sun, the stars and darkness were dispelled. With the roar of the lion in the forest, the flocks of escaping deer cannot now survive (the escaping deer are evil-doers). Wherever Baba Nanak put his feet, a religious place was erected and established. All the siddh-places now have been renamed on the name of Nanak. Every home has become a place of righteousness where the praises of the Lord are sung. Baba Nanak liberated all four directions and nine divisions of earth. Gurmukh (Guru Nanak) has emerged in this Kalyug, the dark age.

Sri Guru Nanak Dev Jee met Kaljug (Kaljug is the name given to this present era that we live in, an era that is dominated by sin and evil actions), when on his revolutionary tours. This historical account of this meeting was written by the great Sikh Poet Bhai Santokh Singh Jee in “Guru Nanak Parkash” the following is the translation of the summary that Giani Gian Singh has written of the story:

Sri Guru Nanak Dev Jee was on his missionary tour, when He and Bhai Mardana Jee took a rest. Upon being seated, a frightful storm began, this storm was carrying much debris and the whole sky and surrounding area was shroud in darkness. Nothing at hands length could be seen, such was the force of the storm. Bhai Mardana Jee put a cloth over his mouth and lay down on the ground. He said to Guru Jee, “If I die at this dreadful spot I won’t even get my funeral rites carried out and won’t even be buried, travelling with you I have encountered much suffering.” Guru Jee laughed and said, “Why are you scared, nothing will harm you.”

Then a frightful demon appeared, whose head was in the sky and his feet were implanted deep into the earth, his nostrils were deep like a well and he had long teeth, he was gigantic, he made his way towards Guru Jee. Bhai Mardana Jee getting scared said, “Maharaj! We have survived the storm but now our deaths are almost certain, we won’t survive an encounter with this giant.” Guru Jee calmly replied, “Mardana! He will not come near you, do not be afraid, meditate on Vaheguru.” Then Kaljug changed his form again, now he took the form of fire and smoke emanated from all pores of his physical being. He finally changed his form again into a frightful one, yet Guru Jee remained calm and unconcerned. After all this Kaljug decided that Guru Jee must be a prophet as none of his frightful forms had scared Guru Sahib, and he thus accordingly changed into a man, in the form of a man Kaljug carried a tongue in one hand and a penis in the other, and he made his way to Guru Jee. Guru Jee said to Bhai Maradana Jee, come along and watch this drama, which is taking place. Kaljug bowed his head to Guru Jee in obeisance and supplicated, “Maharaj! Please forgive me for my mistakes, I did not know of your fame and greatness. In this age I rule, I am in this physical form of a man as I am displaying to you what passions humans are being led by. Humans will disregard all virtue and will be led by passions of the tongue and penis, and in turn their lives will be dictated by these passions.”

Guru Jee pryingly asked, “Who are you – what is your name? Why have you come to meet us?” Kaljug replied, “My name is Kaljug and I have come to meet you to pay my respects to you, I initially changed into the various forms to test you.” Guru jee further questioned, “What are your characteristics? You said it is your rule in this age, then with what army do you enforce your Rule?”

Kaljug replied, my greatest warrior is falsehood – falsehood carries the flag at the forefront of my army. Worldly attachment is the King of all. My army general is violence and murder. Lust, anger, greed and ego are my warriors on elephant back. Jealousy, gossip, slander, robbery and unfulfilled craving for worldly things – are all warriors on chariots. Laziness, gambling, alcohol/intoxicants and other bad actions are warriors on horse back. Attachment to others, sin of want and steeling are my foot-soldiers. Wherever I make advances with my army, I am always victorious. My warriors of falsehood and anger, have made me victorious everywhere. These are the characteristics of my reign. Upon listening to Kaljugs narration of the current state of the world Guru jee uttered,

Whoever is in charge, is humiliated. Why should the servant be afraid.
(Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee, Limb 902)

The servant is not afraid as he has nothing to lose as he is not the ruler, the servant can freely move about without fear of consequence but the ruler is bound by his rule and duties.

When the master is put in chains? He dies at the hands of his servant.
(Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee, Limb 902)

So Guru Jee said that even if you do rule, it is you (Kaljug) who is also humiliated for these actions in your rule. Guru Jee further said that if it is your rule now and I am the servant of God, when your rule comes to an end it will be due to this servant – Sri Guru Nanak Dev Jee. Kaljug replied that this is the reason I have come to you Maharaj, because there is no difference between you and God, I will give you a house to live in which will be made of Gold and Pearls. In this house I will use sandalwood and will spray musk – where you will enjoy your abode with much happiness. Kaljug begged Maharaj to accept his offering and Guru Jee replied,

If I had a palace made of pearls, inlaid with jewels, scented with musk, saffron and sandalwood, a sheer delight to behold -seeing this, I might go astray and forget You (Vaheguru), and Your Name would not enter into my mind. Without the Lord, my soul is scorched and burnt. I consulted my Guru, and now I see that there is no other place at all. Pause. If the floor of this palace was a mosaic of diamonds and rubies, and if my bed was encased with rubies, and if heavenly beauties, their faces adorned with emeralds, tried to entice me with sensual gestures of love-seeing these, I might go astray and forget You, and Your Name would not enter into my mind. If I were to become a Siddha, and work miracles, summon wealth and become invisible and visible at will, so that people would hold me in awe-seeing these, I might go astray and forget You, and Your Name would not enter into my mind. If I were to become an emperor and raise a huge army, and sit on a throne, issuing commands and collecting taxes-O Nanak, all of this could pass away like a puff of wind. Seeing these, I might go astray and forget You, and Your Name would not enter into my mind. (Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee, Limb 14)

After trying to convince Guru jee to accept the above offerings and not succeeding, Kaljug said, “Maharaj, you have taken birth to liberate people from the cycle of births and deaths. I have come humbly to your feet – why do you make my meeting with you of no reward? You have not accepted any of my offerings – please accept an offering so that I know that you have blessed me. Upon hearing such a humble request Guru jee replied, “If you have a sincere desire to make an offering to me then give me this – that those who are my dedicated Sikhs can not be influenced by the powers of your army. Meditation, charity and Bathing (Physical and Spiritual cleansing) should never be forgotten – you should not stop Sikhs doing these 3 actions in any form. Your powers should not work on those who have faith in me.

Kaljug humbly clasped his hands and said, “Maharaj! I can not refuse your command, but I have God’s permission to change everyone’s thought process – with the changing of which they steel, gossip, lie, slander etc. In line with God’s permission I make the following occur:

• Disrespect the virtuous and make fools famous and powerful.
• Not allow faithful relations between the married.
• Bring the good and bad on a par to one another.
• In my rule those who say they have become Sanyasi’s/Tyagis (ones that have give up all material possession in the search of God) will amass much wealth and gristis/householders will starve to death.

But now, whatever you command me to do, I will do.” Upon hearing this Guru jee was happy and said,

“In your rule God’s praise will increase many fold – a par to 100,000’s of years in Satjug, in Tretajug what would have taken 10,000 years and what would have taken 1000 years in Dvapur (these are references to the other 3 eras of time), in you rule of Kaljug singing the praises of God will be very rewarding and what would have taken many years in the other ages will be realised in very little time and will be the provider of happiness. Those that sing God’s praises with love and devotion will be ferried across the world ocean. If you are persistent about making offerings of jewels then I will accept these in my forth form as the 4th Guru. (Kaljugs’ offerings of money/gold etc are thus accepted at the house of the fourth Guru, Sri Guru Ram Das Jee at Sri Darbar Sahib, also known as The Golden Temple).

Upon hearing this Kaljug was overjoyed, he bowed down to Guru Jee and said that those Sikhs that obey your wishes I will not go near them. Kaljug after granting this concession to Sikhs disappeared and Guru Jee continued on his missionary travels of liberating the world.

Sri Guru Nanak Dev Jee has provided us protection from the influence of Kaljug, now it is up to us as Sikhs to decide whether we want to enter his sanctuary and lead a life devoid of want and enjoy lasting happiness/peace of mind.

Edited & Translated by
Harjinder Singh
www.akaalpublishers.com

Harjot.com Posters

Happy Bandhi Shorr Divas!

Croydon Sikh Youth help to explain why we as Sikhs celebrate at the time of Divali – Keeping the flame of freedom alight

Sikhs throughout the globe will celebrate Divali on 28th October. Divas/lamps will be alight, a jovial festival atmosphere will prevail. Sweets and samosas will be enjoyed, fireworks will set alight the moonlit sky. But why do we really celebrate? Apart from the annual calendar significance? What does Divali mean for us as Sikhs?

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

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

Forsaking all other doors I have come to your door. Preserve my honour by offering the support of your arm, liberate me, I am your humble servant. (Sri Guru Gobind Singh Jee)

I have come to the sanctuary of the formless and emancipating Lord, who destroys all sufferings. (Sri Guru Arjan Dev Jee, Limb 624 – Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee)

May Guru Jee bless us with spiritual and physical liberation also.

Bandhi Shorr Divas was months prior to Divali. Upon release from Gwalior Fort Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Jee made a tour of Delhi and other regions, then arrangements to go to Sri Darbar Sahib (Golden Temple), Amritsar were made. When he reached Amritsar Sahib it was Divali and the Sikhs celebrated the release of Guru Jee with fireworks and festivities.

Relevance today
The world over there are countless prisoners of consciousness, held under false fabricated charges and/or those held for standing up for justice, freedom and righteousness. Please light a candle for these prisoners, non-Sikhs and Sikhs and don’t forget Guru Jee’s example of freeing Hindu Kings. He was benevolent, humane and had a profound love for one and all, may we develop such divine virtues. May we all endeavour to assist and support such prisoners and at the very least we can all make a heartfelt prayer that Guru Jee blesses all prisoners with Chardi Kala/High Spirits.

One cannot begin to imagine losing freedom of movement and action, we can only try to empathise with such prisoners. Regardless of the regime and it’s tyranny, no man-made authority can imprison the Sikh Spirit and Sikhs still happily go to the gallows for standing up for justice, freedom and righteousness. The Sikh Spirit cannot be imprisoned. Prominent Sikhs currently imprisoned include Dr. Davinderpal Singh Bhullar, Bhai Deya Singh Lahoria, Bhai Balwant Singh, Bhai Paramjeet Singh Bheora, Bhai Jagtar Singh Hawara, Bhai Paramjeet Singh Dhadhi and the list goes on and on. Just imagine being the parent of a child who entered militancy or quite simply ‘disappeared’ in the 80’s and 90’s in Punjab. Many of these parents light a candle at Divali, praying and wishing that the light of hope may still bless them with a vision of a fit and well son or daughter. Or they pray in despair that may God nurture their offspring wherever they may be.

So when you light a candle and eat a sweet at Divali, please spare a thought, that you are free and are not bound by the restraints of prison life. Lest we forget, lets light a lamp to ensure the rays of freedom shine through all of humanity.

We thank Harjinder Singh (The Game Of Love) and www.akaalpublishers.com for helping to share the above.

Remember that we meet up every Sunday at Croydon Gurdwara from 12pm ‘til 3 and take part in a range of Sikh related activities. E-mail us at CroydonSikhYouth@hotmail.com if you have any questions or suggestions.

Vaheguru Jee Ka Khalsa Vaheguru Jee Ki Fateh!

Get Ready For The 1st!

Dhan Guru Raam Daas Ji

9th October markes the Parkaash Diwaas (birth date) of Guru Raam Daas jee, the fourth Guru. Saariaa Nu Lakh Lakh Vadhaaee Hove.

A SHORT GLIMPSE AT THE LIFE OF GURU RAAM DAAS JEE

Background
Guru Raam Daas jee was born at Choona Manddee Bazaar in Lahore in 1534. His parents, Mata Anoop Devi jee and Bhai Hari Daas jee, named him 'Jetha', meaning 'first born'. At a young age Bhai Jetha jee joined Sangat who were travelling to Goindval Sahib to meet Guru Amar Daas jee. Since meeting Guru Amar Daas jee, the third Jyot of Guru Nanak, Bhai Jetha fell in love with the True Guru and became a devout Sikh who would do tireless seva.


Marriage to Bibi Bhani
Bhai Jetha jee would roast chick-peas (sholay) and sell them to the public for his livelihood. He was honest, hard-working, and remembered Waheguru whilst working. He was not from a wealthy family and only made ends meet with the little he earned. Guru Amar Daas jee was so impressed with character of Bhai Jetha jee that he asked him to marry his daughter, Bibi Bhani jee. This showed that Guru jee did not take in account social or economic background of Bhai Jetha jee, but instead considered his values. Something that modern society can learn from, as nowadays we focus more on how rich a family is, what caste background, and how many degrees some has rather than the character, values, and Gursikhi jeevan of an individual.


Obedience and Correct Attitude for Seva
Guru Amar Daas jee tested the faith, devotion, humility and obediance of his two son-inlaws, Bhai Rama jee (married to Bibi Daani jee) and Bhai Jetha jee (married to Bibi Bhaani jee). Both were ordered by Guru jee to make a platform for him to sit on and that whoever does the better work will receive the greater honour. Both began doing the task. Bhai Rama jee finished and bowed before Guru jee but Guru jee said, "It's crooked. Tear it down and build another." Although Bhai Rama jee spent time and effort on it, he decided to rebuild it for the second time but it still failed the test so he built the third one. He mumbled, "The Guru has grown old, he must be senile." On the other hand, when Guru jee tested Bhai Jetha jee and repeatedly failed his work, Bhai Jetha jee fell at Guru jee's feet and begged, "I am a fool and lack understanding, while you possess all knowledge. Kindly bless me with the wisdom so that I may be able to erect the platform to your liking." Bhai Jetha jee showed how a Sikh must always obey the Guru no matter what their own mind thinks, and also to do seva with correct attitude - to continue doing seva even if criticised, even if there is nothing to gain, or no one to praise you.


Response to Baba Sri Chand
The elder son of Guru Nanak Dev Jee went to Amritsar to visit Guru Raam Daas Jee. Baba Sri Chand disobeyed Guru Nanak Dev jee and went separate from Sikhi. Baba Sri Chand made a new sect called the "Udaasis". Guru Amar Daas jee took steps to keep the Udaasi sect separate from the Sikh Panth. There was a basic difference between the two sections. The Sikhs believed in family-life, while the Udaasis believed in celibacy. The Udaasis wanted to join Sikhi on their own terms to which Guru jee did not agree. When Baba Sri Chand met Guru Raam Daas jee, he tried to belittle him and laugh at him. He said, “O Raam Daas! Why is your beard so long?” Guru jee replied, “I have a long beard to wipe the feet of holy men like you.” Guru Sahib’s humility hit Baba Sri Chand who feel at the feet of Guru Sahib and said: “Now I know why I didn’t become chosen to be Guru and instead you are sitting on my father’s throne.” Guru Raam Daas jee showed that each situation requires ‘awareness’ to react appropriately, and how humility can be the most powerful weapon.


Founded Amritsar (Chakk Ramdas)
Guru Raam Daas jee followed the steps of the first three Guru Sahibs in constructing cities. This was part of the vision of the Guru Sahibs to broaden the horizons of the Sikh People and show them that Sikhs should not confine themselves to thinking small but to thinking big. The Guru Sahibs were forward thinker. Guru Raam Daas jee founded the city of Amritsar, which was then known as 'Chakk Raamdaas' and later 'Raamdaas Pur'. The site was initially founded by Guru Amar Daas jee but it was Guru Raam Daas jee who made it into a city and began work on the excavation of the Amrit Sarovar (pool). Guru Raam Daas jee founded the place which became known as the centre and heartbeat of the Sikh faith.

Summary
Bhai Nand Lal Singh Ji writes in his poetry that if one word could describe and summarise Guru Raam Daas Sahib jee's life, that word be "SEVA" (SELFLESS SERVICE).

What Is Seva?

Seva is a fundamental and important characteristic of the Sikh nation. Seva is when you help others and expect nothing in return. The Guru Sahibs all partook in seva and famous Sikhs have also based their life upon serving the creation of god. There is countless type’s of seva; there is no seva too big and no seva too small for a true Sikh. A Sikh of the Guru will serve humanity with humility and will even die fighting for the better of humanity. Thousands and thousands of Sikhs have died on the battlefields fighting against evil-doers and tyrants. In the past, even death has not altered Sikhs from doing seva, one example of this is Shaheed Bhai Taru Singh Ji who was told by the government that he must stop serving Sikh warrior clangs, langar (food). Bhai Taru Singh Ji said you can cut me to pieces but I cannot stop serving the needy and my warrior brothers who are fighting for a just cause against your government. He was martyred due to his unwillingness to stop his seva.

Centre your awareness on seva- and focus your consciousness on the word of the shabad. (Ang 110, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji)

Blessed are that mortal beings, who share the Teachings with others and engages in altruistic services of doing good to others. (Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Ang 311)

Worthless is the body that does not do good deeds to others. (Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Ang 69)

Every one does different seva’s but as long as you are serving others and benefiting their life for the better and expect nothing back that is seva. Join a charity or simply just go clean the dishes or toilets in the Gurdwara.

How many times have you cleaned the Gurdwara toilets?
How many times have you cleaned the shoes in the Gurdwara?
Toilet and shoe seva get rid of alot of ego!

Blessed to be Sikh

In Kaljug (the dark age), God has put the fire of Sin in our bodies, the objective of this game is to extinguish this fire and be content. The fire contains dark energies as such as greed, lust, ego, anger and attachment. These Dark energies keep us trapped in Sin and falsehood. They cause the destruction of our soul and body. Gurbani tells us that by reading Gurbani, doing Sangat, doing our Nitnem, asking Guru Ji for help, meditating on Waheguru at Amrit-vela, and by doing Kirtan we can extinguish this fire (of dark passions). Only with the Guru’s grace can we get liberated from this fire. Once we are liberated the false desires and world pleasure no longer bother us. One feels a soothing and poise peace, which brings contentment. But this test that God created is not easy, as temptations and evilness is all around us in society.

As a Sikh we may see and hear of our friends and family having boyfriends, girlfriends and sex before marriage. But we must remain distinct as Guru Ji said:

Without having Anand Karaj those who have sexual relationships. Listen O' Sikh the Guru states, he is not my Sikh.

Rehatnama Mukhthnama

Our friends may go KFC and eat chicken, wear a baseball hat and take all types of drugs. But a Sikh must stay vegetarian, drug free and wear a turban.

Meat, opium, drugs and tobacco. Ganja, wearing hats, another's woman and alcohol. He who never even gazes at these evils. Recognize them as my disciplined Singh.

Rehatnama Bhai Desa Singh

While your friends are coming back from clubbing at 3am, you must awake and worship the lord in order to destroy all the negative energies within us. In this way we will not be corrupted by falsehood and reach the true destination (Merging back with Waheguru).

They are the Khalsa who destroy the five evils. They are the Khalsa who burn away delusion.

Thankhaanama Bhai Nand Laal Jee

With the sword of spiritual wisdom, kill the five demons. Remain awake and aware to the Guru's Teachings.

Ang 1413 Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji

As your friends earn money by credit card frauds, selling intoxicants or whatever corrupted deeds they do. You must have a respectful (honest) job and give to charity.

Those who do not give one tenth of their earning to the Guru and earn a living of deceit and corruption. Listen carefully Nand Lal as Guru Gobind Singh speaks, they will suffer thousands of hells at death.

Rehatnama Bhai Nand Laal Jee

Sikhs should not be selfish and greedy and must share with others. People spend thousands on luxuries while next man hasn’t even got a sack of rice (Keep that in mind, the next time you go shopping). A flash car will get you a speeding ticket, a 100 bags of rice sent to the deprived will get you closer to Waheguru.

Do not just eat on your own; always try to share with others.

Rehatnama Bhai Desa Singh
Adultery, gambling, dishonesty, stealing and intoxicants; these are five sins of the world which the Singh abandons.

Rehatnama Bhai Desa Singh

Those who praise the Lord in the early hours of the morning and meditate on Him single-mindedly are the perfect kings; at the right time, they die fighting.

Ang 145 Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji

The 5 K's (Panj Kakkar)

The following five K's are the mark of Sikhi. These five can never be parted from the body. Kara, Kirpan, Kachera, Kanga, recognize these as four of them. The fifth is Kesh, without which the other four are useless. There are also four H's which must be avoided. Understand this without any doubt, no lies have been told. Hukka, taking tobacco (including any other type of intoxicants). Hajamat, removing of hair. Halalo, eating meat. Haram, adultery (sexual relationships outside of marriage). These are the four H's. Dyeing of beards (including any other body hair), and the wearing of mehndi (including other types of make up) are strictly forbidden.
Dasam Granth - Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji

KESH: Uncut hair is regarded as a symbol of saintliness as one accepts and lives in harmony with the lords will. Removing of the hair is seen as acting against the lords will. Shaving and cutting of the hair is a major taboo, as one will live in disharmony with the lords will. Sikhs believe hair have particular functions and were given to us by the lord for a purpose.

KANGA: a special wooden comb. This is necessary to maintain the hair in a neat and tidy form. A Sikh must comb their hair twice a day and cover them with a dastar (turban). The dastar protects the hair and is an essential part of the Sikh uniform.

KARA: an iron bracelet, which is worn on the predominant arm of the Sikh. It reminds the Sikh of the vows taken by them, it is a constant reminder that they aren’t to take part in any activity that will bring shame and disgrace on them (for example stealing).

KACHERA: A special type of shorts to be worn at all times. It reminds the Sikh of the need of self-restraint over corrupt desires. Apart from its moral aspect it is ideal as practical martial underwear.

KIRPAN: the sword is worn solely for protection of righteousness, humanity and justice. It is a sign of readiness to confront injustices, it symbolizes dignity and self-reliance. One is capable to defend themselves, and the innocent-weak person from oppressors. It is the minimal protection that a khalsa soldier must carry at all times.

The usage of drugs for intoxication: the Guru’s encouraged healthy activity and a healthy lifestyle which keeps the body in good condition. Drugs make one lose their sense and weakens the body and creates mental diseases.

The eating of meat: this includes all flesh, like fish, eggs and any animal fats. Guru Har Rai Ji opened up hospitals for injured animals. Murdering of gods creatures, cruelty towards animals and other humans is forbidden in Sikhism. All creatures have a natural instinct to remain alive; killing of animals for food is a barbaric crime and against Gods will.

Adultery: A Sikh is not allowed to have sexual relations out of marriage. A Sikh must have morals and commit in a marriage ceremony in front of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji before having a sexual relation with anyone. Marriage is a moralful and respectful way of showing dignity.

Unshorn hair: A Sikh believes that the lord is a perfect creator and created hair for a purpose, so for a Sikh cutting their hair is not an option. (look at the past Blog 'Hair and Sikhi' on the right hand side for more info on this subject)

From Croydon Sikh Youth To You

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

We would like to welcome everyone to the new virtual-home for the Croydon Sikh Youth. We are here to give you information on issues relating to Sikhi and what goes on in our local Gurdwara.

A few questions to ask yourself:

• What has Sikhi got to do with me?
• Do I have a say in the Gurdwara?
• Why don't I Get involved in Seva, Kirtan etc.

Doesn't the following make you think?

We go to the Gurdwara Mata Theek infront of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, have Langar, chit chat with our mates and then go home... But do we even learn anything? And furthermore, do we even go AT ALL? (NOT including weddings and when we're forced to by our parents!)

Croydon Sikh Youth are here to make our voice heard! So it's time to unite... and together we can take part in more activities and youth events i.e. gatka lessons, group discussions, sikh history classes etc which will be available for the all the youth at Croydon Gurdwara.

We also hope to organise trips, have sporting events and whatever else we can think of... But to make it happen and be a success we need YOUR help and support!

We appreciate it will take time, and will be as patient as we need to be... Honesty, Trust and Love are essential to make this work and above all.. COMMUNICATION

If you would like to see changes and want to participate in any of the above classes then contact us on the email below and add us to your MSN (if you've got one). You can also search for CroydonSikhYouth on Facebook and ADD US!

croydonsikhyouth@hotmail.com

We will try our best to get back to as soon as possible.

Meanwhile Though:

We've got some interesting things for you to do... (We wouldn't tell you if it wasn't worth it)

Go To:
1. http://www.sikhroots.com/
2. http://www.rajkaregakhalsa.net
3. http://www.g5sikhmedia.co.uk

For 1 and 2 go to the audio section, and in the search field type in Sukha Singh.

Please download and listen to as much of his Kirtan and Kathas as possible, ESPECIALLY "Sedgeley Street" Parts 1& 2 (available on G5 Sikh Media Audio Downloads). The Edingburgh Kathas are really good too.

Unlike anyone you've ever heard, this great Sikh speaks English and Punjabi and helps for us to understand what being Sikh really means and just what we've faced in our relatively short yet Rich history.

PUT THEM ON YOUR PHONES AND i-PODS AND TALK TO EACH OTHER ABOUT THE THINGS YOU LEARN...

Also, on the Links on the right you'll see one for "Sikh Unit". Please click on it and download the Sikh Unit albums. They're unlike anything you've ever heard! Through rapping about Sikh history and issues facing us today over Hip-Hop beats, their music helps to make us feel good to be Sikh and help us in understanding issues which we might not understand.

We hope to see you on Sundays from 12pm at the Gurdwara... But please feel free to get in touch ANYTIME and about ANTYHING!

Sri Guru Nanak Dev Jee & Kaljug

A narration of the meeting between Sri Guru Nanak Dev Jee & Kaljug (a truly inspirational must-read)

GuruNanakAndKaljug - Upload a Document to Scribd

Sikh It! (Magazine)

A Sikh Student magazine with some really inspirational articles... Download it, check it out and please share it!

Sikh It! - Upload a Document to Scribd

The Game of Love

The Game of Love tells the story of the Sikhs and their freedom struggles throughout history. Guru Nanak the first Guru of the Sikhs started the revolution of Sikhs standing up against tyranny and oppression in the 15th century, this movement of freedom struggles has carried on to the present day.

In the post 9/11 world, the words of the 10th Guru, Sri Guru Gobind Singh resonate,

"When all peaceful means have been exhausted it is just to draw the sword"

The Game of Love portrays the tears, torture and the sacrifices of the Sikhs throughout history, the readers will decide if they are termed freedom fighters, insurgents, militants or the popular word used by oppressive governments to term the brave and courageous.

To purchase the book go to the link below:

http://www.akaalpublishers.com/

Reviews From Amazon.com

Historical interest and political intrigue, 23 Sep 2008 Mr. David J. Wigley (UK) For those who know little about it, like me, this book provides a very interesting account of the historical development of the Sikh nation aand an understanding that Sikhism is more than just a religion - it is a way of being.For those opposed to injustice, it develops a sense of outrage at the way Sikhs have been treated by the Indian Government and a great admiration for the way in which they have stayed true to their beliefs and fought to uphold justice, freedom and the principles of fairness and equality. On a less positive note, I am not persuaded that "one man's terrorist is another man's freedom fighter" and I could not condone violence or refer to the perpetrators of acts of violence as "martyrs". It seems an unfortunate fact of life that peaceful ways may not produce fairness in some of today's "democracies", but perhaps this is today's destiny - tomorrow's may be to achieve our ends when enlightment dawns. Fantastic, 6 Jul 2008 Palvinder Kaur (UK) Pick up the Game of Love and begin your journey into the truth of what sikhs have endured (and still are) living in the biggest "democracy" in the world they call India.Once you start this book, it will be almost impossible to put down as you are drawn into the struggles and atrocities we have had to face simply to live as practising Sikhs. The book gives you a chronology of events and puts into perspective why the Sikhs are fighting for freedom in "mother" India. This book is an eye opener for all who believe the attack on Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) was caused by a group of hardline militants "hiding" in the complex. Fantastic book, well done to the editor for compiling all the information and putting it in one book in such a compelling and thought-provoking way. Absolutely brilliant. An excellent insight into the experiences and beliefs of Sikhs, 28 Jun 2008 A. Steatham "Angela Steatham" (Walsall, UK) As a non-practising Christian, I am not interested in religion, other than to better understand how belief systems shape the thinking and actions of those who belong to particular faiths; however, even I found myself feeling incredibly drawn to the the way of being and thinking described in this book.As a great opponent of injustice, I was incensed by the way Sikhs have been treated over the centuries and, at the same time, I was full of admiration for the way in which they have stayed true to their beliefs and fought to uphold justice and freedom, not only for their own people, but for all communities.It is so easy to believe what you see on the TV and read in newspapers and form an opinion on who is the 'aggressor' in a given situation; I had very 'western' views of what happened at the Golden Temple - this book clearly explains the truth behind that atrocity and has changed my understanding of what I believed to be 'the truth' as portrayed by the media. This book is informative and thought-provoking. It gives a good insight into the history of the Sikhs and sets out the basis of their beliefs and why their struggle for justice is so important, not just for them, but for all of us who believe in fairness and equality.

Operation Blue Star: Not Forgotten

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

The 1984 Genocide

Kristallnacht - Upload a Document to Scribd

Read this document on Scribd: Kristallnacht

Hukamnama - August 20, 2008

Waheguru ji ka Khalsa! Waheguru ji ki Fateh!

I wanted to share this Hukamnama with you... Its very powerful and we should feel very lucky as Sikhs to have Siri Guru Granth Sahib Ji to guide us through these dark times...

This Hukamnama is by Guru Amardas ji Maharaj, in Raag Vadhans, on Ang 560 of Siri Guru Granth Sahib ji Maharaj.

vfhMsumhlw3]
vaddehans mehalaa 3 |
Wadahans, Third Mehl:

haumYnwvYnwilivroDuhYduienvsihiekTwie]
houmai naavai naal virodh hai dhue n vasehi eik thaae |
Ego is opposed to the Name of the Lord; the two do not dwell in the same place.

haumYivicsyvwnhoveIqwmnuibrQwjwie]1]
houmai vich saevaa n hovee thaa man birathaa jaae |1|
In egotism, selfless service cannot be performed, and so the soul goes unfulfilled. ||1||

hircyiqmnmyryqUgurkwsbdukmwie]
har chaeth man maerae thoo gur kaa sabadh kamaae |
O my mind, think of the Lord, and practice the Word of the Guru’s Shabad.

hukmumMnihqwhirimlYqwivchuhaumYjwie]rhwau]
hukam mannehi thaa har milai thaa vichahu houmai jaae | rehaao |
If you submit to the Hukam of the Lord’s Command, then you shall meet with the Lord; only then will your ego depart from within. ||Pause||

haumYsBusrIruhYhaumYEpiqhoie]
houmai sabh sareer hai houmai oupath hoe |
Egotism is within all bodies; through egotism, we come to be born.

haumYvfwgubwruhYhaumYivicbuiJnskYkoie]2]
houmai vaddaa gubaar hai houmai vich bujh n sakai koe |2|
Egotism is total darkness; in egotism, no one can understand anything. ||2||

haumYivicBgiqnhoveIhukmunbuiJAwjwie]
houmai vich bhagath n hovee hukam n bujhiaa jaae |
In egotism, devotional worship cannot be performed, and the Hukam of the Lord’s Command cannot be understood.

haumYivicjIaubMDuhYnwmunvsYminAwie]3]
houmai vich jeeo bandh hai naam n vasai man aae |3|
In egotism, the soul is in bondage, and the Naam, the Name of the Lord, does not come to abide in the mind. ||3||

nwnksqguirimilAYhaumYgeIqwscuvisAwminAwie]
naanak sathagur miliai houmai gee thaa sach vasiaa man aae |
O Nanak, meeting with the True Guru, egotism is eliminated, and then, the True Lord comes to dwell in the mind||

scukmwvYsicrhYscysyivsmwie]4]9]12]
sach kamaavai sach rehai sachae saev samaae |4|9|12|
One starts practicing truth, abides in truth and by serving the True One gets absorbed in Him. ||4||9||12||

many thanks to http://hukam.sikhnet.com/2008/08/20/

A Very Sad Time Of Year For Us... Definitely NOT A Time To Celebrate!

As It's 'Indpendence Day' Today and Tomorrow... We thought it appropriate to find some articles to share which show why it most definitely isn't a time to celebrate... ESPECIALLY for Sikhs!

Partition of Punjab(1947)
http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/events/partition.html

Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, founder of Mohammadan Anglo-Oriental College which later became Aligarh State university was encouraged by British to communalise politics. He became a staunch ally of British and lent his commanding influence to preach gospel of loyalty among Muslims. He first opened his campaign againt Indian National Congress in 1887. (Indian national congress was founded in 1885 by Some British and Anglo-Indians to demand legislative assembly and other democratic rights) His speech in Lucknow in 18 December 1887 was full of venom. His primary aim was to win the Muslims reprieve for their part in mutiny of 1857. In 1893, Syed Ahmad Khan established the Mohammadan Anglo-Oriental Defence Association of Upper India which was opened only to Muslims and Englishmen. Thus started a long campaign to create a separate state for Muslims. Syed Ahmad Khan died in 1898 but with creation of Aligarh University and by planting seeds of venom he had done his damage. His path to holocaust was taken over by Agha Khan. Lord Minto on October 1 1906 in front of Agha Khan and other Muslim and British dignatories at Simla said, " I claim that in any system of representation whether it affects a muncipality, a District, or Legislative council, in which it is proposed to introduce or increase Mohammadan community should be represented as a community." (quote from Heritage of Sikhs, page 255, written by Harbans Singh). This statment by Governor General was an open inticement to Muslim separatism. In 1909, Minto-Morley reforms gave weighted representatin to Muslims in provinces in which they were in minority. This created a permanent separatism between Muslims and Hindus. In 1916 Congress attempted to appease muslims by giving them several separate communal laws and claims in a pact called Lucknow Pact. In Punjab, 50 percent of seats were reserved for Muslims under this League-Congress pact and Sikhs were completely ignored. In 1916, A Sikh representative Sardar Gajjan Singh of Ludhiana moved an ammendment recommending the addition of words, "subject to the just claims of the sikhs". This was oppose by both Hindus and Muslims. At this time there were only two Sikhs in legislative assembly. The franchise committee was established by British to go into matter of composition of new legislatures based on religion. Sikhs were given 15 percent seats but were only 12 percent of Punjab, while Muslims in Bihar and Orissa were less than 10 percent and got 25 percent of total legislature seats. Though Sikhs were smallest minority in Punjab, Sikhs were generally averse of communal representation. The muslims, in spite of being a majority, had been given statutory protection and weightage in form of separate electorates and reservation of seats. This created among the Sikhs a sense of grievance and they demanded to be treated on a par with the Muslims in the matter of political rights. Chief Khalsa Diwan in 1928 observed that Sikhs are anxious to maintain their individuality while at the same time they are ready to co-operate with their sister communities for the development of a united nation. They would, therefor, be the first to welcome a declaration that no consideration of caste or religion shall affect the matter of organization of a national government in the country. Sikhs are prepared to stand on merit alone. British appointed a committee under Moti Lal Nehru to work out a scheme of government that is accepted to all. The committe prepared a report which was published in August 1928, Muslim opinion was totally against this report and Mohammad Ali Jinnah, an emerging leader of Muslims suggested number of amendments to it. Sikhs rejected the Nehru report for different reasons Baba Kharak Singh in his speech put these points forth, first this report asked only for dominion status of Indians under British and not total freedom, second this report had laid the foundation of communalism by accepting separate electorates. On December 20, 1929, Baba Kharak Singh gave a speech at Lajpat Nagar, Lahare reiterated the Sikhs determination not to let any single community establish its political hegemony in Punjab. Sikhs he said had suffered more then anyone else, of the 31 Indian patriots sentenced to death, 27 were Sikhs, and out of 121 sentenced to long imprisonment, 91 were Sikhs. Nehru and Gandhi did meet Baba Kharak Singh and assured him of Sikh representation and keeping country united while Muslims remained silent. But things slolwy were changing. Muslim league in the elections of 1936 won only two seats in Punjab and Unionist party led by Sikandar Hayat Khan formed the government, this party was mostly composed of feudal land lords. After these elections, Muslims league started showing its true colors. Several incidents inciting muslims against infidels were reported in muslims newspapers. Leaders like Jinnah and Liaqat Ali Khan who were behaved more like a englishman than a subcontinent muslim, started exploiting sentiments of Muslims through out India. Jinnah, although accomplished lawyer but was a petty, shrewd person who was only the second generation of nauveau-converted muslims. He can be truely called a pseudo British or a brown sahib. He was a muslim in name only. He drank liquor and ate pork, obviously to ape his British masters. Another thing to note is that he never really took part in any struggle for independence, other Muslim leaders like Maulana Abul Kalam, Frontier Gandhi and secular leaders like Gandhi, Nehru were put in jail for many years, while Jinnah was never jailed. Situation until 1940 had turned bad throughout India and relations between Hindus and muslims were turning cold. In 1940, Mohammad Ali Jinnah called for a separate state for muslims called Pakistan to be created out of those areas which have Muslims living as majority. It was a shock for Sikhs, as Sikhs although were spread out through out punjab but were a minority in all provinces. British appointed Sir Stafford Cripps in 1942 to look after the creation of new provinces or a separate state for Muslims. Sikh representation told this comission: "Why should a province that fails to secure three-fifths majority of its legislature, in which a religious community enjoys statutory majority, be allowed to hold a plebiscite and given the benefit of a bare majority. In fairness, this right should have beeb conceded to communities who are in permanent minority in the legislature. From the boundry of Delhi to the banks of Ravi River the population is divided as follows: Muslims, 4,505,000; Sikhs and other non-muslims, 7,060,000. To this may be added the population of Sikh states of Patiala, Nabha, Jind, Kapurthala and Faridkot, which is about 2,600,000, of this Muslims constitute barely 20 percent and this reduces the ratio of Muslim population still further. We shall resist by all possible means, separation of Punjab from the all-India union. We shall never permit our motherland to be at the mercy of those who disown it. After it was a certainity that Pakistan will be formed, Giani Kartar Singh in 1943 declared a call for a Separate state called Azad Punjab, to be comprised of Ambala, Jullundar, Lahore, Multan, and Lyallpur divisions. Mastar Tara Singh president of SAD and other Sikh leaders such as Giani Sher Singh, Sadhu Singh Hamdard,Amar singh Dosanjh, Ajit singh Ambalvi supported this call for Azad Punjab. Then in a speech in Amritsar in August 1944, Master Tara Singh declared that Sikhs were a nation and as such a demand was formerly put forward by Shiromani Akali Dal in a resolution passed on March 22, 1946 for a separate Sikh state. After this situation in Punjab was getting tense. On one hand Jinnah and Muslim league was calling for blood or Pakistan and declaring that Muslims are no believer of ahimsa and will resort to any means possible to achieve their means. Muslim league declared August 16th 1946 to be observed as Direct Action Day, where all muslims were asked to show the support for Pakistan by rioting. Explaining the implications of Direct Action Day threat, Liaqat Ali Khan, general secretary of Muslim league said "Direct action means resort to non-constitutional methods that can take any form which many suit the conditions under which we live. We cannot eliminate any methods. Direct Action means any action against the law." Sardar Abdur Rab Nishtar spoke in more forthright terms: "Pakistan can be achieved through shedding blood of others. Muslims are no believers in ahimsa. The decree of violence and jingoism was enthusiastically embraced by the Muslim masses. The Muslim league created a private army called Muslim National Guards. Arms were being secretely amassed, petrol stored and lethel weapons laid in. Muslim league volunteers were especially trained in the skills of stabbing and fire-raising. Simultaneously, a chorus of hate and inflammatory exhortation flowed from the League pulpiteers and newspapers. Communal frenzy was worked up to a dangerous pitch and on appointed day the storm burst in Calcutta. H.S. Suhrawardy, Muslim league leader from Bengal let loose horron on the Hindu population on the morning of August 16 1946. Stabbing, looting, burning were the order of the day. For four days the League desperados had the city at their mercy. According to rough estimated about 15,000 persons were killed and injured while one hundred thousands were rendered homeless. Then on 2nd September in Noakhali and Tippera (Bengal) where Hindus were in minority, violence broke out. Thousands of Hindus were cruelly murdered, their womenfolks abducted and compelled to marry Muslims, property looted. The Sikhs of Calcutta did a notable humanitarium job at the time of the Great killing, saving many innocent lives in Hindus as well as in Muslim localities. Soon violence spread northwards. According to Muslim league, the Sikhs were the only viable obstruction to Pakistan. Justice G.D. Khosla of the Fact Finding Organization setup by Government of India observed: "Sikhs had opposed the partition of India with even greater vigour than Hindus, because they felt that as a community they could only expect disaster in Pakistan, therefore it was against the Sikhs that spearpoint of the Muslim league attack was first aimed. In the March 1947 riots, the Sikhs or Rawalpindi faced ahhihilation and large number of them left the district. Within a few weeks almost the entire Sikh population had migrated from the district. Rioting in Punjab started in first week of December in the district of Hazara. A Holy war was declared on Hindus and Sikhs. Sikh habitations were wiped out, Gurdwaras were desecrated. Rioting in Lahore was started in March 4 1947, it started out as stabbing and small incidents and spread out to become arson and murder. Soon after Muslims in Amritsar (muslims were about 40-50% of population before partition) went rioting, a mob tried to attack Golden Temple and were repulsed with a pitched battle fought between handful of Sikhs under Jathedar Udham Singh Nagoke. Same day muslims of Sharifpura (a suburb of Amristar), stopped a train full of refugees from Pakistan for slaughter. After this incident, Sikhs and Hindus in Amritsar were furious and many innocent muslims had to bear the fury of anger. Soon after Amritsar was empty of Muslims. While total number of casualties were about same on both sides, about 100-150 million refugees were exchanged between both countries. There were large number of atrocities inflicted on women, many were abducted and raped. In village Thoh Khalsa (now in Pakistan), 1000 Sikh and Hindu women jumped into well to save their honor after their menfolks were killed by Muslim mobs. It is estimated that about 1 million Hindus/Sikhs/Muslims were murdered and 10-50 millions were injured. Property lost was in trillion of dollars. Muslims did got their Pakistan but soon after it was put under marshall law by its feudal infested army. Sikhs did themselves a big favour by opting out of Pakistan at this time in Pakistan situation of few Hindus/Christians/other muslims (shia, Ahmadias) is worse off then in any other country. Judges are often asked to hang a non-muslims only on the basis of accusation. Sikh leadership opted for India and millions of Sikhs migrated to East Punjab and Delhi. Recently a well known bishop of a church shot himself on the door steps of a court in Pakistan after another christian was sentenced to death after a false accusation.

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