User talk:Allenwalla: Difference between revisions

From SikhiWiki
Jump to navigationJump to search
(→‎Anna Hazare: new section)
 
(37 intermediate revisions by 4 users not shown)
Line 18: Line 18:


==New messages==
==New messages==
Interesting bit of code - w      a      h


== Archive ==
== Archive ==
Line 662: Line 663:
Your Bandi chhor good wishes most welcomed and graciously accepted; may the Lord's blessings be with you and your family too at all times. Raab sada rakha hova (May God always protect), [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 19:00, 5 November 2010 (EDT)
Your Bandi chhor good wishes most welcomed and graciously accepted; may the Lord's blessings be with you and your family too at all times. Raab sada rakha hova (May God always protect), [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 19:00, 5 November 2010 (EDT)


=Sandy Travels and nanak Travels to mecca=
==Sandy Travels and nanak Travels to mecca==
Hello Sir, Kindly visit the following link,
Hello Sir, Kindly visit the following link,


Line 847: Line 848:


Also, the higher you climb up on the political ladder, the more corruption you find. For this reason, the cleansing is going to doubly difficult. Anyway, I wish him well and hope that he will start something new in the nation. Many thanks for the alert; kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 18:25, 11 April 2011 (EDT)
Also, the higher you climb up on the political ladder, the more corruption you find. For this reason, the cleansing is going to doubly difficult. Anyway, I wish him well and hope that he will start something new in the nation. Many thanks for the alert; kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 18:25, 11 April 2011 (EDT)
== Peshawar & Rabab ==
Bhai sahib ji, {{SSA}}
Many thanks for the link. It is a great picture and I have downloaded it. I hope to use it for an article on manufacturing of this instrument when I have gather enough material to construct the article. It is a shame there was no write-up on the Rabab manufacturing or any other aspect of the instrument. Many thanks again; a useful resource for later. King regards and my good wishes, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 20:59, 13 May 2011 (EDT)
Many thanks for being so alert and for reading my reply so carefully; as you had correctly gathered, I only downloaded and read the one picture and relating text. Thanks to your acute awareness, I now have 7 beautiful pictures for a future article. I'm most grateful to you. Guru's blessings and kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 20:40, 14 May 2011 (EDT)
==Contribute Here==
* [[Sikh Books]]
Regards
([[User:Hpt lucky|Lucky]] 17:09, 30 May 2011 (EDT))
== Wrong practise by new user ==
Bhai Sahib ji,
Many thanks for the message and for asking about my and my family's well being; we are all in satisfactory health and in good spirits. I hope that you and your family too are keeping well.
Thanks to your alertness, I have taken action to reverse the changes made by the user and sent him a message to make him/her aware of our policy in respect of making any major changes to any article. Hopefully s/he will take heed! Kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 22:46, 30 May 2011 (EDT)
==Your views about it==
Sometimes we use adjective with some words which makes feel that word have no greatness in itself for example:
1) Gursikh -> Devout Gursikh, as Gursikh is always devout
2) Gurmat -> Tatt Gurmat, as Gurmat is always Tatt, what is fake gurmat?
3) Great Devotee -> as devotee is always great, what is small devotee?
and so on.
Dhann Dhann Satgur Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Maharaaj ji <---- When  we say SATGUR TEGH BAHADUR, itself imples that he is dhann dhann and  maharaaj(jis nun bakshe sifat salah nanak patshah patshah and sat purakh  jis janeya satgur tis ka naao).
I think you understand what i want to convey. The words in Gurbani  like Gurmat, Gurmukh, Satgur etc etc etc. already are so great wordss  that it does not require any adjective. 
General Talk, what you feel ? Kindly share your great views <--- see again great!!!! :) 
([[User:Hpt lucky|Lucky]] 02:21, 31 May 2011 (EDT))
== response by Gghatore ==
Bhai sahib ji, {{SSA}}
Many thanks for highlighting the response by Gghatore and for picking up what, as you say, is a common mistake made by many new users.
Your help, keen eye and acute sense of responsibility is much appreciated. Many thanks again and kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 14:37, 1 June 2011 (EDT)
== Interesting article ==
Bhai Sahib ji,
I could not find a link - May be it did not copy correctly - Please can you try again. I would love to read the article. No, I don't mind being called a infidel! or being labelled Hindu! Living in this world of extremes has taught me that tolerance is an essential part of survival and a necessity if you want peace in your life. Many thanks and warm regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 08:23, 7 June 2011 (EDT)
== news from Elk Grove  ==
Veer ji,
Many thanks for the link.
It is a matter of great shame and pity that even when we have such a diverse, multi-cultural community in Elk Grove apparently living in harmony, there is still serious, deep rooted and sour enmity among at least a few of the members of this apparently peaceful community! It begs the question, when will the individuals of the human race begin to listen to the wise words of wisdom uttered by so many for so long! Was the mission of Lord Krishna, Jesus Christ, Moses, Prophet Mohammed (pbuh) and all the others in vain? At present, it look that way, doesn't it?
Warm regards and my best wishes to you and your family, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 15:44, 12 July 2011 (EDT)
== Killings in Elk Grove ==
Veer ji, {{SSA}}
Many thanks for sharing your ideas about these terrible killings. Unfortunately, I could not access the first link as it requires a paid membership. However, I understand the point that you make. It is amazing how man had moved into another territory of crime to establish "honor"; this honor is about the same as the dreaded honor that many Asians feel when killing their daughters! A terrible development, whichever way one looks at it.
Innocent lives lost for what? This sort of irresponsible behaviour will only bring pain to society and the sooner we realise this, the better. Better education; better moral standards; better awareness; and higher values have to be established if we are to see real peace and happiness on this planet. This all appears to be a very distant dream at present! The Lord's blessings, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 02:10, 19 July 2011 (EDT)
----
Many thanks for the image of the news item. It is a really sad bit of news in an otherwise peaceful area. How awful that so many people die daily from gun crime in the USA.
There is an email on the news item; it may be an idea to send them an email to suggest the link between the two investigations involving Ford pickup trucks.
Isn't it time to ban the free licence to carry a gun? It appears that a lot of lunatics in the USA like to carry and use guns to settle their differences. To me that is an appalling situation.
Veer ji, stay safe and keep well, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 18:48, 20 July 2011 (EDT)
== Mark Stroman's death ==
Veer ji, {{SSA}}
Many thanks again for bringing another amazing story to my attention - the victim trying to save the assailant!  This is a really noble gesture and obviously a little foreign to the "American Way" where its an eye for an eye. Shame that another life is wastefully lost!
I also read the story here - http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/jul/21/texas-executes-911-revenge-killer at one of our more renowned newspaper and also read Mr Storman's website. What becomes very clear is the poor moral and ethical standards of this person's understanding. He has "picked up" the hatred and prejudices portrayed in the media and has no education or understanding of a higher level of thinking or any higher awareness of the value of life.
It is like provoking a dog - its reaction is predetermined. Similarly, Mr Storman has been bombarded with the message of hatred and Islamophobia; of anger and ill-feelings against people who do not belong to the "American way"; of the rights of the "European race" or "white man" due to their "sacrifices". He can ill understand that there is a big world outside USA which also has their way of life (probably going back 1000's of years not just a few 1000's); and they too have "their" rights.
Shame that a society ill equips its citizens for the world that surround them and then when they react in the only way that they know, the system then continues to systematically kill them in the name of law! Just to quote from wikipedia: ''"Among juveniles  (for example, minors under the age of 16, 17, or 18, depending on legal  jurisdiction) serving in correctional facilities, 86% owned a gun at  some point, with 66% acquiring their first gun by age 14."'' If children are not taught self-discipline and the rights to life of others, and can get access to guns at an early age, it is natural that they will succumb to the power of the gun! It is the natural path to take.
A very interesting story which opens many angles of discussion but the issue is totally sad and is wasteful existence for many caught in this web.
Guns and force appears to rule the waves at present! There is no compassion or forgiveness in this brave new world. It is indeed sad that so many die each year and still the crime rate continues to climb. Better education; more integration; less flag waving; more diversification are probably needed! What do you think, Veer ji? Warm regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 12:08, 21 July 2011 (EDT)
== Worried  ==
Veer ji, {{SSA}}
Many thanks for your message of concern. With the Lord's blessings everything is fine in our locality. Most of the looting and destruction is to businesses and their premises in a few isolated suburbs of London and to a lesser extent to a few other towns in England.
Unfortunately, the pented-up pressure created by this long recession has found a leak in the disillusioned youth; this pressure is being released recklessly resulting in these riots. Today's demanding society has inflicted many wounds on the lives of its members and the youngsters have found this a way to vent their anger.
Hopefully, the police will be out in larger numbers tonight and we hope that these rebels will realise that now there will be a bigger risk of arrest. So, maybe we will have less disturbance in the future. Many thanks for asking. Hope you too are keeping well. Warm regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 11:22, 9 August 2011 (EDT)
== Problem, “Sain eeh bare Allah wale lok hun!”  and another ==
Veer ji
I think I am getting the same problem. I tried to do this reply on Sikhiwiki and it zapped me out. So I have prepared this on Wordpad and then posted it onto Sikhiwiki. I will send an email to the technical guys!
Also, Veer ji many thanks for the links. I have read all the stories and they were very interesting; the one on Sufism was a little too detailed for me to follow fully but still enlightening. I will add more when I have a more stable system. Kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 21:08, 22 August 2011 (EDT)
----
Veer ji,
The system now works for me. How is it for you?
Warm regards, 18:08, 23 August 2011 (EDT)
== Tragedy in Delhi ==
Veer ji, {{WKWF}}
Many thanks for the links to the tragedy that has taken place in Delhi; it is deeply disturbing news. More innocent people killed by cowards who behave in such a degrading and inhumane manner. May they all go to hell forever - never to return to this earth!  Kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 18:27, 7 September 2011 (EDT)
== UK woman who has newly learned of Jallianwala Bagh massacre ==
Veer ji
Many thanks for the link - it's a great story and a worthy Sikh cause. I will set-up a link so that more UK readers can sign the petition. Excellent find! Warm regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 14:43, 13 September 2011 (EDT)
== Faujah Singh, runner in the news ==
Veer ji
{{SSA}}. Hope all in well in your domain.
Many thanks for the link and timely reminder; I have put a short piece in the news section on the main page with a link to the news about this great achievement as narrated at the BBC website.
Warm regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 20:31, 17 October 2011 (EDT)
== Fauja Singh - No Guinness book record ==
Veer ji, {{SSA}}
Many thanks for the link. I will wait for a few more reports locally and then adds this sad development to the article.
Kind regards, 17:45, 1 November 2011 (CDT)
== a story of interest ==
Veer ji,
Many thanks for your message and the interesting link. I will create a news link when I get back to the UK. I am at present visiting India and as the broadband access here is restricted, I am unable to carry out my normal duties at Sikhiwiki.
I am also concerned that you cannot edit articles at Sikhiwiki. That problem has been resolved and I would like to deal with this on my return. Please could you kindly give me a brief summary of the problems that you face in using our website.
Kind regards,[[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 12:34, 22 November 2011 (CST)
== Problems editing ==
Veer ji, {{SSA}}
Many thanks for your detailed message. Luckily, after 3 years of trying, we were able to travel as a family to India; our 2 adult kids had never been to Punjab and finally, we were able to make it happen this year with the Lord's assistance.
It is a challenging country to visit but has a tremendous amount of history and hence worth doing if at all possible. I hope that one day you will be able to come to India; as you say virtual visiting is also getting very good and is less prone to the pollution, dirt and heavy traffic! 
I had the same problem that you mention but eventually this has gone away. When the system asks for the two words to be entered, first refresh and get a new set of words by pressing the refresh button a few times to get an "easy" option of words; then enter the two words and the system will accept the answers.
I found that the first words never worded correctly and only by pressing the 'refresh' button did I get the system to work. So please try this and see if you can overcome this hurdle. I think that once you have answered this correctly, the system should refrain from this security check. Please let me know how you get on.
Many thanks and kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 04:24, 26 November 2011 (CST)
----
Veer ji,
I have made a few changes to your account. Could you please try a small editing session to test if this has cured the system problem.
Many thanks and kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 13:21, 3 December 2011 (CST)
== Problems editing ==
Veer ji, {{SSA}}
Sorry to hear that the this problem continues; I too had to enter the Captcha words several times yesterday. Although this is annoying, I was able to continue after entering the two words. I have sent an email to the technical guys to see if they can disable this check. I keep you post on developments.
Please accept my sincere apologies for this inconvenience. Kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 09:06, 14 December 2011 (CST)
----
Veer ji,
Please try again as I am told by the technical folks that the security feature has been stood down to the "minimum" setting!
Regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 13:24, 14 December 2011 (CST)
----
Veer ji, {{SSA}}
It is upsetting to read the message that you are not even able to insert a single comma to a page. It may be due to the change that I made a few days ago; I have removed you from the bot group as this does not appear to be helping us. I hoping this will help you to continue editing the website.
As you know I too had this "captcha interruptions" every few edits and fortunately, I have some release from this at present due to complaints to the technical guys. Please see if the removal from the bot group has made any difference.
Kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 09:01, 17 December 2011 (CST)
----
Veer ji {{SSA}},
I am terribly sorry that you continue to have this problem. However, it was good that you were able to get past the "Captcha security screen" but I cannot understand the logging out from the system - I have never had that. I still get the captcha screen now and then but there has been an improvement recently as I am able to do useful work without interruption.
I will send you an email asking for certain details and we will try and see if we can improve the situation. Please let me know if there are any improvements in the meantime.
Another option is to temporarily create a new user account - say "allenwalla2" or even "aw2" and see if that behaves any better. At least then we will know if it is related to the username or your ip address.
Warm regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 11:55, 19 December 2011 (CST)
== Sikhiwiki problems - urgent ==
Veer ji,
I tried to email you but the email bounced back. Please can you contact me by email at [email protected] - Many thanks. 12:48, 20 December 2011 (CST)
== problems editing  ==
Veer ji,
Please refer to my email that I have sent to you just now. Many thanks and kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 18:08, 8 January 2012 (CST)
==Thanks for the link==
Veer ji,
Many thanks for the link. I have not read it yet but marked it for reading in the morning. Kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 19:17, 13 February 2012 (CST)
== A Bit of News ==
Veer ji,
That is indeed very good news. Hopefully, it will lead to a better understanding among the different communities that make up the capital city. I will post a link to the article in the news section soon. Many thanks and kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 07:43, 17 May 2012 (CDT)
==Another possible news post ==
Veer ji, Many thanks for another interesting looking link. I will read this in more detail in the next few days and assess it at the next update of the news & interesting links. I am most grateful for your suggestions. Many thanks again and kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 20:27, 24 May 2012 (CDT)
== Neighbors and the world  ==
Veer ji, {{WKWF}}
Many thanks again for the link; a sad development but one hopes that their deaths will not be in complete vain. It is obvious that the message of peace, unity and the brotherhood of human kind had not reached the killer. Despite the 500+ years, still many have not heard the loving words of Guru Nanak yet!
Sorry to hear about your struggles with Sikhiwiki logons - I am able to work reliably now; at times I have worked for hours with no interruptions. It frequently presents a [http://www.google.com/recaptcha/captcha Captcha] screen at the first edit but then let me continue in peace! Do you think that the problem you are having with Sikhiwiki editing is fixable? Do you use Windows or Mac system? Please could you give me some background to the system that you use to see if we can get to the bottom of this issue?
Many thanks; Kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 23:16, 11 August 2012 (CDT)
== I came from the dreamtime ==
Veer ji, {{WKWF}}
Many thanks; an interesting nostalgic story about the good old bygone days. I am most grateful for the link. [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 21:25, 30 August 2012 (CDT)
==Bicycle, 21 Rupees and Lala Pindi memories==
Veer ji, {{WKWF}}
Many thanks for another beautiful story. If only the human race had the same freedom that wild animals or birds have, we would not be confined by the iron bars called borders! Kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 19:47, 25 October 2012 (CDT)
== The death of a Maharaja - Indeed, ''"a hero's luster is never tarnished"''.==
Veer ji, {{WKWF}}
Again, many thanks for sending me the link - it was a most interesting article on the actual death and the non-Sikhi practise of Sati by the Hindu queens of the Maharaja. I am saddened that no one even attempted to save the poor souls from this deeply evil custom.
Regarding the sewa during the the storm in New York and New Jersey - It is about time we have more Sikhs helping the needy and deserving in their local communities rather than serving langar to the full and satiated among themselves; great work and I hope we will see more of this type of sewa in the future. Kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 20:07, 12 November 2012 (CST)
== Acknowledgement - late but not never!==
Veer ji, {{WKWF}}
Today, I was looking at the article on [[Harmandar Sahib]] and saw the beautiful plan that you had done when we were working on this article in 2008 and I thought I must acknowledge the great work that you put into this plan. I have (a bit late but as they say - ''better late than never!''....) included an acknowledgement at the bottom of this article on Harmandar Sahib [http://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php/Harmandar_Sahib#Acknowledgements here].
Sorry its a bit late; but your work is greatly appreciated and will proudly live on at this website. Kind regards and many thanks, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 05:24, 26 December 2012 (CST)
----
{{SSA}}, Richard
It certainly has been very useful and a great tool to get an instant idea of the location of the various important landmarks at this holy shrine. Many thanks, again for your excellent image/plan/map. Kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 18:31, 14 January 2013 (CST)
== Edits on page [[Bibi Bhani]] ==
Veer ji, {{SSA}}
Many thanks for your kind message and concern. I hope too that your family members are all in good spirits and that your health is also holding up well.
I have read the amended version of the above article and you have done a great job. As you mentioned, it was the old custom for fathers not to ask too much of their daughters especially after they had been married. However, [[Bibi Bhani]] chose to serve her father into his old age in defiance of the old custom.
Many thanks for your continued help with this website. May the Almighty continue to bless you and assist you in every way possible. Kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 16:48, 20 January 2013 (CST)
== No Apology, but a visit! He missed a most  valuable opportunity to fix this dreadful leaf in British history. ==
Dear Veer ji, {{SSA}}
Shame, he was not more bolder and braver; he missed an opportunity to fix a wrong done so many years ago. We will need a more stronger person to apologise for the terrible crime that took place here at the cost of the blood so many 1000's of innocent freedom lovers!
Many thanks for the link. Kind regards and good wishes, 19:13, 20 February 2013 (CST)
== Sikh yatrees arrive from India to attend Besakhi festival ==
Dear Veer ji, {{SSA}}
Many thanks for the link to an interesting story and the proof of continued lukewarm friendship between the neighbours. However, it seems that the cross-border controls remain the same as before and the volume of traffic has been kept to a minimum; 3000 is a very small number when you know that there are nearly 13,000,000 Sikhs in Punjab!  I am sure more would like to go if they could. Many thanks and kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 22:42, 10 April 2013 (CDT)
== Quebec to ban Sikh symbols ==
Dear brother, {{SSA}}
Many thanks for the link. This is a great concern; a highly negative move by politician who have no concept of freedom or liberty; They are the ones who are responsible of the rise in crime and lawlessness and the decline in mortality that we observe around the world.
The carrying of these symbols as we all know is a mandatory requirement of Sikhs and for a good reason that has been tried and tested through history. You will remember that when no one raised their voice when Guru Tegh Badadur was beheaded by the evil Mughals and all who were present "hid behind" the "common appearance" of the typical Indian of the time. The mandatory symbols were imposed by Guru Gobind Singh for an important reason - It is so that the Sikhs remember who and what they represent and stand for; that the defence of truth is above all and that they must not hid behind the "normal appearance" when a wrong takes place.
I am most grateful to you for the link. Good health and kind regards, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 09:41, 26 August 2013 (CDT)
== Sikhs being mistaken as Muslims: Blue Bloods - Episode: Mistaken Identity S4 Ep10 (41:31)  ==
Dear Bhai Sahib ji
Many thanks for the message.
Unfortunately, I am unable to watch the video here in the UK probably because it will be aired on a paid TV channel here and so cannot be seen on youtube or other such 'free' media.
However, I was able to watch the beginning as a teaser and I get a general picture of the plot. I believe that I can understand what you mean when you point to the different time marks in the video. I agree that it is a healthy development which hopefully will bring awareness to the general masses about the different communities that form this world!
Many thanks for highlighting this TV show. Lets hope that we have more of this coming along in the near future.
Kind regards and the best of health. [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 11:07, 20 December 2013 (CST)
== Khalsa Diwan Sikh Temple ==
Bhai Sahib ji,  {{SSA}}
Many thanks for your very thoughtful message. I have updated the page [[Khalsa Diwan Sikh Temple]] with a bit more data from Wikipedia but not added anything about the recent discovery of the US Navy ANM66 bomb. Please feel free to add this to the page as it will help make the page even more informative.
The Guru's blessings, kind regards and many thanks again, [[user:hari singh|Hari Singh]]<sup>[[User talk:Hari singh|talk]]</sup> 20:44, 9 February 2014 (CST)
== Baenti ==
Waheguru ji ka khalsa
Waheguru ji ki fateh
Waheguruji dass baenti krna chahunda hai ki jo aap ji ne Hari Singh Nalwa di photo upload keeti hoyi hai, ki uss nu dass t-shirt design layi use kar sakda hai?
== OK, please include a credit to Sikhwiki ==
OK

Latest revision as of 08:01, 26 October 2014

WMBarnstar.png Aslee seetara - The SikhiWiki Working Man's Barnstar
"As a show of my appreciation of your continued, dedicated and tireless work on SikhiWiki please accept this SikhiWiki Working Man's Barnstar. Many thanks for your continued dedication and hard work. You are doing an most Wonderful job! Well done. I hope you like the barnstar!" Cheers, Hari singhtalk 18:25, 5 February 2008 (GMT)

Archived Files

New messages

Interesting bit of code - w      a      h

Archive

Bhai sahib ji,

Archive has been done. I can't remember seeing any specific introduction for this process but I will try and look these up for future use. For the time being it was easier just to do the archive as it only takes a minute or so. Rab rakha. Hari Singhtalk 12:39, 28 July 2010 (UTC)

Why Sikhs do not worship Idols

Because Idols itself is non living thing, so worshipping idol is Fake worship. If one have to worship by heart why to use idols? Even Guru Granth Sahib is not worshipped in Sikhism, because it's Holy BOOK, books are not wrshipped. It is called GUru because it contains wisdom which when enters in person then becomes Shabad Guru. Thousands bow before granth for it's wisdom but it is not guru for thousands, because only few have understand them. They are blindly calling it Guru, because we call it guru.

So it's not worshipped but admired or respect. If we will start worship BOOK(Granth) then again we are fools because again it is non living thing. Tomarrow i will start worshipping my Bed.

So Main concept is god resides in GHAT GHAT not KANN KANN. It resides in heart. We could get it from heart not by these worldly things.

Now if someone make Picture of guru, it's just imagination, but sir most of the people are stick to pictures, may be you do not know as you are in England. but i have seen in india and heard in most of countries.

Worshiping picture is again equal to worship idols. If god resides in picture then i have three picture of nanak at myu home and I HAVE GOD.YIPPIE!!!!!

Now i feel you understand why i created that article.

Now why i am merging it, because it's not so long topic, so better to make a section in idol worship and put this data there.

do you know

Ravidas aginst idol worship - kabir panthis make his idols Kabir against idol worship - ERavidasis make his idols and worship it Nanak Against idol worship - Sindhi people make idols of nanak

isn't it funny? it's cultural impact.

Now in many gurdwaras photos are worshipped like anything.

GURU STANDING in photo and people is touching feet of photo. they doi not understand it's imagination of someone, you should admire art not to treat it like god.


that was my point. any criticism pls tell.

Hor sunao how are you howz life going?

(Lucky 11:57, 30 July 2010 (UTC))

Idol worship

Bhai Sahib ji,

Many thanks for the message which I got from the page history.

Unfortunately, this is an issue which has very strong undercurrents for many Sikhs, especially ones with close ties with India. I believe the main reason for this is the fact that they have very strong hate for the way that Hindus carry out their devotion to idols, statues and pictures of their gods. Also, many consider Hindus as "their rivals" and so to rubbish their practises gives them much satisfaction and pride!

For most Sikhs who do not have links with India, this is a non-issue - they know that a picture of a Guru, for example, has no resemblance to reality and is just an artists representation and a way to better focus on the personality. Further "worshipping" the picture, or the book or even the word will produce no merit in the person; the only thing that will elevate the person is to listen to the words of the wise people and re-focus your living in tune with their wisdom - only that will make you a better person.

Idol worshipping is a trait historically of the people of India and in many villages, this tradition still continues to this day. Many will "decorate" and "kiss" pictures of their gods and do "arti" with incense and candle (or diva) and truly believe that this dedication will please their god!

That is the ritual that is criticised in Gurbani. Does this help? Hari Singhtalk 19:05, 30 July 2010 (EDT)


Ghat Ghat Kann Kann

  • KANN KANN (PRESENT IN EVERY PARTICLE => NON LIVING + LIVING)
  • GHAT GHAT (PRESENT IN HEART => LIVING)

Gurbani do not believe in Kann Kann philosphy, but GHAT GHAT philosphy. God resides in heart not in particles. KANN KANN Philosphy people are Grave Worshipper, Idolators, etc.
Ghat GHat philosphy are finders, true seekers.

Like Hari SIngh told no use of idol worship, because God is present in beings not My COmputer or my bed or in my glass.

that is difference i hope clear.

Ya i have seen Rocket Singh, it's movie on marketing. shown sikh way of life and movie is about making money in ethics, but you must find bit distortion of ethics on rocket singh side too....isn't it? (Lucky 22:13, 30 July 2010 (EDT))

Rapid transport, Amritsar & RRR...ocket Singh

Bhai sahib ji,

Thanks for adding this article; I will see if we can get adequate material for a feature or just put this as a news article.

Also grateful for your comments on Rocket Singh - I have not seen this movie but now, having read your comments will try and see this film even if it is on DVD. Raab rakha, Hari Singhtalk 19:37, 1 August 2010 (EDT)

Pahul & Kutha

Bhai Sahib ji,

Many thanks for your detailed messages - I have made some of the changes suggested on both articles and "locked" the pahul article for new and unregistered users as there was a lot of nonsense added by some of the new users.

Bhai sahib, I find it annoying when the years from 1699 to 1708 (about 9 years) become more important than the whole of the period from 1469 to 1699 (about 230 years) when the Khalsa Sikh did not exist. Further, some of these Sikhs are completely focused on these rituals and have no idea of the words preached by the holy Granth.

Unfortunately, I see a lot of " detail refining" of the old customs and oral tradition started by Guru Gobind Singh especially in 1699 with the creation of the Khalsa. Each of the elements is refined to an infinite degree - The Guru stipulated just five kakkars in very basic terms - Kesh, kanga, kirpan, kaccha and kara - no material was stipulated; no details were given. Now we have many cults who have added others items to these five - Some factions who go further and stipulate materials, dimensions and other additions. More attention is drawn to these customs than to the text and message of the holy Granth.

If these were to be complex requirements and more important than the "shabad", the Guru would have mentioned them in written form! As there is no direct written record of these items, I can only deduce that these are items that are simple and left to the imagination of the individual or the local communities. The whole of the Amrit ceremony and its requirement is left by the Guru as a "oral tradition" passed from one generation to the next - surely that speaks volumes - If it was intended to be a "strict and rigid routine" or a ceremony where detailed and complex actions were paramount, then I believe that the Guru would have at Nanded sat down and prepared a comprehensive written record.

Therefore, Bhai sahib, it is my belief that the Amrit Sanchar ceremony is by design a simple ceremony and the requirements for the Khalsa are easy to memorise and few in number; further apart from these simple requirements, detailed refinement is not necessary or useful for the betterment of the person.

Pahul: I have made the change to the four Kurehata - Regarding meat - I have left the two options as this is how this works in real life - Some jathas ban meat altogether while some ban halal only; I have reverted to an older version of the article but I think I have captured all your amendments but removed referenced to steel or iron or even wooden for the Kanga as suggested by you; removed the unnecessary references to metals for the kara and kirpan. I could not find the reference to "iron" bowl but again this is not necessary and I will spent more time on this article soon and try and remove these unnecessary "refinements" to the original requirements.

I have also, upon your observation, removed the reference to eye brows and facial hair as I believe that this is just a further unnecessary "refinement" by others. The Guru said "Kesh" which is a reference to the longer hair found on the scalp of most of us and the long hair (beard and moustache) found on the faces of most men. I do not believe that the removal of facial hair by women has any bearing on the word "Kesh".

Bhai sahib, all is well with the my family; many thanks for asking. I too hope and wish that you together with all who are near and dear to you are keeping in good health and positive spirits. I have no news about the floods intruding historical Gurdwaras; having spoken to my friend who has many relations in Pakistan, I believe that the flood are confined to the north and the shrines may have escaped the floods. I have watched the news video with great sadness as huge devastation has taken place. May the Almighty have mercy!

I think the restriction on the Panj Pyare is wrong - women can and do now take part as the five; the same applied to doing sewa at the Akal takhat. When we were in India a few years ago, my niece was allowed to take part without any problems. The monthly cycle in woman is a natural occurrence and cannot be deemed "unclean"; without it none of us would have been born!

Sorry about the long length of the reply. Keep well, Raab Rakha, Hari Singhtalk 19:09, 4 August 2010 (EDT)

Siri Guru Granth Sahib and Barbarism

Bhai Sahib ji,

Siri Guru Granth Sahib: What is the Siri Guru Granth Sahib?

"The Siri Guru Granth Sahib is the living Guru (spiritual teacher) of the Sikhs. Though the Sikhs bow to the Granth (Book), according it the same respect once paid to their living human Gurus, the Sikhs do not 'worship' the Siri Guru Granth Sahib for that is forbidden – Only the One Almighty God is to be worshipped. Guru Nanak's followers are Sikhs (seekers of truth). Guru Nanak taught them to bow only before God, and to link themselves to the Guru, the Light of Truth, who lives always in direct consciousness of God, experiencing no separation.

It is 1430 pages of words in a permutation and combination to stimulate the hypothalamus, giving intuition to mother of knowledge, giving us courage, strength of our divine father, and to give us the excellence to be a lion among the beasts and to be the princess of Kaurs."

Bhai sahib, that is excellent and totally correct as far as Gurmat is concerned - Unfortunately, many do not understand the depth of Gurbani and hence do 'worship' the Granth overlooking the word and the message in the Shabad which is the essence of the Guru - Please go ahead and add this freely as it is precise message of the Gurus.

Why Sikhs turn away ...i have wondered why several Sikhs I have written to on this site, who first offered help, wanted nothing to do with me after learning i was not a Sikh, an Indian or perhaps just because i am a westerner?

Bhai sahib, this is probably to do with lack of confidence in themselves - Many Sikhs have only very basic knowledge of Sikhi and therefore probably feel out of place trying to discuss the finer points especially to a westerner who is also "foreign" to them. The strangeness in the experience is probably too much for them to handle - that's my guess!

Brutality in Afghanistan

Very touching story of the little girl with the missing nose & ears and the killing of 10 care workers - No words can explain how we as humans can behave in such degrading manner; only the Lord can rectify the minds of the people who carry out such inhumane acts and tread on these repulsive ways; may He give us the strength to overcome such barbaric behaviour - acts worse than performed by animals.

Also on the other hand I thanks God that he has given us the technology and compassion to mend some of these scars; unfortunately the lost ones cannot be replaced by us but I am sure they will find peace despite their demise here; the suffering of the relatives will continue for a long time.

Perhaps, it is for these "over-burdening of sins" that disasters such as in Pakistan now and previous earthquakes and tsunamis befall some of the regions where there is no adherence to righteousness. It reminds me of the quote in the Dasam Granth Ath_Nihkalanki_Chobisvon_Avtar_Kathan#Page_1151 - The earth agonised by sin trembled and began to weep .... Overburdened by the weight of sin, it lamented in various ways before the Lord.137. The Lord instructed the earth and saw her off; He reflected on the measure to be adopted for finishing the burden of the earth.138.

May the Lord bless us so that these evils are not witnessed by us any more, Raab rakha, Hari Singhtalk 13:05, 7 August 2010 (EDT)

Sandhanvalia or Sandharivalia ie N or RI?

Bhai sahib ji,

Thanks for an interesting question - Sandhanvalia or Sandharivalia. I am not too familiar with this family - it seem from the content of the page HERE that perhaps it should be "RI" but the name in the title has a "N".


I will need to see if I can read some old books online about this family - This is a good place to try. I will revert back to you soon ....I hope! Raab Rakha, Hari Singhtalk 11:03, 12 August 2010 (EDT)

Bhai sahib ji,

Could also be Sindhianwala sardars? see this as well! Will update soon. Regards, Hari Singhtalk 11:54, 12 August 2010 (EDT)

bit of news and Opinion requested

Bhai sahib ji

Many thanks for the links; particularly the one to "Delhi students find main belt asteroid" which is both interesting and surprising - I thought that most asteroids had already been charted as this arm of science has been under-way for many hundreds of years! So it is amazing to find that students in India, of all places, have "discovered" this "new" extra-terrestrial object.

The floods in Pakistan highlight the destructive power of nature and God who most people do not recognise! It shows how quickly things can change from "normal" to perilous - almost at a blink of the eye. Let's hope that things will settle down and some normality will return to the region. If the estimates of the impact of this setback are true than it appears that this tragedy will put Pakistan back 10 years - a reality that they can ill afford considering the difficulties that they have been suffering under the present government.

Regarding the "new art" depictions of both Mughals and Sikhs, I think some of these "younger" artists have let their imaginations go into overdrive; I cannot imagine that in 16-18th century India you would find anything resembling what can be seen in these photos. Also, as you say, the copyright efforts inserted by the artists are too intrusive for comfort. Let us monitor the position as I do not think there is too many more of these images available and we will step in if this gets out of hand. I think your reaction is perfectly understandable and I agree with your stand; many thanks for highlighting this dangerous trend. Raab rakha, Hari Singhtalk 12:06, 15 August 2010 (EDT)

Question

Bhai sahib ji,

Have part replied on the Talk:Gurudwara Amb Sahib page; hope this explains a few of the confusing references.

Sorry, I failed to address one of your main concerns; the concept of copyright when applied to Sikh art or Sikh history in general is a little bit different from the western stand point; traditional, the promotion of Sikh values is considered more important than copyright and so in the past has always been subservient in this respect. Although some movement has taken place in this respect in recent times, I believe that the modern trend has been very slow in changing attitudes in the public domain.

So far, I have never come across any copyright legal action in a court of law connected with Sikh art or historical accounts; however, this may change! I do not believe that the artist would be concerned as long as his "copyright notice" is not unduly tampered with. If this notice is tampered with then they would get concerned.

So the notice is there to "advertise" the artist and so has to remain if we wish to use the image. I believe that if the notice is small then this is acceptable otherwise we should not use the image here at SikhiWiki. I believe that the artists are aware and actively desire that their art is displayed but with the "notice" clearly visible. They would not release an image without the notice as this would then be displayed everywhere without any reference to them - they would not want to take legal action in this field of Sikhi and the domain of the Guru where one is supposed to be unselfish, forgiving and generous!


The need to make the characters more muscular (as if on steroids) than real life is a modern trend and does not reflect reality no matter what the diet of these 17th century humans!


Gyani Labh Singh Bhikhi article - Yes, the removal of the photos is warranted having flicked through the series of photos - thanks for your keen observation! Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 20:08, 16 August 2010 (EDT)

Talwar

Bhai sahib ji,

Fascinating website showing the extreme skills required to make these excellent weapons; did not know steel was discovered in India; wonderful products produced by a talented craftsman. Many thanks for an enlightening experience. Raab rakha, Hari Singhtalk 16:39, 18 August 2010 (EDT)

Mysticism, History of Sikh Gurus Retold, etc

Bhai Sahib ji,

Sorry Bhai Sahib ji, I have read all your interesting messages, taken fair bit of action on some of the issues raised but unfortunately have been running out to time for the last few nights until today. I apologise for the late reply.

I read the message regarding Mysticism and then went to Wikipedia and did some amendments there; I don't know if those changes will "stick" as the users at Wikipedia have a eager tendency to overwrite things that they are not familiar with themselves.

I did some research on the concept of "mysticism" which I had not come across before and I think that although this word has not been used before in connection with Sikhi on this site, it is a concept that applies to Sikhi. As I have not encountered this word myself, I will need to become more acquainted with this concept myself first before more can be written by me. We also need to see if others have written about mysticism and Sikhi; if they have then that can be used as a starting position.

I unable at present to address your question in this respect and will revert to this topic in a few weeks.

The matter relating to Sikhi and yoga invokes bitterness in traditional Punjabi Sikhs who want to believe that Sikhi has no connection with Yoga. However, when one reads the SGGS, it is clear that the Gurus were familiar with Yoga and supporters of this form of art/skill/therapy.

History of Sikh Gurus Retold: 1469-1606 C.E By Surjit Singh Gandhi Many thanks for the link to this book; indeed it is a valuable resource. I will spent some time reading this book in the next week or so.

Your wife's video recommendation about how Muslims are treated in America was a real eye opener and a very touching encounter towards the end of the video. It is amazing how many "ordinary" people can hold such noble values despite constant media distortions of this minority community. An excellent recommendation; many thanks again. Sorry again and Raab Rakha, Hari Singhtalk 18:45, 24 August 2010 (EDT)

Hacienda de Guru Ram Das‎ and Canada, from a story in al jazeera

Bhai sahib ji,

Many thanks as always for your valuable input and highly relevant messages; I am most grateful to you. I have looked at the links that you have referred to and I think the 3HO one is correct but the second one for the Sikh Dharma should be just the one link, the second one for this option - giving two options of 3ho or www.sikhdharmaworldwide.org, in my opinion is not necessary - just have one link for each one - so my suggestion would be that the line should read: To learn more about our lifestyle at HGRD, please visit 3HO Foundation [1] and Sikh Dharm [2].


Canada & immigration: Historically there has always been resistance by the Americas to immigration from Asia; however, I think this has slowly changed and perhaps now a reasonable balance has been achieved. Obviously, it is important for the "new" nations to have a seperate identity and this takes time and careful policies. If too much immigration comes from one country, it is possible for the new identity not to develop.

When too many people from one country are allowed to come to these nations in a short period of time, there is a strong possibility of very strong links to the "father nations" remaining and hence the likelihood of the development of "freedom fighter" whose mindset remains fixed to the "father nation". Under these conditions, very little or no real development of the new country can take place. It is difficult balance to achieve and so I agree that the slow acceptance of small numbers from the "old world" is necessary to ensure stability and peace in these countries and for the slow assimilation of the ethnic population into the mainstream community.

Canada has faced a difficult time with extremist from Punjab, which I know about and extremists other nations as you mention. So I believe that in theory this apprehension in Canada and other western nations is understandable. However, this policy can also, very easily be used as a cover to discriminate and practise ethnic favouritism (a non destructive and softer version of "ethnic cleansing").

Some of these countries, due to large numbers of ethnic populations, do provide safe havens for development of extremist elements as you rightly say; the so-called Khalistan phenomenon is a classical example. I am not against the development of positive political elements in these countries, even if these are associated with the "father nations" but the promotion of violence and the raising of funds to promote violence in these nations is not acceptable.

One hopes that the politicians of these "newer" nations will be aware of these tendencies and take heed from the warnings given by PM of India and others about the potential "time bomb" if these elements are not closely and actively monitored and vigorously restrained.

Bhai sahib ji, Raab rakha, may the Lord's love dwell always in your heart, Hari Singhtalk 09:52, 28 August 2010 (EDT)


Sajid KHan apologized

As you know Sajid KHan apologized for his comments against sikh martial act and he agreed that he did not know much about this tradition.

In second round bir khalsa group again performed and judges commented it brilliant.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNA-kYIxGoM

(Lucky 09:00, 29 August 2010 (EDT))

Gatka round 2 and Nourishing Souls

Bhai sahib,

Many thank for sharing such a delightful photo presentation; indeed a fitting end to a beautiful weekend when the true message of the Gurus is reflected across the different sections of the globe.

With His blessings, may the beautiful glory of the Almighty Lord prevail everywhere. I hope that many hearts will have been touched with these pieces of media presentation and their lives will move towards a more spiritual and meaningful existence with focus on a more merciful, humble and sharing life; always remembering the Supreme power. Sada Raab rakha, Hari Singhtalk 08:29, 30 August 2010 (EDT)

PS: Have added these links to the article here : http://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php/Harmandar_Sahib#External_Links

Amritsar

Bhai sahib ji,

I was working on this article but have moved on to the five sarovars; so please carry on if you need to. I will reply in greater depth a little later as I am still in the middle of several edits on the sarovars articles with picture uploads, etc. So please excuse me for a little while. Bye just for now, Hari Singhtalk 19:53, 3 September 2010 (EDT)

Sorry. No, it wasn't a serious problem for me working on the article although as I did not realise, it did give me a "edit conflict notice". On the contrary, I hope I did not cause you too much frustration as I know the system does not allow simultaneous editing. It would be good if the system gave a warning of simultaneous editing when the second person tried to press the edit button! I am sorry, I seem to have caused you some distress.

Thanks for asking; all is well here and I hope that you and your family are also keeping well; I hope you getting a good night's sleep without any disturbance these days. I remember that you mentioned previously that you had been unable to rest properly; I hope that problem has gone away.

I do not know what the word "inhead" means but as you say it appears in a few articles on this site; I think it must be a slang used in India to signify a person who has cut hair or a 'mona' as you say. Mona means any person who has short cut hair. I agree with your 'Singh Sahib' as I have never heard of this word as well!

The word does not have any Punjabi meaning nor can I find it on Google when searched on its own but when searched together with the word 'Sikh' it direct the search to the page Mona Sikh which explains that this is a shorthand used in Punjab for 'mona' or 'rowdha' which means 'bald' but is also used to refer to a mona. Rabh Rakha, Hari Singhtalk 22:10, 3 September 2010 (EDT)

God Sharp Teeth and God is Formless

Sir, God does not have Sharp Teeth. When Gurus have to explain attributes of God then at many places in Guru Granth Sahib Gurus made form of Formless God. I Think you have not read what i am trying to convey.

In Teeth Matter, Guru Gobind Singh is explaining a Destroyer form of Formless God, and he used word Teeth under which he have taken away many for example Earthquake at Haiti(The Dangerous form of Hukam), Tsunami(Dangerous form of Hukam) etc etc and etc. So Their Guru Gobind SIngh have also mentioned that he is FORMLESS and very clearly mentioned before Bani but Some Anti Gobind SIngh's Bani elements use to quote few lines from inside instead of reading whole content and say before people that GOD is formless and GOd mentioned in Dasam Granth have FORM.

What i have done is i have taken various examples from Guru Granth Sahib that this is poetic impression which is used in Guru Granth Shaib too to explain attributes of God, and remember these attributes are also formless.

The Teeth mentioned are also formless and The Mace mentioned in God's Hand in Gurbani is also formless.

Though words are remporal so it makes confusion.

Basically i am trying to prove that they are using Wrong methodology of condenming and which is not at all perfect and not to believe at all.

(Editor 19:13, 9 September 2010 (EDT))

Many thanks for 3 years of very valuable contributions

Respected Bhai Sahib ji,

It is with great respect and honour that I have the pleasure of sending this message to you. Today, 11 September 2007, is the 3 anniversary of your first contribution to SikhiWiki; over this period you have tirelessly and consistently contributed many thousands and thousands of words of invaluable and priceless facts to this website; your dedication is beyond expression in words. It has been an act of love and commitment.

Everyday, without fail you have logged onto SikhiWiki and spent your time without any care of reward or praise or anything else; you have done this as pure Seva - as an act of labour for the Lord to spread the message of the Gurus. What may surprise some is that you are not born a Sikh but your love for the message of the Gurus has surpassed that which many born in this faith will ever attain. I salute you and your family for the love, endurance and stamina that you have shown.

Despite many hurdles and objections over the last 3 years, you have focused on the central theme and so have shown me and others how seva should be done. Apart from these humble words, I cannot perform any act to express my respect and my feeling of gratitude for the selfless service that you have performed.

I pray to the Almighty Lord to grant you all your wishes and desires and may all the world's happiness and joys be with you always; may He give you courage and strength to overcome any difficulty and may you always find peace and tranquillity in your heart. Raab Rakha, your humble fellow colleague at Sikhiwiki, Hari Singhtalk 19:43, 11 September 2010 (EDT)


Bhai Sahib ji,

Many thanks for your kind response. I was saddened to learn that you were not feeling too well a couple of days ago; I hope your health has improved and has taken a decisive turn for the better now.

You truly have done a fantastic job and I shall always be thankful for your great effort so far. It is a bonus when you say that ".... each day has been an enjoyable learning experience that has greatly enriched our lives". It is really magnificent that you have contributed so much in the 3 years but at the same time you appear to have enjoyed this exercise; it is really magical.

May the Good Lord keep it that way and may you continue to enjoy this great service and the excellent contribution for many many more years. For both our sakes, I hope I shall be sending you a similar message for this selfless service lasting 30 years in 27 years time!

You may know that the software was set-up by Bhai Gurumustuk Singh of Sikhnet but in the initial period there was little input from the wider audience; anyway, that is history, it appears that we now get a million "hits" a month which is beyond my initial expectations. Many, many thanks again to you both - including Bhabiji as well. Rab Rakha, Hari Singhtalk 13:49, 16 September 2010 (EDT)

Nadar

Bhai sahib ji

Many thanks for the message - the article will come later but just a taster for the definition of the word "Nadar" in this amazing paper - Sorry it is a bit long but I hope you will like it, Hari Singhtalk 20:38, 18 September 2010 (EDT)

Dr. Jaswant Singh Neki: Conversation with a Polymath

From Sikh Review RAVINDER SINGH TANEJA* * 6172 Commonwealth Dr., Westerville OH 43082. Email: [email protected]

A MAN OF MANY DIMENSIONS and diverse accomplishments, Dr Jaswant Singh Neki is a veritable polymath and a Renaissance man in our midst. At 84 years young, he remains a visible and active presence in Sikh affairs - one of the few public intellectuals that the Sikhs can claim.

Trained as a physician, most of us know him in his avatar as a man of medicine – psychiatrist, public health policy expert, Department Head at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, and Director of the Post Graduate Institute (PGI), Chandigarh. He also found time to serve in East Africa as advisor to the World Health Organization.

But we don't always connect Dr J.S. Neki, the medical man, with Neki, the award winning poet. Few of us know that his first published poem - in praise of Guru Gobind Singh Ji written in Braj Basha – appeared in the Khalsa Samachar way back in 1937, when he was barely twelve years old. Awarded the Sahitya Akademi award in 1978 for his work: "Karuna Di Chhuh Ton Magron", he has over a dozen published collections of poetry, beginning with: “Asle to Ohle Tak” in 1955 through the ground breaking autobiographical: "Koi Naon Na Jane Mera" in 2000.

Gurbani Exegesis:

He is also a distinguished scholar of Sikhi with a prolific output – in English and Punjabi. His works include the classic “Ardaas: Darshan Roop Te Abhiyas,” an exposition of Sikh congregational prayer; Sada Vigas, a profoundly original interpretation of Gurbani; Achetan di Leela, a psychological perspective on Gurmat; Divine Intimations, an English translation of Nitnem in verse; Prophet of Devotion, the life of Guru Angad; Pilgrimage to Hemkunt, a coffee table travelogue, Punjabi Haas Vilas, a book on Punjabi humour - and other works.

Dr. Neki is also an invaluable original source for anyone interested in Sikh history. Since his days as the President of the All India Sikh Students Federation, in 1949, to his present role as advisor to the Dharam Prachar Committee, SGPC, and General Secretary of the Bhai Vir Singh Sadan, New Delhi, he has been an active witness and participant in contemporary Sikh affairs, with a first-hand knowledge and acquaintance with the Who‟s Who of the Sikh world.

Although I have known him over the years, our meetings have been intermittent and far between, usually in social settings that are not always conducive to the kind of systematic exploration of his thought and outlook that I wished to record.

His recent presence in Columbus, Ohio, (USA) gave me that opportunity. Over a couple of extended private conversations and a Sikhi workshop organized by the local Sangat, we explored the entire range of Sikh experience, covering the gamut from the implication of being a Sikh, Sikh belief and practice, the current state of Sikh Institutions and the challenge of moral and ethical issues stemming from technology. In the process, I also got a glimpse of the defining events in his life.

Dr Neki would rank high on my list of individuals that I would want to invite home for an evening of scintillating conversation. He has a certain gravitas about him (not surprising in one devoted to literary and scholarly pursuits), but wears it lightly. He can expound on abstruse philosophical concepts, but always with a touch of humour and with an open mind. He is a raconteur extraordinaire, and can hold you spell-bound with stories and anecdotes; or have you in peals of laughter with jokes – all used with great effect to put his point across.

Porous Boundaries:

Jaswant Singh Neki became the first “born Sikh” in his family in 1925. Religious boundaries between Hindu and Sikh were rather porous then, unlike the hardened walls that we witness today. It was not uncommon for Punjabi families to straddle what can be termed “mixed identities.” So it was with Dr Neki‟s family.

“Expect the Unexpected” would be an apt header for any narration of Dr Neki‟s life. Hearing him recount the sheer number of coincidences – or synchronicities, if you will – that have shaped the course of his life is nothing short of miraculous. I share a few of them, not so much to chronicle his life but to view these events from a Sikh perspective.

The partition of India in 1947 found the young Jaswant Singh - then a medical student in Lahore – down and out in Amritsar where he had made his way. Cut off from family, homeless and penniless, he faced an uncertain future.

A series of baffling synchronicities saw him through.

First, a generous landlord, moved by his plight, offers him a room - rent to be paid when able. Just then, he chances upon the old canteen manager from Lahore, now a food stall owner in Amritsar. Free meals become available.

But most remarkably, a windfall from the most unexpected – and unknown – source solves Jaswant Singh‟s money problem, at least temporarily, enabling him to complete his medical education. Wandering aimlessly around town one evening, concerned about money, he heard a voice summon him – out of the blue. It was an old Sikh, a total stranger, who approached him with a proposition: “I have two thousand rupees on me. Can I entrust them to you for safekeeping?” he asked. “No,” Jaswant Singh responded, adding, “I am in desperate need and will be tempted to use the money.”

The old Sikh insisted, “and isn't that what money is for – to spend?” Overcome by the moment, an immensely relieved Jaswant Singh took the money, but failed to ask about the old man‟s identity or whereabouts, or where he could return it.

Now fast-forward to about a year later. Dr Neki, now a junior house physician, finds himself the beneficiary of a retroactive pay raise, with the arrears to be paid in a lump sum. His share: a princely two thousand and ten rupees!

Happy at the windfall, he plans to dine out. No sooner does he step outside, that the same voice – the one that had summoned him a year ago – rang in his ears. It was the old Sikh again, back to claim his money. Sometime later, Dr Neki found himself in a similar predicament – yet, again. Now a Demonstrator at Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, he had a run in with the Principal

over a day‟s personal leave that he needed to attend to an ailing grandmother. The Principal‟s intransigence led him to resign in a fit of anger.

A Mystical Encounter:

Jobless again, he found himself wandering aimlessly – on the streets of Ludhiana this time - regretting his hasty decision. Sure enough, he had another inexplicable encounter.

As he walked, an old man, a Sikh, who was selling his wares on the street, waved to him, saying, “Don't worry about your job; you have three offers coming.” Dr Neki, needless to say, was incredulous.

No sooner did he arrive home than he found two job offers waiting for him. One was from an old class mate, an industrialist, looking for a medical officer to run a Clinic for his workers. The other was from S. Hukam Singh, the erstwhile Speaker of Parliament, offering him an editorial position on his newly founded Weekly: ‘The Spokesman’.

What, I asked Dr Neki, was his reaction? He turned to me with a smile and said, “The old man had made three offers; where is the third, I thought?” The third offer arrived the same night, via a telegram from the Medical College, Amritsar.

His marriage to the daughter of his Professor at Medical School, his appointment as PGI Director and assignment as Consultant to the WHO – all followed a similar fortuitous pattern. Dr Neki shared these - and other – events from his life to illustrate the point we happened to be discussing from Malcolm Gladwell's book, The Outliers, that successful and accomplished individuals are not propelled by genius and talent alone; they also rise on a tide of advantages, “some deserved, some not, some earned, some just plain lucky.”

Dr Neki described the “lucky breaks” in his life - in Gurmat parlance - as Nadar, or God‟s Grace. “Rabb aap aaya si” (God came Himself) he said.

Grace Abounding:

Ascribing success and accomplishment to Nadar may be the humility of a Sikh, but surely, Nadar shines randomly on all of us. Why, then, do some of us appear to connect better with the flow of Nadar? Why do these coincidences – synchronicities – appear more pronounced in some lives than others?

While I don't have the answer, I can offer a tentative explanation. The title of Dr Neki‟s translation of the Nitnem (Divine Intimations) offers a clue. These are sure signs of the Divine working in our everyday, mundane lives.

While Nadar may open doors, and talent may provide the raw material, it takes hard work, discipline, persistence and perseverance to run leading medical institutions with distinction, stay actively engaged in Sikh affairs, and turn out literary and scholarly output of a high order over a long period of time.

There is no room for idlers in Sikhi. Honest effort (udyam) is foundational to a Sikh's life and I got a glimpse of this in observing Dr Neki's punishing schedule in Columbus, OH, even when on a holiday – he was up at 2 AM, did his Nitnem and then settled down to writing for the rest of the day, yet greeting intrusions like mine with cheer.

It was obvious that the discipline and structure had been cultivated and honed over a lifetime.

Dr Neki's eclectic and holistic approach to Sikh scholarship was shaped early on by the influence of his grandfather, a man of learning with an abiding interest in Holy Gurbani, and later, in Amritsar, by iconic figures of Sikh scholarship - Professor Sahib Singh, Bhai Jodh Singh and Principal Teja Singh, with whom he had regular contact.

An incident Dr Neki narrated that involved these three stalwarts is worth narrating because it highlights the mutual respect and camaraderie that they shared, but also because they left a lasting impression on Dr Neki that influences his thinking ever since.

Professor Sahib Singh had been invited to preside over an event organized by the AISSF. Sahib Singh demurred, explaining that he was pressed for time. He was then completing his seminal work on Gurbani Vyakaran (grammar) “A lot of what he said about Vyakaran went right over my head,” Dr Neki told me with a laugh. But Sahib Singh suggested Bhai Jodh Singh as an alternative, “Bhai Jodh Singh noon kyon nahin puchda?” (Why done you ask Bhai Jodh Singh?) Bhai Jodh Singh, it turned out, had a prior commitment and suggested Sahib Singh instead, “Sahib Singh hora noon kyon nahin puchda?” (Why done you ask Sahib Singh?)

When told that Sahib Singh could not make it, he solicited Bhai Jodh Singh view about the importance of grammar in understanding Gurbani. Bhai Jodh Singh responded with a "chicken and egg" question of his own, “kaka, mainu eh das, grammar pehlon aayi see keh language?” (Son, tell me this, what came first - grammar or language?)

Experiencing The Divinity:

Professor Teja Singh agreed to preside over the event. His response to the grammar and language question is a gem - in my opinion. Conceding that both Sahib Singh and Jodh Singh were more learned than he, Teja Singh agreed that both grammar and meaning (language) were important, but the true import of Gurbani rested on personal experience as well. “Mere NaloN siyaneh neh, par anubhav zaruri hai.” (They are more wiser than me, but "anubhav" (intuition) is necessary) That alone will lead to the Transcendent.


In speaking of a Sikh's engagement with the Guru Granth Sahib, Dr Neki sounded a similar note of caution. There are multiple senses in Gurbani, and we can get caught up in the literal or allegorical but miss the anagogical. The mode of communication that the Guru‟s have employed, Poetry, is not meant to be informational only - but transformational as well. Poetry is letting the WORD be heard beyond the literal meaning of the textual words.

Gurbani must not just be read and understood but “ingested”, which involves assimilation and absorption. It is this natural amalgamation of science and poetry, of combining metaphor and analogy – of multiple senses and ways of looking at Reality – that is so visible in Dr Neki's work, and gives it a beauty and transcendence that can be transporting. An example from Sada Vigas comes to mind.

Link with the Spirit:

In an essay on the different dimensions of transcendence (Paramatma Da Deedar), Dr Neki uses the reproductive process as an illustration of transcending oneself (Haumai) in an exquisitely poetic way: the metaphor of a delirious lover used for the male sperm; its wiggling tail as a sign of its delight in finding the beloved female egg, and in the ultimate loss of a separate sense of self that results from the union.

While such a fruitful combination of the scientific and poetic outlook within an individual - like Dr Neki - may be deemed Nadar, it is nonetheless, an attitude that one needs to consciously cultivate.

This fusion of science and poetry is a necessary framework to understand Sikhi in our current context. The two are not quite as apart as we have been led to believe. I found the following quote from the Scientific Activist very apt: “A scientist is an empirical poet and a poet is a scientist of more imaginative and creative hypotheses.” A Sikh's life must be at once musical, mathematically precise and poetic.

My purpose in capturing and recording these conversations goes beyond a personal desire to share vignettes from the life of a multi faceted personality and a much admired role model.

Dr Neki is an important literary figure in his own right and a living link to many iconic figures in our recent history as well as an active participant in shaping our community.

There is a compelling need to maintain that link to our past by cultivating the habit of recording, documenting and archiving – of not neglecting – individuals like Dr Jaswant Singh Neki while they are still in our midst. I have attempted to capture a bit of oral history which I believe is just as significant as the written tradition in keeping our past alive. These recordings are bits and bytes of our larger history.

Third Killer Performance

Bir Khalsa Group Third Killer Group. Sajid Comment that now he believe that KHalsa have power to stand before lakhs.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JuYxeE8XKrw

Nadar, universe and other things

Bhai Sahib ji

It was amazing how "Good luck" appears from nowhere when it is most needed as it did for Dr Neki! I am glad you enjoyed this article about him.

No, I am not familiar with the Burningman event but know a little about the "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" and also the "Dr Who" series which was a popular old science fiction TV serial which I used to watch when at school & college.

Preceding Diwali there is an event where an effigy of "Ravan" is burnt in a huge bonfire (Diwali being a Hindu celebration of Rama defeating Ravan, rescuing Sita and returning home triumphantly); I recall this from my distant memory of events in Kenya when all our community religious events were celebrated together with all other members of the community; so we all, despite our different religions took part in every Sikh, Hindu and Muslim celebrations.

We have not watched the film "My Name is Khan" but the custom of burning the corpse outside in the open covered with wood is still common place in India. I have seen clips of the movie and understand the general message that it is trying to convey! It is normally just a few in the community who spoil it for the rest!

As you say, not too many Westerns will see this movie and so many of the shortcomings will not be noticed even by ethnic American! Also, due to the huge size of the USA, not many will understand the significance of these landmarks and their exact locations.

I did visited San Francisco and CA in 1995; I found the folks there generally appeared to be in a "big rush" all the time! I hope that has changed now!

Khan is a great actor and its is not surprising that you found his performance "remarkable". I find that he can very easily convince the audience about any role that he chooses to perform - a huge natural talent; Kajol too is our favourite as well - she always appears to be a happy and positive personality! An excellent actress!

No, please - thanks for sharing - it is the mundane things that makes life interesting and meaningful. As you say, just like Mr Khan, many people in life can only see - black or white - in so doing they miss out on the full colours of the rainbow!

File:Sant-Jarnail-aw.jpg - I hope I have removed the correct unwanted images. Many thanks, Raab Rakha, Hari Singhtalk 09:30, 20 September 2010 (EDT)


Bhai sahib ji,

Please review the article on Nadar. I hope you will like it. Please feel free to amend as you regard necessary. Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 15:43, 21 September 2010 (EDT)

Gurdwara Pathar sahib

Bhai sahib ji,

Sat Sri Akaal ji, Many thanks for your message and the link to what looks like a very comprehensive article; many thanks again - I will read it over the weekend.

I hope you had a great time in the Bay Area and that all is well with bhabiji's mother; obviously a popular area with a bonus of a few Sikhi connections as well.

I have not looked at the directions given in the above article; I believe that sarbjeet may have started the article and as he lives in J & K it may be he has done a 'cut and paste' from some other article. The name should not be in all capitals; this is probably due to the 'cut & paste' exercise used! At some point I hope I will get a 'software robot' which I think is called a 'bot' to do these tidying-up exercises; I need to sharpen up my programming skills!

Bhai sahib, Leh does have an airport according to http://www.skyscanner.net/airports/ixl/leh-airport.html. Also again with the help of the miracle of Google search, it appears that flights from Delhi to Leh do exist as per the link: http://www.mapsofindia.com/flight-schedule/delhi-leh.html

Delhi to Jammu also has flights as displayed here - http://www.mapsofindia.com/flight-schedule/delhi-jammu.html

I believe that Sarbjeet is more likely to know - I will send him a message if required after I have had a look at the article myself later.

taposthan - 'tapo' - meditate/endurance/penance/worship; and 'asthan' - place/building/shrine. So the place where meditation/worship took place - place of worship/meditation

I hope that help. Kind regards and may the Lord's blessings be with you always, Hari Singhtalk 09:59, 2 October 2010 (EDT)


Further and thanks to your link, I have written this article - On this platter are these things based on the editorial piece in the pdf file. I have changed the initial setting from 2004 to 2008 as this is likely to still be in the minds of readers! Regards, Hari Singhtalk 21:12, 2 October 2010 (EDT)

Never beg from others and more

picture similar to the one in the video

Bhai sahib ji,

Many thanks for the work on the above article; I have read it and it sounds great. You have done an excellent job as always. You are also correct about the sadhus - you don't find them in Gurdwaras.

Because these days they are after money and food is normally just an excuse to get "their foot in" - once you start entertaining them, they will find your weaknesses and then the "extraction" mode kicks in.

Unfortunately, a lot of Sikh "priests" and "gyanis" have also joined the act and go door to door asking for donations for fictitious events like "eye camp" or langar or mass weddings of poor brides, etc in India. Hopefully, the article will give some 'Gurbani base' to challenge these folks!

Bhai sahib, the elders were referred to as the "presidents" of the jatha (group) in the video and the picture is of the Golden Temple being blessed by the 10 Sikh Gurus; The Guru Granth Sahib is symbolically in the temple and so is not included at the top although I have seen pictures with the holy granth in a second row at the top.

The picture presented was like the one I have copied here in this reply; I will try and see if I can get a print locally - I will keep you posted on how I get on in my search for a picture similar to one seen in the video. Many thanks again. Raab Rakha, Hari Singhtalk 00:54, 5 October 2010 (EDT)

They want to Probe Nanak a Muslim

Nanak was a Muslim, but was Muslim by heart acc. to Nanak Muslim is Imaan wala which means Honest. Nanak was Honest about his faith. he was not some circumcized person who believe god in mecca only and believe in ritual and rites.

Guru Granth Sahib's Subject is WHAT IS THAT ONE? This is not at all concept in Quran. Quran do have attributes of God but the explanation of Spirituality is explained in Gurmat only. What is god, what it does, how it does, hwhat is spirit, what spirit makes what it is make of what spirit have to do to merge in supreme commans etc. whole spirituals topics are concerned with Sikhism or you can say directly explained in easy language by Gurus.

many religion try to explain something in stories, but people became followers of story rather then following the concept.

1) Nanak turned Mecca, it does not mean Nanak revolved whole mecca city, MECCA is attributed as MIND in Guru Granth Shaib. Mecca Turn means Their Mind turns, their wrong thinkings about god turns. Similarly namdev turned Temple means Namdev's Mind turned toward God. NANAK explanation of Allah turned MECCA of Muslims(not outer mecca). Now this thing became popularize and people started thinking that NANAk turned whole Mecca city with his feet.

2) Nanak did Vichar with all high class people, he very less did parchar in normal people, reason being, common people will not able to listen against rituals, shiva vishnu etc. So you could check his bani which contains discussion with high grade people. The terminology which are used in Bani are basically a scholarly terminology, normal people not able to understand it DIRECTLY, ya if they have read meanings in their understandable form only they could undertsand message.

Why Nanak did vichar with high class people? because if they willcome on way the other class people who are actually followers of preachings by high class people also started way of God. Guru Angad sahib was one who started preaching in common people.

So the discussion was between technical people not like these people who are just studying history without studying what Gurmat says , what islam says,w hwre is the differences.

So better to study gurbani ourselves, to improve ourselves, to find god ourselves, to merge innaam ourselves. NANAK will not come again to teach all this thats why he left BANI, to study the way, to kill wrong intentions to kill Mind and heart's illusion and way to God.

These people who wrote such articles haven't studied islam properly, don't know why they touch other religions.

Only In Sikh scriptures HINDU and ISLAM dharma is opened fully and their do and don'ts are better explained, which if preached in world then people will gonna die OH WHAT THIS GRANTH IS SAYING, this is not Good granth. So these are just fake articles.

Check more such things:

Take Care (Lucky 18:00, 7 October 2010 (EDT))

Lala Lajpat Rai

Bhai Sahib ji, Sat Sri Akaal,

Many thanks for your message. I have done a quick almost word by word translation - Please see if it makes sense?

ਸਾਈਮਨ ਕਮੀਸ਼ਨ ਦੇ ਲਹੌਰ ਪ੝ੱਜਣ ਤੋਂ ਪੰਜ ਹਫਤੇ ਪਿਛੋਂ ਹੀ,
Simon Commission's day Lahore pujan toh panj hafta pecho hee,
Just five weeks after the Simon commission got to Lahore,

ਲਾਲਾ ਲਾਜਪਤ ਰਾਇ ਦੀ, ਦਿਲ ਦੀ ਧਾਪ ਬੰਦ ਹੋਣ ਕਾਰਣ,
Lala Lajput Rai dee, delh de dhap baand hoohr kharan
due to Lala Lajput Rais's heart beat stopping he

ਮ੝ਰਿਤੂ ਹੋ ਗਈ ਤਾਂ ਦੋ ਹਿੰਦੂ ਕੰਗ੝ਰੈਸੀ ਡਾਕਟਰਾਂ
mhereetu hoe gahee tah dho Hindu congressi doctora
died and two Congress doctors

ਨੇ ਇਹ ਸਰਟੀਫਿਕੇਟ ਦੇ ਦਿਤਾ ਕਿ ਇਸ ਮ੝ਰਿਤੂ
nah eeh certificate dah detah ka eesh mretu
produced a certificate showing that his death

ਕਰਤਰੀ ਕਾਰਣ (Efficient cause) ਉਹ ਡਾਂਗਾਂ ਦੀਆਂ ਸੱਟਾਂ ਹੀ ਹਨ,
kartatee karran ooho thanga deeya sata hee han
was caused due to injuries caused by being hit by batons

ਜਿਹੜੀਆਂ ਕਿ ਛੇ ਹਫਤੇ ਪਹਿਲਾਂ ਉਨਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਵੱਜੀਆਂ ਸਨ |
jahreea ka cha hafta phala oona noo vajeea sahn
which had happened 6 weeks before his death.

ਇਸ ਤਰਾਂ ਆਕਾਸ਼ ਬੇਲ ਦੇ ਫ੝ੱਲਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਫਲ ਲਗੇ ਤੇ ਬਾਂਝ ਵਿਧਵਾ ਦੇ ਸਪ੝ਤ੝ਰ ਦਾ |
ees tarha aakas baal dha phula noo phal laga ta baaj veedva dha saputar da
In this way, the sky bound climber's flowers bore fruit, and the sterile widow's son

ਵਿਵਾਹ ਸੰਸਕਾਰ ਹੋਇਆ ਇਕ ਕੰਗ੝ਰੈਸੀ ਦੇਵੀ ਨੇਤਾ,
veevha sanskar hooeya ek kangrasee davee nAta,
wedding ceremony took place. At this time, one Congress lady

ਇਸ ਸਮੇਂ ਲਹੌਰ ਪਧਾਰੀ ਤੇ ਇਹ ਬਿਆਨ ਅਖਬਾਰਾਂ ਵਿਚ ਛਪਵਾ ਕੇ,
ees samha Lahore pdharee ta eeha beyhan ekhabara vich chpva ka,
came to Lahore and reported & got printed this in the newspaper and

ਮ੝ੜਦੇ ਪੈਰੀ ਕਲਕੱਤੇ ਚਲੇ ਗਈ |
murdha paree Calcatta chlaa gaee
immediately left for Calcutta.

"ਲਾਲਾ ਜੀ ਨੂੰ ਦ੝ਸ਼ਟ ਸਕਾਟ ਫਿਰੰਗੀ ਨੇ ਡਾਂਗਾਂ ਮਾਰ ਕੇ ਕਤਲ ਕਰ ਦਿੱਤਾ ਹੈ |
Lala ji nuu duust skat phergee na dhaga marg ka katl kar deta ha
"Due to the evil foreigner Scot's beating, Lal ji has died of the injuries.


ਕੀ ਪੰਜਾਬ ਦਾ ਮਰਦਊਪ੝ਣਾ ਬਿਲਕ੝ਲ ਨਿਪ੝ੰਸਕ ਬਣ ਚ੝ੱਕਾ ਹੈ? "
ke punjab de mardooprh belkul neepusak ban chuke ha?
Is the pride (manhood) of Punjab completely finished?"


Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 09:06, 11 October 2010 (EDT)

Bhai sahib ji, Many thanks for your kind words. Please feel free to put it on the article page. Thanks again and kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 19:00, 11 October 2010 (EDT)

Photos of Bhagwan!

Bhai Sahib ji, Sat Sri Akal

Thank you for a very interesting article highlighting a subtle (but not easily understood) aspect of human behaviour; although we realise God is everywhere, a picture seems to bring this to the forefront and crystallise the concept at that location. Nothing has changed apart from the appearance of an "imaginary" picture of God! Amazing how the human mind behaves and functions!

Yes, generally Sikhs do not consume tobacco and so would rarely be caught displaying this hideous habit of "public spitting"

Thanks also for the link to the miracle that unfolded in Chile this morning - luckily, we had good coverage via the BBC in this case. Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 12:03, 13 October 2010 (EDT)

Gurdwara Nanaksar Sahib & visit to Amritsar

Bhai sahib ji,

Thanks for your messages. Unfortunately, the Notice board is not very helpful and appears more like an advert showing the name of the main sewadar (Baba Balvinder Singh, the 14th in the line of "Akali 96 Karori, )and the many titles that people hold and little else of much use. It may? be located in Chawni Nihang Singh, Bathinda District although I cannot locate this as a village so it may refer to something else. The full name of the Gurdwara is 'Gurdwara Nanaksar Sahib, Pehli Patshahi'. 'Pehli (first) Patshahi (king)' standing for the first Guru. The connection to the Buddha Dal is also given but no other details of the location.

President's visit: I wonder how much of this story is true - it may just be something to bring anti-India propaganda later if he does not go! I agree it is exciting to think of the President going to the Golden Temple but I would not hold too much hope. The upside would be more education for the world about Sikhs, I agree totally. Let's hope this works out. Raab rakha & kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 14:15, 15 October 2010 (EDT)

There may be some truth in this story unbelievable as it may seem! Hari Singhtalk 17:16, 15 October 2010 (EDT)

Appointment of Akal takhat jathedar

Queen during her visit to the Golden Temple

Bhai sahib ji,

The requirement is simply to cover the head and I have seen many youngsters wear a baseball cap to the darbar hall and this is perfectly acceptable also woolly caps are often worn by ladies in addition to scarves, etc. I am sure considering that it is the president, a cap or any other such head covering like the ones mentioned by you will be accepted by the Sikhs leaders; the US Navy hat sounds like a great idea. Obama wearing a cap for Golden Temple visit is no issue: SGPC

When the Queen, bless her soul, visited the Golden Temple (see picture) she wore her matching beautiful hat. Many leaders have visited this shrine to pay their respects to this shrine which is where the "message of Guru Nanak" was first honoured - this is what the shrine stands for. It is an honour for the Sikhs if one visits and the person also honours the deep and enlightening message of the Gurus. This is important and I hope the administrator in the USA will consider this carefully.

I think to stop the visit for such a small thing is throwing mud into the face of the ideals of inter-faith dialogue. If we speak about high principles and wisdom than this is just a big blow to that; we are buckling due to common public perception based on a false foundation.

Akal Takhat Unfortunately, the audio is in Punjabi but I am hoping to do an article on this as it was an eye-opener for me and I am sure you will be suitably alarmed to find out the realities surrounding the way the jathedar is elected and the minimum power that he really possess. More of this later.

Slim obama 1515209c.jpg

Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 14:20, 23 October 2010 (EDT)

Indeed, such a sad state of affairs

Bhai Sahib ji

What a miserable state of affairs! Baba Farid is recognised by many communities for his deep reverence for God and for his recognition of the true message of Allah! It is sad that all these ignorant people can do is try and cause injury to the innocent people who understand the meaning of peace and love.

Obviously, these misguided thugs cannot see the path of truth being followed as their trade in corruption and slavery is ebbing away. The region has a serious deficit in morality and righteousness - many still wish to live in the middle-ages!

Bhai sahib, many thanks again for highlighting this story; it good to be well informed although it is depressing to see humans behaving is such a lowly manner. Raab rakha, Hari Singhtalk 23:09, 25 October 2010 (EDT)


Many thanks for the link; have left a comment at the news article site - hopefully it will get published -

"Baba Farid ji is also a revered Sikh Bhagat and I find it difficult to understand how any person who calls himself or herself “human” can do such a horrendous thing at the sacred shrine of such a holy man of God.

However, despite such inhuman behaviour, we need to remember what Baba ji has said in his bani:

“Fareed, answer evil with goodness; do not fill your mind with anger.” (bottom of page 1381 of Sri Guru Granth Sahib) quoted from: http://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php/Bani_Baba_Farid_7

God will take care of these evil people. However, all the peoples of God need to unite against this devil called taliban; or al qaeda or whatever. We cannot let our small differences become a wedge that gives these men of terror a hold in society. God belongs to all and we all belong to Him! So please unite in our fight against “adharam” – unrighteous and “anti-Godly” acts by these terrorists."

Hope the appointment with the dentist went well and that all the teeth are still intact! Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 12:22, 27 October 2010 (EDT)


Bhai Sahib ji,

Dentist: As one grows older, this is always a fear - When you turn up at the dentist, the result could be leaving with one less tooth. My wife has some pain on one side of her jaw and I fear for the outcome when she too sees the dentist tomorrow!

I hope one less tooth is not going to have any significant impact on your life. I know that my brother has lost a few and everyone left is now vital!

Article on Baba Farid: I have just checked the article and yes, the comments have been published - I also read the next comment which is very poignant and I attach it here for your attention: "It is ironic that shrine of a person who converted tens of thousands to Islam through message of love and peace is attacked by so called Muslims who have successfully painted Islam as a religion of hate and made Islam a target of hatred worldwide."

I am sure that there are a combination of problems with the government in Pakistan for these attacks to continue to increase and one hopes that some change will come soon!

Hope the pain goes away. Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 09:50, 28 October 2010 (EDT)

Placing links to adverts

Bhai sahib ji, Many thanks. The user Shxxxxx? has been blocked; may be he has nothing better to do at the moment! You vigilance is appreciated. Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 23:17, 26 October 2010 (EDT)

Interesting article

Veer ji,

Many thanks as always for an article which is well considered and throws a little new light on this recent cancer of humanity. Hopefully, by focussing on this unfortunate disease that has inflicted our species, will we find a slow but sure cure. Many thanks again. Raab Rakha, Hari Singhtalk 19:54, 3 November 2010 (EDT)


Veer ji,

Excellent video about such a strong personality; many thanks for taking the trouble to give me the link. It reinforces the line where the Guru says that in kaljug (the dark age) which is now, kirtan will dominate; it is clear that certainty music has its magical influence and it can help make people rise above the doom and gloom around them! An essential portion for our troubled times!

Most grateful to you, Veer ji; really enjoyed it and it also gave me an insight into an unexplored and relatively new domain which I have only a very vague and sketchy knowledge about. Many thanks and kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 13:08, 5 November 2010 (EDT)

Your Bandi chhor good wishes most welcomed and graciously accepted; may the Lord's blessings be with you and your family too at all times. Raab sada rakha hova (May God always protect), Hari Singhtalk 19:00, 5 November 2010 (EDT)

Sandy Travels and nanak Travels to mecca

Hello Sir, Kindly visit the following link,

it contains a page of Sandy Travels who went to arabia during his tour.

Now days thispage is quoted by our sikhs to prove that nanak went to mecca. I read whole page but i am not getting where actually it is written that he went to mecca or where is the sign which support that nanak went there or something like this. The page is blurred in look, have a look on this so that i could warn these scholars or missionaries that they are taking wrong page to prove this fact and it have no relation with nanak.

if it has relation with nanak kindly simplify the whole writing and tell the line number which support this. I am trying to read it but i am not getting whcat story actually is going on. if you have your personal book of SANDY Travels by George Sandy, kindly put this page online so that one could read clearly.

Do collaborate.......thanks (Lucky 14:04, 11 November 2010 (EST))

Article "Sikh"

Bhai sahib ji,

I noticed the following on the above page - it does not seem to be very clear what this means?

DAWN.COM ON FACEBOOK

dawn.com on Facebook, he is strong".

Obviously as this was right at the beginning of the page, I have taken it off as it could cause confusion about what the word "Sikh" and our credibility generally?

I wonder what you were trying to convey? Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 20:14, 11 November 2010 (EST)

Sandy's travels and other theories about Guru Nanak

Bhai Sahib ji,

Many thanks for the message. I am of the same view as expressed by you. I do not think that Harpal Singh Kasoor website can be considered a serious site to obtained historical facts. He has some interesting theories and with more research we may or may not be able to support these theories. As you say, Sandy Travel Page 97 has no mention of Guru Nanak so cannot be used to support the Guru visit to Mecca.

I don't think there is any bad intention in Kasoor's work but an over-powering mind, indulging in the extreme which has produced some interesting views; however these views at present have no scientific or historical basis.

One thing that is of value is the inscription of the Mool Mantar at the temple in Baku. It is difficult to understand how and when this inscription ended up on this shrine. Does it have a serious connection with Guru Nanak or is it the work of someone who has a distant connection with Sikhi? Although we have covered this here at SikhiWiki, more research could help establish the nature of the link to Sikhi.

Many thanks for your comments and your contribution to this discussion. I hope someone with take time to explore in proper scientific way some of the ideas that have been put forward by this website. Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 19:37, 13 November 2010 (EST)

Religious Casteism alive and well in Nankana District & I just love to sing in Punjabi

Veer ji,

Many thanks for the excellent links. It is amazing that the place where Guru Nanak was born, the practise of casteism continues. Millions of people in far-off places have heard the call of Nanak and have been elevated while the ignorant ones living just a few miles from Nanak's birth place have heard nothing!

How low humans get in ignorance and darkness. Without education and mental realisation, one lives in hell. One ray of light is that there is at least one journalist who has some sense! Let's hope there are a few more sensible people left in Pakistan and in the judiciary in Nankana Sahib District!

Interesting story: I found a few links to the Gori's (white girl's) videos. I don't think her voice appears to fit the "desi" music style but she has a "novelty" value for the Punjabis as they probably have never seen a white girl singing in their language!

Anyway hope she is successful in her venture. I am sure she will have great fun but success is another thing.

Regards, Hari Singhtalk 12:31, 21 November 2010 (EST)

Banda Bahadur

Veer ji,

I had always assumed that Banda Singh was actually wearing a turban and only now have I noticed that he may have a metallic "helmet" with a spike on top of his turban. Unfortunately, there is no historical record as far as I know to confirm this issue and it may be best to change this if possible.

Also, we know that in the 2 WWs, the Sikhs choose to fight without helmets; there must have been some reason for them to press for this requirement and I assume that they choose this mode of dress as their predecessors had insisted on the same mode previously.

I have tested a normal motor cycle helmet with my turban and I can confirm that it is too small to fit on top of a normal turban; you can fit the helmet over a patka but not over a normal turban. The problem of cyclists and motor cyclists is the "inconvenience" of carrying a turban with you if you have to wear a helmet. And what happens if you forget your turban! For this reason, in the UK, turban wearing Sikhs are exempt from this regulation. I don't think it has resulted in any "additional" burden on the National Health Service (NHS) with increased injuries to the head.

Many thanks for the effort in changing the image. Raab rakha, Hari Singhtalk 18:36, 23 November 2010 (EST)

Harpal Singh Kasoor and User:Cocogijoqop

Veer ji,

Many thanks for your messages regarding the two above pages; the second is gone due to your vigilance and I am hoping to edit the article on H S Kasoor in due course. As you mentioned, I am not convinced that his research is dependable in its present form.

Also, the details on the user information has no references and may not be too reliable as such. I noticed that Sunny Singh Doad actually set-up this page; I wonder if he too was excited by some of the "discoveries" highlighted by H S Kasoor? I will try and deal with this page soon. Many thanks for bringing these to my attention. Raab rakha, Hari Singhtalk 09:05, 3 December 2010 (EST)

user has fun and Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon

Bhai Sahib ji,

Many thanks for you messages; I have made a note of the user with changing suffix to his name and will deal with it as soon as another user profile is created. Unfortunately, I have not figured out how to deal with these abuses via the IP address but will try and see if the Mediawiki site offers any help. I am grateful to you for your vigilance and proactive stand in this regard.

Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon: Yes, that's a good point - featuring this article for Vijay Divas. However, we need to improve this article so that we have a little more information and better presentation that is to be expected of a 'featured article'.

Obviously I do not expect the accounts by the two opposing sides to agree on what actually happened at the time; so it is not expected to give such a "compromised" view. What is clear is that the India Air Force was impressed by the courage of this pilot and chose to award him one of the highest award granted to an airman at the time. I think that is the main angle to pursue as that is what his peers appreciated and decided about this person.

Please make a start on the revision to the article and I will join in as well. Many thanks for your useful suggestions. Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 21:00, 8 December 2010 (EST)

Many new users daily

Bhai sahib ji,

Many thanks for your message and good wishes. May you and your family also have a most pleasant, prosperous and enjoyable New year.

I have sent an email to the technical guys at Sikhnet to implement a "Captcha" security system on user creation. Unfortunately, they appear to be on "vacation" but hopefully they will be able to get this security feature working soon after they return from their New year holidays.

The creation of these redundant users does not create any obvious problem but it is best stopped if at all possible. I will keep you updated on the progress. Kind regards. Raab Rakha, Hari Singhtalk 13:38, 2 January 2011 (EST)

Gur Sikh Temple

Bhai sahib ji,

Many thanks for the very interesting link to the 100 year old Gurdwara in Canada. I have featured a short intro with a link to this article in the 'Daily News' section on the Mainpage. Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 21:05, 4 January 2011 (EST)

Lahore

Hanji, my pleasure. I was busy setting up an non profit jathebandi to help poor sikhs in India and Pak, we are starting our work in Pakistan, so i wanted to set more info on Pak article :D

Families fine thanks, how are you and your family? Been a real long time. SunnySinghDoad 13:23, 11 January 2011 (EST)

Fatal shooting prompts outcry

Bhai Sahib ji, Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh

It is very good to hear from you after a long time! I hope all is well with your good self and the whole of the family. Many thanks for the message.

It is a sad piece of news in what is becoming an increasingly intolerant world. I have linked into the Sikhnet news section which appears to be covering this incident in some detail. It seems that just taking a walk is becoming a risk in one of the richest countries of the world. We have had similar crimes in many parts of the affluent world which is deeply concerning.

In the past, we were accustomed to poor individuals mainly in parts of Africa, robbing and killing for money and other expensive items but now it is not greed that is the motivation but intolerance and human division - A very ugly and serious development and a clear sign of diminishing moral standards in the world has is getting materially richer by the day. Today, we have more material wealth but morally we have become poorer. Where in the past morality and spiritual values meant something now it accounts for nothing! An alarming development which if unchecked will result in total misery for the world.

Many thanks again. Kind regards and the Lord's glorious blessings, Hari Singhtalk 02:31, 8 March 2011 (EST)

Prayer for Japan

Veer ji, Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh

Many thanks for fixing my errors in the text relating to the above article; although I had read the article several times, I failed to "see" my own mistakes. I find that when I am tired, many more mistakes result.

As always, I am most grateful to you. Many thanks also for improving the general standard of the writing on this website.

I think I have been spending too many hours daily watching the awful scenes of the disaster; a very sad and heart-wrecking tragedy for the innocent people of Japan. Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 12:21, 15 March 2011 (EDT)

Sikh adverts & Derea walas

Bhai Sahib ji, Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh

Ad Links I have noticed the advertising links by this user and I taken a few out when they were placed on articles having no association with the 5Ks but I have left others on articles related to the 5Ks.

The reason for this is that some Sikh communities are not able to buy the 5Ks locally and these links possible provide a "much needed" service to these communities.

For this reason, I believe that we should allow a few of these types of links of this sort but there will come a time when we have to perhaps place a restriction on these types of links and narrow them to a special page of say - something like - "Sikh artefacts retailers".

At present as there are not too many of these links, I have let them stay provided they relate to the subject matter on that page. However, I think if we start getting too many of these links, we will have to rethink our position on this. Bhai sahib, what are your views on this?


Ullus - (stupid, blind as) - Owls

Bhai sahib, I could not find the remark - "spreading his blasphemy to the Ullus willing to listen" that you quote but I am of the same view as you; the Gurus could not engage in such language or behaviour.

Many Sikhs do not understand the deep message of the Gurus and very frequently misinterpret their words in a way to suit their own prejudices. I hope this helps but if you need me to look at the matter in more detail, please let me know where this quote appears. It is very dangerous to associate such language to our Gurus and if it is still present in the article, I would like to remove it immediately - the fact that I cannot find it perhaps means that it has been removed already. Raab rakha, Hari Singhtalk 04:18, 20 March 2011 (EDT)


Sir i hv already removed the word Ullu Sarbjeet Singh

News and Sikhi related products

Veer ji, Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh

Sikhi related products I agree, it may be a better idea to group these adverts onto individual pages - I will try and start that in the near future as I am sure this trend is going to grow. I noticed that SikhKaras.com has approached Sikhnet and now appears on the sidebar - I think you did mentioned that for a similar website! Perhaps they have been listening to our conversation?

News item The news item Dishonour to Sikhs... is on the News section. Many thanks for the alert.

Raab Rakha, Waheguru's blessing to you and your family, Hari Singhtalk 06:28, 23 March 2011 (EDT)

Kauda Bheel

Bhai sahib ji, Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh

Many thanks for a most intriguing link - It is almost unbelievable! 500 years after the great Guru's mission in that region, we still have individuals who can engage in such a degrading and inhumane habit. I think the family must be devastated having lost a close member and then finding this!

I don't know about Islam but I think the Guru covers this in the general statements about killing beings: Kabeer, they oppress living beings and kill them, and call it proper. When the Lord calls for their account, what will their condition be? ||199|| and also You kill living beings, and call it a righteous action. Tell me, brother, what would you call an unrighteous action? You call yourself the most excellent sage; then who would you call a butcher? ||2||.

I think these statements make you wonder and question the whole aspect of killing other beings and the justifications advanced! Many thanks again for the link. Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 18:30, 7 April 2011 (EDT)

Anna Hazare

Veer ji, Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh

Sorry for the late response. No coverage of this on UK news channels especially nothing on BBC News. There appears to be a lot of coverage of national news with Libya, Syria, Yemen and Japan coming a close second; unfortunately very little from India.

I have Googled this and the news seems like an interesting development; corruption is still a big problem for many developing nations and India, in particular, is badly affected. Hopefully something good will come from his efforts. However, corruption within nations is like a huge locomotive train; it can take a very long time to stop. So unless drastic steps are taken, this national disease will not go away easily.

Also, the higher you climb up on the political ladder, the more corruption you find. For this reason, the cleansing is going to doubly difficult. Anyway, I wish him well and hope that he will start something new in the nation. Many thanks for the alert; kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 18:25, 11 April 2011 (EDT)

Peshawar & Rabab

Bhai sahib ji, Sat Sri Akal

Many thanks for the link. It is a great picture and I have downloaded it. I hope to use it for an article on manufacturing of this instrument when I have gather enough material to construct the article. It is a shame there was no write-up on the Rabab manufacturing or any other aspect of the instrument. Many thanks again; a useful resource for later. King regards and my good wishes, Hari Singhtalk 20:59, 13 May 2011 (EDT)

Many thanks for being so alert and for reading my reply so carefully; as you had correctly gathered, I only downloaded and read the one picture and relating text. Thanks to your acute awareness, I now have 7 beautiful pictures for a future article. I'm most grateful to you. Guru's blessings and kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 20:40, 14 May 2011 (EDT)

Contribute Here

Regards

(Lucky 17:09, 30 May 2011 (EDT))

Wrong practise by new user

Bhai Sahib ji,

Many thanks for the message and for asking about my and my family's well being; we are all in satisfactory health and in good spirits. I hope that you and your family too are keeping well.

Thanks to your alertness, I have taken action to reverse the changes made by the user and sent him a message to make him/her aware of our policy in respect of making any major changes to any article. Hopefully s/he will take heed! Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 22:46, 30 May 2011 (EDT)


Your views about it

Sometimes we use adjective with some words which makes feel that word have no greatness in itself for example:

1) Gursikh -> Devout Gursikh, as Gursikh is always devout 2) Gurmat -> Tatt Gurmat, as Gurmat is always Tatt, what is fake gurmat? 3) Great Devotee -> as devotee is always great, what is small devotee? and so on.

Dhann Dhann Satgur Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Maharaaj ji <---- When we say SATGUR TEGH BAHADUR, itself imples that he is dhann dhann and maharaaj(jis nun bakshe sifat salah nanak patshah patshah and sat purakh jis janeya satgur tis ka naao).

I think you understand what i want to convey. The words in Gurbani like Gurmat, Gurmukh, Satgur etc etc etc. already are so great wordss that it does not require any adjective.

General Talk, what you feel ? Kindly share your great views <--- see again great!!!! :) (Lucky 02:21, 31 May 2011 (EDT))

response by Gghatore

Bhai sahib ji, Sat Sri Akal

Many thanks for highlighting the response by Gghatore and for picking up what, as you say, is a common mistake made by many new users.

Your help, keen eye and acute sense of responsibility is much appreciated. Many thanks again and kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 14:37, 1 June 2011 (EDT)

Interesting article

Bhai Sahib ji,

I could not find a link - May be it did not copy correctly - Please can you try again. I would love to read the article. No, I don't mind being called a infidel! or being labelled Hindu! Living in this world of extremes has taught me that tolerance is an essential part of survival and a necessity if you want peace in your life. Many thanks and warm regards, Hari Singhtalk 08:23, 7 June 2011 (EDT)

news from Elk Grove

Veer ji,

Many thanks for the link.

It is a matter of great shame and pity that even when we have such a diverse, multi-cultural community in Elk Grove apparently living in harmony, there is still serious, deep rooted and sour enmity among at least a few of the members of this apparently peaceful community! It begs the question, when will the individuals of the human race begin to listen to the wise words of wisdom uttered by so many for so long! Was the mission of Lord Krishna, Jesus Christ, Moses, Prophet Mohammed (pbuh) and all the others in vain? At present, it look that way, doesn't it?

Warm regards and my best wishes to you and your family, Hari Singhtalk 15:44, 12 July 2011 (EDT)

Killings in Elk Grove

Veer ji, Sat Sri Akal

Many thanks for sharing your ideas about these terrible killings. Unfortunately, I could not access the first link as it requires a paid membership. However, I understand the point that you make. It is amazing how man had moved into another territory of crime to establish "honor"; this honor is about the same as the dreaded honor that many Asians feel when killing their daughters! A terrible development, whichever way one looks at it.

Innocent lives lost for what? This sort of irresponsible behaviour will only bring pain to society and the sooner we realise this, the better. Better education; better moral standards; better awareness; and higher values have to be established if we are to see real peace and happiness on this planet. This all appears to be a very distant dream at present! The Lord's blessings, Hari Singhtalk 02:10, 19 July 2011 (EDT)


Many thanks for the image of the news item. It is a really sad bit of news in an otherwise peaceful area. How awful that so many people die daily from gun crime in the USA.

There is an email on the news item; it may be an idea to send them an email to suggest the link between the two investigations involving Ford pickup trucks.

Isn't it time to ban the free licence to carry a gun? It appears that a lot of lunatics in the USA like to carry and use guns to settle their differences. To me that is an appalling situation.

Veer ji, stay safe and keep well, Hari Singhtalk 18:48, 20 July 2011 (EDT)

Mark Stroman's death

Veer ji, Sat Sri Akal

Many thanks again for bringing another amazing story to my attention - the victim trying to save the assailant! This is a really noble gesture and obviously a little foreign to the "American Way" where its an eye for an eye. Shame that another life is wastefully lost!

I also read the story here - http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/jul/21/texas-executes-911-revenge-killer at one of our more renowned newspaper and also read Mr Storman's website. What becomes very clear is the poor moral and ethical standards of this person's understanding. He has "picked up" the hatred and prejudices portrayed in the media and has no education or understanding of a higher level of thinking or any higher awareness of the value of life.

It is like provoking a dog - its reaction is predetermined. Similarly, Mr Storman has been bombarded with the message of hatred and Islamophobia; of anger and ill-feelings against people who do not belong to the "American way"; of the rights of the "European race" or "white man" due to their "sacrifices". He can ill understand that there is a big world outside USA which also has their way of life (probably going back 1000's of years not just a few 1000's); and they too have "their" rights.

Shame that a society ill equips its citizens for the world that surround them and then when they react in the only way that they know, the system then continues to systematically kill them in the name of law! Just to quote from wikipedia: "Among juveniles (for example, minors under the age of 16, 17, or 18, depending on legal jurisdiction) serving in correctional facilities, 86% owned a gun at some point, with 66% acquiring their first gun by age 14." If children are not taught self-discipline and the rights to life of others, and can get access to guns at an early age, it is natural that they will succumb to the power of the gun! It is the natural path to take.

A very interesting story which opens many angles of discussion but the issue is totally sad and is wasteful existence for many caught in this web. Guns and force appears to rule the waves at present! There is no compassion or forgiveness in this brave new world. It is indeed sad that so many die each year and still the crime rate continues to climb. Better education; more integration; less flag waving; more diversification are probably needed! What do you think, Veer ji? Warm regards, Hari Singhtalk 12:08, 21 July 2011 (EDT)

Worried

Veer ji, Sat Sri Akal

Many thanks for your message of concern. With the Lord's blessings everything is fine in our locality. Most of the looting and destruction is to businesses and their premises in a few isolated suburbs of London and to a lesser extent to a few other towns in England.

Unfortunately, the pented-up pressure created by this long recession has found a leak in the disillusioned youth; this pressure is being released recklessly resulting in these riots. Today's demanding society has inflicted many wounds on the lives of its members and the youngsters have found this a way to vent their anger.

Hopefully, the police will be out in larger numbers tonight and we hope that these rebels will realise that now there will be a bigger risk of arrest. So, maybe we will have less disturbance in the future. Many thanks for asking. Hope you too are keeping well. Warm regards, Hari Singhtalk 11:22, 9 August 2011 (EDT)

Problem, “Sain eeh bare Allah wale lok hun!” and another

Veer ji

I think I am getting the same problem. I tried to do this reply on Sikhiwiki and it zapped me out. So I have prepared this on Wordpad and then posted it onto Sikhiwiki. I will send an email to the technical guys!

Also, Veer ji many thanks for the links. I have read all the stories and they were very interesting; the one on Sufism was a little too detailed for me to follow fully but still enlightening. I will add more when I have a more stable system. Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 21:08, 22 August 2011 (EDT)


Veer ji,

The system now works for me. How is it for you?

Warm regards, 18:08, 23 August 2011 (EDT)

Tragedy in Delhi

Veer ji, Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh

Many thanks for the links to the tragedy that has taken place in Delhi; it is deeply disturbing news. More innocent people killed by cowards who behave in such a degrading and inhumane manner. May they all go to hell forever - never to return to this earth! Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 18:27, 7 September 2011 (EDT)

UK woman who has newly learned of Jallianwala Bagh massacre

Veer ji

Many thanks for the link - it's a great story and a worthy Sikh cause. I will set-up a link so that more UK readers can sign the petition. Excellent find! Warm regards, Hari Singhtalk 14:43, 13 September 2011 (EDT)

Faujah Singh, runner in the news

Veer ji

Sat Sri Akal. Hope all in well in your domain.

Many thanks for the link and timely reminder; I have put a short piece in the news section on the main page with a link to the news about this great achievement as narrated at the BBC website.

Warm regards, Hari Singhtalk 20:31, 17 October 2011 (EDT)

Fauja Singh - No Guinness book record

Veer ji, Sat Sri Akal

Many thanks for the link. I will wait for a few more reports locally and then adds this sad development to the article.

Kind regards, 17:45, 1 November 2011 (CDT)

a story of interest

Veer ji,

Many thanks for your message and the interesting link. I will create a news link when I get back to the UK. I am at present visiting India and as the broadband access here is restricted, I am unable to carry out my normal duties at Sikhiwiki.

I am also concerned that you cannot edit articles at Sikhiwiki. That problem has been resolved and I would like to deal with this on my return. Please could you kindly give me a brief summary of the problems that you face in using our website.

Kind regards,Hari Singhtalk 12:34, 22 November 2011 (CST)

Problems editing

Veer ji, Sat Sri Akal

Many thanks for your detailed message. Luckily, after 3 years of trying, we were able to travel as a family to India; our 2 adult kids had never been to Punjab and finally, we were able to make it happen this year with the Lord's assistance.

It is a challenging country to visit but has a tremendous amount of history and hence worth doing if at all possible. I hope that one day you will be able to come to India; as you say virtual visiting is also getting very good and is less prone to the pollution, dirt and heavy traffic!


I had the same problem that you mention but eventually this has gone away. When the system asks for the two words to be entered, first refresh and get a new set of words by pressing the refresh button a few times to get an "easy" option of words; then enter the two words and the system will accept the answers.

I found that the first words never worded correctly and only by pressing the 'refresh' button did I get the system to work. So please try this and see if you can overcome this hurdle. I think that once you have answered this correctly, the system should refrain from this security check. Please let me know how you get on.

Many thanks and kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 04:24, 26 November 2011 (CST)


Veer ji,

I have made a few changes to your account. Could you please try a small editing session to test if this has cured the system problem.

Many thanks and kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 13:21, 3 December 2011 (CST)

Problems editing

Veer ji, Sat Sri Akal

Sorry to hear that the this problem continues; I too had to enter the Captcha words several times yesterday. Although this is annoying, I was able to continue after entering the two words. I have sent an email to the technical guys to see if they can disable this check. I keep you post on developments.

Please accept my sincere apologies for this inconvenience. Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 09:06, 14 December 2011 (CST)


Veer ji,

Please try again as I am told by the technical folks that the security feature has been stood down to the "minimum" setting!

Regards, Hari Singhtalk 13:24, 14 December 2011 (CST)


Veer ji, Sat Sri Akal

It is upsetting to read the message that you are not even able to insert a single comma to a page. It may be due to the change that I made a few days ago; I have removed you from the bot group as this does not appear to be helping us. I hoping this will help you to continue editing the website.

As you know I too had this "captcha interruptions" every few edits and fortunately, I have some release from this at present due to complaints to the technical guys. Please see if the removal from the bot group has made any difference.

Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 09:01, 17 December 2011 (CST)


Veer ji Sat Sri Akal,

I am terribly sorry that you continue to have this problem. However, it was good that you were able to get past the "Captcha security screen" but I cannot understand the logging out from the system - I have never had that. I still get the captcha screen now and then but there has been an improvement recently as I am able to do useful work without interruption.

I will send you an email asking for certain details and we will try and see if we can improve the situation. Please let me know if there are any improvements in the meantime.

Another option is to temporarily create a new user account - say "allenwalla2" or even "aw2" and see if that behaves any better. At least then we will know if it is related to the username or your ip address.

Warm regards, Hari Singhtalk 11:55, 19 December 2011 (CST)

Sikhiwiki problems - urgent

Veer ji,

I tried to email you but the email bounced back. Please can you contact me by email at [email protected] - Many thanks. 12:48, 20 December 2011 (CST)

problems editing

Veer ji,

Please refer to my email that I have sent to you just now. Many thanks and kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 18:08, 8 January 2012 (CST)

Thanks for the link

Veer ji,

Many thanks for the link. I have not read it yet but marked it for reading in the morning. Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 19:17, 13 February 2012 (CST)

A Bit of News

Veer ji,

That is indeed very good news. Hopefully, it will lead to a better understanding among the different communities that make up the capital city. I will post a link to the article in the news section soon. Many thanks and kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 07:43, 17 May 2012 (CDT)

Another possible news post

Veer ji, Many thanks for another interesting looking link. I will read this in more detail in the next few days and assess it at the next update of the news & interesting links. I am most grateful for your suggestions. Many thanks again and kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 20:27, 24 May 2012 (CDT)

Neighbors and the world

Veer ji, Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh

Many thanks again for the link; a sad development but one hopes that their deaths will not be in complete vain. It is obvious that the message of peace, unity and the brotherhood of human kind had not reached the killer. Despite the 500+ years, still many have not heard the loving words of Guru Nanak yet!

Sorry to hear about your struggles with Sikhiwiki logons - I am able to work reliably now; at times I have worked for hours with no interruptions. It frequently presents a Captcha screen at the first edit but then let me continue in peace! Do you think that the problem you are having with Sikhiwiki editing is fixable? Do you use Windows or Mac system? Please could you give me some background to the system that you use to see if we can get to the bottom of this issue?

Many thanks; Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 23:16, 11 August 2012 (CDT)

I came from the dreamtime

Veer ji, Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh

Many thanks; an interesting nostalgic story about the good old bygone days. I am most grateful for the link. Hari Singhtalk 21:25, 30 August 2012 (CDT)


Bicycle, 21 Rupees and Lala Pindi memories

Veer ji, Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh

Many thanks for another beautiful story. If only the human race had the same freedom that wild animals or birds have, we would not be confined by the iron bars called borders! Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 19:47, 25 October 2012 (CDT)

The death of a Maharaja - Indeed, "a hero's luster is never tarnished".

Veer ji, Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh

Again, many thanks for sending me the link - it was a most interesting article on the actual death and the non-Sikhi practise of Sati by the Hindu queens of the Maharaja. I am saddened that no one even attempted to save the poor souls from this deeply evil custom.

Regarding the sewa during the the storm in New York and New Jersey - It is about time we have more Sikhs helping the needy and deserving in their local communities rather than serving langar to the full and satiated among themselves; great work and I hope we will see more of this type of sewa in the future. Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 20:07, 12 November 2012 (CST)

Acknowledgement - late but not never!

Veer ji, Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh

Today, I was looking at the article on Harmandar Sahib and saw the beautiful plan that you had done when we were working on this article in 2008 and I thought I must acknowledge the great work that you put into this plan. I have (a bit late but as they say - better late than never!....) included an acknowledgement at the bottom of this article on Harmandar Sahib here.

Sorry its a bit late; but your work is greatly appreciated and will proudly live on at this website. Kind regards and many thanks, Hari Singhtalk 05:24, 26 December 2012 (CST)


Sat Sri Akal, Richard

It certainly has been very useful and a great tool to get an instant idea of the location of the various important landmarks at this holy shrine. Many thanks, again for your excellent image/plan/map. Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 18:31, 14 January 2013 (CST)

Edits on page Bibi Bhani

Veer ji, Sat Sri Akal

Many thanks for your kind message and concern. I hope too that your family members are all in good spirits and that your health is also holding up well.

I have read the amended version of the above article and you have done a great job. As you mentioned, it was the old custom for fathers not to ask too much of their daughters especially after they had been married. However, Bibi Bhani chose to serve her father into his old age in defiance of the old custom.

Many thanks for your continued help with this website. May the Almighty continue to bless you and assist you in every way possible. Kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 16:48, 20 January 2013 (CST)

No Apology, but a visit! He missed a most valuable opportunity to fix this dreadful leaf in British history.

Dear Veer ji, Sat Sri Akal

Shame, he was not more bolder and braver; he missed an opportunity to fix a wrong done so many years ago. We will need a more stronger person to apologise for the terrible crime that took place here at the cost of the blood so many 1000's of innocent freedom lovers!

Many thanks for the link. Kind regards and good wishes, 19:13, 20 February 2013 (CST)

Sikh yatrees arrive from India to attend Besakhi festival

Dear Veer ji, Sat Sri Akal

Many thanks for the link to an interesting story and the proof of continued lukewarm friendship between the neighbours. However, it seems that the cross-border controls remain the same as before and the volume of traffic has been kept to a minimum; 3000 is a very small number when you know that there are nearly 13,000,000 Sikhs in Punjab! I am sure more would like to go if they could. Many thanks and kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 22:42, 10 April 2013 (CDT)

Quebec to ban Sikh symbols

Dear brother, Sat Sri Akal

Many thanks for the link. This is a great concern; a highly negative move by politician who have no concept of freedom or liberty; They are the ones who are responsible of the rise in crime and lawlessness and the decline in mortality that we observe around the world.

The carrying of these symbols as we all know is a mandatory requirement of Sikhs and for a good reason that has been tried and tested through history. You will remember that when no one raised their voice when Guru Tegh Badadur was beheaded by the evil Mughals and all who were present "hid behind" the "common appearance" of the typical Indian of the time. The mandatory symbols were imposed by Guru Gobind Singh for an important reason - It is so that the Sikhs remember who and what they represent and stand for; that the defence of truth is above all and that they must not hid behind the "normal appearance" when a wrong takes place.

I am most grateful to you for the link. Good health and kind regards, Hari Singhtalk 09:41, 26 August 2013 (CDT)

Sikhs being mistaken as Muslims: Blue Bloods - Episode: Mistaken Identity S4 Ep10 (41:31)

Dear Bhai Sahib ji

Many thanks for the message.

Unfortunately, I am unable to watch the video here in the UK probably because it will be aired on a paid TV channel here and so cannot be seen on youtube or other such 'free' media.

However, I was able to watch the beginning as a teaser and I get a general picture of the plot. I believe that I can understand what you mean when you point to the different time marks in the video. I agree that it is a healthy development which hopefully will bring awareness to the general masses about the different communities that form this world!

Many thanks for highlighting this TV show. Lets hope that we have more of this coming along in the near future.

Kind regards and the best of health. Hari Singhtalk 11:07, 20 December 2013 (CST)

Khalsa Diwan Sikh Temple

Bhai Sahib ji, Sat Sri Akal

Many thanks for your very thoughtful message. I have updated the page Khalsa Diwan Sikh Temple with a bit more data from Wikipedia but not added anything about the recent discovery of the US Navy ANM66 bomb. Please feel free to add this to the page as it will help make the page even more informative.

The Guru's blessings, kind regards and many thanks again, Hari Singhtalk 20:44, 9 February 2014 (CST)

Baenti

Waheguru ji ka khalsa Waheguru ji ki fateh

Waheguruji dass baenti krna chahunda hai ki jo aap ji ne Hari Singh Nalwa di photo upload keeti hoyi hai, ki uss nu dass t-shirt design layi use kar sakda hai?

OK, please include a credit to Sikhwiki

OK