Akal University, Guru ki Kashi – A University with a Difference!

Three centuries ago, the tenth Master, Guru Gobind Singh li stayed at Talwandi Sabo, finalized the compilation of Guru Granth Sahib 1i and prophesied that this place will manifest as Guru Ki Kashi-a great Centre of teaching and learning from where will emerge great scholars of Sikhism. About two centuries thereafter, establishment of Gurmat Vidalaya […]

Three centuries ago, the tenth Master, Guru Gobind Singh li stayed at Talwandi Sabo, finalized the compilation of Guru Granth Sahib 1i and prophesied that this place will manifest as Guru Ki Kashi-a great Centre of teaching and learning from where will emerge great scholars of Sikhism.

About two centuries thereafter, establishment of Gurmat Vidalaya by Sant Atar Singh li Maharaj was the first step in this direction. About a century thereafter, establishment of Akal University, Talwandi Sabo under the leadership of Baba lqbal Singh Ji Baru Sahib Wale was culmination of what the tenth Guru prophesied about three centuries ago. The University has started its first academic session this year.

The mission and vision of the University is not merely to impart literacy but to provide high quality spiritual value based education leading to holistic development of complete human beings who will propagate the message of Universal brotherhood and philosophy of interfaith wisdom enshrined in Sri GuruGranthSahib Ji.

Unlike most of the educational entities having commercialized the higher education by operating like business ventures, the Akal University has mandated to uphold the three basic principles of higher education namely; Teaching,- Learning and Research. Consequently, the University has started with Undergraduate and Post Graduate Honours courses in basic sciences of Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, Economics and Commerce, and English and Punjabi languages.

The University plans to offer Ph.D programs in all these areas shortly. Offering the three years Bachelor of Arts(Honours) Degree in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Studies is a unique programme of the University, probably first of its kind offered by any University in the country and abroad. The programme is fully residential and totally free including fee and boarding and lodging charges.

The course aims not only to impart complete learning of the Holy Scripture but also to teach Guru Darbar Maryada, Sikh tenants, Sikh history and teaching of Sant Atar Singh Maharaj Mastuane Wale and other enlightened sages from different sects and religions of the world. Comparative study of different religions would be an integral part of the course.

Magnificent building with ultra-modern facilities for teaching and research is the hallmark of the University. Wi-Fi campus, well equipped modern labs, internet linked Smart Classrooms, high-tech well stocked library facilities, CCTV cameras for special security of girl students, modern residential life and hostel facilities for boys and girls, 100% healthy vegetarian diet, RO system on all drinking water coolers, well-functional university transport services for staff and day scholars, drug-free campus, sports and recreational facilities for boys and girls and special fee concession ranging from Rs. 10,000 to 52,000 per meritorious student are key features of the education system at the University.

The University has designed goal oriented course curriculum. The unique features of the same include choice based credit system, market-oriented skill enhancement courses, special coaching classes for UGC-NET, MS and other competitive exams. The university adopted English medium for teaching and examination of the students. The University will endeavor to enhance the communication skills of the students by making special efforts on improving the knowledge of English language. Besides teaching English as compulsory subject to all undergraduate students, special free of cost extra coaching classes are organized for students facing problems in writing of English and oral communication in English.

To strive for excellence in teaching and research, almost all Professors are UGC qualified with exceptionally good academic records and have earned their Doctorate degrees.

Besides following students-teacher interactive mode of teaching, each student has been assigned a teacher mentor to take tutorial and to resolve their academic problems. There is special provision of counsellors to motivate, guide and address personal day to day issues and problems of the girl students. 24×7 health facilities along with provision of ambulance services are available on the campus.

The University has a firm resolve to provide a drug-free environment and to create a disciplined campus life. In tune with the philosophy of Kalgidhar Trust, Baru Sahib, all efforts are being made to imbibe spiritual, moral and cultural values in the students to make them decent human beings and responsible citizens.

In due course, the University plans to start the great work of translation of the holy scripture in different languages of the world so that the seekers of spirituality from all over the world may submerge themselves in the ocean of divinity and parmarth and find the path of ultimate salvation enshrined in the holy scripture of Sri Guru Granth sahib ii as blessed by the 10th Guru Sri Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj.

~ Tapasleen Kaur
~ New Delhi, 24th Sep ’15

After 309 Yrs, The Divine Prophecy of Guru Gobind Singh Ji has been manifested with Akal University, Guru Ki Kashi!

Congratulating our supporters who espoused for adding this historic milestone to the 309 Years journey of the Tenth Master’s prophecy of ‘Guru Ki Kashi’. We all are extremely fortunate to be a part of this Endeavour. The Inaugural Ceremony is to be held on 17th July by Deputy Chief Minister Punjab, S. Sukhbir Singh Badal […]

Congratulating our supporters who espoused for adding this historic milestone to the 309 Years journey of the Tenth Master’s prophecy of ‘Guru Ki Kashi’. We all are extremely fortunate to be a part of this Endeavour.

The Inaugural Ceremony is to be held on 17th July by Deputy Chief Minister Punjab, S. Sukhbir Singh Badal and other cabinet members of Punjab Govt.

The Ceremony will be graced by Baba Iqbal Singh Ji with his divine presence who took charge & chose to realize this unfulfilled prophecy of Guru Gobind Singh. Toiling, travelling across the world and plodding on dragging his frail body, he managed to enjoin an army of volunteers & well wishers for this noble cause.

Finally the Fourth Prophecy of Guru Gobind Singh Ji for Damdama Sahib has seen the light of the day after travelling across ethereal space. Now, after formal recognition, the massive task of setting up the Centre for Studies on Sri Guru Granth Sahib will start. We would need all around support from all supporters of this cause to take this project to the next level.

May the Temporal Seat of Damdama Sahib now be also known for the ‘Seat of Learning’! May the most modern religion’s Inter-Faith message be spread across penetrating all borders and seeker hearts!

Share & Spread to be a part of the divine journey!

~ Tapasleen kaur
~ New Delhi, 13th July ’15

Another year; Another Milestone in the Journey of a Master’s prophecy! Akal University Guru Ki Kashi Fundraiser, Surrey‘15

The 6th annual Kalgidhar Society fundraiser took place on Saturday May 23th at Surrey’s Grand Taj Banquet Hall. This yearly event has quickly become a must-attend event for hundred of British Columbians with many of them marking their calendars well in advance in anticipation. 2015 master of ceremony Rina Kaur Chawla led an energy filled […]

The 6th annual Kalgidhar Society fundraiser took place on Saturday May 23th at Surrey’s Grand Taj Banquet Hall.

This yearly event has quickly become a must-attend event for hundred of British Columbians with many of them marking their calendars well in advance in anticipation.

Another year; Another Milestone in the Journey of a Master’s prophecy! Akal University Guru Ki Kashi Fundraiser, Surrey‘15

2015 master of ceremony Rina Kaur Chawla led an energy filled night with many enthusiastic moments. The night was kicked of with an emotionally charged rendition of Deh Shiva Bar Mohe Ehe, performed by the students of Akal Academy Surrey.

Kiran Kaur Saluja followed up with the official welcome speech to officially kick off the 2015 event!

Though the honorable Baba Iqbal Singh Ji, President of The Kalgidhar Society Baru Sahib, could not attend the event in person, he did prepare a special message for the evening which was shared with all in attendance. Baba Ji took this opportunity to thank the countless volunteers who make the Kalgidhar Society successful and elaborated on the positive effects that the service has on people.

Another year; Another Milestone in the Journey of a Master’s prophecy! Akal University Guru Ki Kashi Fundraiser, Surrey‘15

Although Baba Iqbal Singh Jis absence was noticeable, guest of honour Dr. Khem Singh Gill, former Vice Chancellor & Chairman of the Akal Acadamies gave a heart warming speech that seemed to touch the hearts of many of those in attendance. Dr. Gill related the service that Akal Academy to the fundamental foundations of Sikhism. Slide show presentation showing the transition of poverty striken children into smart affluent Sikhs really seemed to invigorate the volunteers and gala attendees, providing reassurance that the society was doing great work!

The focal point of the 2015 Gala was the new University being constructed by the Kalgidhar Society at historical place Sri Damdama Sahib Talwandi Sabo Punjab. Bhai Amandeep Singh from Baru Sahib provided a much anticipated update on the construction & informed the congregation that the Akal University Guru Kashi first phase (650,000 Sq. ft Building Area) has been completed, which was met with a loud ovation from the crowd!! Classes will start in July 2015 & construction of second phase will continue. Throughout the evening the Akal Academy Surrey students gave a number of high spirited performance which entertained those at the Grand Taj for this evening.

Another year; Another Milestone in the Journey of a Master’s prophecy! Akal University Guru Ki Kashi Fundraiser, Surrey‘15

Dr. Pargat Singh Bhurji shared the program Akal Academy Surrey has been providing to local Sikh Youth from last 7 years. Other guest speakers included Bhupinder Singh Senior Regional Manger Td Bank , Bhai Kulwinder Singh , Dr. Sarbjit Singh Virk Seattle.

The Akal Academy Surrey in conjunction with the Kalgidhar Society would like to thank SPONSORS, Donors, and Volunteers & Media for their kind contribution to the 2015 gala. Without their generosity, an event of this magnitude could not have been such a resounding success!!!

May the Temporal Seat now be also known for the ‘Seat of Learning’! May the most modern religion’s Inter-Faith message be spread across penetrating all borders and seeker hearts!

~ Avtar Singh
~ Canada, 28th May ’15

Dr. Gurmail Singh, Chairperson of Dept of Economics at Panjab University, Chandigarh appointed as the First Vice Chancellor of Akal University!

Finally, the Tenth Master’s bachan for ‘Guru ki Kashi’ is seeing its realization after 309 years. Akal University will begin its first Academic Session, this year in July. Dr Gurmail Singh is a blessed soul to have been chosen for such a noble task. Recently, he sought Baba Iqbal Singh ji’s blessings to undertake this […]

Finally, the Tenth Master’s bachan for ‘Guru ki Kashi’ is seeing its realization after 309 years. Akal University will begin its first Academic Session, this year in July. Dr Gurmail Singh is a blessed soul to have been chosen for such a noble task. Recently, he sought Baba Iqbal Singh ji’s blessings to undertake this precious task.

Dr Gurmail Singh has pursued his masters & PHD in Economics. He has been an eminent member of the Panjab University in Chandigarh. A current holder of various prestigious positions like member of various bodies of Guru Granth Sahib World Sikh Organizations, Coordinator Centre for Policy Research, Editor-in-Chief Research Journal Social Sciences, General Secretary to Punjab Developmental Society (registered body of academicians). He is Chairperson of Dept of Economics at the Panjab University. He also serves as a member in Board of Director, Eternal University, Baru Sahib.

He also holds a 27 Years Teaching/Research Experience with the organizations like, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, Panjab University, Chandigarh, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Institute for Development and Communication, Chandigarh & SGTB Khalsa College, Delhi University.

A consultant to the following Organizations: Planning Commission, UNO-International Labour Organization, UNO-Economic and Social Commission for Asia and Pacific, Bangkok, Government of Punjab. Village Life Improvement Foundation, Canadian Based Foundation for Development of Punjab, UNO-World Food Programme, CRY and CARE International, Australian National University, Canberra, NABARD.

He has also been a part of various Selected Research Publications; Economic Liberalization and Indian Agriculture Understanding, North-West Indian Economy, Rural Development in Punjab, Impact Evaluation of the Village Life Improvement Projects in Punjab, Indian Agriculture: Development Experience of Four Decades, Impact of GATT on Punjab Agriculture.

He is also listed in ICSSR Research Pool. State wise List of Research Methodology Experts

We are honored and privileged to have such a versatile renowned personality as our respected Vice Chancellor.

~ Tapasleen Kaur
~ New Delhi, 11th May ’15

Gurmat Program organized on the occasion of “Khalsa Sirjan Divas” at Damdama Sahib!

Dedicated to Khalsa Sirjna Divas, “Vaisakhi”, The Kalgidhar Trust Baru Sahib and Akal University Guru Ki Kashi Talwandi Sabo, organized a three-day Gurmat Program at Gurdwara Bunga Mastuana Sahib, in which the students of Akal Academies participated. During the program the students from different branches of Akal Academy including Bhadaur, Bilga, Chak Bhaike, Dayalpura Mirza, […]

Dedicated to Khalsa Sirjna Divas, “Vaisakhi”, The Kalgidhar Trust Baru Sahib and Akal University Guru Ki Kashi Talwandi Sabo, organized a three-day Gurmat Program at Gurdwara Bunga Mastuana Sahib, in which the students of Akal Academies participated.

During the program the students from different branches of Akal Academy including Bhadaur, Bilga, Chak Bhaike, Dayalpura Mirza, Rajia, Balbehra, Uddat Saidewal, Daula, Ratia, Sanga performed Shabad Kirtan, Dhadi Vaar. Lectures & poetry glorified the History of Khalsa Panth inspiring sangat to cherish the precious gift of Khalsa to Sikh Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj. The students of Akal Academy Killi Nihal Singh Wala and Mehal Kalan showcased a spectacular display of Sikh Martial Arts (Gattka).

The students of Akal Academy Balbehra conducted an emotional play on ‘Jafarnama’ which moved the Sangat into tears.

On this occasion, “Chaar Sahibzade” movie was showcased on the big screen. Bhog of Shri Akhand Path and 10 paths of Shri Japuji Sahib at Akal University Guru Ki Kashi also done.

Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj blessed this place of Talwandi Sabo by the name “Guru Ki Kashi”, dedicated to which The Kalgidhar Society Baru Sahib constructed Akal University Guru Ki Kashi. Recently Punjab Cabinet approved Akal university and it is all set to welcome students this year.

Sikh Sangat was enthusiastically & eagerly waiting for the inauguration ceremony of the University. On the occasion of Vaisakhi, the students of Akal Academy Bhadaur detailed sadh sangat with various information regarding Akal University.

Sant Baba Chotta Singh ji, Baba Kaka Singh ji and Bunga Mastuana Sahib and Sangat were present on this event.

~ Harsimrat Kaur
~ Cheema Sahib, 18th April ’15

Seat of Learning – 309 years journey of a Master’s prophecy!

Guru Gobind Singh chose to rest at Talwandi Sabo after the battle of Muktsar and since he loosened his waist-band (Kamarkassa) at Talwandi Sabo, people started calling it Damdama Sahib – the resting place. After the departure of Sri Guru Arjun Dev ji, when Dheer Mal, refused to handover the Adi Granth to Guru Gobind […]

Guru Gobind Singh chose to rest at Talwandi Sabo after the battle of Muktsar and since he loosened his waist-band (Kamarkassa) at Talwandi Sabo, people started calling it Damdama Sahib – the resting place.

After the departure of Sri Guru Arjun Dev ji, when Dheer Mal, refused to handover the Adi Granth to Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru with his spiritual insight got the entire Bani written by Bhai Mani Singh at Likhansar, Damdama Sahib, District Bhatinda. The Bani of the ninth Guru Tegh Bahadur was added to it. Now, with its addition, Sri Guru Granth Sahib contained the pious verses of Six Gurus, 15 Bhagats, 11 Bhatts, 4 Gursikhs, and was set to 30 musical scales or Ragas. This unique homogeneous mix of god-lovers from different faiths was never attempted earlier and hence this can be actually called the fountain-head of Inter-Faith and Universal Brotherhood.

After staying for a around a year, before leaving to visit Sikh disciples in the Deccan, around 1706, the Tenth Master (Sikh Guru) Gobind Singh blessed Bhai Dalla’s Talwandi Sabo with four pious prophecies. The first was, while standing in the midst of desert like conditions; “water is flowing everywhere”. The next standing amongst dry bushes was that “lush green wheat fields are swaying in the breeze”. And finally standing amongst brown sun-dried pods he said “fruits are abloom here”. Taken aback, Bhai Dalla remarked that the Master was mistaken. Smiling at him Guru Gobind Singh said “Pity! you have no vision.” In one stroke during late 60’s, the Bhakra Nangal brought ample water to the dry area of Damdama Sahib and all three prophecies were realized.

The Tenth Master also blessed Talwandi Sabo (Damdama Sahib), as Guru Ki Kashi – the Seat of Learning. Now this place is known better as Damdama Sahib after the Gurdwara became one of the five temporal Seats (Takhats) of the Sikh religion.

The Kalgidhar Society, Baru Sahib, which is better known as one of the very few Sikh organizations that focus on Value-based Education with its 129 schools for rural areas as an anti-dote for the social issues in malignant Punjab; through its head, Baba Iqbal Singh, 90 yrs chose to realize this unfulfilled prophecy of Guru Gobind Singh. Toiling, travelling across the world and plodding on dragging his frail body, Baba Iqbal Singh managed to enjoin thousands of supporters, volunteers, donors and well-wishers; across all countries who espoused for the noble cause.

We are fortunate that such a historic milestone has occurred during our lifetime and fortunate we are, for being a part of this great endeavor. The Punjab cabinet has given its approval to Akal University ‘Guru ki Kashi’ and finally the fourth prophecy after travelling across ethereal space, has seen the light of the day.

May the Temporal Seat now be also known for the ‘Seat of Learning’! May the most modern religion’s Inter-Faith message be spread across penetrating all borders and seeker hearts!

~ Tapasleen Kaur

Punjab Cabinet approves Akal University – Thanks to Akal Purakh!

Congratulations all our supporters, donors, volunteers (national & international) & well wishers who have been our pillars of success! Under the Punjab Private Universities Policy-2010, the Cabinet approved the setting up of Akal University, Talwandi Sabo in Bathinda district to impart quality higher education. This is a major milestone in realizing the Tenth Master’s vision […]

Congratulations all our supporters, donors, volunteers (national & international) & well wishers who have been our pillars of success!

Under the Punjab Private Universities Policy-2010, the Cabinet approved the setting up of Akal University, Talwandi Sabo in Bathinda district to impart quality higher education.

This is a major milestone in realizing the Tenth Master’s vision after 309 years. Our journey of imparting quality higher education along with spreading the message of interfaith across the world! We express our hearty gratitude to all for being a part of this Divine Mission of Guru Gobind Singh Ji!

Only Blessed ones get a chance to Serve Guru Sahib. If we get one, then we must consider ourselves the chosen ones by Guru Sahib. A man’s true wealth is the good he does in the world and these acts go all the way, right up to their last breath.

The journey is a long one and this is only the completion of the first stage of Akal University. The organization looks forward to spreading the Inter-Faith Harmonious message of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji; all across the world by translating the divine message in all foreign languages for efforts to bring permanent peace in this world.

God Bless! Dhan Sikhi! Dhan Khalsa!

~ Tapasleen Kaur
~ New Delhi, 17th Feb ’15

UK Tour Update!

Our UK Trustee, Ranbir Singh Attwal, Bhai Mohinder Singh Ji, Head of Birmingham Sikh Temple along with Trustees of Sangat TV & other spiritual leaders of the Sikh community came to meet Baba Iqbal Singh Ji.

UK Tour Update

Bhai Mohinder Singh Ji is a selfless religious visionary leader propagating peace, serving society through spiritual inspiration, infrastructure creation, heritage conservation, interfaith engagement and promoting values-led education. As Chairperson of GNNSJ, one of the UK’s largest Sikh faith registered charities, he is engaged in an astounding range of civic and spiritual initiatives. As a highly respected spiritual and community leader, he propagates the deeper Sikh sacred teachings

Our UK trustee Ranbir Singh Ji undertakes selfless voluntary services to improve the wellbeing of all communities. Appreciating the project of Guru Ki Kashi which is In reference to the tenth Master, Guru Gobind Singh’s prophecy.

UK Tour Update

The Kalgidhar Society has endeavored to establish an International Center for Comparative Religious Studies as a part of AKAL UNIVERSITY, Guru Ki Kashi with special emphasis on the Teachings of Guru Granth Sahib and establishing center to translate Guru Granth Sahib in original ragas in different languages of the world.

Also, following the message of Guru Nanak to establish Permanent Peace in the World, this place – Sri Damdama Sahib will create corps of Messengers of Peace, who will spread the message of Universal Brotherhood of mankind throughout the world.

~ Tapasleen Kaur
~ New Delhi, 13th Jan ’15

Justin Pics of Last day campaign of Guru ki kashi at Naam Rus Kirtan Darbar, Singapore

Last day of campaign at Naam Rus, young volunteers from Singapore geared up to motivate people about Akal University Guru ki Kashi. The seventh Naam Ras Kirtan Darbar saw people from all walks of life come together through a common platform – sewa (selfless service). In its 12th year, the event saw thousands from Singapore […]

Last day of campaign at Naam Rus, young volunteers from Singapore geared up to motivate people about Akal University Guru ki Kashi. The seventh Naam Ras Kirtan Darbar saw people from all walks of life come together through a common platform – sewa (selfless service). In its 12th year, the event saw thousands from Singapore and the region congregate to participate in sewa.

Justin Pics of Last day campaign of Guru ki kashi at Naam Rus Kirtan Darbar, Singapore

Naam Ras 2014 witnessed leaders and representatives from the various racial and religious groups in Singapore attending to learn and understand more about the Sikh faith, values and practices.

Justin Pics of Last day campaign of Guru ki kashi at Naam Rus Kirtan Darbar, Singapore

The event received overwhelming response as Sangat attended the Kirtan Darbar in large numbers. From a historical exhibition on Sikh values and heritage to the melodious Sikh music (kirtan) and to top it all – a sumptuous vegetarian spread in the free kitchen, which is a hallmark of any Sikh congregation. The Samagam completed with ‘Amri Sanchaar’ and final Ardaas of all paths contributed by Sangat.

Justin Pics of Last day campaign of Guru ki kashi at Naam Rus Kirtan Darbar, Singapore

Events like such provides platform for unified religious activities in a multi-cultural country like Singapore and will also encourage more Kirtan Smagams like ‘Naam Ras Kirtan Darbar’ with the blessings of Shri Guru Granth Sahib and Sadhsangat. It is also a time for reflection and to look ahead at a new year of hope.

Justin Pics of Last day campaign of Guru ki kashi at Naam Rus Kirtan Darbar, Singapore

It is indeed remarkable that an event of such magnitude is dependent solely on volunteers. As a concept, it is almost utopian – regardless of their backgrounds, each individual is an equal contributor to the organization and success of the event.

~ Tapasleen Kaur
~ New Delhi, 30th Dec ’14

Gurdwara Baba Bir Singh & Baba Dhir Singh Ji!

This Gurdwara Sahib in memory of Baba Bir Singh and Baba Dhir Singh who offered themselves for the testing of Guru Sahib’s Gun. Chaudhary Dalla, a devotee of Tenth Sikh Guru, Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, used to talk about the bravery and loyalty of his soldiers with Guru Ji. Once Guru Ji asked him […]

This Gurdwara Sahib in memory of Baba Bir Singh and Baba Dhir Singh who offered themselves for the testing of Guru Sahib’s Gun.

Chaudhary Dalla, a devotee of Tenth Sikh Guru, Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, used to talk about the bravery and loyalty of his soldiers with Guru Ji. Once Guru Ji asked him to provide two of his soldiers as targets to test a Muzzleloading Gun presented to him by Bhai Uday Singh Ji. When no one came forward, Guru Ji called upon two of his Singhs Bhai Bir Singh and Bhai Dhir Singh (Father and son respectively).

Bhai Bir Singh Ji Bhai Dhir Singh Ji on hearing this, came running & jostling each other in front of guruji, father said ” I am elder so I have the first right to be your aim, and on the other end son said,” I am alive so there’s no need for my father to die first”. Both of them stood shoulder to shoulder. The moment Guruji lowered the gun, both of them kneeled & the moment guruji lifted the gun, both of them got on their toes with their chest expanded. Guruji fired the bullet over the head of both.

Both the beloved of Guruji passed the test & received chosen blessings of Guruji. Watching this spectacle, Bhai Dalla summoned himself in front of Guruji.

~ Tapasleen Kaur
~ New Delhi, 16th Dec ’14