Download BaruNet – The Free App with the first time ever feature of Sundar Gutka and Ang Wise Sehaj Path in Audio Format! BaruNet App is an initiative by The Kalgidhar Society, Baru Sahib to spread the message of Guru Granth Sahib in the world. App Salient Features: First time Sundar Gutka in audio format […]
Download BaruNet – The Free App with the first time ever feature of Sundar Gutka and Ang Wise Sehaj Path in Audio Format!
BaruNet App is an initiative by The Kalgidhar Society, Baru Sahib to spread the message of Guru Granth Sahib in the world.
App Salient Features:
First time Sundar Gutka in audio format by Akal Academy Students.
Dr. Brooke, Head of School at Seneca Academy, a leading and only International Baccalaureate Primary Years program in Montgomery County, traveled to Northern India in early August to forge relations with an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program. We decided to speak to Dr. Brooke Carroll about her trip and the importance of education. Dr. Brooke […]
Dr. Brooke, Head of School at Seneca Academy, a leading and only International Baccalaureate Primary Years program in Montgomery County, traveled to Northern India in early August to forge relations with an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program. We decided to speak to Dr. Brooke Carroll about her trip and the importance of education.
Dr. Brooke Carroll, you are the head of School at Seneca Academy, can you tell me why the school stands out from other schools in the country?
We are the only International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IB/PYP) in an independent school in Montgomery County, Maryland. We combine challenging, inquiry-based education with a safe, positive and supportive social environment. By ensuring that our curriculum and teaching methods are significant, relevant, and engaging, we make sure that our students gain the skills and abilities they need to be successful, lifelong, global learners. What really makes us stand out is our close community of dedicated, knowledgeable, energetic and kind educators, students and parents who work together to celebrate learning.
You recently travelled to Northern India with your 12 year old daughter, can you tell me the reason for the trip?
My daughter and I were invited to work with Akal Academy faculty and students on implementing the Primary Years Program. They have recently been authorized as an IB/PYP World School and wanted to connect with other educators who have more experience with the program. My daughter is a June graduate from Seneca Academy, so was able to bring a student’s perspective on the learning opportunities the PYP offers.
How would you say the education system in India compares to the education system in America?
I can really only speak about Seneca Academy and Akal Academy. I was quite surprised at how similar these two schools are in terms of philosophy, focus and practice. I found very knowledgeable and dedicated educators at Akal Academy who were implementing collaborative, inquiry-based education with their students. I felt right at home! The students were actively engaged in their learning and were excellent communicators. All of these elements are central to our programs and philosophy at Seneca Academy. This similarity in programming is consistent with the goals of the International Baccalaureate.
You were invited to visit Akal Academy in Baru Sahib, Himachal Pradesh, to provide workshops for teachers and students as well as to develop a long-term relationship between the two schools, would you say the trip was a success?
Very much so! We were greeted with such warmth and generosity, and then witnessed such passionate educators and students. It was very interesting for me to see the IB/PYP implemented in another country and culture. The workshops I led with teachers were very interactive and they knew so much, I was really kept on my toes! There is also much overlap in the units of inquiry taught at Akal Academy and the ones we teach here at Seneca Academy. There are a variety of ways we can connect our schools moving forward.
You encourage the children at your school to be open minded, why do you feel this is important?
When you only listen to or consider views that align with your own, you miss out on so many growth opportunities. Being closed-minded separates you from others’ thoughts, feelings and perspectives. This hinders learning as well as communication. We believe that everyone has something valuable to share, even if it is different from what we may be accustomed to hearing. When we are open minded (and I say “we” because I’m including adults in this as well), we allow ourselves to hear and experience so much more than when we close others out of our lives. From an academic perspective, being open-minded to new ideas, experiences and perspectives allows us to fully be knowledgeable scientists, social scientists, readers, writers, mathematicians, communicators, etc.
How do you see the future for your relationship with Akal Academy?
I have already begun working with the administration there to directly connect teachers through email. We have shared resources back and forth, and I expect this to continue. I am hopeful that we can connect some classes, so students can email and perhaps connect with video regarding units of inquiry that they have in common. The ongoing sharing of ideas and perspectives between our two schools is my goal.
There was recent research that found children who drink water during the day at school would dissolve more of the information they are given during lessons, would you agree with this?
I don’t have any data to support or refute this claim.
Seneca Academy: Seneca Academy is a non-profit, independent day school, founded in 1983, serving children preschool through fifth grade, would you like to see more schools set up to follow your principles and way of learning?
As both an administrator and a parent whose 2 children graduated from Seneca Academy, I think this is a wonderful way for children to experience their early school years. I believe that we empower students to think of themselves as independent learners and of school as an enjoyable place to be. We give them the foundational skills and abilities they need to be successful in whatever next educational system they choose. The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program has helped us enhance our programming at Seneca Academy and yes, I think this can be a successful program in many schools.
Are there any plans for another trip to India or for a teacher exchange program to take place?
Not immediately, but perhaps in the future!
Overall all, how successful would you say your trip to India was?
My trip was very successful! It connected our 2 schools in person, in a way that could not have happened electronically. I have strong positive contacts at Akal Academy as well as a better understanding of how the IB/PYP is implemented there that will enable us to continue a relationship into the future. I believe this relationship will strengthen both schools.
What did you learn during your trip to India?
I learned that despite our many cultural differences, good educators and dedicated parents produce similar kinds of students- those who are actively and joyfully engaged in the process of learning.
Anmol Singh, victim of discrimination in Doha, plays with his turban on at Baru Sahib BARU SAHIB (District Sirmore, Himachal Pradesh), Sept. 10, 2014: The first phase of Kalgidhar Society’s protest against World Basketball Federation’s (FIBA) discriminatory behaviour towards Sikh players of Indian teams drew to a close today with a vigorous game played […]
Anmol Singh, victim of discrimination in Doha, plays with his turban on at Baru Sahib
BARU SAHIB (District Sirmore, Himachal Pradesh), Sept. 10, 2014: The first phase of Kalgidhar Society’s protest against World Basketball Federation’s (FIBA) discriminatory behaviour towards Sikh players of Indian teams drew to a close today with a vigorous game played by turban-wielding students of the Society’s Akal Academy in the lap of the Himalayas here.
The highlight of the peaceful protest was the participation of Anmol Singh, member of India’s U-18 basketball team who was compelled by FIBA officials to remove his turban (patka) during a match at Doha in Qatar on August 20. The 6 feet 9 inches-tall international player’s skills on the basketball court enthralled hundreds of students and staff belonging to the Society’s university, engineering and nursing colleges, and school here.
Similar protest matches have been held over the last few days at the Society’s 128 other Akal Academies spread across the hinterland of Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.
Kalgidhar Society, a charitable organization focused on promoting education and social reform mainly in rural areas, had taken up the cudgels against FIBA after two Sikh players were forced to remove their turbans, an article of their faith, in China recently. The same behaviour was meted out to Anmol Singh later in Qatar.
Apart from approaching FIBA and basketball officials in India, Kalgidhar Society filed an online petition against FIBA through Change.org on July 26. The petition has been supported by around 68,000 persons from across the globe so far. Sports legends like Milkha Singh, Bishen Singh Bedi and eminent personalities from music and culture like Daler Mehndi, Yo Yo Honey Singh etc. too have backed the campaign.
Commenting on controversy, Anmol Singh said, “I was shocked by the discriminatory behaviour of FIBA’s officials at Doha. It is a pity that FIBA continues to be adamant despite the global protest. US Congressmen have also pointed out that no such discrimination happens in American football. How can a turban hurt anybody?”
Kalgidhar Society’s head Baba Iqbal Singh, 89, who was agriculture director of Himachal Pradesh government previously, said, “Rules are meant to conduct games harmoniously not to divide people. If we see the divine in every being, there will be peace and brotherhood which are desperately needed in the modern world. We should be empathetic to the sensitivities and feelings of all. This can put an end to all quarrels, controversies and wars.”
However, Kalgidhar Society remains apprehensive of FIBA’s ultimate decision on the matter. Commenting from the US, the Society’s spokesperson Ravinder Pal Singh Kohli stated, “FIBA has so far displayed a very adamant stand. We will take our movement to its logical conclusion. If FIBA refuses to withdraw its rules hurting the religious sentiments of the Sikhs, then we will be forced to renew the protest agitation with revived vigour.”
Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Baru Sahib
Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Muktsar
Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Kauriwara
Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Bhai Desa
Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Balbehra
Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Gomtipul
Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Dhindsa
Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Cheema
Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Bhadaur
Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Kajri
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The Guru has symbolized the highest virtues in the Indian culture over millennia. Given to choose between the teacher and the Almighty, the disciple has been advised to opt for the teacher because it is the teacher who guides the pupil to the supreme and most sublime power in the universe. The Teacher has always […]
The Guru has symbolized the highest virtues in the Indian culture over millennia. Given to choose between the teacher and the Almighty, the disciple has been advised to opt for the teacher because it is the teacher who guides the pupil to the supreme and most sublime power in the universe.
The Teacher has always been put on the highest pedestal — equivalent to various Sages and Saints of eras gone by. India has been known for its devout faith in the ability and sincerity of the true Guru. Guru Nanak Dev ji reinforced this ancient conviction in the Indian society when it was facing debility and decline. Thanks to Guru Nanak and the following nine Gurus of the Sikh faith, India once again became aware of its roots and eternal values.
So much so that Guru Granth Sahib ji is today revered as a living Guru across the planet. The mortal frame of the 10 Sikh Gurus may not be in our midst today, but the values they espoused, the way of life they fought for and the inter-faith philosophy they propagated continue to serve as a beacon light for mankind. While all this may sound very inspiring, this heritage places a heavy responsibility upon today’s teachers.
Studies, exams and marks obviously matter but the main goal of our teachers should be to create, shape and mould their students into real human beings — men and women who are sensitive to the joys and sorrows of their fellow beings, people who see the light of the Supreme one in every being, a society where each individual is knit with the other through bonds of selfless love… It is not an easy job. But then teachers have always managed to show society the path which is both right and righteous. I hope and pray that they will continue to do so forever.
With the grace of God, I have been the youngest Sikh to climb Mt. Everest at the age of 17. I faced many challenges and due to frost stricken hair at the altitude of 29,000 ft at -39 degrees Celsius, I was asked to cut my hair to save myself. I refused to compromise on my Faith and God helped me turnaround my health complete my climb.
Sikhs are know for their Hair and Turban. Both are an essential part of our identity and we never compromise on it.
Sadly, on 12 July 2014, FIBA labelled Patka as Dangerous and barred two Sikh players from wearing it minutes before their game. These two players took the call of the duty and played to win a historic match against China. I never thought Patka or a Turban can be dangerous. Do you agree? Is this a joke?
I would request all citizens worldwide to join us in this crusade against a very discriminatory decision by FIBA. Please join hands and Sign the online Petition on Change.org. #LetSikhsPlay
We have crossed 51,000 signatures and every signature counts. More Signatures will mean More Pressure on FIBA which is meeting in Spain today to review this Ban. Please use every social medium to raise your voice on this.
Thank you in advance!
Guribadat Singh Youngest Sikh to climb Mt. Everest
The world knows me as Delhi’s First Citizen Sikh, being the President of DSGMC, Delhi’s Gurdwara Management Committee. The Turban has always been any Sikh’s identity. I have travelled across the world in Turban and recently I was stopped at an Italian Airport because of this. I protested against this racial discrimination and finally the authorities relented and let us maintain our honour.
But unfortunately, in a shameful incident last month, two young basketball players from India – Amarpal and Amjyot Singh. They were representing India at the Asia Cup Championship in China.
Just before the game, both of them were asked to remove their turbans if they wanted to play. They were told that wearing turbans violated the rules of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA).
This is a shame! How can our country’s top sportsmen be humiliated like that? Sign this petition and ask FIBA to change its policies. Sikhs should be able to play with their turban on if they want to.
My faith and religion have played a big part in my successful career. FIBA’s policies should be more sensitive to people’s faith. Sign this petition and tell them so #LetSikhsPlay
If atleast 50,000 people sign this petition, FIBA will know that this is an issue of great importance and change its policies to be more sensitive.
After you Sign this petition, forward my mail to atleast 5 of your friends & family. Let us support our country’s sportsmen in every way that we can.
Your Support has made a large difference with Signatures pouring in every minute with 45,000 Signatures at the moment and celebrities & policy makers coming out in support! A coalition of US lawmakers urged the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) to end its discriminatory policy against Sikh basketball players who wear turbans, an important article of […]
Your Support has made a large difference with Signatures pouring in every minute with 45,000 Signatures at the moment and celebrities & policy makers coming out in support!
A coalition of US lawmakers urged the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) to end its discriminatory policy against Sikh basketball players who wear turbans, an important article of their faith.
In a letter to FIBA president Yvan Mainini, 21 Congress members led by Democrat Ami Bera, the lone Indian-American Congressman and Joe Crowley, a former chair of the India caucus, took up cudgels on behalf of the Sikh players.
Expressing concern about “recent reports indicating that Sikhs are not able to participate in FIBA games while wearing a turban, which is essential to their faith”, the lawmakers sought a “change in this discriminatory policy”.
“There is no evidence showing that a turban has been dangerous during basketball games or other popular sports events,” they wrote.
“In fact, there are many examples of Sikhs who have safely competed in basketball at many levels with their articles of faith intact.”
Other sports leagues, such as Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), also allow athletes wearing turbans to participate, the lawmakers noted.
In July, two Sikh players were told by referees that they must remove their turbans if they were to play in FIBA’s Asia Cup as they were in violation of a FIBA rule stating “Players shall not wear equipment (objects) that may cause injury to other players”.
FIBA’s governing board is expected to address the issue of players wearing turbans and other headgear during a meeting on 27 August 2014.
“Basketball is a beloved team sport that has the ability to bring people of all backgrounds together, regardless of history, culture, language, and religion,” the US lawmakers wrote.
“In addition to becoming one of the most popular sports in many countries, basketball has come to exemplify how those of diverse backgrounds can communicate, coordinate, and work together in pursuit of a shared goal,” they wrote.
“We believe that makes the basketball court the perfect venue to showcase the diversity of our world and the ways in which sports bring people together,” the lawmakers added.
If FIBA officially ends its ban on Sikh turbans, this will ensure that Sikh basketball players will not have to choose between their religion and their athletic careers.
Human Rights allows all Sikhs to practice their faith fearlessly.
Dear Sadh Sangat Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh!
The Turban has been India’s cultural identity since ages and has been preserved in a time-capsule by the Sikhs, as ordained by the Tenth Master Guru Gobind Singh. The identity and honour of any Sikh is the Turban. Pls see http://www.barusahib.org/Assets/Publications/Turban.pdf
We are extremely pained to know that FIBA has debarred Indian Sikh Players from playing International Basketball with their heads covered with a Patka.
To create awareness and to impress upon the law-makers, we started this online petition on Change.org from 26 July 2014. Sikhs have always sported a Turban or a Patka during Sports and never have been asked to remove their headgear.
I would humbly request FIBA to review this decision positively and allow Sikhs to play with their turban on if they want to.
Sports should never discriminate on Religion.
We have had support from all corners, across all religions, across all castes and colour nationally and internationally.
We appeal to all fellow-brothers / readers to sign this petition and forward the message to atleast 5 of their friends & family.
Let us support our country’s sportsmen in every way that we can! Do your bit NOW!
