Baru Sahib

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Category: Baru Sahib

Free Dental Medical Checkup held under Free Medical Camp at Cheema-Mandi!

Under the recent Dental Medical Checkup held under the banner of Free Medical Camp, more than 350 patients have been treated free of cost.

Dr. Ravi Kant, a renowned Dentist visited the camp and treated more than 200 patients and the other 150 patients were treated by Dr. Ramandeep Kaur Maan.

We are proud enough. Are you? ‘Like and Share’ to appreciate!

~ Deeksha Singh
~ New Delhi, 26th Sep ’14

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Free Dental Medical Checkup held under Free Medical Camp at Cheema-Mandi!
Ajit

A Couple From New Jersey Donate to Build 2 Akal Academies in Amritsar in the memory of their parents!

Setting the example straight, a Doctor couple from New Jersey, who in the wake of doing good for others, especially the less fortunate, have expressed their desire to help construct Schools under The Kalgidhar Society – Baru Sahib. They have donated for the building of two schools in Amritsar area in the memory of their parents, namely Akal Academy -Chheharta and Chugawan. The couple, Dr. Gurcharan Singh and Dr. Navjeet Kaur are retired doctors and are working with Federal Government as Consultants from Pennsylvania, hail from a lineage of educationists from Punjab. They met our team of Sewadaars in New Jersey, USA and offered this Sewa to Dr. Khem Singh Gill - Vice President, The Kalgidhar Society. While offering this Sewa and showing her gratitude towards the hard work being put in by the society to help the less fortunate, avail Quality Education, she was in tears and said, “It’s time to pay back to the society which is not even the fraction of what we have got in return, where we wish to build a tree to provide the shade of education and everything special to the rural kids who move out of the shade with a light of their own and spread this light all over the world! We wish to visit India and support the Society in the social services they are into further…” Tell us what you think in the Comment Box Below! Dhan Sikhi... Dhan Khalsa! ~ Deeksha Singh ~ New Delhi, 22nd Sep '14

Time to strengthen our moral fiber, spiritual sinews

Waheguru ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji Ki Fateh Even before we could adequately savour the taste of a justifiably-earned victory the opportunity was snatched away from us. We fought a battle with vigour and valour. We won. But why is there so little to cherish the fond memory? Why is the entire Sikh community and its legions of supporters cutting across caste and creed feeling let down today? That too within a couple of days of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) relenting from its adamant stand and granting significant though tentative relief to players. As per FIBA's announcement on September 17, they can now play with their headgear on for the next two years when the rules will be reevaluated and, in all probability, be validated and ratified. It was Kalgidhar Society's global campaign against FIBA's ban on Sikh players from playing with their turbans on that won the battle for us. It was the result of intense strategies, collaboration with like-minded organizations across the globe, smart use of the social media and effective execution on the ground. But more than anything else it was the support from the community and well-meaning friends. But for you, our online petition against FIBA's discriminatory rules via change.org would not have elicited support from over 70,000 persons in a short span of time. But for the articulation of their rage by all Indians and many others FIBA would not have understood that turban is a Sikh's pride. It is his identity and a vital article of his faith. I am pleasantly surprised to find people from non-Sikh communities echoing our sentiments and sensitivities in USA where I am mobilizing support on the turban issue. The world has indeed become a global village, thanks to the latest developments in communication technology. And technology we did use abundantly to spread our message. Our cause found resonance in many hearts. Thanks to you all! Of course, it goes without saying that all through the struggle we drew inspiration and sustenance from the blessings of Kalgidhar Society's head Baba Iqbal Singh. We salute him! But even before we could start rejoicing over the success, came the blow -- stealthily and swiftly. What hurt most was the fact that it came from within. Friends, you will recall that Kalgidhar Society had launched this campaign after Amritpal Singh and Amjyot Singh, Indian basketball team players, were subjected to racial discrimination by FIBA authorities at Xuhan in China recently. They were made to take off their turbans. We fought the battle not just for the duo but for all Sikhs and others who use different head gears as the mark of their respective faiths. We were, therefore, shocked to find that Amritpal and Amjyot have chosen to cut their hair and have flown to participate in the Asian Games at the South Korean port of Incheon. That too after the relatively favourable announcement from FIBA. That too after after having hailed the announcement and appearing in news media photographs displaying the victory sign. This is distressful. Our heads hang in shame. But in keeping with the highest tenets of Sikhism we bear no grudge towards them. It is highly probable that FIBA's adamant stand and delayed decision may have worn the patience of these two players thin. Also, modern day sport is inextricably linked to monetary rewards and sundry benefits. These are enough to entice the common man. But Sikhs have always stood out from the common lot, both in India and abroad. Trials and tribulations have brought out the best in them. Wars and battles have spurred them on to new heights of sacrifice and glory. Their enterprise and perseverance in times of severest crises are universally acknowledged. Who knows it better than we in India? Yet we need to work arduously on some fronts. Let us begin with one. Let us strengthen our moral and spiritual fiber. In today's consumerist society, we are besieged by allurements galore. Glamour and glitz bedazzle us. Materialism beckons us 24X7. No wonder, many of us fall prey to these temptations. We lose our spiritual moorings. We tend to ignore what our 10 revered Gurus taught us. We overlook what is enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib. We lose our way and get caught in the web of greed and misery. The time has come to find our way back to the divine realm. Once there, we will automatically overlook worldly inducements. We will be able to see one in all and all in one. Everybody's sensitivity will be our concern. Others' pain will be our sorrow too. So will be their joy our source of happiness. Crises like the one created by FIBA will just not arise. True brotherhood shall prevail. bani   ~ Ravinderpal Singh Kohli

Guru Nanak Mission LIVE on Global Punjab!

Catch the LIVE Telecast of the Educational and Spiritual Drive initiated by Baba Iqbal Singh in the wake of enshrining Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Mission every week starting today from 8:30 - 9:30 pm (EDT) on Global Punjab!

Sikh Basketball Players Face Choice: Take Off Turbans or Don’t Play

FIBA, THE INTERNATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION, IS UNDER FIRE FOR NOT ALLOWING SIKH PLAYERS FROM INDIA WEAR THEIR TURBANS WHILE COMPETING IN THE ASIA CUP. Supporters of Team India Basketball have been disappointed by the decision by FIBA, the International Basketball Association, to disallow members of their team to play basketball while wearing their turbans. THE RULES In sports, or any competitive event, following rules is incredibly important, and no member of any serious sports team would want to break the rules. However, FIBA’s Official Basketball Rules state that: “Players shall not wear equipment (objects) that may cause injury to other players.” The rule continues, listing turbans and hijabs in particular. Leading up to their game against Japan in the Asia Cup tournament in China, Team India had already consulted with officials from FIBA and were told that the turbans would be acceptable. By the time they actually arrived to play, however, that decision had been overturned. TURBANS IN THE SIKH FAITH Within the Sikh religion, it is very important that an individual does not cut his or her hair. Many Sikhs will also wear a turban, to keep their hair in its totally natural state. It is something that some Sikhs do, and some do not, but their choice is a key part of their belief system. Two members of Team India wear turbans and had to choose between playing or removing their turbans because they were told they were not allowed to wear their turbans while they played. INTERNATIONAL REACTION TO FIBA’S RULING The international reaction to this ruling has been extreme. Many around the world have demanded that the rules are re-examined due to their discriminatory nature. Others have suggested that instead of being outright discrimination, the problem is more about a lack of understanding and ignorance. Sikh bodies in India, on the other hand, have termed the decision “a barbaric and inhuman act.” However, what many people consider to be the worst offense is that the two basketball players were forced to remove their turbans in order to play, which they both said felt very uncomfortable. IT’S ALL ABOUT THE GAME Amritpal Singh and Amjyot Singh, the two players affected by the decision, are both prominent members of the team but could not start in the game against Japan because they were forced to unravel their turbans and tie their hair with bands before playing. Throughout the game, both were visibly flustered and uncomfortable. Although the headgear situation is likely not solely to blame, India ended up losing that game and finished 7th place overall. INTERNATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION TO CONTINUE INVESTIGATING The FIBA Central Board met in Seville at the end of August to discuss a variety of topics, including their rulings on religious headgear. Despite protests set up by the Kalgidhar Society, an online petition on Change.org which garnered over 53,000 signatures, and a social media campaign called #LetSikhsPlay, the meeting remained inconclusive in regards to a solution. Despite not approving a ruling, the Central Board agreed to continue investigations into the matter. ~ Source: http://www.worldreligionnews.com/

Akal Academy Kajri Teachers and Students hold silent Protest against FIBA Ban on Turban !

In continuation to peaceful protests against FIBA banning two budding Indian Sikh sports stars Amritpal Singh and Amjyot Singh, who were asked to remove their Turban in Wuhan, which had recently led to a great indignation among the Sikh community across the world. Akal Academy Kajri too joined this move to protest FIBA’s discriminatory decision alongwith other 128 Akal Academies. Getting impulse from The Kalgidhar Education Trust, Baru Sahib, the students of the Academy staged their silent and peaceful protest by playing friendly basket ball match in symbolic teams wearing Turban to show the large community that turban can’t harm anyone rather a Turban is an identity of true peace loving people living harmoniously across the globe. Since centuries, Turban has been a part of religious and cultural heritage which a Sikh wears on his head and the Federation must respect that. ~ Deeksha Singh ~ New Delhi, 13th Sep '14 [gallery ids="6700,6699,6698,6697,6696,6695"]

Experience Gurbani Like Never Before…

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:
  1. First time Sundar Gutka in audio format by Akal Academy Students.
  2. First time Sehaj Paath ang-wise in audio format.
  3. Online Gurbani Radio 24*7
  4. Baru Sahib Facebook latest updates.
  5. Latest News Updates & Much More...
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Dr. Brooke, Head of School at Seneca Academy Talks About Her Informative & Exceptional Tour at Akal Academy – Baru Sahib!

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.
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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!
  10. 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.
  11. 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.
For More Information about Seneca Academy please visit: http://www.senecaacademy.org ~ By Chantelle Walker ~ Source: http://goarticles.com/

Peaceful protest against FIBA on turban issue in the lap of Himalayas!

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 

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Protest Pictures from Akal Academy,  Muktsar

Akal Academy Muktsar Turban Ban Protest  

Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Kauriwara

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Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Bhai Desa

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Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Balbehra

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Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Gomtipul

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Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Dhindsa

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Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Cheema

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Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Bhadaur

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Protest Pictures from Akal Academy, Kajri

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The Role of Teacher in shaping Humanity – Baba Iqbal Singh Ji!

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. Iqbal Singh Ji (Baba) signature ~ Iqbal Singh Ji (Baba) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUbLHxwnXb8&feature=youtu.be