An elderly Sikh-American man was brutally assaulted and called “terrorist” and “Bin Laden” in an apparent hate crime case in Chicago, just days before the US commemorates the anniversary of the September 11 attacks.

Mukker, a resident of Chicago, and a father of 2 would never have imagined his fate when he had set off for a grocery store. On his way, a fellow pulled up to his car and kept taunting him with racial slurs like “Terrorist! Go back to your country, Bin Laden!”

The Sikh stopped the car on the side to let him pass but instead, the assailant parked right in front of him and aggressively approached Mukker’s car, reported the Sikh Coalition, a community-based organisation.

The man then reached inside the car and kept placing punches on Mukkers face repeatedly, which made him bleed profusely and lose consciousness. This led to a fractured cheekbone, and a laceration onto his cheek.

Mukker was taken to a nearby hospital where he received treatment for laceration, bruising and swelling. He has 6 stitches on his face.
The suspect is now in custody.

“No American should be afraid to practice their faith in our country,” said Mukker.
“I’m thankful for the authorities’ swift response to apprehend the individual but without this being fully investigated as a hate crime, we risk ignoring the horrific pattern of intolerance, abuse and violence that Sikhs and other minority communities in this country continue to face,” he further added.

According to the community, this kind of an attack in the eve of the 9/11 displays a similar pattern.
This was definitely not the first of its kind. Last August, Sandeep Singh, a Sikh father in New York City, was run over and dragged 30 feet after being called a “terrorist.” Also, previously in 2012, a gunman walked into a Sikh house of worship and shot and killed 6 innocent Sikh victims in Oak Creek, Wisconsin.

~ Source: indiatimes

With such rise in the number of hate crimes, is the world really safe for anyone?

Message posted by Avishek Sharma on his Facebook went viral on social networks and received national praise:

Honesty exists, humanity Prevails..

“I am talking about an incident which happened with me a day before Raksha Bandhan.

I boarded an auto from Naraina to Subash Nagar at around 8:30pm on 28th Aug’15, the Auto No. was DL 1R M 3928, it belongs to Mr. Maan Singh from Uttam Nagar (I came to know later about these things) when I de boarded the auto, only after few minutes I realised that I left both my laptops in the Auto.

I panicked and hastily took a scooty from a friend to find the auto wala, my brother also followed me on his bike. Unfortunately we couldn’t find him, all we knew was that he was a 50-55yrs old Sardarji and the Auto was from Uttam Nagar (as it had a board written “On Duty Meter Sewa” on the front and Uttam Nagar on the back of it).

We scouted every lane of Uttam Nagar and asked everyone possible describing the auto and sardarji. We reached back home at 3 AM all exhausted and lost all hopes of getting the laptops back. It had happened with me earlier as well that I left my Digital Camera in such an auto and Never got it back. So I was not hopeful of getting them back ever.

To my surprise, at around 7AM in the morning next day I got a call from my brother that the auto driver called him on his cell phone and asked him about the laptop that I left mistakenly in his auto. After few minutes I got a call on my number too. Actually my cousin sister had couriered Rakhi which was there in the bag and it had both of our numbers and my address. My brother straight away went to his home in Uttam Nagar to collect the bags..

I hereby salute the person Mr. Maan Singh for his honesty.

I would have lost all my data from my laptop and it would have been really difficult for me to retrieve it because I hadn’t taken any backup. He could have easily sold those off for few thousands or could have used it for his own purpose but he chose to return it back. I hugely respect this man.

I am attaching his pictures for people to recognise him as an honest man. And would also like to thank him with all my Heart. Thank You Sir..!!”

Share & Spread these Unsung Heroes of the Sikh Community!

The Chennai Metro Rail Limited rendered an apology to a Sikh man, who was asked to remove his turban inside the metro by the security officials.

According to a report in the News Minute, Tandeep Singh, a resident of Chennai, decided to take his first ride on the metro when he was allegedly asked to remove his turban at the Vadapalani station. Despite telling the officials that removing the turban went against his customs and he cannot be asked to do it, the guards said that those were the instructions given to them.

Following the incident, Singh took to social media site Facebook to express his shock over the demand. The Facebook status read,

“This is not the first time something like this has happened to me, unfortunately. Let me tell you I’ve traveled in and around USA as well and I’ve never been asked to take my turban off. However this ridiculous request is made only in India. I’m shocked and appalled by this. I thought Chennai has actually changed and finally we are moving on as a city and be more accepting of different cultures and races.”

“I had to be quite stern with him. I asked him to get the supervisor. Then he relented and let me go,” he added on the post.

Singh expressed his concern over such incidents. He said, “I don’t blame the security guy for this instance, it is nothing but pure ignorance. CMRL (Chennai Metro Rail Limited) you are at fault here, you need to educate your staff more about such issues. I was in two minds to throw a raging fit there and make a scene. I refrained from doing so, because that is what my culture, my faith teaches me to do. To be patient and understanding with the ignorant.”

“This issue must be looked into right away. It is bad enough Chennai as a city has such an unfriendly reputation from most of India. It’s time to be more welcoming and accepting,” he added.

According to the New Minute report, Chennai Metro Rail Limited contacted and apologized to Singh, after the incident came to light. An official said that they were sorry for the incident and would look into the issue. However, it is not known what exactly did the officials tell Singh.

In May, another Sikh man contesting the UK general election alleged that he was forced to remove his turban by police at the Dubai airport.

Source- Indiatoday.in

The Akaal Primary School, which will have classes for reception and year 1 pupils, is opening in a temporary site on Hartington Street, while a permanent location is found. Akaal Primary will join 252 free schools which are already open across the country, with a further 52 set to open this month.

Derby City Council are helping to find a permanent site for the school. The schools will provide a values-based education and a greater choice of primary schools in Derby.

We are creating an outstanding school where all pupils will achieve highly.
– DR DALJIT VIRK, Chairman of the school

The Government has announced it will continue its programme of free schools, with Prime Minister David Cameron saying he will “not waiver” in his commitment to open 500 new free schools over the next five years,
The free schools programme has sent out the message loud and clear, that parents should never have to settle for anything less than the best for their child.

Right across the country, these innovative community-led schools are helping to fulfil our One Nation commitment to educational excellence for every child. – NICKY MORGAN, Education Secretary

Akaal Primary School has no specific catchment area and meets the need for more primary school places for areas including Normanton, Pear Tree, Heatherton and Chellaston.

~ Source: indiatoday.intoday.in

A Sikh soldier has been appointed to watch over the “Tomb of the Unknown Soldier” at the National War Memorial in Canada. The tomb refers to a monument in dedication to the services of an unknown soldier and to the common memories of all soldiers killed in any war.

Taj Aujla is one of the four Canadian soldiers of the 39th Brigade Group, Royal Westminster Regiment, who are currently in Ottawa for three weeks to guard the tomb, Ottawacitizen.com news portal reported.

One is the familiar outfit of the Canadian forces: forest-green slacks, tie and jacket over a sage-green shirt. Brass buttons, black shoes, white belt and gloves, and, in his case, corporal’s stripes on his shoulders and the insignia of the 39th Brigade, Royal Westminster Regiment on his chest.

The second uniform comprises the five Ks, or articles of faith, of Sikhism. Four of the five — the Kachera, or cotton underpants; a Kara, or metal bracelet; a Kangha, a wooden comb; and Kirpan, a curved sword — may not be immediately visible to passersby. But the fifth — Kesh, or uncut hair — and its accompanying Dastaar, or turban, the latter in a green matching his military outfit, clearly are, and the 36-year-old reservist couldn’t be prouder to represent both his military and Sikh communities.

“The two uniforms serve the same purpose,” he says. “It’s about service.”

“The basis of Sikhism is service to your country and your community. Being here is a big honour because I am representing the way of life of a Sikh. But it goes back to the tomb, that is why we’re here,” Aujla was quoted as saying.

“This gentleman – the unknown soldier – whoever he is, was serving. He made the ultimate sacrifice, for our freedom, for our country for us. To be a part of this is exactly what I practise on a day-to-day basis. What he did was very human,” Aujla said.

Aujla joined the reserves of the Canadian forces four years ago.

When he came to know about the opportunity to join the ceremonial guard, he researched on the tomb and decided to offer his services.

“If people had loved ones who did not make it home from World War I or World War II, this tomb is the place where they can come to pay their respects. To be able to stand guard here is a privilege,” said Aujla.
“When I joined the forces and was sworn in, my unit welcomed me as a Sikh and said welcome to the family. There’s a lot of a brotherhood here,” he added.

The idea of soldierly service is very much a part of Sikhism. Aujla’s great-grandfather served in a Sikh regiment in India, as did his great-uncle.

~ Source: NDTV.com

I didn’t sleep well last night. Today is my last day as an honorary Sikh and I feel as if I’m floating between two worlds.

We’ve talked about how jarring each transition is, but it’s especially difficult with a faith that bonds to you so well. Another unique aspect of my month as a Sikh is that out of all the months so far, this was the most visual. I physically changed over the month and wore the Five K’s, articles of faith within the Sikh religion. They are: Kesh, Kanga , Kachaira, Kara and the Kirpan.

I’d say that was a pretty dramatic change. Understand though, that this is more than just walking around carrying various religious objects. These are part of a uniform which represents religious independence and a duty to protect/fight for those who are under the heel of tyranny. Each article of faith holds great significance for the Sikh and reminds him/her of their relationship with Waheguru (God) and humanity. Such a great responsibility weighed heavily upon me every day as I wore each article. I wasn’t just slipping on some impractical article of faith, I was dressing for battle.

What’s sad yet inspiring to me is that many Sikhs have died rather than cut their hair or remove their Dastaar (turban).

Earlier in the month, I encouraged Sikhs to stand up for their identity–especially when it comes to the physical implements–and wear them with pride.

More than any other month, I felt the gaze of exclusion every time I went out in public. The dastaar attracted many stares and who knows how many whispers. The irony is that while many judge Sikhs as a fringe element because of their dress or beliefs out of ignorance, a Sikh’s code of conduct demands that a Sikh defend those who are marginalized and/or oppressed. This includes those who judge them. That takes guts, and just opening yourself up to questions is the best form of combat against ignorance.

Meditation and Service

These two words, in my humble opinion, fully describe the Sikhi faith. Sikhs are called to meditate on the presence of Waheguru (God, meaning the awesome light which dispels darkness) in everything.
“In the ambrosial hours of the morning we should meditate on His True Name and ponder His greatness.” –Japji Sahib
There is no duality then, no evil spirit versus a good one. God is in everything, everywhere, at all times. Our “salvation” comes in recognizing His (God is genderless, by the way) Order .

Waking up at 4:30 in the morning when all the house is still, silent, makes this easier. I liked thinking about God as light cutting through the darkness both literally and metaphorically. Sometimes, I’d meditate in the dark and light a candle to represent this ideal. Amazing what a little votive candle can do to a dark room. Is this not the world we live in today? Guru Gobind Singh said that the Khalsa (initiated Sikhs) is a special group of saint-soldiers, “One among millions.” Sikhi taught me to be a single point of light in the vast darkness.

Serving both the earth and humanity are Sikh essentials. Because Sikhs observe the divine in everything, this concept reinforced the respect I already had for the environment. This also plays a role in how we treat one another. My Mentor this month taught me that when I look into his eyes, I gaze at God and He gazed at me. In this way, every opportunity to listen closely, to smile, to serve, is a form of worship of the divine.

Few places illustrated the idea of service better than the langar (free kitchen/shared meal) at my Mentor’s Gurdwara in Charlotte, North Carolina. Everyone, regardless of social status, sits in line on the floor while weekly volunteers serve food. Here we talked about Sikhi and it was just great being among the people I tried so hard to emulate. Thank you, Gurdwara Sahib of Charlotte, NC for welcoming me into your faith and your way of life. Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh!

I wish I could stay a while longer, but I have many more miles to go before the end. Many thanks to my Mentor, the Sangat at Gurdwara Sahib, and to all the wonderful Sikhs who’ve joined the Congregation and left comments of insight, wisdom, correction, and encouragement for me this month.

I’ve learned so much and many who weren’t previously aware of Sikhi now know who you are. With all my heart, I hope my seva (selfless service) through Project Conversion was a blessing to you and your faith.

Story Via: Beliefnet

Five months of intensive training paid off as 10 members of the Royal New Zealand Air Force initial officer training course graduated at Base Woodbourne, in Marlborough,. The course was the second of the year, with graduates trained on the skills and knowledge expected of junior officers.

Flying Officer Beer Singh Bains, of Auckland, was one of the 10 graduates. “This is where I want to be,” he said. “The training was good, but I’m dying to get there and getting right amongst it.”

The World Sikh Organization of Canada has helped 9 yr-Old Shanvir Singh resume playing ice hockey while being able to wear his Kirpan.

Shanvir Singh is an Amritdhari Sikh and wears the Sikh articles of faith, including the kirpan. He was registered to play in a league organized by the Millwoods Hockey Association. After his first session, Shanvir Singh’s mother, Gurjit Kaur, was told that Shanvir Singh’s Kirpan had been removed by the coach and placed in his hockey bag. Gurjit Kaur was told that Shanvir Singh would not be able to wear the kirpan during games nor would he be permitted to bring the Kirpan into the hockey arena.

Gurjit Kaur contacted the WSO for assistance.

After initiating a dialogue with the Millwoods Hockey Association, it was agreed that Shanvir Singh would be permitted to wear his kirpan underneath his hockey gear, as long as it is wrapped in cloth and secured close to his body.
Shanvir has now returned to the ice and resumed his hockey season.

WSO Alberta Vice-President Tejinder Singh Sidhu said, “given that a hockey arena is filled with dangerous items such as hockey blades and sticks, the issue really wasn’t about the safety of the kirpan but more about helping to understand the significance of the kirpan and how it is accommodated in other settings. We’re glad that the family contacted us for advice and assistance and in doing so, were able to resolve this not just for themselves, but also for other Sikh players who might find themselves in similar situations in the future. We would also like to thank the Millwoods Hockey Association for engaging in an open dialogue and helping to resolve the matter quickly so that Shanvir Singh did not have to lose any playing time.”

WSO offers free advice and advocacy for individuals requiring assistance at their schools, workplaces or elsewhere with respect to religious accommodation issues

The World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO) is a non-profit organization with a mandate to promote and protect the interests of Canadian Sikhs as well as to promote and advocate for the protection of human rights for all individuals, irrespective of race, religion, gender, ethnicity, and social and economic status.

Great Victory for SIKHS for being able to practise their religion with its articles of Faith!

Gulyana, a 900-year-old historic village of Potohar, is located 10 kilometers south of Gujar Khan. The landscape here is dominated by old buildings, havelis, temples and Sikh samadhis which were erected before the birth of Pakistan.

During my frequent visits to the village, I met many oral historians who narrated stories from the pre-partition times. Of these, Gulzar Khan, 85, was one of the more well-informed persons.

Gulzar gets up early in the morning and goes to sit with his friends under the old banyan tree in the village, recalling memories of the pre-partition days. He still remembers his old Hindu and Sikh friends from childhood. In the community, he is greatly respected for his knowledge of history and oral traditions of the Potohar region.

In fact, he is considered an expert on the oral history of Gulyana village.

During my conversations with him, I learned that Gulyana was predominately inhabited by Hindus and Sikhs before the partition. Diwan Prithvi Chand, Tek Chand and Bakhshi Moti Ram were the notable Hindus of this area, who controlled the business of Gulyana and its neighboring towns.

I was amazed at his descriptions of the minutest details on the nobility and the monuments of Potohar.

From the names of rivers, hill streams, lakes, monuments to dignitaries and tribes, I recorded everything that Gulzar shared with me. He also knew the names of an entire list of Muslim, Hindu and Sikh merchants and philanthropists in the area.

Two of the eminent Sikh merchants of Potohar, Bali Singh and Tara Singh, belonged to Gulyana; they built schools, hospitals, havelis, temples and gurdwaras.

Today, the buildings constructed by the Hindus and Sikhs break the skyline of the village. There are about four havelis, one temple and two samadhis, all preserved very poorly.

The haveli of Tara Singh, which still stands out in the landscape, is three-storeyed and noted for its wooden windows and ornately carved doors. The main entrance to the havelis is decorated with floral designs.

The two samadhis lie one kilometer east of the village. Of these, one is larger, with shikhara (superstructure). The interior of the samadhi is decorated with paintings depicting Sikh and Hindu mythologies.

On the southern wall is the painting of Baba Guru Nanak, with his two companions Bala and Mardana. And, on the western wall are depictions of Ram and Sita with Hanuman and Laxman. Hanuman, the monkey god, is shown paying homage to Ram and Sita.

The southern wall depicts the stories of Krishna, with gopis (milkmaids) and Radha. The northern wall depicts Shiva with his wife Parvati and Vishnu with Lakshmi.

On the western and southern sides of the samadhi are three old wells, two of which are still used by the locals for irrigation. On the northern side is another small samadhi. Gulzar Khan and Abdul Rahan (another oral historian in the village) confirm that two Sikh notables were buried inside these samadhis.

To the west of these Sikh samadhis stands a Hindu temple. Intricate floral designs decorate the interior of this temple.

The temple is believed to have been built by Bakhshi Moti Ram, who was the grandfather of Tek Chand. According to Gulzar Khan, Tek Chand embraced Islam after the partition. He had three sons, Roshan, Bhera and Shal, who migrated to India.

Sadly, all of these magnificent buildings lie in complete neglect; the locals use the samadhis to store firewood. The walls are decaying and so is their glory. There is an urgent need to initiate their preservation and appoint a night watch to protect this heritage from vandalism.

Until that happens, these structures will die a slow death and eventually, so will Gulzar Khan’s stories.

-Zulfiqar Ali Kalhoro

Source- Dawn.com

Punjab government on Monday declared holiday on September 14 instead of September 1 to mark Prakash Gurpurab of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji.

As per reports, September 14 has been declared as Public holiday in Punjab on account of Prakash Gurpurab of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji.

Earlier, September 1 used to be celebrated as Prakash Gurpurab of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji and public holiday was declared on this day across the state.

But this, public holiday would be observed on September 14 and all government, semi-government offices, boards, corporations, schools and colleges would remain closed on this day.

While all government, semi-government offices, boards, corporations, schools and colleges would remain open for work on September 1.

~Source: North Gazette News/Chandigarh