News & Update

Bhinder, a 6-foot-2 guard of Sikh heritage, solidified his status as a Division 1 prospect. Sukhman Bhinder is one of the best true point basketball player in the Class of 2015 in Australia.
Competing with six Aussie teammates touring the midwest with AUSA Hoops — an organization offering exposure to Australian players, Bhinder displayed an advanced understanding of the floor as he dissected opposing defenses. Able to score off the drive, shoot and find open teammates, he propelled his squad to a big upset win in its final game of the day against a team filled with high-level prospects.

Bhinder has dreamed of Division I ball since he was a kid. He’ll spend the next week and a half with AUSA on the AAU circuit, and certainly knows what’s at stake.

“It’s much more personally driven,” he said. “I know there’s a standard to set, and I’ve got to play up to it. Whatever you can showcase is for real this time, in front of coaches.” With a strong frame and promising bloodlines (his father stands 6-6, his older brothers 6-7 and 6-3), Bhinder took care of the ball and changed speeds off the bounce effectively. Leading vocally, but also by simply competing harder than anyone else on the floor, the intangibles his coaches rave about were easy to see.

“He’s probably one of the hardest working kids I’ve ever met,” says Rhys Murphy, coach, founder and president of AUSA Hoops. The Sydney native played college ball at Oregon State and Chaminade. “The build he has comes from being in the weight room all the time. He’s finding his feet. As he gets comfortable and realizes what we want him to do, to be aggressive on the court, I think he’ll really show some people his ability.”

~ Source: Facebook.com/Sikhism

Nobel Peace Prize winner Kailash Satyarthi showed Bravery by giving Refuge to Sikhs during 1984 Massacre. One of the two winners of this year’s Nobel Peace Prize, Kailash Satyarthi, saved Sikhs during the 1984 pogrom that rocked India following the assassination of then prime minister Indira Gandhi.

He was one of those rare people who dared to protect Sikhs by taking them into their refuge when they were being hounded by the goons with the help of the police. Satyarthi, a children’s rights activist, founded Bachpan Bachao Andolan (Save Childhood Movement) in 1980 to free poor children from the shackles of bonded labour and abuse in different parts of India.In the first week of November 1984, Satyarthi gave refuge to Sikhs in his house after a massacre began following the assassination of then Indian prime minister Indira Gandhi.

According to prominent Indian human-rights lawyer Harvinder Singh Phoolka, Satyarthi did this despite receiving threats from those involved in rioting. “He was one of those rare people who dared to protect Sikhs by taking them into their refuge when they were being hounded by the goons with the help of the police,” Phoolka told the Straight over the phone from New Delhi. He first came in contact with Satyarthi when he saw him working at refugee camps to help victims of the violence.
Phoolka has been singlehandedly fighting in the courts for those targeted in anti-Sikh violence during that era and coauthored When a Tree Shook Delhi, which is based on his own experience as legal counsel for these people. He has also been giving free legal aid to Satyarthi’s initiative against child abuse.

“Together we have launched many public-interest litigations to stop child exploitation in factories,” Phoolka stated. Doing this was not easy and according to Phoolka, Satyarthi has received many threats from business people. “Eventually we were successful in getting some of the businesses involved in child labour shut.”

Phoolka said that because Satyarthi is a humble person and not publicity-hungry, he hasn’t received enough prominence in the media. “He believes in working without much effort to gain media attention,” Phoolka explained. “That is one reason that not many people know about his good work, but he is a well-respected figure in the activists’ circles.”

The Nobel Peace Prize comes 30 years after Satyarthi decided to protect Sikhs. A controversial Indian government military operation had been launched to flush out armed Sikh militants from inside the Golden Temple complex in Amritsar. It’s the holiest shrine of the Sikhs. The army invasion left many people dead and the buildings inside the shrine destroyed. This sparked angry protests around the world, including a huge demonstration of Sikhs in Vancouver.

~ Source: www.straight.com

A heart-warming story from Khalsa Bikers who were in Belgium in November to remember the Sikh soldiers who died in World War 1 serving in Europe.

“This gentleman approached us whilst we were walking around Menin Gate Belgium. He asked Payara Singh, “are you the leader of these boys?”

He then questioned “You’re Sikhs, aren’t you?”, to which we replied yes. He then went on to state “my dad was serving with Sikhs in Burma and India. He always told me that he trusted the Sikhs. I trust you, do you know what I mean? I trust you Sikhs”. He then gave us a firm handshake and walked away.

It was a special moment and really took us aback; the actions of our forefathers have left a lasting impression on the world. How great they must have been.”

~Source: Khalsa Aid

A Singh named Simranjeet Singh has revealed that a special program on Sikhs will be premiered on the largest television network of the United States called CBS. The episode airing on Sunday will reveal Sikhs to the general public on National Television right after the largest sports event of the week. Sikhs around the nation are excited to watch this premiere which will showcase the basic tenants and philosophies of Sikhism.

The Singh involved in this project has done various efforts to raise awareness of Sikh individually. He is part of the “Surat Initiative” which recently held a Turban Day in NYC where they tied hundreds of turbans on many individuals in an effort to raise awareness of Sikhs.

This show is very important as a good size of the American population will hear the Sikh story for the very first time. The major problem Sikhs have faced in the United States is the lack of awareness of efforts, but things are starting to change. A handful of Sikh organizations have joined together to let the American public hear the Sikh story in their communities and already change can be witnessed.

~ Source: http://dailysikhupdates.com/

For the fourth year, California state legislature declared November as Sikh American Awareness and Appreciation Month “to afford all Californians the opportunity to understand, recognize, and appreciate the rich history and shared principles of Sikh Americans.” The statewide proclamation opened the door for Sikh Americans to expose over 5 million Californians to Sikh awareness information. California continues to be the only state in the country to have an entire month designated to recognizing and raising awareness about Sikh Americans.

“Through grassroots efforts, the Sikh Coalition mobilized hundreds of Californian Sikhs to have their cities also recognize the month, organize educational and awareness events, lead presentations, engage with their elected officials and display information about Sikhs in public spaces. Click here to see a list of projects that were developed by the Sikh Coalition for Sikh Awareness and Appreciation Month” reads a community release by the Sikh Coalition.

Sikh Awareness presentations were delivered to almost 1,000 individuals across California in schools, law enforcement agencies, libraries, community organizations and prisons. These presentations have been very well received and are creating opportunities for additional sessions to be held across the state.

16 Sikh Awareness resolutions and proclamations were passed in the cities of San Joaquin, Lathrop, Tracy, Ceres, Manteca, Modesto, Elk Grove, Bakersfield, San Jose, Santa Clara, Santa Ana and Los Angeles, in addition to the Fresno County Office of Education, Elk Grove Unified School District and West Contra Costa County School District and a campus-wide resolution at California State University, Fresno. These proclamations not only acknowledge their Sikh communities but also provide for educational opportunities. The Sikh Coalition thanks the following advocates and community members for their efforts: Ameet Singh Birring, Vincent Tran, Bobbie Singh-Allen, Harbir Bhatia, Silicon Valley Gurdwara, Jass Sangha, Parminder Sahi, Baljit Soni, Dr Andrew Fiala, Danita Melton and the Sikh Council of Central California.

The Fresno County Office of Education created an educational video about Sikhs for 32 school districts, which will be used to educate students about Sikh history and beliefs in the area and beyond. Close to two dozen libraries displayed Sikh books, posters and other educational information in both public and school libraries reaching thousands of Californians. The Fresno Police Department invited the Sikh Coalition back to deliver a presentation on Sikhs, providing officers with helpful tips on how to interact with Sikh Americans. Close to 50 officers attended from over ten police agencies in the Central Valley.

“As unique as it is to have an official month to recognize and learn about the Sikh community, Sikh awareness efforts don’t stop here. Let’s continue to educate and inform our neighbors and colleagues about our community all year round”

-Source: SikhSiyasat.net

Bhai Sahib Bhai Mohinder Singh, welcomed and hosted a delegation from the British Army as they visited the Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ) Gurudwara and Nishkam complex in Birmingham as part of the commemorations of The Battle of Saragarhi. During the visit there were ongoing discussions about the importance of values, education and standards, done in the spirit of strengthening understanding and links between Sikhs and the British Army.

British Army Officers and Soldiers,led the delegation to pay homage to, and remember the Sikh military personnel. They gracefully listened to Guru Granth Sahib Ji’s message in the Gurdwara.

They were overwhelmed by what they saw, the community spirit to serve humanity and society selflessly. The visit was about understanding, listening and exchanging viewpoints. Bhai Sahib Ji iterated the importance of Sikhs needing an opportunity to stand up for righteousness and those persecuted, whilst remaining compassionate, forgiving, peace-loving and humble.

The concept of Sant-Sipihi (Saint-Solider) was discussed, where one must have Godly traits, be spiritually inspired and infused and then be prepared to give the ultimate sacrifice to protect and uphold the honor and dignity of others.

~ Source: http://nishkammediacentre.com/

Member of Parliament Parm Gill has announced that Amarjeet Singh is the head Guard stationed in front of the Canadian Parliament.

Protectors for All-Sikhs have again set an example overseas. After the recent attack on the Canadian Parliament where a guard died protecting Canadian freedom, the officials have decided to put a Sikh in front of the Canadian Parliament.

This decision is being praised by Sikhs worldwide as Sikhs are known to be the protectors of all. The Sikh faith teaches to defend oneself against oppression and to always fight for justice. Many are also happy as this is a great way to spread awareness of Sikhs.

A recent discovery also found the first Prime Minister of Canada Sir John a Macdonald had requested an Army of Sikhs in 1867 to protect against a possible British operation.

Parm Gill quoted “Felt extremely proud to see sikh RCMP officer Amarjeet Singh Nijjer stationed in front the main entrance of Parliament building protecting heart of our democracy.”

Sikhs are always Up for Protection anywhere in the World and are considered trustworthy Protectors!
Hit Like& Share if you agree!

~ Source: http://dailysikhupdates.com/

ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਤੇਰੀ ਬਾਣੀਆ ॥
Anmrith Thaeree Baneea ||
The Bani of Your Word is Ambrosial Nectar.

ਤੇਰਿਆ ਭਗਤਾ ਰਿਦੈ ਸਮਾਣੀਆ ॥
Thaeria Bhagatha Ridhai Samaneea
It permeates the hearts of Your devotees.

A young child went to a Gursikh and stated that no matter how hard he tried to keep Gurbani in his heart, he just could not understand or keep it. He stated that his mind was not a bucket, but a strainer, which let everything pass through and did not contain the meaning of Gurbani.

The Gursikh said “Let us try an experiment. Here is a strainer, and here is some water. Now pour a bucket of water through the strainer.”

The child did this and said “See, the water was not contained, it just passed through, my mind is just like this”. The Gursikh said. “Do it once more”, so he did, and still the water passed through the strainer. The Gursikh said. “Do it ten times at least”. The child did, and at the end of this experiment, he said ” See, water still passes through, no matter how many times and how many buckets we pass through it”.

The Gursikh said, “Look carefully at the strainer and see if there is anything different.” The child did, and his eyes were filled with tears, and he said. “Yes, I see the difference now. The grimy dirty strainer is now shiny and bright, like never before.”

The Gursikh said “My son, this is what Gurbani does for you. It cleans your mind, and even if you do not realize it, it slowly cleanses your mind and protects you from the five vices. The more you recite Gurbani, your mind will not only become shinier, but become like the bucket itself, which will not only become clean, but hold the meaning of Gurbani in your heart”.

The child smiled and felt he had received the best example of the power of Gurbani, ever. Gurbani is that detergent that cleanses the mind of its dirt. The more we rub our ‘surti’ with Gurbani the cleaner it gets.

Dhur ki Baani is full of amrit. Whoever utters baani of Satguru literally drinks Amrit.

~ Credits: insta@nirvairsangat84

The youngest sons of Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji, Sahibzada Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Sahibzada Baba Fateh Singh Ji were born at Anandpur Sahib. Thier grandmother Mata Gujjar Kaur Ji was especially close to the young Sahibzadas. When Guru Ji’s family evacuated from Anandpur Sahib, Mata Ji took charge of both of them as the column moved out of the city.

While crossing on horseback the rivulet Sirsa, then in spate, the three were separated from Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji. Gangu, who had worked for the Guru’s family, also succeeded in crossing the stream. He escorted them to his own house in the village of Kheri, now known as Saheri, near Morinda in presentday Ropar district. While unsaddling the horse he saw that there was some cash in the saddlebag. This tempted him to treachery. He not only stole the saddlebag during the night, but also planned to betray the fugitives to the government in hope of a reward.

On the morning of 7 December 1705, the day of the fateful battle of Chamkaur, Baba Zorawar Singh ji, along with Baba Fateh Singh ji and their grandmother, was taken into custody by Jani Khan and Mani Khan Ranghar, the officials at Morinda. They were despatched on the following day to Sirhind where they were consigned to the Cold Tower (Thanda Burj) of the Fort.

On 9 December 1705, Baba Zorawar Singh ji and Baba Fateh Singh ji were produced before the faujdaar, Nawab Wazir Khan, who had just returned from Chamkaur with his feudal ally, Nawab Sher Muhammad Khan of Malerkotla. Wazir Khan tried to lure the Sahibzadas to embrace Islam with promises of riches and honours, but they spurned the suggestion. He then threatened them with death, but they remained undaunted. Death sentence was finally pronounced. Upon Sher Muhammad Khan’s intercession for the innocent children to be spared their lives, they were given some more time to ponder over the suggestion to convert. Sahibzada Zorawar Singh ji and his brother spent another two days of severe winter in their old grandmother’s lap in the Cold Tower.

Still adamant, they were, on 11 December 1705, ordered to be sealed alive in a wall. As the masonry around their tender bodies reached chest high, it crumbled. The Sahibzadas were sent to the Cold Tower again for the night. The next day, 12 December 1705, the alternative of conversion being again turned down, Baba Zorawar Singh ji and Baba Fateh Singh ji were martyred by sealing alive in a wall. The aged Mata Gujari Kaur ji, who had all along been kept in the Cold Tower, only a little distance away, breathed her last as the news reached her ears. Mata Gujari ji through upbringing of her grandsons played such an important role in Sikhism that as Sikhs, we can owe our existence to her. It was due to her teachings that the young Babas did not bulge from their Dharma and attained martyrdom, thus continuing and emphasizing the institute of martyrdom in Sikhism.

Seth Todar Mall, a wealthy merchant of Sirhind, performed the cremation of the three dead bodies the following day. The site of the fateful happenings, since christened Fatehgarh Sahib, close to the old town of Sirhind, is now marked by four Sikh shrines. A religious fair is held here from 25 to 28 December every year to honour the memory of the martyrs.

~ Source: http://www.panthic.org/