MrSikhNet Audio

Sounds From Hazoor Sahib

2008-10-26T21:18:00.000-06:00

Over the next week I'll be posting little audio reports by Ek Ong Kaar Kaur who is currently on a Yatra with others from our sangat in Hazoor Sahib, India. These will be personal audio journals from the road, during the huge celebrations that are currently going on for the 300th Anniversary of the Siri Guru Granth Sahib. Most of you who are reading this were not able to go to the events, so the hope is for you to have some connection to what is going on there. I was planning to go on this yatra as well and work on something similar to the 300 Anniversary Baisakhi Celebrations, however there was too much going on at SikhNet for me to take the time off. So, like you all I'll be enjoying the audio "journals" by Ek Ong Kaar Kaur and any photos that come my way.

Spirituality and the Sikh Way of Life

2008-09-28T16:58:00.000-06:00

It’s been a long while since I posted any Gurdwara lectures by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa. I have a backlog saved on my computer but haven’t had a chance yet edit and post them yet.

Today there was something totally weird going on with the audio for the live broadcast of Gurdwara. There was some type of audio loop creating creating this interesting reverb. I still have no idea what caused it….particularly because it turned on and off at different points in the audio (after reviewing the recording). Here is an audio clip to know what I am talking about.

Anyways, I restarted the computer and was able to fix the issue, but missed the very first few seconds of the Gurdwara lecture so didn’t get the date for the lecture. The topic I think is "Spirituality and the Sikh Way of Life". This is another thought provoking lecture to listen to. Enjoy. This is just one of thousands of lectures, since he spoke to the Sangat just about every Sunday in Gurdwara. I’m sure he spoke about the same things often, but then again we all need lots of reminding to make changes in our life and see the bigger picture. Sometimes we loose sight of why we are on this earth and need little reminders from time to time.

Dust of the Dust of the Dust (Humbleness)

2008-03-10T17:34:00.000-06:00

Here is a short video by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa Yogiji during some question and answer session with Sikh Youth in Surrey, Canada (March 19th 1996) on the topic of Humbleness and Jewelry.

Over the years I have observed some characteristics that some Sikhs have taken on regarding an effort to reduce ego/pride. As Sikhs we are taught to not get attached to the five "challenges" of Lust, Anger, Greed, Pride and Attachment. In an effort to prevent these feelings I have seen some practices by Sikhs which I think are unnecessary.

The first routine is the overly humble guise. It goes something like this: "I am just a lowly sinner…" , "I am the dust of the dust of the dirt"… "I am a das of the das", "I know nothing…", etc. Most of the time when I hear this type of thing from people it feels just like a cover to try to negate any ego. In reality for most people it feels like a false routine to portray ones self as humble. I know in Gurbani Guru Nanak and other Gurus have used similar words as this…but this was our Gurus expression. It’s one thing if you say this to yourself as an internal thing in your mind…..but to say it to other people is very different. It’s as if you have to say it out loud to prove, or make sure that people know you are humble. It’s sort of a false humbleness. If you are humble people will see it in your actions, words, and in your presence (not by words and statements about your humbleness).

There is the "Please forgive me" Maafi routine ("Bhul Chuk Maaf) - That one starts out apologizing and then getting really heavy. As if by apologizing it makes everything that is said ok.

There is the "I know nothing" routine - Someone gives a lecture for two hours and then ends with something like "I know nothing and am just a servant of you all."

Another routine is the "anonymous sevadhar". This is by far the most common I have seen these days. I think many Sikhs have been taught that in order to prevent ego from coming into your mind that you should remain hidden and unknown when doing seva. While this might work and be great in some situations, I think quite often this is taken to extremes for everything.

Example 1: My friend Gurujot Singh went to a Samagam out of town and was doing lagar seva. Later on a Sikh was telling him that he should not do seva in Bana, he should dress very simply and do seva that no one knows about. The person’s impression probably was that by wearing bana and doing a seva in public that it was being done out of ego to show people how servicefull and how "spiritual" you are.
Example 2: In the world of the internet it is easy to remain anonymous, so the "anonymous sevadhar" is very common online. Many people that run Sikh websites or do various seva online go to great lengths to stay anonymous. I can email back and forth with someone tens of times and have no idea who I am taking to except for the name "sevadhar" that is signed at the end. I have no idea who I am dealing with.

Bana, Clothing, jewelry, etc - This is another one where people think that if you are wearing bana that you are showing off and trying to look holy. So they say you should wear very simple clothes that don’t stand out. This routine also relates to jewelry and people feel that by wearing jewelry that you are getting caught up maya. We all talk about being Khalsa Raj, Kings, Queens, princes and princesses. So…are we paupers or are we kings/queens? This is another case of trying to shelter ourselves from feeling ego/pride/etc.

The point of all this is more about finding a balance. As Sikhs we are householders that live in this world. We are not sadhus hiding up in the mountains to escape from all the Maya. Trying to shelter or protect one self from feeling these things is not the answer (in my opinion). We as Sikhs should deal with it head on. God gave us a mind and intellect to feel these things and to be able to deal with them. Beating around the bush trying to hide from it can only work for so long. When you have a feeling of pride/ego/lust/etc….you have a choice. You can dwell or act on it…or you can be conscious of this feeling and "cut" it and change the direction of your thoughts. I think the problem is when you are not conscious of these feelings.

Being a Leader and Examples for others to Follow
Another thing in relation to "anonymous seva" is that there is a need for leadership and good examples for everyone around us. It is a good thing to have role models and be able to see people who are doing good things for the community. If all these people are "hiding out" they might not be available to share and help inspire others to do the same. I think it is great to be out there and help others in a public way. I deal with this all the time being the so called "Mr. SikhNet". Lots of people know me, and I serve and share very publicly. Am I full of ego and pride? I don’t think so. The service isn’t about me…it’s about being of service and helping others. It’s just a medium. It’s not to say I never feel pride or ego, but I watch my mind and catch it if it tries to go astray. It’s just part of the territory. I choose to face these things head on. Some people do this and may fall victim, but this is just part of life and learning. We learn by overcoming these challenges and controlling our mind, not by hiding out.

There is something good about being very personal with people, being honest, and sharing who I am. Having nothing to hide makes one also more conscious of things that they do and say, because you have to take responsibility for everything, which isn’t always easy. On the internet lots of people (Sikhs included) choose to hide behind anonymous names and say/do things that they would never do publicly as "themself". There is a certain character I think in being you, and taking responsibility (good and bad) for your actions and words.

Hopefully all this makes you think about these topics and become more conscious about how you deal with it in the future.

Awakening to Leadership - Are You Ready?

2008-02-29T10:30:00.000-07:00

The past few days I have been watching old videos of SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa Yogiji in dialog and question and answer sessions with Sikh Youth in various places. Here is one that I really enjoyed and highly recommend that you watch or listen to! I’ve already watched it at least five times in the course of editing and reviewing the videos and it really hit home for me so wanted to share with you all.

In the video yogiji starts by talking about just "being" a Sikh verses experiencing and living as a Sikh (He related this in the terms he called "Concept" and "Conception"). He then talks about how Sikhs have been betrayed by the so called "Sikh Leadership" and how youth should not rely on them and BECOME the leaders themselves. He shares inspiring experiences from his youth before the partition of India when he was part of creating the All India Sikh Student Federation. He explains how the youth worked together and formed a powerful force with Sikhi as a base and through trust, honesty, equality. He shares the ingredients of what made this work and how youth of today can do this as well.

After watching it makes you want get all your friends together and take action. Hopefully this video will inspire some of you to do something and benefit from this. It’s easy to watch the video and say "very good video"….. So, after you watch it, think about what you can do to take it from "Concept" to "Conception"!

The video looks like it was recorded at someone’s home and is from a very informal discussion with some Sikh youth in Bromwick, UK in 1992. The full recording is almost three hours long so I narrowed it down to one part of the discussion and is about 30 minutes long.

Sikhi and Our Youth

2008-02-25T12:35:00.001-07:00

In the past I have posted quite a few audio lectures from Gurdwara by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa Yogiji which I thought were very inspirational and educational (and have shaped who I am today). This weekend has been a very thoughtful and pensive weekend for me. I was not feeling so well so stayed home with daughter Charanjeet Kaur and watched quite a few old videos of lectures and questions and answer sessions with Sikh youth from England, Canada and USA.

In the videos he answers many common questions related to Sikhi, and more specifically questions related to Sikhs of western origin. Normally most of his lectures are one way to the sangat in Gurdwara, so the ones I watched are very different because people ask questions and he answers them. As I have time I'll watch them again and edit them down to smaller chunks so you all can benefit.

Here is one of the videos which is an eleven minute excerpt on the topic of our youth and being a Sikh. This is from Dec. 29th 1988 in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The video is mostly in English but switches into Punjabi from time to time.

New Audio Track by Balvinder Singh (Australia)

2008-02-05T06:30:00.000-07:00

I just got a beautiful new audio track from Balvinder Singh (Australia wale) which is titled "The Sweet Song". The actual words are from the shabad by Guru Arjan Dev Ji: "Jo Mangeh Thakur Apne Thae". The vocals are by Harinder Kaur. You can hear some other music by Balvinder Singh that I have posted in the past.

Balvinder Singh is currently in India right now learning Sarangi and planning to release a new album mid year (2008). So stay tuned to hear when it is released! In the mean time take a few long deep breaths in and out, and listen to the below shabad. Let your worries and stress melt away….

Ps. We just got lots of new snow last night so it is so magical outside with white all over and the bright New Mexico sun!

Chardikala!

2008-01-21T03:20:00.000-07:00

Shanti Kaur Khalsa played kirtan on Sunday and she started one of the Shabads with this introduction about the Shabad and Guru Gobind Singh ji.

Chardikala!

2008-01-21T03:19:00.000-07:00

Here is an inspiring talk by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa on the topic of "Chardikala" and your relationship with the Siri Guru Granth Sahib. It’s only about 28 min long so definitely have a listen! :)

Podcasting & Recent SikhWithin Episode with Snatam K

2008-01-07T04:38:00.000-07:00

Those of you who have an IPOD or other digital audio/video player might have heard the term "podcast". Podcasting is a way to get the audio/videos automatically downloaded to your computer or portable audio player. Once you have things set up, you will always have access to the most recent shows, as MP3 files on your computer or portable device, ready for listening!

There are very few Sikh related podcasts at this time, however one of my friends (Dr. Savi) produces a regular podcast called "Sikhwithin". One tuned into one of the recent podcasts and enjoyed listening to it, so I thought I would share it with you all.

Sikhwithin Episode 28 - Special with Snatam Kaur
Nice interview with Snatam Kaur from here recent visit to England and a recording of her playing kirtan.

Shabad "Ram Japo Jee Aasay Aasay"

2008-01-07T04:36:00.000-07:00

Here is an audio clip by Hari Bhajan Kaur who brought the Espanola sangat through to the new year during the all night Rainsabhai Kirtan. She ended just after midnight 2008 singing the Shabad "Ram Japo Jee Aasay Aasay".

Various Talk

2008-01-07T04:34:00.000-07:00

This is some different snippets of her saying things. Some of her common "expressions" are in this clip: Parantha!, Sikaboo (translation: Scooby doo)

Wahe Guru and Nitnem

2008-01-07T04:20:00.000-07:00

In the morning when we do banis she always wants a nitnem. Here is one of the "Nitnem" encounters along with her cute "wah-hey-goodoo".

Mul Mantra Meditation

2008-01-07T04:02:00.000-07:00

You can also download another variation of Mul Mantra by Hari Bhajan from a previous Gurdwara..

Mul Mantra Meditation

2008-01-07T04:00:00.000-07:00

Here is a short soothing Mul Mantra introduction that Hari Bhajan Kaur played in Gurdwara yesterday before she started playing kirtan. (with Gurujot Singh on Dilruba). Download; set your player on repeat; and relax to the soothing sounds.

Truth

2007-12-16T09:47:00.000-07:00

Here is the Gurdwara lecture from July 16th, 1989 by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa that we heard today in Gurdwara.

Insensitivity and Human Nature

2007-11-16T03:30:00.000-07:00

Gurdwara lecture by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa from Aug 27th 1989 on the topic of Insensitivity and Human Nature.

Archive for the 'Audio' Category

2007-11-04T03:40:00.000-07:00

Here is another inspiring and thought provoking Gurdwara lecture by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa from Sept. 10th 1989 - Los Angeles, California. Have a listen!

The Keystone of Prosperity

2007-10-19T13:47:00.001-06:00

Here is the Gurdwara lecture that the sangat listened to this past sunday by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa (from Sept. 24th 1989). Another thought provoking talk :)

Angsung Wahe Guru

2007-09-24T13:37:00.000-06:00

Yesterday in Gurdwara Ek Ong Kaar Kaur sang beautifully from her heart to the few of us that were there at the start. I always love to get to Gurdwara first thing because so that I can listen to all the kirtan, and that is when it is the most quiet and easy to meditate. Some of you might remember Ek Ong Kaar Kaur who is a guest blogger on MrSikhNet.com and always writes very interesting and thought provoking things. You can check out her blog and listen to her beautiful voice sing "Ang Sung Wahe Guru" (God is in every limb/part of my body)

Mangala Charan Bhagvati

2007-09-24T13:28:00.000-06:00

Here is another thought provoking talk from Gurdwara by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa, from Oct 1st 1989.

Concept of Prosperity from Guru’s Point of View

2007-09-20T15:34:00.001-06:00

Gurdwara lecture by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa from Sept. 17th, 1989

Sadasat Simran Singh - Why I am a Sikh (in Punjabi)

2007-08-13T15:52:00.000-06:00

Here is the third short video interview with Sadasat Simran Singh (Chardikala Jatha). In this video he shares in Punjabi why he is a Sikh and chose to live is life on this path.

Punjabi Interview with Chardikala Jatha about Bana

2007-08-10T09:17:00.000-06:00

During the Jaap Sahib Course the Chardikala Jatha were quite involved so I recorded a lot of interesting video with them talking about many different topics. On the last day I was able to pull them into the SikhNet office to do a few quick interviews. Sadasat Simran Singh speaks Punjabi quite fluently so I thought it would be cool to have a video interview with him in Punjabi (though I do ask the questions in English). Here is one of the videos from yesterday....

Inspiring and Informative Lecture on Being a Sikh

2007-08-06T06:02:00.001-06:00

Here is yet another very inspiring lecture that we heard today in Gurdwara by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa. It really hit home for me in many ways and he touched upon so many great topics and areas. If you don’t normally listen to the lectures then definitely don’t miss this one. This lecture is from June 25th 1989 in Espanola, New Mexico.

Ritual or Ceremony?

2007-07-31T16:52:00.001-06:00

This video began from a discussion about the Amrit Sanchar and became a discussion about the difference between a ritual and a ceremony. In Sikhi we have ceremonies, not rituals. But a ceremony can become a ritual when no one understands the how and why of what is happening. Water is like a battery for sound frequencies and patterns. Water holds vibrations. I’m sure you’ve seen Dr. Emoto’s work on this. This fact is the basis for both the amrit sanchar and also the mechanism of the nectar tank at the Golden Temple. Harimandir Sahib is a giant generator that produces a huge amount of powerful, clear blue light that cleanses the entire planet. Thousands of devotees perambulate the Perkarma - always in an anticlockwise direction. The sound current of the Shabd Guru is constantly being generated within the temple itself. The temple is coated with a layer of copper covered in gold (a great conductor.) Just as an electrical generator rotates a coil within a magnetic field, the electromagnetic fields of the devotees walking around the walkway create a moving field while the sound current within the temple is magnified and focused by the structure itself. This creates a powerful beam of light that penetrates the axis of the temple and in fact, the earth itself. It is like a huge etheric cleaner for the planet. Now on to the Amrit Sanchar discussion….

Mahan Kalpa Singh and the Pleiadian Thunder Squad

2007-07-30T12:58:00.000-06:00

Every year the Summer Solstice Camp here in Espanola, New Mexico (USA) attracts spiritual seekers of all kind, from all over the world, and from all walks of life. It is a gathering place where you can interface with people from so many different backgrounds and religions (this year around 1,400 people came). I love the universality and oneness that people with a common spiritual goal but different backgrounds can be together. After all…we are all spiritual beings and human right?

During the week of Summer Solstice I frequently visit the sound booth which is way up high near the top of the huge shelter, and overlooks the main stage area. This is the source for connecting my recording equipment or getting audio recordings (which I have shared with you over the years). The sevadhars in the sound booth are hardcore and always seem to be on duty at all hours, tending to some audio related task. (I think there are at least 10 people on the audio team). There is something happening from around 3AM in the morning till about 11PM every night!

One person who is normally part of the sound team every year at Summer Solstice is Mahan Kalpa Singh. I have met him many times in the sound booth, but never really had a chance to get to know him better. I just recently got to know him better through some awesome music that he created. Little did I know that he was actually a music producer (and a good one!). A few weeks ago I heard about his music from a friend after our normal sunday game of ultimate frisbee. I hunted it down till I got my hands on the audio files and had a chance to listen to it. The music is great and very original, so I wanted to share it with you all too. After emailing Mahan Kalpa he was happy to allow me to post the audio files online for you all.

So, grab some headphones and have a listen to the tracks from his album "Love is Love". My thanks go out to Mahan Kalpa Singh for sharing this music and making it freely available for everyone to enjoy. I hope you make more!

The Law of One Hundred Percent

2007-07-30T12:56:00.000-06:00

Another inspiring Gurdwara lecture, from March 5th 1989, Los Angeles, California by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa (Yogi Bhajan)

What is Prayer

2007-07-26T17:44:00.001-06:00

In this video Guruka Singh shares his thoughts about the power of prayer, and reasons we why pray.

Wahe Guru Ji Ka Khalsa - Wahe Guru Ji Ki Fateh

2007-07-23T10:16:00.000-06:00

Here is the first video of the new set that we recorded last week. In this video Guruka Singh is asked why we say the Sikh greeting of "Wahe Guru Ji Ka Khalsa, Wahe Guru Ji Ki Fateh", and of course gives a unique perspective on the meaning, and the universality of this greeting.

The Mind, Waking in the Amritvela & Being a Sikh

2007-07-11T14:53:00.000-06:00

Gurdwara lecture by SS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa (Yogi Bhajan) on various topics.

The Strength of the Sikh Women

2007-07-09T15:45:00.000-06:00

In our Ardas every day, we remember the brave women who stood their ground against tyranny - "Those women who sacrificed for truth, suffering through hunger and pain at the hand of the enemy, but never gave up their faith and determination to live according to Sikh Dharma with all their hair to their last breath."

But who were those women? They were the ladies of Punjab who stood against the fanatic and cruel Mir Mannu. In the mid-1700’s, in an attempt to eliminate the Sikhs, Mir Mannu arrested women and children and jailed them under desperately hard circumstances. Their strength and courage was so monumental, that we’ve remembered them in our daily Ardas every since.

Hear their story of sacrifice and to join the voices of generations in shouting their praise. This story was told a few days ago by Shanti K Khalsa during Gurdwara.

The Famous Har Nar Singh (AKA: Harry Perry)

2007-07-03T18:10:00.001-06:00

Tomorrow is a holiday so I thought I would post something a bit different then I normally do. I’m always on the lookout for unique music and Sikhs, to share with you all.

Many of you who have seen American movies that have scenes on Venice beach, and might already know about the guy named Harry Perry who to many of us is also known as Har Nar Singh. He is well known for riding on his roller skates up and down Venice beach playing music with his electric guitar. He is quite a character! I have known him since I was just a "wee lad" during the time when I lived in Los Angeles.

My most distinct childhood memory with him is related to ice cream sandwiches which we used to eat at a health food store (both of which are not around anymore). I forget the name of them but he used to call me "Nectar Name" which was a spin off of the ice cream sandwich name. For some reason I always remember him saying that to me.

In any case, he comes to Summer Solstice every year and always jams out somewhere singing his heavy metal music. Some of his music has all kinds of spiritual lyrics too, so it is quite interesting hearing it. He also plays some Gurbani (Herry Perry heavy metal style!) which most of you have probably never heard before!

During Summer Solstice on the last day there is always an all night rensabai kirtan, where everyone sleeps under the huge shelter and listens to the kirtan all night (sleeping or awake). I always find it funny how Har Nar Singh (Harry Perry) always ends up with the early morning time slots when everyone is asleep. Why you ask do I amuse on this note? Normally at 2-3AM I would think about hearing some kirtan that is mellow and not too loud. Harry Parry literally rocks you awake from your sleep with his heavy metal version of "Raj Jog Takhat Deen Guru Ram Das". Maybe it is a hint to get up early for the morning Sadhana! Hahaha… I have long since given up trying to sleep during the all night kirtan and normally just sleep in my tent hearing the kirtan from afar as it travels around the campsite.

Have a listen below to a recording of him playing "Raj Jog Takhat Deen Guru Ram Das" during the rensabai kirtan a couple of weeks ago and you’ll know what I mean. It rocks! Not that I’m a heavy metal fan…but it just makes me smile, and I like that. It’s just so unique.

SSS Harbhajan S. Khalsa - Lecture on Living as a Sikh

2007-06-14T18:18:00.000-06:00

This Gurdwara lecture is from April 30th 1989

Using Meditation to Deal with Stress

2007-05-30T09:45:00.000-06:00

It's been a long while since I recorded and posted some new videos, so I have been thinking about other people in our community who would have something to share in a video. As a result of this Gurucharan Singh agreed to let me record some videos with him on different topics related to meditation, yoga, and Sikhi. I'll be posting these videos in the coming weeks as I have time to edit them.

Gurucharan Singh Khalsa, Ph.D., is a yogi, psychotherapist, teacher and writer, and a recognized expert in Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan. He is also the Director of KRI (Kundalini Research Institute).

In this video Gurucharan Singh talks about the effects of stress on our mind and body and gives a Kundalini Yoga excercise and meditation to help you deal with this stress.

Gurdwara Lecture by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa

2007-05-29T17:51:00.000-06:00

Here is the latest talk that was given in Gurdwara on Feb. 19th 1989. In this lecture he talks about quite a few different topics so it is hard to summarize.

Gurdwara talk by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa Yogiji

2007-05-06T13:28:00.000-06:00

Here is another inspiring talk that SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa Yogiji gave in Gurdwara back in March 12, 1989. Much of the talk is on the subject of Guru Gobind Singh, The Khalsa and the Event of Vaisakhi.

Snatam Kaur - Guru Ram Das Rakho Seranahi

2007-04-22T22:43:00.002-06:00

Snatam Kaur - Guru Ram Das Rakho Seranahi

Shakti and Bhakti

2007-04-22T22:43:00.001-06:00

Here is the lecture that we heard today in Gurdwara by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa Yogiji on the topic of "Shakti and Bhakti". This was a recording from March 26th, 1989.

Param - Karam - Dharam - Lecture by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa

2007-04-11T14:46:00.000-06:00

Gurdwara lecture by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa Yogiji from March 19th 1989.

Latest Kirtan by Hari Bhajan Kaur

2007-04-11T14:45:00.000-06:00

While I was away in Los Angeles this past weekend, my computer faithfully recorded the audio from Gurdwara, as it does every Sunday. Here are two live recordings of Hari Bhajan Kaur playing Kirtan.

Ajai Alai (Ek Achhri Chand from Jaap Sahib)

Perpetual Identity - Lecture by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa

2007-03-25T15:20:00.000-06:00

Here is another great lecture by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa Yogiji (Yogi bhajan) from Jan. 22 1989 that we heard in Gurdwara today. As always, his lectures cover so many interesting topics. In this lecture a few of the things that I remember him talking about was: being a parent and teaching your child, your name and what it means for you, being a Sikh and Doing Yoga, explanation of different bani, Taking care of your body, etc.

These lectures are great for those times when you are driving to work or school and have some time to just listen. Enjoy :)

If Guru Nanak Came Back Today - by Guru Kirn Kaur

2007-03-09T22:22:00.000-07:00

Guru Kirn Kaur from Phoenix, Arizona wrote a beautiful book of poetry titled "Pure Longing Fulfilled". She not only does poetry but is a really good artist. and had made some amazing paintings. I was reading through her poetry book today and picked out a few poems that I liked. Here are two recordings of me reading the poems by Guru Kirn Kaur.

After I finished recording the poems I felt like every time I spoke to Arjan or Narayan I had to rhyme my words. It was a funny feeling. Poetry has such a unique way of conveying a message.

Daily Bread by Guru Kirn Kaur

2007-03-09T22:21:00.000-07:00

Sunday Gurdwara Audio Pick

2007-03-04T20:15:00.001-07:00

For those of you who missed the live broadcast of Gurdwara today you can download and listen to a couple of my picks from today. Hari Bhajan Kaur as usual played some beautiful kirtan and ended the Gurdwara with this rendition of "Wahe Guru, Wahe Jio" played with the Guitar.

Gurdwara Lecture - Sangat

2007-03-04T20:14:00.000-07:00

During Gurdwara we heard the following lecture on the topic of "Sangat" by SSS Bhai Sahib Harbhajan Singh Khalsa Yogiji (Yogi Bhajan)

Wahe Guru Simran - With Snatam and Hari Bhajan Kaur

2007-03-02T21:19:00.001-07:00

In continuation of my previous blog post on Sikh women and Gurbani.... I am posting another audio file for you all. This is a recording of Snatam Kaur and Hari Bhajan Kaur during their visit to Malaysia in 2005. It's a beautiful recording of chanting "Wahe Guru" which starts slow....then builds with energy and then comes back down. It's about 45 minutes long so the download is a bit big (but worth it). So...download away....sing along...meditate...and feel WAHEGURU in every part of your body! Ang Sang Wahe Guru!

Guru Ram Das Lullabye

2007-02-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

I remember the many nights when I was a kid that my mother played the "Guru Ram Das Lullabye" with her guitar as I drifted off to sleep. This is a beautiful lullabye which is from the 1970s…and is one that I now sing to my children. The following recording is by Gurushabd Singh and Sat Kartar Kaur from 1978. Hopefully you and your children enjoy it as I do. It’s a great one to put the kids off to sleep.

I did my best to type of the words from the recording. Here are the main lines:

Close your eyes, it’s the end of another busy day. I wouldn’t be surprised if a lot of other children slept this way, with Guru Ram Das to pretect them, keep them safe all through the night.

Oh…..Dhan Dhan Guru Ram Das, Rakho Saharanai.
Meditate on Guru Nanak, may you love God with his clarity.
Meditate on Guru Angad, may devotion fill your heart and set you free.
Meditate on Guru Amardas, let none leave your house unfulfilled.
Meditate on Guru Ram Das, Your prayers will heal the weak and the ill.
Meditate on Guru Arjan, his poem is a jewel beyond all words.
Meditate on Guru Hargobind, You’ll find God on heaven and on earth.
Meditate on Guru Har Rai, God and you shall never be apart.
Meditate on Guru Harkrishan, his sacrifice brings compassion to you heart.
Meditate on Guru Teg Bahadhur, no enemy will disturb your inner peace.
Meditate on Guru Gobind Singh, defend truth till your soul is released.
Siri Guru Granth Sahib, may Gurbani be the love of this child’s life. May it fill their hearts with wisdom and courage to bear the test of the time.

Yogi Bhajan Lecture on Japji Sahib

2007-02-21T17:28:00.000-07:00

Here is another inspiring and thought provoking lecture by Siri Singh Sahib ji about Guru Nanak Dev ji's Japji Sahib. This is a video recorded during the 4 day Japji education course from June, 2003 in Espanola, New Mexico.

This lecture was one of the few last lectures by Siri Singh Sahib before he passed away in Oct 2004. As his health deteriorated he wasn't physically able to teach as much.

Japji Sahib contains universal teachings for anyone seeking Truth. It contains timeless wisdom and is said to give answers to life’s deepest questions.

Me and My Turban (on BBC Radio)

2007-02-20T01:35:00.000-07:00

"How hard is it to be a turban-wearing Sikh? At a time when outward religious symbols are under constant scrutiny, this Asian Network Report goes back to basics and unravels (excuse the pun) what's tied up in the turban." - Listen to the BBC Radio program

In this radio program you'll also hear a segment which is an interview with my friend Ashvinder Singh about the RateMyTurban.com website. Go Ash!

Pathways to the Sacred - Interview with Guruka Singh

2007-02-13T17:28:00.000-07:00

Here is an audio recording of Guruka Singh being Interviewed by Josh Jourdan on WPVM radio’s "Pathways to the Sacred". It was very interesting to hear all of Guruka Singh’s stories and explanations about being a Sikh. Have a listen!

Meditation and Mantra

2007-02-08T12:42:00.000-07:00

In this video you’ll learn why we meditate with a mantra and how meditation works with mantra to clean the subconscious mind. When subconscious mind is clear then your intuition is very effective.

Discover Your Soul - Lecture by Yogi Bhajan

2007-02-06T20:18:00.001-07:00

In this talk, the Siri Singh Sahib talks about meditation as a tool for mental clarity. “If you do not find God within yourself, you do not find God at all.” Instead of looking for your “soul mate” he says that when you connect to your own soul, then you understand that “Your very own soul is your soul mate.” He also talks about the problem of information overload in the computer age and how to deal with it.

Sadhana - Lecture by Yogi Bhajan

2007-02-04T19:39:00.000-07:00

To continue on the theme of "Sadhana" I am posting a video by Siri Singh Sahib Bhai Sahib Harbhajan Singh Khalsa (AKA: Yogi Bhajan). This video is an excerpt from the DVD "Discover Your Soul". The DVD is a full lecture and meditation class taught by Yogi Bhajan, so this video is just a part of it. If you enjoy the video I highly recommend that you get a copy of the DVDs which has the full lecture and the meditations that were taught.

In this video he talks about the concept of Sadhana and why we must get up early in the morning to meditate and clear our sub-conscious mind. He also discusses the topic of cold shower and the benefits.

Over the next few weeks I will be editing and posting more video excerpts like this from classes he taught over the years. If you don't know much about the term "Sadhana" then you can read this previous blog post on the subject.

KROQ Radio Intervew about RateMyTurban.com

2007-02-01T21:39:00.000-07:00

One of the fun projects that myself and my friend Ashvinder Singh have been involved with is RateMyTurban.com. This started as a fun idea to promote the positive image of the turban for Sikhs but has become very popular all over America. Over the past 6 months the site has been talked about on lots of radio stations and linked up all over the web (including Yahoo pick of the week). A lot of the interest is coming from the general public at large who find it interesting to see this type of website. With all the mis-understandings about the turban and mistaken identity, this website has served to educate your average american a little bit more about Sikhs and the Turban. I think it is a great example of how you can be creative about educating people and have fun with it. On the top there are links explaining about the turban and even video tutorials on how to tie a turban.

This morning Ashvinder was invited on the Kevin and Bean Morning Radio show which is a very popular Rock station in Los Angeles. I remember this radio station from when I used to live in Los Angeles and it is quite popular with thousands of listeners all over LA area. I managed to record the interview off the internet so you can have a listen. You don't have to be a scholar or "expert" to educate others about Sikhi. Just do the best you can and it will make a difference!

[Audio:http://www.ratemyturban.com/Ash%20-%20RateMyTurban%20-%20kroq%20radio.mp3] Download

Ps. In case you are wanting to add a turban to the RateMyTurban.com we are currently having some technical problems with the image upload, so users can't add new turbans right now. We are working on the issue.

Related Articles
RateMyTurban.com Creating Awareness about the Sikh Turban

Bliss, happiness and comfort!

2007-01-30T10:59:00.000-07:00

Sahej Sukh Dhyaan is a wonderful and powerful meditation. Bliss, happiness and comfort! What could be better? We practiced it together at Sikh Student Camp last summer and a group of Singhs and Kaurs came together each morning to do it before morning Japji Sahib. If you practice it, it will give you a very calm mind and the ability to listen deeply and understand the root of any situation. Try starting with 5 minutes and work up to 11 minutes. You can do it for as long as you like, but I suggest 11 minutes for 40 days. Try it and see what happens! Report back in the comments here. Wahe Guru!

Download: Video / Audio

Watch Other Videos by Guruka Singh

Tuning In & Feeling the Guru Within You

2007-01-28T20:14:00.000-07:00

In this video Guruka Singh shares his thoughts about feeling the Guru within you. Presenting yourself before the Guru, and experiencing that state of surrender in which you are getting out of the way, letting go, and letting the Guru's light fill you, and the Guru's presence fill you.

Being a Khalsa

2007-01-09T13:39:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday at Gurdwara we heard a very thought provoking lecture given by the Siri Singh Sahib which was originally from January 1st, 1989. It's always hard summarizing his lectures because quite often he talks about many different topics and there is not always a central theme.

Tera Naam Rooro Roop Rooro

2007-01-09T13:22:00.000-07:00

Here is a Gurbani audio clip from Gurdwara, played by Hari Bhajan Kaur (Vocals, Harmonium), along with Guru Jot Singh (vocals, dilruba), Hari Rai Kaur (Violin).

Featured Gurbani MP3 - Chardikala Jatha

2006-12-04T22:33:00.000-07:00

During the Summer time when Chardikala Jatha was in Espanola I recorded a bunch of their kirtan. I haven’t had time till now to sort through it and process for putting online. Here are a few shabads that I picked out for you to listen and download.

Featured Gurbani MP3 - Bhai Charanjeet Singh

2006-12-04T22:31:00.000-07:00

Tonight I would like share two Gurbani audio files of Bhai Charanjeet Singh. I remember listening to some of these clips over and over in the early "SikhNet Days", so they have lots of memories embedded in them for me.

The Value of the Woman - Bhand Jamiyai Bhand Nimiyai

2006-11-27T00:18:00.000-07:00

Today in Gurdwara as I was listening to the Gurbani and hearing the Guru’s words made me think about the state of Sikh women in the world of today. One of my favorite Shabads (Bhand Jamiyai Bhand Nimiyai) relating to women was played by Snatam Kaur. I thoroughly enjoyed singing as the voices of the sangat filled the Gurdwara; little Charanjeet Kaur in my lap listening and entranced in the Gurbani. Being a father of a girl and a husband I know the value of supporting the women in my family.

In this Shabad Guru Nanak so beautifully sums up the value of the woman.

"From woman, man is born; within woman, man is conceived; to woman he is engaged and married. Woman becomes his friend; through woman, the future generations come. When his woman dies, he seeks another woman; to woman he is bound. So why call her bad? From her, kings are born. From woman, woman is born; without woman, there would be no one at all. O Nanak, only the True Lord is without a woman. That mouth which praises the Lord continually is blessed and beautiful. O Nanak, those faces shall be radiant in the Court of the True Lord." - Guru Nanak Dev Ji in Raag Aasaa on Pannaa 473

The Passing of Bhai Avtar Singh Ji - Recording in his memory

2006-11-25T00:20:00.000-07:00

An audio recording in memory of Bhai Avtar Singh ji who has passed away peacefully at about 10.50 PM (IST), November 24th, 2006. At 81 years, he was at his residence, with his whole family.

Your Unique Identity as a Sikh

2006-11-20T17:10:00.000-07:00

In this video my old friend and former India school mate (Satsang Singh) shares his thoughts and experiences on being a Sikh.

Prosperity Consciousness - Vandh Chakana

2006-11-07T00:20:00.000-07:00

In this short video Guruka Singh shares his thoughts on the concept of giving and receiving (Vandh Chakna), and how when you give it creates prosperity for yourself and you receive many times in return.

The Guru’s Roop - Standing out as a Sikh

2006-10-31T23:29:00.000-07:00

The latest interview with Guruka Singh is on the topic of looking different as a Sikh. The question was something along the lines of, "What is the purpose of Bana and looking different as a Sikh?".

Download: Video / Audio

The Biggest Mistake in Life

2006-10-27T00:05:00.000-06:00

Here is a great lecture which is in continuation with yesterday’s blog post about developing an inner connection with yourself and relationship with your soul. It’s always hard to pin down a single title or topic to theses lectures since most of them he covers so many different topics. Anyway, listen and see for yourself :)

This Gurdwara lecture is from July 17th 1988 by Siri Singh Sahib Bhai Sahib Harbhajan Singh Khalsa

What me Worry? - Video by Guruka Singh

2006-10-19T22:59:00.000-06:00

Why do we worry about things? Why do we spend so much energy thinking about what could happen? In this video Guruka Singh shares his thoughts on the topic of "worrying". I hope you take the time to think about it after you watch it. Then, start to be more conscious of how you are thinking in the coming days….and when you start to worry try changing your thoughts.

Stories from the Life of Guru Gobind Singh ji

2006-10-18T21:12:00.000-06:00

Tonight I would like to share with you a video telling various stories from the Life of Guru Gobind Singh ji. This audio/slideshow was put together by Shanti Kaur here in Espanola, NM. for the Jaap Sahib Camp. There are quite a few interesting stories so set aside some time and watch or listen to them. Do you have kids? Why not have them join you!

Bana and Identity as a Sikh

2006-10-18T20:48:00.000-06:00

Today in Gurdwara we heard the following talk by Siri Singh Sahib which was originally from October 2nd 1988. As most of his lectures are, it was quite inspiring and really made me think about the different things that he spoke about. Much of the talk was about Bana and our identity as Sikhs. How bana is there to make us clearly identifiable and stand out. Have a listen to it below or download it for later....

Snatam Kaur Kirtan from Gurdwara

2006-10-18T20:46:00.000-06:00

Today at Gurdwara Snatam Kaur and Jatha played some beautiful Kirtan. I was "blissed out" as the whole sangat sang along with this Shabad. She definitely has the gift of a beautiful voice and the ability to sing from the heart. This is the kind of thing that is hard to capture in an audio file. It's one of those "you had to be there" moments being in the presence of Siri Guru Granth Sahib and having the whole sangat singing Gurbani together.

Stories about Yogi Bhajan, Using Occult Powers and the Sikh Gurus

2006-10-09T09:34:00.000-06:00

Every 6th of the month evening Gurdwara Shanti Kaur Khalsa tells a story to the Sangat. Normally it is a story from the time of the Gurus. Tonight she shared a story about an important aspect of the Siri Singh Sahib’s life - his decision to renounce his occult powers and grasp hold of the feet of Guru Ram Das. What are Tattva Sidhis? Where do they come from, and what place do they have in our world? Why were the Sikh Guru’s against occult powers, and why did the Siri Singh Sahib renounce them, and if all this is true, why then do we call Guru Ram Das the "Lord of Miracles". This was the single most important decision in the life of this great man, and his seva in the west came as a result.

So set aside 20 minutes and have a listen to Shanti Kaur telling the very interesting stories along with hearing the other audio from the Gurdwara tonight….

Being in the Court of Guru Gobind Singh ji

2006-10-05T18:21:00.000-06:00

During the Jaap Sahib course back in June we heard a very interesting recording of the Siri Singh Sahib ji describing the difference features of Guru Gobind Singh.

The question that was asked was: "Can you please describe what it would have been like be in the court of Guru Gobind Singh when he was alive...."

This recording is an excerpt from a Question and Answer session at Khalsa Woman's Training Camp (July 14th 1981).

Download

Snatam Kaur - Paramayswara

2006-10-04T22:44:00.000-06:00

I have been going through some of the video tapes that I recorded from the Jaap Sahib Course which was back in June and found this beautiful video clip of Snatam Kaur. She always has a way of singing from the heart which moves me when I listen to it. The mantra she sings (Aad, Puran, Mudh Puran, Ant Puran, Paramayswara) in this video is in her new CD Album which came out last month.

Download: Video / Audio

Finding Your Direction

2006-09-16T00:59:00.000-06:00

A while back in March of 2006 I was thinking about how we all go through life and make different decisions which can bring us closer to our "soul" or move us more out of touch with it. At the time I wrote about thoughts that were on my mind in relation to being a Sikh or not and how we are influenced by the things around us, society, and your own mind. I think it was the morning after I wrote that article I came into the SikhNet office as usual and found Guruka Singh and Guru Darshan Kaur talking about related experiences. I quickly got sucked into the conversation and as I noticed it was a very interesting discussion (and I am always in "journalist mode") I switched on my video camera which I luckily had right there. This is a recording of the casual talk between us about being a Sikh and finding your direction.

As I was editing the video to post online I watched it quite a few times, and found a lot of the points very thought provoking. Hopefully you enjoy it too and get some inspiration from it.

Guru Darshan Kaur is a good friend of mine and I have been reading her emails which she has been sending to me and other friends about her life in India right now. She is still on her "journey", and just last month moved back to Amritsar, India (working at Miri Piri Academy) after living here in Espanola, New Mexico for quite some time.

Download: Video (95MB) / Audio (10MB)

Guruka Singh - Anchor Points in Life

2006-08-09T23:21:00.000-06:00

The topic of the video relates to experiences that you might have had that become major influencers in the direction of your life.

This is the last video from the recording session that I did with Guruka Singh back in June.

Download: Video / Audio

Chardikala Jatha - Free-form/Alaap

2006-08-06T07:53:00.000-06:00

Here is a beautiful audio clip of Chardikala Jatha doing a bit of Alaap (from June 2006). The track has a fast pace and up-beat rhythm with lots of high energy. When I listen to it, it takes me up into the mountains….through the clouds and flying around. Especially when Sada Sat Simran Singh sings his high notes along with Hari Mandir Jot’s tabla beats.

Karma & Dharma Within Sikh Dharma (Punjabi Katha)

2006-08-01T00:09:00.000-06:00

Over the past 35 years Siri Singh Sahib Harbhajan Singh Khalsa Yogi ji gave thousands of lectures, mostly in English, so the fiew that I find that are in Punjabi are a bit rare. Here is one that I found. My Punjabi is not good so I can't really give the lecture a title or summarize it. If you listen to it...please do post a comment as to the topic of the lecture and any details. Thanks.

Download

The Stage of Fanaticism

2006-07-30T22:35:00.000-06:00

In this video Guruka Singh shares his thoughts on the topic of being Fanatic about religion...or just about anything. My question to him was in relation to friends who had originally not had much of a practice of Sikhi (cut hair, clubbing, drinking etc). Then, when they started practicing Sikhi they noticed themselves becoming more critical/judgemental of others who were not doing what they were doing. This video touches upon some of this subject and hopefully will help you see things more clearly in relation to Fanaticism.

Download: Video / Audio

Guruka Singh - Talking about "Judgement"

2006-07-24T22:15:00.000-06:00

Here is the next video interview with Guruka Singh on various topics. In this video I asked Guruka Singh about the issue of people being judgemental of others (especially related to being a Sikh). Watch the video to see his response :)

Download: Video / Audio

Love of Music (Gathering of Friends)

2006-07-19T22:29:00.000-06:00

Here is an audio file of them getting started with a very meditative (I think one might call it "Alaap" style) …Waheguru chanting. I love the background guitar and other female backup vocals. Keep in mind that this is a live recording of an improvised session.

Guru Bin Guth Nahin - Yogi Bhajan Lecture in Punjabi

2006-07-19T22:27:00.000-06:00

When I was in Singapore I got some old lectures one of my friends, of Siri Singh Sahib Haribhajan Singh Khalsa talking to the Sangat in Malaysia and Singapore. This lecture is from when I was only 2 years old, from 1977 in Malaysia. In the past some of you had requested that I post some more lectures by Yogi Bhajan in Punjabi. So here you go
I don’t understand Punjabi very well so can’t really give you a summary, but Joginder Singh listened to it and noted down a few things that was discussed in the lecture: "Taking birth in Sikh house, living in rehat, importance of your hair, use of Kanga, intuition, why sikhs are called Singh’s & Kaur’s, Bani’s & Bana, being Gurumukh, importance of eye-brows to vegas nerve, which is for thinking."

Ek Ong Kaar - Gurdwara Lecture

2006-07-16T23:02:00.000-06:00

Here is a great lecture from 1988 by Siri Singh Sahib Bhai Sahib Harbhajan Singh Khalsa (Yogi Bhajan). He talks about so many different things, so it is hard to summarize it.

Talks about giving money to the Guru, Religion, Being a Khalsa, Sikh Dharam, Guru Gobind Singh, Ego, etc.

The Stages of Life (Interview with Guruka Singh)

2006-07-14T08:18:00.000-06:00

Last night I edited this nice interview of Guruka Singh sharing his thoughts and experiences on the different stages in life. Each stage having a responsibility and challenge. Starting from being born, being a child, youth/teen, being married and having a family, old age and dying. Guruka Singh shares from the heart, and as always adds his unique "Guruka Singh Flavor" of humour. :)

Download: Video / Audio

Guruka Singh - The Five Challenges

2006-07-11T20:23:00.000-06:00

Over the past many months we have received emails suggesting different topics for creating new videos with Guruka Singh and others. Last month I was able to sit down with Guruka Singh and record a bit more video. Feel free to email me with any other suggested topics for future videos.

The topic of the following video has to do with the so called "Five Challenges" (AKA: Lust, Anger, Greed, Pride and Attachment) and how one can deal with them.

Download: Video / Audio

Snatam Kaur - Rensabhai Kirtan

2006-07-03T21:23:00.000-06:00

On the last night of the Summer Solstsice Camp we have an all night Ransabhai Kirtan outside under the stars of Jemez mountains. Whoever wants to play kirtan can come and play that night. There are normally quite a few people that request to play so everyone plays for about 15 minute slots from about 7PM till 3:40AM when the morning Sadhana starts with Japji Sahib. It is a beautiful night sleeping to the sounds of Guru's bani being recited in all different styles and voices. Here is a nice video clip of Snatam Kaur with her brother, mother, and Guru Ganesha Singh.

Download: Audio (11MB) / Video (33MB)

Spirit Voyage Idol Competition @ Yogi Tea Cafe

2006-06-24T17:43:00.000-06:00

I am back from a beautiful week up in the mountains above Espanola, New Mexico at the Summer Solstice Camp. I had a great experience (as I normally do). Just me and Narayan camping out with 1,300+ other people from all over the world. It was quite dry and hot this year so was more of a challenge dealing with the elements, but in the end it is the outcome of the full experience that really counts. As normally happens after the week of the camp I am processing (mentally) all kinds of stuff. The camp always has a way of re-connecting me in many ways. It's hard to explain the feeling.

Anyways... I took some pictures (not a whole lot) and recorded some videos which I will start to share in the coming days, so that you can see some parts of the camp. I thought I would do a lot more (pictures/video) but it was too much with the dry heat, doing the camp activities, long days, and taking care of Narayan.

For the past few years at the Summer/Winter Solstice camps we have had evening/night music "jam sessions" titled "Yogi Tea Cafe" where any musician can perform to the camp attendees as we drink our Yogi Tea. At the summer Solstice camp the evenings are a nice time to relax, get relief from the day of dry heat, and just hang out and talk with friends (or make new ones).

This year we had a fun new event at the Yogi Tea Cafe which was an event organized by Spirit Voyage Music. This is the music company that produces Snatam Kaur's CDs and sells lots of great spiritual music and related products. The event was called "Spirit Voyage Idol", which is a twist on the TV show "American Idol" (though it was very different than the TV show in all respects). Over the course of the week different musicians who signed up for the event performed outside under a huge tent and the audience was given ballots to vote for a certain number of their favorite musicians. First two days we voted for 3 out of something like 7 people. The winners from the first rounds went to the semi-finals which we had to then vote for 2 out of 6 people. The last day we had to chose between the two musicians who made it to the finals. It was great fun hearing all the different styles of music and how many of the participants supported each other by providing backup musical roles for each other.

The final night we had heard music from Sat Purkh Kaur (from Espanola, NM) and Dileep Kaur (AKA: Deep Kaur from Surrey, Canada). After their performances and everyone voted, it was such a close vote that they had to re-count the votes 4-5 times just to make sure of the count. Dileep Kaur got the most votes and won the Spirit Voyage Idol competition, which means she gets some prize cash and a $5,000 recording contract (meaning she'll be producing a CD in the near future).

Here is the audio/video from the three nights that Dileep Kaur performed. I'll post some of the other performances in the coming days.

Chardikala Sharing Experiences at Jaap Sahib 2006

2006-06-16T20:31:00.000-06:00

Here is a video from the end of the Jaap Sahib Course with Jugat Guru Singh, Sada Sat Simran Singh and Hari Mander Jot Singh (Cardi Kala Jatha). In the video they share some of their inspirations and experiences living in India and then answer questions by different people.

Download: Video (117 MB) / Audio (12MB)

Snatam Kaur - Gobinday Mukhanday Meditation

2006-06-15T00:55:00.000-06:00

Last night we did an amazing meditation for 62 minutes chanting the Guru Gayatri Mantra (from Jaap Sahib), "Gobinday Mukhanday, Udharay, Apaaray, Harian, Kariang, Nirname, Akhame". The chanting was lead by Snatam Kaur along with quite a few others on backup vocals, Guitar, Violin and Tabla. We did this meditation after a long (wonderfull) day at the Jaap Sahib Course. It was quite an evening!

If you want to try meditating to the audio, download the file and then play it on your computer or audio player loud enough for the sound to surround and "wash over" you. Sit with your legs crossed on the floor and sit up with your spine straight and shoulders relaxed. Close your eyes and start chanting the mantra. Pull in the navel area near your stomach a bit as you pronounce the end of each word (Gobin-day, Mukhan-day...). Focus at your third eye point in between your eyebrows at the base of your nose with your eyes closed. Continue the meditation for as long as you can (at least 11 minutes). You'll notice how you can really get into it after a while. The audio evolves and changes throughout the 63 minutes. When we were all chanting it together as a group it felt very powerfull. Give a try and see what happens? Your mind may start to wander so just keep bringing it back to the mantra and chant it out loud powerfully from the navel point in your stomach.

Related Posts:

The Guru Gayatri Mantra

Gobinday Mukhanday with Hari Bhajan Kaur and company

Sharing about Jaap Sahib - pt1

2006-06-14T08:23:00.000-06:00

Some friends of mine who I met last year in England at the Sikh Student Camp (Kamalroop Singh and Sukha Singh) came to participate in some of our summer camps here in Espanola (as part of the Sikh Youth Travel Exchange), and little did we/they know they were going to be teaching/sharing at the events. Here is an interesting and educational video of them both sharing their experiences relating to Jaap Sahib and telling stories from the times of the Gurus.

Musical Jaap Sahib

2006-06-12T23:16:00.000-06:00

Ok, I'm a music/Gurbani lover, I have to admit it, so I'm always on the lookout for unusual recordings and different musical styles. The past few days many of us here in Espanola and visitors from all over the world have been embarking on a Journey exploring the Jaap Sahib bani during this 4 day experiential course. This morning we started with a beautiful musical rendition of Jaap Sahib sung by mother and daughter, Hari Dharam Kaur and Hari Bhajan Kaur. The audio has a certain esoteric feel to it like you are floating in the clouds. It was great to just sit and meditate on the sound as we all recited Jaap Sahib together.

Background instruments were played by Guru Jot Singh (SikhNet Wale) on the Dilruba, and Hari Kaur on the Harp.

I hope you enjoy it. It's been another really long day (and more to come tommorow) so best get some sleep while I can.

Download

Shanti Kaur: Giving it to God

2006-06-09T11:54:00.000-06:00

I was archiving some old videos to DVD and found this short video clip by Shanti Kaur (1996?) where she was talking to the sangat about the topic of "Giving things up to the Guru/God to take care of" and what that means to her. I have found this to be very true in my life. The natural tendancy is to worry about things and get stressed out about something. I have found that if you develop a relationship with yourself and the Guru and you surrender your problems, challenges, etc to the Guru, that it all gets taken care of. Anyways...watch the video to hear Shanti Kaur's perspective. All food for thought :)

Download: Video / Audio

Miri Piri Academy Girls - Sadhana Chant Music

2006-06-07T21:01:00.000-06:00

Earlier I was going through some recordings from previous Summer Solstice Camps and found some that I hadn't edited yet. These are some live recordings from early in the morning during sadhana, as a 1,000+ people sit under the huge shelter meditating and chanting together as the sun come up over the horizon. This recording is of some of the Miri Piri Academy girls (and a few guys). Every morning a different group of people play live music. I remember this particular morning feeling full of joy and emotion at the same time. Narayan was sleeping next to me and the sun was just peaking out over the mountains. I remember tears flowing as I felt the vibration and energy of everyone singing together. It was a beautiful experience.

Solstice is only about 1.5 weeks away so I'm getting excited! All of us at SikhNet are going to be there the whole week. We close the SikhNet office for the week (and yes....I won't be blogging either! No internet up there on the mountain). I'm already rounding up my camping stuff and getting ready (tent, flash light, mat, etc). Narayan loves camping in the tent. It's a lot of fun.

This saturday some friends that I met in England last year (Sukha Singh and Kamalroop Singh) are coming for their first visit to Espanola, for the Jaap Sahib course and Solstice camp (and to connect with the local Sikhs). Thanks to local youth support for money to help cover airfare costs so the the second Sikh Youth Travel Exchange could happen!

The main vocals are by Nirinjan Kaur (Vancouver) - Daughter of Guru Raj Kaur and Hari Singh). She recently recorded a nice CD of "Sopurkh". You can check out the sound clips.

You can listen to the four tracks continuous with the below player or download them individually.

Download Individual Tracks
Mul Mantra
Rakhe Rakhanhar
Sat Siri Siri Akal
Waheguru Wahe Jio

Snatam Kaur - Waheguru - Live in England

2006-05-29T20:12:00.000-06:00

Musical Benti Chaupay

2006-05-25T22:52:00.000-06:00

A month or so ago my mother Sat Kirin Kaur and Seva Kaur played a musical Benti Chaupay in Gurdwara. I recorded it and ment to post it a long while back....but it "slipped through the cracks". Anways....here you go. I have too many cool MP3 tracks to post so have to keep up with it...otherwise they get "backed up".

Download MP3 (29MB)

Gurunam Kaur Story - Girls in Anandpur Sahib

2006-05-22T22:33:00.000-06:00

A few months back we were sitting around waiting for someone before we started our normal weekly SikhNet meeting and we started talking about India and the many adventures we had during our school years in the 80's. Auntie Guru Nam Kaur started telling stories, so I used the recording feature on my PDA. Here is one of the cool stories she told about the Sikh Girls in Anandpur Sahib. The sound quality isn't that great, but the story is great, so listen as best you can.

Siri Singh Sahib Harbhajan Singh Khalsa Yogi ji - Relationship with your Soul

2006-05-22T10:23:00.000-06:00

Gurdwara lecture on the topic: "Relationship with your Soul"

Featured MP3 Audio - Mitar Pyare Nu

2006-05-09T00:05:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago I posted a couple audio clips by Snatam Kaur during the 2005 Baisakhi program in Cheras, Malaysia. Here is another shabad lead by Hari Bhajan Kaur (From Espanola, New Mexico). Accompanied by Snatam Kaur as backup vocals and violin.

Hari Bhajan Kaur - Mitar Pyaray Nu

More to Gurbani to come later......time for me to sleep.

BBC Interview with Yogi Bhajan in Anandpur Sahib 1999

2006-04-27T14:44:00.000-06:00

Here is an interview with Siri Singh Sahib Harbhajan Singh Khalsa (aka: Yogi Bhajan) done by the BBC news service during the 300th anniversary Vaisakhi celebrations in Anandpur Sahib, India (April 19th 1999). The interviewer asks all kinds of questions relating to him coming to America and why many people became Sikhs.

Listen to the interview

(download interview)

During this time a large group of Sikhs (my family included) came along together on a "yatra" to Anandpur Sahib. Our group had people from all over the world and had quite an experience.

You can browse through the web journal that I put together back in 1999 for the Baisakhi celebrations in Anandpur Sahib. There are lots of interesting pictures, audio clips, videos and stories of our "Yatra" to meet with the Guru in Anandpur on Baisakhi.
View the Anandpur Sahib Journal

Snatam Kaur - Guru Dev Mata Guru Dev Pita

2006-04-26T23:38:00.000-06:00

Snatam Kaur - Nanak Naam Milay Taa Jevaa

2006-04-26T23:09:00.000-06:00