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| From left to right: Ranjit Singh, Sunny Singh, Raghbir Singh, Dr Hardeep Singh,, Master Jasneal Singh, Harpreet Singh and Rajinder Singh. |
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The hukamnama was just astonishing. It mentioned the words ‘Paar-jat’-meaning the ‘Elysian tree’ and the word ‘rukh’ which also means tree and we all took this as an affirmation from the Guru that what we were about to do was truly blessed by Wahiguru-it brought a big smile to our faces. The National Forest is about 20 years old and spread over 100 square miles and is an area of spectacular natural beauty. The tree planting was to be done in the spirit of International Sikh Eco Day that was announced the week before. We got to the location at the allotted time slot, checked in to the reception desk and after a short walk to the planting field were greeted by some very friendly faces who informed us of the protocol and procedures. The staff and their press officer took a very keen interest in Sikh Eco Day and were very pleasantly surprised that the Sikh tradition honoured the air, water and the land. It was a moment for collective learning and a true blessing of Guru Har Rai Jee, the master of Sikh environmentalism. We gathered together in a huddle to say an ardaas for blessings and guidance, picked up our shiny spades and planted 35 tree saplings of oak, birch and lime, with Wahiguru on our lips and in our hearts to bless the saplings for a long and strong life and to the sound of a camera, clicking away in the hands of the event photographer. When fun is being had, time whizzes by and it took us just 40 minutes to complete the planting and to thank the event organisers for their kindness. We walked away from the field, looked back and saw the saplings that had been planted in the name of the 7th master and it left us all with an incredibly warm glow in our hearts. Sikh Eco Day is a wonderful thing. Long may it prosper. Dr. Hardeep Singh |