Seeing the state of the practice of our faith and ‘way of life’, Sikhi today, brings back nostalgic memories of yesteryear (my childhood) when it seemed all so simple and full of joy. I speak of Sikhi in the former Malaya (now Malaysia) where I was born.
According to a new Blackbaud survey, almost half of existing donors asked about contributions said they plan to give less or to fewer charities this holiday season. Only 13 percent said they plan to give more. MacLaughlin notes that the average age of the average donor these days is 65.
The life and teachings of Guru Nanak are of profound significance to mankind. His message of love, harmony and brotherhood, his universal vision and compassion provide inspiration for all humanity.
I am a feminist and the 10 Gurus are often viewed as such. However what unnerved me, was the way in which girls, women, boys and men in my South Asian Sikh community and the wider Sikh community did not embody or were not able to embody this philosophy.
Fateh Divas, celebrated a day after Bandi Choor Diwas was marked with traditional fervour and valour as Nihang organizations from all over Punjab to celebrate the return of Guru Hargobind from Gwalior Fort.
"You see people leave with tears in their eyes," he said. "When you see the kids smile because they're so happy to pick out clothes, there's nothing in the world better than that."
Capturing the timeless spirituality and beauty of the Golden Temple through the centuries is The Golden Temple of Amritsar, Reflections of the Past (1808-1959), which was released at the Capitol Book Depot on Friday evening. The 303-page coffee table book has been put together by Amandeep Singh Madra and his co-author Parmjit Singh.
The comments made by regional and national politicians that attended reinforces the view of the NSYF; that when our history is articulated in a narrative that places the events of 1984 into the wider context of Sikh history; it is clear to see how the massacres were part of a pre-planned politically motivated genocide.
As they reflect on the images before them, only the haunting lilt of an Indian sitar can be heard within the walls of the Gurdwara.
To pay tribute to the brave soldiers and servicemen who had come so far away from home and fought for a cause they may not have comprehended, in a sombre ceremony a poem of victory was recited: 'Deh Shiva Bar Mohe Eha'