MrSikhNet Video

Shanti Kaur British Influence on Sikhism-mono

2009-03-30T06:31:00.001-06:00

This video is presented by Shanti kaur and looks at British Influence on Sikhism.

Shanti Kaur British Influence on Sikhism

2009-03-30T06:27:00.001-06:00

This video is presented by Shanti Kaur and looks at the British Influence on Sikhism.

Harjot Kaur My Transition to Bana

2009-03-26T03:36:00.000-06:00

This video is presented by Harjot Kaur and looks at her Transition to Bana.

CKJ Your Radiant Body

2009-03-24T07:22:00.002-06:00

Jagat Guru Singh from the Chardikala Jatha explains what the 10 bodies are and concentrates on the 10th body (the radiant body) as exemplified by Guru Gobind Singh.

CKJ Radiant Body

2009-03-20T04:44:00.000-06:00

Jagat Guru Singh from the Chardikala Jatha explains what the 10 bodies are and concentrates on the 10th body (the radiant body) as exemplified by Guru Gobind Singh.

CKJ Radiant Body Yoga Set

2009-03-20T04:41:00.000-06:00

Chardikala Jatha leads you through a full yoga set to strengthen the radiant body. Please follow along as you watch this video. They start off with some stretching, and exercises like Swan Kriya, Sarbandanday Kriya, and squats. Then they start the yoga set with 11 minutes of archer pose on each side. Then they do an Ajai Alai meditation.

Baba Iqbal Literacy and Value Based Education

2009-03-07T04:39:00.001-07:00

This videos is presented by Baba Iqbal and describes Lieracy and Value Based Education.

Baba Iqbal Man-Ego God

2009-03-03T04:02:00.001-07:00

This video is presented by Baba Iqbal and looks at man ego.

Kultar-What is God and Guru - youtubewide

2009-02-16T03:49:00.000-07:00

This video is presented by Kultar and looks at what is God and Guru.

Kultar What is God and Guru

2009-02-13T07:44:00.001-07:00

This video is presented Kultar and discusses What is God and Guru.

Guru Kaur Message to Men See Beyond Gender

2009-02-13T07:41:00.002-07:00

This video is presented by Guru Kaur and discusses about Message to Men See Beyond Gender.

Guru Kaur Message to Women Creating a Home

2009-02-13T03:51:00.001-07:00

This video is presented by Guru Kaur and it gives a message to women that are creating a home.

Shanti Kaur Unique Form vs Universality

2009-02-09T03:52:00.000-07:00

This video is presented by Shanti Kaur and looks at Unique Form vs Universality.

Integrity and the Young Goldsmith

2009-02-05T03:49:00.002-07:00

This video is presented by Guru Jodha Singh and looks at Integrity and the Young Goldsmith.

Guru jodha Singh Science of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji

2009-01-30T04:58:00.000-07:00

This video is provided by Guru Jodha Singh and looks at Science of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji

Guru Singh Physiological Effects of Shabad Guru

2009-01-28T04:54:00.000-07:00

This video is provided by Guru Singh which looks at Physiological Effects of Shabad Guru

Guru Singh Youth Taking Ownership

2009-01-27T04:45:00.000-07:00

This video is provided by Guru Singh and looks at the youth taking ownership.

Guru Singh How Can Adults HelpThe Youth

2009-01-26T04:35:00.001-07:00

This video is presented by Guru Singh and looks at How can adults help the youth.

Guru Singh Your Hair and Sunlight

2009-01-23T04:33:00.002-07:00

Guru Singh talks about how your hair is like an electric circuitry. You needs vitamin D which is absorbed directed from the sunlight into your hair and skin.

Guru Singh Ritual and Technology

2009-01-22T04:28:00.001-07:00

Guru Singh, Harijot and Gurujot have a discussion style talk about Sikh youth around the world not relating to Sikhism because they haven't been taught properly the reasons for the Sikh Lifestyle.

CKJ Sant Sipahi

2009-01-16T04:17:00.000-07:00

In this video it talks about Sant Sipahi.

Shanti Kaur Hazur Sahib History

2009-01-16T04:15:00.000-07:00

Shanti Kaur tells the history of how Guru Gobind Singh came to Hazur Sahib, how Maharaja Ranjit Singh built it up, and ultimately where the 10th Guru passed the Guruship on to the Siri Guru Granth Sahib.

Influencing People Towards Sikhism

2009-01-16T04:13:00.000-07:00

SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa, Yogi Ji answers a question in an England Gurdwara during a question and answer session. The Question is about how did he influence people towards Sikhism, and his answer is that he just practiced Shabad Guru with the Americans, and they got the experience of the power of it.

Yoga and Sikhism

2009-01-15T04:11:00.000-07:00

Jugat Guru Singh and Sadasat Simran Singh (Chardikala Jatha) share their thoughts on the relationship of Sikhi and Yoga. Many of us who are Sikhs don’t realize the many close ties and things in Sikhi that are in fact Yoga. Many Sikhs think of Yoga in a negative way because they associate it as a Hindu practice, or that the writings in the Siri Guru Granth Sahib say that "yoga is bad" when in fact this is a total mis-understanding and most of the time taken out of context. This is a video excerpt from the 2007 Jaap Sahib Course in Espanola, New Mexico.

Protecting Dharma

2009-01-15T04:08:00.000-07:00

Chardikala Jatha start off reading from the autobiography of Guru Gobind Singh, and then talk about the 10th Guru's stance on protecting all religions.

Shanti Kaur Akal Takhat and Deathlessness

2009-01-15T03:33:00.000-07:00

Tonight in Gurdwara Shanti Kaur told some inspiring and educational stories related to the events before, during, and after Operation Blue Star. As she told the stories I was transported to another time, and listened with all my full focus, trying to hear all the details. I was living in India at the time, but I was still young and didn't understand the extent of what was going on.

Chardikala Jatha - Radiant Body

2009-01-13T05:02:00.003-07:00

Kultar Bani ,Shabad Music and Kirtan

2009-01-10T04:58:00.000-07:00

Bhai Kultar Singh talks about what Bani is and the importance of music and singing with the Shabad Guru.

Harjot Kaur Professional Bana

2008-12-16T07:22:00.006-07:00

Dr. Harjot Kaur shares what is is like being a professional and wearing bana.

Living As Khalsa

2008-12-16T07:20:00.003-07:00

Jagat Guru Singh (from the Chardikala Jatha) shares his views on the interconnectivity of Guru Gobind Singh and his Sikhs

Harjot Kaur Punjaban In Sikhism

2008-12-16T07:07:00.004-07:00

Harjot Kaur talks about what it is like being a Punjabi Sikh woman, some of the challenges she has faced and how she has dealt with them pursuing equal respect. She gives some advice to young Sikh women.

Guruka Singh The Purpose of Hair

2008-12-16T07:06:00.004-07:00

Guruka Singh and Gurumustuk discuss the challenges and purpose of keeping the hair uncut, and that one must experience this to fully understand it.

Guruka Singh Body Temple

2008-12-15T07:03:00.002-07:00

Guruka Singh talks about how our bodies are like our own Harimandir Sahib's. The stool of life has three legs; body, mind, and soul.

Harjot Kaur Relating To The Shabad Guru

2008-12-15T07:01:00.005-07:00

Harjot Kaur talks about how the Siri Guru Granth Sahib has Shabads for all aspects of life to guide us, and some examples of how she relates to the Shabad Guru.

Shout Out

2008-12-11T07:00:00.002-07:00

Videos that users sent to us sharing what they think SikhNet does, how it impacts and helps them, and asking the sangat to support SikhNet.

Guruka

2008-11-11T06:59:00.002-07:00

Guruka Singh talks about how our bodies are like our own Harimandir Sahib's. The stool of life has three legs; body, mind, and soul.

Weapon Masters

2008-09-19T06:56:00.002-06:00

Weapon Masters explores the history and science of ten weapons of the ancient world.

Teri Bhagat Na

2008-09-18T06:55:00.002-06:00

This is the story of a young Sikh boy who comes to the U.S. for higher education and has to face some harassment from the society. He meets some sangat which helps him to walk on Guru's path.

Darsh Flies High

2008-09-16T06:53:00.003-06:00

I think the accomplishments of my brother Darsh should be known in the Sikh community. He sends out a great message for us; with hard work and Sikh values, we really can achieve great things.

Sikh Is here

2008-09-16T06:52:00.002-06:00

In my movie I have made a humble attempt to explain the ideology of Sikhi through some symbolic gestures.

Roots and Wings

2008-09-16T06:51:00.002-06:00

Does one have to cut off their roots in order to spread their wings and soar high? 14 year old Angad Singh, interviews the participants of a Sikh Youth Leadership retreat in his quest to highlight the challenges they face every day being both American and Sikhs

The Warrior

2008-09-16T06:49:00.002-06:00

Once in a galaxy not so far away. A young soldier of guru ji wandered the lands. As he traveled he longed for guru ji’s darshan. On this perilous journey he faced many foes who tried to corrupt him away from guru ji’s path. Finally he reached his destination.

05b sarbatdabhala

2008-09-14T06:48:00.002-06:00

Dedicated to the 300 year celebrations of Sri Guru Granth Sahib, the Path-Bodh (recitation and understanding) of Sri Dasam Granth Sahib was organized by Damdami Taksal

Chakkran

2008-09-12T06:47:00.003-06:00

A parody of JRR Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings", with various Sikh idioms. It has messages about the Turban, about Miri and Piri, and about the five vices. In addition, it has hilarious outtakes.

35 W

2008-09-11T06:46:00.003-06:00

In celebration of 300 years of our Guru Granth Sahib, I wanted to create a documentary portraying the importance of our Gurmukhi script as well as the language of the Guru Granth Sahib, Gurbani.

Sarbatdabhala

2008-09-06T06:26:00.002-06:00

This is a short film which lays emphasis on the teachings of Bhai Kanhaiya ji who helped others within any discrimination of religion or community

Sikhidaboota

2008-09-06T06:15:00.002-06:00

Ever wondered, why our generation is turning their back to both our mother tongue (Punjabi - 'ura') and Sikh identity ('Jura')? What roles can the parents play to take care of both Punjabi and Sikh identity?

Chakkran

2008-09-06T06:13:00.002-06:00

A parody of JRR Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings", with various Sikh idioms. It has messages about the Turban, about Miri and Piri, and about the five vices. In addition, it has hilarious outtakes.

Panjkaniyan

2008-09-06T04:03:00.002-06:00

Panj Kahaniyan comprises of five stories depicting how the veil of illusion is torn away by Sadhsangat's help and Guru's Grace. This video tries to show how Gurbani helps the five main characters to self realize about the importance of Guru's Bana and Sikhi Principles.

Introduction to Olympics

2008-09-06T04:01:00.002-06:00

After watching the Olympics, the absence of Sikhs started teasing me. I think participation of Sikhs in Olympics is a very good avenue for identity awareness.

Introduction to Turban Tying

2008-09-06T03:59:00.002-06:00

A humorous critique of Savraj's turban at a turban tying competition

Ghostbusters

2008-09-06T03:43:00.002-06:00

A ghost has been causing trouble in the city of London and the Ghostbusters are called in to teach him a lesson on sharing, a basic principle of the Sikh way of life.

Awakening

2008-09-06T03:39:00.002-06:00

Thoughts on Sikh Youth and taking leadership roles in the world

Unity in the Khalsa Panth

2008-08-25T17:03:00.002-06:00

ukha Singh (UK) shares his thoughts about how Nimrata (humility) is what we need to unite the Khalsa Panth (collective Sikh body). He talks about how some people use their knowledge in Sikhism to divide instead of unite.

Why Live the Sikh Lifestyle?

2008-08-20T10:39:00.001-06:00

In this video Shanti Kaur Khalsa discusses the topic on "Why One Should Even Bother living the Sikh Lifestyle?" She explains that even though it is difficult, Sikh history is full of success stories, of those sikhs who kept the lifestyle, regardless of the pressures of the times.

Unleash the Creative Sikh

2008-08-16T08:34:00.001-06:00

Are you working on your video yet for the SikhNet Online Film Festival?? You are? Good to hear….!! If you are not, watch below video and then get started! I know you are thinking you don’t know anything about making a video and coming up with reasons not to make a video. But don’t waste any more energy thinking that way, and start thinking of all the reasons why you SHOULD make a video! Not only will it be fun and you’ll learn something new; but you’ll have a chance to be creative, speak up, and have a voice to many thousands of people around the world (plus a chance at winning some $$, fame, and being watched on TV as well). So, unleash the creative Sikh in you! You have a full 31 days from today which is plenty of time!! Special thanks to Jasmeet Singh Bansal (Pa, USA) for making this Film Festival Promo Video!

Sikhnet Film Festival Chinese Promo

2008-08-16T08:30:00.001-06:00

The tragic story of a son who failed horribly at Last Year’s Sikhnet Film Festival, but now realizes he can record another film, for this year’s Sikhnet Youth Online Film Festival. Thanks to Guruka Singh for the humorous video idea and script! Please forward the video to all your friends and make a video for this year’s film festival. To find out more and to get started on your video go to: http://www.sikhnet.com/filmfestival

The Guru (God) Inside You

2008-08-16T08:28:00.001-06:00

Shanti Kaur talks about what Guru is, and when we pray to Guru we are actually praying to our universal consciousness, and not some external God.

The Living Guru

2008-07-28T16:20:00.001-06:00

Continuing on the theme of the Shabad Guru, Guruka Singh speaks about how Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is a living guru, and not a 'holy book'.

Download Video

Transition from 10th Guru to Siri Guru Granth Sahib

2008-07-16T08:06:00.001-06:00

Did you know that this year we are celebrating the 300 anniversary of when the Siri Guru Granth Sahib was established as the Guru for the Sikhs? In this video Shanti Kaur talks about God and how we relate to the Siri Guru Granth Sahib.

Download Video

Flying High in the Skies of Espanola

2008-06-18T09:45:00.001-06:00

This morning we had a bit of fun and adventure flying as the sun was rising above Espanola. My friend Krishan Shiva Singh likes to fly airplanes and invited us to fly with him. In the earlier days he used to do a lot of Sky Diving (Jumping out of an airplane, free floating and then parachuting). Last night he called my office before I went home and said he had space so at the last minute decided to go with him along with Narayan. Yippeee....! Most of you have flown in a commercial airplane, but it is a whole different thing flying around in one of these small planes. We flew all over Espanola checking out the various landmarks. It was cool flying over the Summer Solstice Campsite and seeing everything from up above. Everything looks so different from high up. We "swooped" down low past a car driving up the dusty solstice road and then headed in the direction of our house. I called her up on the phone and we saw her in the back yard.

Passing Judgement on Others

2008-06-16T22:45:00.001-06:00

In the below video Guruka Singh talks about how we don’t have the right to criticize or judge others about their practice (or lack) of being a Sikh.

Sikh Women and Turbans

2008-06-16T22:42:00.000-06:00

In the below video Shanti Kaur answers the question about why she wears a turban as a Sikh Woman, since in recent times most Sikh women do not wear it. She also speaks about how the women in Khalsa Panth stopped wearing the turban in the time after Guru Gobind Singh ji's death.

Spiritual Name: Your Gift from the Guru

2008-06-02T07:43:00.001-06:00

In this video Dr. Harjot Kaur speaks about the importance of one’s spiritual name, and how it is one of our main spiritual connections to the Guru and a reminder of your destiny as a Sikh. In western society many of us are pressured by our peers and people who might find it hard to pronounce and so a name like "Harjinder Singh" become "Harry"; just to please and make it easier for them. However it is our spiritual strength and identity, which Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji blessed us with and we should maintain.

Why Live the Sikh Lifestyle?

2008-05-30T18:28:00.001-06:00

Strength of Woman

2008-05-14T07:19:00.001-06:00

Here is a video with my mataji Sat Kirin Kaur talking about the strength of women, how women can access their own power, and not follow the norms of society.

Guilt vs. Self-Discipline

2008-04-15T17:14:00.000-06:00

Here is the second video part to the previously posted video topic of "Sin, Guilt, Heaven and Hell". This video deals with the issue and question of whether guilt is a good thing to motivate and have self discipline. You might think that without guilt you might not do certain things or be disciplined. Guruka Singh shares a nice perspective in terms of relating to discipline and a daily practice. I used to be one of the "yo-yos" (going up and down in my practice) but now take the slow and steady, building over time approach. Anyways, hope you enjoy.

Sin, Guilt, Heaven and Hell

2008-04-09T19:27:00.000-06:00

Here is one topic which I think is a great one for us all to think about. I have found that even within the Sikh lifestyle many people have adopted the mentality of "guilt and sin". Western influence has definitely played a big part in this, and it doesn’t help to have translations of Gurbani that translate "paap" into "sin". In the following video interview Guruka Singh shares his thoughts on the topic of Sin, Guilt, Heaven and Hell. Hopefully the next time you catch yourself feeling one of these things that you think deeper about it. Here are some other comments on the topic: I have to admit, I have a problem with the concept of sin. And the fact that there is a quote in one of the (poor) translations of the Siri Guru Granth Sahib that says we are all sinners has me confused. Admittedly, we are all specks of dust in relation to the Infinite, — but at the same time Ang Sang Wahe Guru The Siri Singh Sahib once said, “The thing I like best about Sikh Dharma is ANG SANG WAHE GURU.” I like it, too! It means that God is in every part of me, every limb, every molecule, every atom is a manifestation of God. You might say it is a paradox. Despite my human flaws or failings, this mantra is a reminder that God is living and breathing in me all the time! This is distinct from the concept in some religions that we are all born in sin. I don’t buy it." - Shakti Parwha Kaur The word in the Guru is ‘Paap’ (sometimes translated as “sin.”) It means the action of a manmukh — one who speaks from his mind and follows his mind. The point is that to move from manmukh to gurmukh, (one who speaks with the mouth of the Guru, not his own mouth) we must merge into shunia (zero – thoughtlessness) at the feet of the Guru. "Sinner" is a manipulative Western concept based on Christian guilt. It is not an accurate or useful descriptive term. ‘Paap’ as used by the Guru, means any action that makes you feel alone and separated from God. ‘Paap’ is not “bad.” Nothing is good or bad, except that thinking makes it so. ‘Paap’ is simply an action that makes you forget who you are, One with the Infinite." - Guruka Singh

The Gift of Ishnaan Seva in the Guru’s House (Time Lapse Video)

2008-03-19T19:26:00.002-06:00

This second video is a continuous recording of the Ishnaan Seva from start to finish (for about 2.5 hours) from a second video camera. I then sped it up so you can watch the whole thing in about 80 seconds! (again I suggest that you download the higher quality video). You can see everyone zipping around, and the transformation of taking everything out of the Gurdwara, cleaning and then bringing everything back in.

The Gift of Ishnaan Seva in the Guru’s House

2008-03-19T19:25:00.000-06:00

Years ago marble was installed on the floors and base of the walls in the Gurdwara here in Espanola, New Mexico. Ever since then it has become a beautiful weekly get together to clean the Guru’s House. I used to hear about it from Prabhu Singh and a few others (Sat Bachan Kaur) who were always trying to encourage people to participate. Back then It took place late at night (rather than 6:30am nowadays) so I never did take part in it. At first I thought it silly to install marble in the Gurdwara when it seemed to be perfectly nice as it was. I thought, why make more work and the need to clean the marble?? Was this our sangat’s way of having a similar experience of cleaning the marble floors of Harimandir Sahib (which most are not allowed to take part in)? Anyways, that was my critical mind at work and was a factor in my not taking the opportunity to do this seva till this year. My son Narayan Singh had come to Ishnaan Seva a few times before me with some of his uncles, and he always seemed to love the experience. So one morning I decided to go with him since he really wanted to go. How could I say no when my son wanted to serve in the Guru’s house??? Ever since that morning I wondered why I had never come before?? It was so nice to be with other sevadhars doing this seva. It’s not so much the cleaning part or the labor…. but there is something about coming together with other Gursikhs in the Guru’s House and serving in this way that is special. On my first morning doing the seva Sat Bachan Kaur asked if I would carry the Siri Guru Granth Sahib from the Guru’s room to a different location, so that we could clean the Guru’s room. This was the first time I have done this and for some reason it was such a powerful experience for me (all of like ten seconds or so). Many Sikhs refer to the Guru as "The Sikh Scriptures" or "The Sikh Holy Book" which is totally off base, as the Siri Guru Granth is our living Guru and not a "book". So as I carried the Siri Guru Granth on my head and it was an experience that is hard to put to words. I was carrying my Guru with love and respect and feeling the "vibration" of the Gurbani flow through my being. Wow! The whole process takes about two hours from start to finish. The two Siri Guru Granth Sahib’s are moved from their room to a temporary location as well as the two sets of the English/Punjabi Translations of Siri Guru Granth Sahib which are used to read the English translation of the Hukamnama and also for the weekly Akandh Path. After that we roll up the carpets, remove everything from the Gurdwara, sweep up the dust from the floor, wash the marble floors with water, dry everything, put everything back in, and then lay down sheets on top of the carpets for the Sunday Gurdwara. Most weeks Hari Kaur or Jugat Singh cook some yummy langar for us to enjoy at the end, which is real treat!! On the weekends when I participate in the Ishnaan Seva I try to bring my (1.5 year old) Charanjeet Kaur and (6 year old) Narayan Singh. They both love the seva also, and help out with everything. Narayan’s favorite is taking the buckets of water and pouring it all over the floors and then wiping it all over with towels. He zips back and forth. I like going with my kids because it gives them a positive experience of seva and of being together with sangat. Some of the other people also bring their children so they all have fun together and we get the kids involved. It’s like a big family event coming together like this in the morning. If you come to visit our community, definitely plan to participate in this seva on Sunday morning. If you are from Espanola and reading this then you don’t know what you are missing! Come join us! (Starts around 6:30am) You won’t regret it. A few weeks ago someone suggested recording the Ishnaan Seva and making a video. So, this past weekend I did that. Here are two short videos showing the Ishnaan Seva. The first video is from one camera that I carried around during the seva and recorded the different activities close up. In order to better illustrate the seva I sped up the video to go very fast. I suggest that you download the video which is MUCH better quality (and larger) then what shows in the below Youtube video. You’ll be able to see things better and enjoy it more.

Dust of the Dust of the Dust (Humbleness)

2008-03-10T15:31:00.002-06:00

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?

2008-02-29T10:31:00.000-07:00

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

2008-02-25T12:34:00.000-07:00

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.

Man Jeetai Jagjeet - Conquer Your Mind & Conquer the World

2008-01-15T07:10:00.001-07:00

This past week I have been thinking a lot about my recent blog posts which are on the topic of judgment and the mind. Then on Sunday I was looking through my videos at home and came across an old video tape of a class taught by SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa (Yogi Bhajan) during Summer Solstice of 1987 (almost 21 years ago!). For some reason I was compelled to watch it. It had been sitting in the cupboard for so many years and for some reason today I noticed it and felt like watching it.

As soon as I started watching the video I was surprised to find that the lecture covering many of the very topics that I was just blogging about, in relation controlling your mind, religion, self discipline, intuition, love, and spirituality. As Guru Nanak Dev ji wrote: "Man Jeetai Jagjeet"; By conquering the mind you conquer the world!

SikhNet Everywhere

2008-01-02T07:08:00.000-07:00

For those of you who have been procrastinating about supporting SikhNet, Here is another short video (1 min. long) highlighting the many services that SikhNet offers (with an introduction by Guruka Singh). After you watch the video…the question is "what choice are YOU going to make?" In case you missed the last video you’ll know what I mean when you watch the funny "SikhNet Choices" video.

I know some of you might be tired of all this fundraising-shmun-raising stuff, but as a non-profit organization we do rely on your financial contributions to grow and provide the many services that SikhNet does. So, at this time of year from Nov-Jan we ask for your help. I hope you will consider supporting SikhNet with a recurring monthly donation (in any amount) instead of a one time donation too. This ensures that SikhNet gets regular ongoing support and we are able to spend less time fund raising and more time working on SikhNet services. (Plus, if you make a monthly donation of $20 or higher you can choose one of the donor gifts!

SikhNet Choices

2007-12-10T07:04:00.000-07:00

Here is the latest in the SikhNet FUN-Raiser. This is a fun video that me and Gurujot Singh put together. The video is a spoof on Gurujot’s video titled: "Choices", and was a submission for the 2007 SikhNet Youth Online Film Festival.

Many of you have been browsing SikhNet.com and seeing the different messages throughout the website asking for your support. This video plays upon the story of an "every day Sikh" browsing SikhNet and a few choices that he has when he comes to the website and see the fundraiser messages.

We had fun making the video, and hope that it brings a smile to your face (and of course encourages you to support SikhNet!)

Petzl Navalameca 70’s (Featuring Yogi Tea)

2007-11-27T07:00:00.000-07:00

My Friend Atma Singh from France forwarded this cool video to me. He is the actor in it talking about Yogi Tea in the beginning and the end. When they drink the yogi tea they get transported to the 70’s and then do some serious rock climbing! Yumm Yumm Yogi Tea! I need to brew up a fresh batch of tea myself. Especially now that it is cold these days!

All the people acting on this video are very famous in the rock climbing community (most of them are or have been world champions). This video is made by PETZL, the number one company in Rock Climbing Equipment.

Here is the info about the video from their blog.

"When 15 climbers meet a strange Guru from nowhere, nobody knows what will happen… Strange beverages can surely change your way of life ! Funky afros and fluorescent lycras still rule somewhere, in the middle of Spain…"

TIP : Press two times on the "PLAY" button to launch the buffer. Then, wait until more than 50% of the movie is loaded. You can also click on the "ZOOM" button to watch fullscreen.

Featuring : Tony Lamiche, Jerome Meyer, Amely Delfino, Mickael Fuselier, Jeremy Pancole, Stef Julien, Loic Gaidioz, Francois Lombard, Matthieu Maynadier, Audrey Bosc, Isabelle Carrier, Sam Beaugey, Anne Galdéano, Nicolas Badia, Maud Ansade, Philippe Ribière, Atma Singh, and Florent Ricci as the crazy Dj’Ghost…

Directed by Guillaume Broust. Photography by Julien Nadiras, Lafouche, Guillaume Broust. Music by Florent Ricci, eKoman, Club des Dioux featuring guests : HLM, Missy J, Sonia Panzani, Perrine Chauvin, Tony Georges…

SikhNet - Spreading Sikhi One Click at a Time

2007-11-26T07:03:00.000-07:00

My thanks to Jasmeet Singh Bansal from PA, USA. (2006 & 2007 Winner of the SikhNet Youth Online Film Festival) for making this video.

Guru Gobind Singh and the Goldsmith

2007-11-22T06:59:00.000-07:00

Jugat Guru Singh (Chardikala Jatha) tells the story of Guru Gobind Singh and the Goldsmith. Then he explains the moral of the story about the power of following the lifestyle Guru Gobind laid down for his Sikhs.

What is Kundalini Yoga and The Benefits?

2007-11-19T06:04:00.000-07:00

Here are three videos with Gurucharan Singh Khalsa, Ph.D., (Director of Training at Kundalini Research Institute - KRI) on the topic of Kundalini Yoga. In the first video he talks about the benefits of practicing Kundalini Yoga. The second video is more of an explanation of What Kundalini Yoga is; and the third video he explains the difference between Kundalini Yoga and other types of yogas.

Stress - A State of Mind

2007-11-17T06:02:00.000-07:00

Here is the last video from my earlier recording session with Guruka Singh. The topic of the video has to do with dealing with the stress of every day life.

Touch Every Heart: Be the Forklift

2007-11-10T07:02:00.000-07:00

Here is another inspiring Sikh Dharma Dasvandh Year End Video showing the work of Sikh Dharma teachers, ministers and community all over the globe. The video is a mix of pictures from the community and video excerpts of SSS Harbhajan Singh Khalsa talking about seva, service and other topics. You can also watch the last video which was titled "Be a Lighthouse" which is another inspiring video.

Transforming Sexual Feelings to Creativity

2007-11-05T05:59:00.000-07:00

In this video Guruka Singh share his thoughts and tips on how youth (or anyone) can transform sexual energy into other means of creativity.

Channel M News Interview about SikhNet (Vancouver)

2007-09-26T05:56:00.000-06:00

During my recent visit to Vancouver, I had the opportunity to be interviewed for the Channel M News and talk a bit about SikhNet and the Youth Online Film Festival. Roma Kaur (Channel M Punjabi News Producer and Kaurs Magazine editor) wanted me to talk in Hindi/Punjabi, so I did my best to squeeze some in. My vocabulary isn’t that extensive so I couldn’t really express myself properly without using english. When I was in boarding school in India (1983-1993) our school was located in Uttar Pradesh (Dehradun/Mussoorie) so most people only spoke hindi. We did learn how to read punjabi….but our teacher wasn’t that great so we hardly learnt much conversational Punjabi. After my visit to Vancouver I felt that I really do want to continue to learn Punjabi and Hindi. There are not really any people here to talk with in Espanola, but I figured I could find a Skype buddy and we could have conversations in Punjabi/Hindi to get practice.

Channel M News Interview about SikhNet (Vancouver)

2007-09-26T05:55:00.000-06:00

Youth and Having Relationships/Dating

2007-09-25T05:53:00.000-06:00

In this video Guruka Singh answers a question about Sikh youth dealing with the issue of dating, love, romance, sex before marriage and relationships.

Bana and the Sikh Identity

2007-09-19T05:50:00.000-06:00

Here is another awesome video interview with Guruka Singh on the topic of Bana and our identity as a Sikh. Guruka Singh answers a question about the relevance of the identity of a Sikh, especially in relation to this post 9/11 era where many people relate the turban to terrorism.

Baah Baah Black Sheep in Raag

2007-09-13T05:49:00.000-06:00

I couldn’t help but share this with you all. I missed this on the SikhBlogPulse a while back last month but found it while browsing. I never would have imagined someone singing the nursery rhyme "Baa Baa Black Sheep" song in a raag style! Hahaha. Thanks Jagjit Singh’s (Malaysia’s), for sharing this video of Gurmukh Singh.

Jaswant Singh Khalra: A Martyr of Human Rights

2007-09-12T05:48:00.000-06:00

Here is my video pick of the day of the Online Youth Film Festival by 18 year old Raj Singh. He won second place in the 2006 Online Film festival for his video: Arpinder Kaur: Piloting A Life. This video is quite different from the typical 1984/khalistan video and focuses on the human rights abuses which have occurred in Punjab by the Government. The video was very well produced and backed up with lots of information.

"This documentary is still a work in progress about human rights defender Jaswant Singh Khalra. Upon completion of this documentary, there has been some progress in the murder trial case of Jaswant Singh Khalra. Six low-level officials were convicted for the abduction and murder of Jaswant Singh Khalra. However, the primary architect of this crime, former Director General of Police KPS Gill, has not been held accountable. Despite Special Police Officer Kuldip Singh’s testimony, who witnessed KPS Gill interrogate Jaswant Singh Khalra in illegal detention, the Central Bureau of Investigation refused to investigate or prosecute KPS Gill for his role in Jaswant Singh Khalra’s abduction, torture and murder."

Guru Nanak - Please Come Back

2007-09-11T05:46:00.000-06:00

Todays video pick from the SikhNet Youth Online Film Festival.

Brief Video Summary "Guru Nanak - Please Come Back" features a young Sikh boy named Bikram who although a reluctant believer in god has to finally seek his refuge to deal with the frustrations pent up within him owing to the ever increasing human suffering and miseries all around him. A revelation dawns upon him that the age old teachings of Guru Nanak which withstood the test of time are still relevant and perhaps the only solution to all the problems in the world today. Film by Arpan Singh Jolly Smriti Sharma Udit Mendiratta

Choices (by Gurujot Singh)

2007-09-09T05:44:00.000-06:00

Here is another one of my video favorites from the SikhNet Youth Online Film Festival. Like many of the good videos…it only took a short period of time to do the recording of the video….and then TONS of hours and lots of late nights editing the video. I’m surprised how well he pulled off this video given the short amount of time. This is Gurujot Singh’s first real video and he did an awesome job! It’s quite funny too :) In this video: "A Sikh gets accosted by an angry man accusing him of being a terrorist/foreigner. In his mind he goes through scenarios of different ways he could react to the person. The first is to get angry, the second is to try to not look like a Sikh and fit in. In the third scenario he becomes neutral and teaches the man about what it means to be a Sikh. This short film is done in a comedic fashion, but it also has a moral: As Sikhs we must compassionately educate others about us to end discrimination instead of getting angry or dejected." I found it interesting seeing the differences between the other video titled "The Identity" which shows a Sikh guy being recognized every where as "Mr Singh". In that video…everyone knows who he is and that he is a Sikh, whereas in this video the guy doesn’t have a clue who Sikhs are….and thinks he is from the middle east.

Gurujot Singh and the Epic Movie

2007-09-08T05:40:00.000-06:00

Well, it was just another friday and it was almost time to head home. After watching the film festival video "Teen Puncture" I thought how funny it was to see so many different credits at the end of this movie. I guess he had a whole crew of people helping. So I thought it would be funny to have a video of just a few seconds of something…and then a long list of outrageous credits.

Gurujot and his brother Meeri Peeri were in the office so I convinced them to help me make a short silly video. I had to meet my wife and kids at a dinner party so we only had about 30 minutes to record, capture and edit. The one thing that I have found with these videos is that once you start with something….you could go on forever trying to edit and improve it. Our time limit prevented too much of that for us. Here is the result. A bit raw… but we had fun with it. Inspired by Nihang Singh…

Ps. Stay tuned on monday for Gurujot Singh’s (Espanola, NM) funny and awesome film debut in the SikhNet Youth Online Film Festival!

Just 2 Live Another Day

2007-09-07T05:38:00.000-06:00

There were so many unique and different videos submitted by youth for the 2007 SikhNet Youth Online Film Festival. Another one of my favorites is a video titled "Just 2 Live Another Day", which is a rap music video by 18 year old Sukhdeep Singh Bhogal from Australia. The lyrics and visuals are awesome and have a great message. The video is about remembering the sacrifices of those Sikhs before us and standing tall as a Sikh of the Guru. I can only imagine how much time it took to put together this video and the music. If you have ever done a video/music project you’ll understand how much time it can take to do a good project like this.

Teen Puncture (Three Punctures)

2007-09-06T05:27:00.000-06:00

Here is another submission for the SikhNet Youth Online Film festival. It’s a simple story about a tire repair man who is trying to make ends meet and get enough money for his daughter to continue going to school. The moral of the story is to trust in God and know that your affairs will be taken care of. I love the Indian TV style drama in it. Those of you who watch Indian TV will know what I mean :)

One Light (A Video by 13 year old Angad Singh)

2007-09-05T05:25:00.000-06:00

The SikhNet Youth Online Film Festival has begun! We received about 40 videos from all over the world and every day we will feature a few of them for you all to watch. Here is one of my first picks by a 13 year old named Angad Singh.

One Light celebrates the oneness of all people in the footsteps of Guru Nanak who traveled thousands of miles and reached millions of people in the conflicted world to impart the message of One God, One humanity.

In this film a 13 year old from suburban Atlanta takes on a project to educate his neighbors about himself as a Sikh and to learn about them as well. The mission is to connect with them - drawing on similarities, and inspiring everyone to take a baby step in the direction of making this world a friendlier place by education, connection and inspiration.

Legacy vs. Lineage

2007-09-04T05:23:00.000-06:00

This is a continuation of the previous video with Guruka Singh which was on the topic of Blood Family and Spiritual Family.

Blood Family and Spiritual Family

2007-09-02T05:20:00.000-06:00

Guruka Singh answering a question about the difference between blood and spiritual family.

The Process of Meditation

2007-08-30T05:19:00.000-06:00

In this video Gurucharan Singh Khalsa, Ph.D., (Director of Training at Kundalini Research Institute - KRI) shares his thoughts on the topic of meditation and in relation to Guru Nanak’s bani/prayer of Japji Sahib. He explains the mental process of meditation.

Tips for Effective Communication

2007-08-28T05:17:00.000-06:00

In this video Guruka Singh answers a question about how we can communicate better and more effectively.

The Experience of Jaap Sahib

2007-08-22T05:06:00.000-06:00

Video excerpt from the Jaap Sahib course in Espanola, New Mexico on the topic of Guru Gobind Singh ji’s bani. Jugat Guru Singh Khalsa (Chardikala Jatha) talks about how it is important to learn about the Sikh Gurus and the history to deepen the experience.