Remembering the Life of My Beloved Cousin, Brij Bir

In Sep 2017 Brij Bir having a tour of World’s Biggest San Jose Gurdwara in North America.

Family group in front of Darshani Deodhi of San Jose Gurdwara

I am saddened and shocked with the passing of my dear cousin, Sardar Brij Bir Singh. He was like a younger brother to me since I can remember. Despite being a law graduate, Brij Bir followed his heart's calling and delved into the realms of farming and real estate. His passion for these fields showcased his diverse interests and dedication beyond his academic achievements.

In the corridors of San Jose Gurdwara

My father, S Vasdev Singh and his Dad S Partap Singh, shared a close bond since their childhood was spent in extremely poor conditions. Despite being born in filthy rich family’s, both of them had to endure legal battles for their rightful assets. 

Shilpy and Massi Bholi with Geet and Sehaj

His Dad S Partap Singh, a significant landlord among the Sardars, faced hardships in his childhood, much like my father and his younger brother S Inderjit Singh. S Partap Singh uncle told me once that he and his mother survived by having to sell paper kites to make ends meet. 

My Dad S Vasdev Singh, grandma Sdn Karam Devi, Sdn Nanaki Devi Bhua ji and her son S Partap Singh Chacha ji. In the background are Harvinder with a year old Shivpreet in her lap at Gurdwara Mastuana Sahib for annual first-crop donation in 1976.

Sardar Partap Singh and Sardarni Inder Kaur

Their shared struggles drew them together, becoming lifelong friends. S Partap Singh, out of kindness, tended to our lands alongside his own, using his extensive farming experience from Pakistan. 

In a romantic mood always!

This friendship grew stronger as our families spent time together, especially in Patiala, where our bond with Brij Bir, his older brother Anand Bir and their two sisters Kulwant & Jatinder flourished. He was the youngest of the siblings. Brij Bir's relationship with me and my wife, Harvinder, deepened over the last 25-30 years during our visits to Patiala and Badbar.

Me with Brij Bir’s family at our Sherwood home- A photo through window glass reflection.

Brij Bir played a pivotal role in arranging the alliance between our son, Shivpreet, and Shilpy, his wife's sister's daughter, further solidifying our family's ties. His efforts strengthened the bond between our families. 

Brij Bir, Bholi and son-in-law Mandeep posing in front of the Lone Cypress Tree, located along the scenic 17-Mile in Monterey, is one of the most iconic landmarks on the California coast.

Mandeep delighted to see his dream being fulfilled! He poses right on the famous course of Pebble Beach with dramatic and natural settings in the world. This breathtaking coastal playground offers a beautiful year-round climate and most legendary course.

Exhibiting Sister-like bond - Harvinder and Bholi

The closeness we shared with him, facilitated by the friendships between Bholi, Harvinder elevated our relationship above that of our other cousins. 

Brij Bir always greeted Shilpy's dad, Major General Harkirat Singh, his co-brother-in-law in the Indian army, with the slogan 'Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan,' perfectly encapsulating the triumphs of both the farmer and the soldier. His acknowledgment celebrated the valor of soldiers alongside the hard work and resilience of farmers.

Our family’s floral tributes symbolizing our Love and Respects to the departed soul.

Bhappa Brij Bir's passing has undoubtedly left a tremendous void, but our prayers for strength and the belief that his soul will find peace and blessings in the afterlife are our source of solace.