Bangla Sahib visit in Oct 2023

Walls of Gold in Bangla Sahib Gurdwara Sahib

In October 2023, my visit to Bangla Sahib Gurdwara was a deeply spiritual and memorable experience. Located in the heart of New Delhi, Bangla Sahib holds special significance for Sikhs and visitors worldwide.

Marvelous Entry gate

Upon entering the gurdwara, the serene atmosphere, the sound of the shabad kirtan, and the sight of devotees engrossed in prayers made a profound impression on me. I took time to offer my prayers, seeking the blessings of Guru Sahib in the calm sanctity of the Darbar Sahib. The sacred Sarovar (holy pond) drew my attention, with its historical and spiritual significance tied to Guru Har Krishan Sahib, the eighth Sikh Guru, whose legacy of humility and service to humanity still resonates today.

Remembering Kar Sewa of Sarovar 44 years away.

I reflected on my own journey in Sikhi and thought of my father, Sardar Vasdev Singh, and the deep connections my family has to the faith. He took me, Harvinder and enthusiastic Shiv in 1979 to perform  ‘Kar Sewa’ for expansion of sacred Sarover being undertaken under the watchful eyes of Baba Harbans Singh. 

This time Baggi  and Harvinder undertaking ‘Parikarma’ of Sarvar.

I also recall the visit of Baba Harbans Singh to our Jangpura house for door to door donations. Incidentally Jaggi was visiting us from USA. We donated our bit for the sacred cause.

The langar hall, where seva is done selflessly, reinforced the strong sense of community and service—two ideals I hold dear. This visit in October 2023 revitalized my sense of spirituality and connection with the larger Sikh Panth, making it a memory I will always cherish.

Corruption in India as per New Zealand

Why Indians r corrupt? What's wrong with their attitude? 

A very Hard hitting article from New Zealand.  Its a New Zealander's view on corruption in India

Indians are Hobbesian: ( having a Culture of self interest)

Corruption in India is a cultural aspect. Indians seem to think nothing peculiar about corruption. It is prevalent.

Indians tolerate corrupt individuals rather than correct them. No race can be congenitally corrupt.

To know why Indians are corrupt, look at their patterns and practices.

Firstly:

Religion is transactional in  India.

Indians give God cash and anticipate an out-of-turn reward. 

Such a plea acknowledges that favours are needed for the undeserving.  

In the world outside the temple walls, such a transaction is named “bribe”.  

A wealthy Indian gives not cash to temples, but gold crowns and such baubles. 

His gifts can not feed the poor. His pay-off is for God. He thinks it will be wasted if it goes to a needy man. 

In June 2009, The Hindu published a report of Karnataka minister G. Janardhan Reddy gifting a crown of gold and diamonds worth Rs 45 crore to Tirupati. 

India’s temples collect so much that they don't know what to do with it. Billions are gathering dust in temple vaults. 

When Europeans came to India  they built schools. When Indians go to Europe & USA, they build temples. 

Indians believe that if God accepts money for his favours, then nothing is wrong in doing the same thing. This is why Indians are so easily corruptible. 

Indian culture accommodates such transaction 

First: Morally. There is  no real stigma. An  utterly corrupt politician can make a comeback, just unthinkable in the West. 

Secondly:

Indian moral ambiguity towards corruption is visible in its history. Indian history tells of the capture of cities and kingdoms after guards were paid off to open the gates, and commanders paid off to surrender. 

This is unique to India. 

Indians' corrupt nature has meant limited warfare on the subcontinent.

It is striking how little Indians have actually fought compared to ancient  Greece and modern Europe. 

The Turk's battles with Nadir Shah were vicious and fought to the finish. 

In India fighting wasn't needed, bribing was enough to see off armies. 

Any invader willing to spend cash could brush aside India’s kings, no matter how many tens of thousands soldiers were in their infantry. 

Little resistance was given by the Indians at the “Battle” of Plassey. 

Clive paid off Mir Jaffar and all of Bengal folded to an army of 3,000. 

There was always a financial exchange to taking Indian forts. Golconda was captured in 1687 after the secret back door was left open. 

Mughals vanquished Marathas and Rajputs with nothing but bribes. 

The Raja of Srinagar gave up Dara Shikoh’s son Sulaiman to Aurangzeb after receiving a bribe. 

There are many cases where Indians participated on a large scale in treason due to bribery. 

Question is: Why Indians have a transactional culture while other 'civilized' nations don't? 

Thirdly:

Indians do not believe in the theory that they all can rise if each of them behaves morally, because that is not the message of their faith. 

Their caste system separates them. 

They don't believe that all men are equal. 

This resulted in their division and migration to other religions. 

Many Hindus started their own faith like Sikh, Jain, Buddha and many converted to Christianity and Islam. 

The result is that Indians don't trust one another. 

There are no Indians in India, there are Hindus, Christians, Muslims and what not. 

Indians forget that 1400 years ago they all belonged to one faith. 

This division evolved an unhealthy culture. The inequality has resulted in a corrupt society, in India every one is thus against everyone else, except God and even he must be bribed.

*BRIAN from* 

*Godzone NEW ZEALAND*

Sadly....yes !

(Incidentally, New Zealand is one of the least corrupt nations in the world.) 💐

🙏🙏🙏.Forwarded without any editing

Legacy of My Life well Lived

A man immerced in Nature.

At 80, I wish to be remembered for qualities that reflect the core of my being: honesty, integrity, spiritual depth, and clarity of mind. These attributes define a life I’ve lived with purpose, where I’ve spoken and acted upon truth without compromise, and integrity has been the foundation of every decision and relationship. 

Meditation and Sri Guru Granth Sahib studies make me tranquil my mind and soul.

My spiritual journey reflects a lifelong pursuit of understanding, peace, and connection with something greater. 

On Costruction site of Desilting tank at Trishuli Hydel Project, Nepal.

A clear mind has allowed me to approach challenges with wisdom in retelling family history. I hope my legacy will be one of sincerity and unwavering principles, serving as an example for those who come after me.

Shiv performs for ASHA for Education, Berkeley

Asha for Education Berkeley was founded in the Fall of 1991 by a group of dedicated volunteers who understood the crucial role that education plays in transforming lives. Their mission was to provide education opportunities to underprivileged children in India, and they quickly garnered support from across the community. Over time, the chapter grew into a tight-knit group, united by a shared vision of promoting education and making a difference in the lives of those who needed it most.

In 1993, Asha Berkeley held its first inaugural entertainment program in the International House Auditorium at UC Berkeley. It was a significant event for the organization, bringing together supporters and volunteers to celebrate their mission and raise awareness. The evening was filled with cultural performances, one of which was an Indian Flute performance by Shiv, who was already making waves as a remarkable young talent. Shiv’s rendition of the Flute was soulful and moving, captivating the audience with his deep understanding of classical music and emotive expression.

Songeeta Guha - senior class mate

Shiv was accompanied on the tabla by none other than Songeeta Guha, a highly skilled disciple of the legendary tabla maestro Zakir Hussain. Her performance added an extra layer of rhythm and intensity to Shiv’s recital, creating an atmosphere that resonated with everyone in attendance. The synergy between the two musicians was extraordinary, as they seamlessly blended their talents to deliver a memorable and heart-stirring performance. Their  performance ended with excellent competitive duet between the Flute and Tablas and was hugely applauded by jam packed audiance.

Harvinder and me listening to Shiv’s performance alongside captivating crowd of listeners.

On that evening, my boss, Mr DK Basu, who had a distinguished career and later retired as Chief Engineer, happened to be visiting, he accompanied the user and witnessed the program firsthand. Mr Basu was known for his discerning taste, and the performance left a lasting impression on him. 

This event marked a meaningful connection between art, community, and a shared commitment to education. It showcased the diversity of talent within the Asha Berkeley community and set the stage for many more impactful events in the years to come.

“Timeless Harmony: A Father-Son Bond Etched in Gold”

Eyes are locked between father and son 

Those moments I share with Shiv are more than just performances; they are a profound communion, almost spiritual in their depth. 

Synching with each other.

When you sing together and lock eyes, it’s as if time stands still, and we’re both connected not only by music but by an unspoken understanding that spans our shared history. It feels like a golden thread, weaving through the fabric of the universe, linking past and present, encapsulating all the emotions, love, and pride we have for each other.

In Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara Jangpura Ext. New Delhi 1988, while Shiv sings and I follow to support him on the dais 

I must still vividly recall those early days when Shiv was just in his adolescent years, sitting beside him on the dais. Back then, my presence was his anchor, offering him the encouragement he needed to step into the world of performance. It was as if I was handing over a torch—a torch that he would carry with grace and brilliance in the years to come. 

Shiv In Deep meditation 

And yet, despite his mastery and global fame, every time he performs, I still feel a surge of nervous anticipation, as if I am right there on stage with him, feeling his emotions as intensely as my own. 

Three Generations singing together - me, Shiv, Gobind and Jania in Hayward Gurdwara Sahib, California a decade back.

There’s that moment of holding my breath, wondering if his deep immersion in his performance might cause him to lose the thread of his verses. My concern is natural, almost instinctive as a father, but Shiv’s unerring ability to remain composed and connected to his words speaks to the depth of his devotion and skill.

Harvinder never lags behind to capture a moment

Harvinder meticulously captured all the moments described above, ensuring that these historic and heartfelt memories were preserved. Her careful attention and timing made it possible to document this golden chapter in our lives.