Harinder Singh explores Bhai Vir Singh's unique framing of Sikh history at Bhai Vir Singh Sahitya Sadan, Delhi. • How did Bhai Vir Singh perceive and narrate Sikh history? • What lens did he use to contextualize Sikh history within Indic and Western frameworks? • How does his understanding inspire contemporary interpretations of Sikh history? Dive …

The essence of this composition is revealed in the stanza of rahau (Pause). In it, worldly accounting (entanglements) is described as useless. In the rest of the stanzas, the being is inspired to engage in true devotion to IkOankar instead of getting caught up in meaningless wordplay. Only by singing the praises of IkOankar can one be freed from wo…

This composition, aligned with the fifteen lunar days, follows Sukhmani Sahib in the Guru Granth Sahib. Though brief, it shares Sukhmani Sahib's simplicity and depth of message, making it a customary recitation after Sukhmani Sahib.The term ‘thiti’ is a variant of ‘tithi,’ a Sanskrit word that appears in the Guru Granth Sahib as ‘thiti,’ ‘thīti,’ o…

Since 1984, in the aftermath of “Operation Blue Star” and the Sikh Genocide, many narratives have surfaced—graphic, heartbreaking, and deeply emotional. Yet, one crucial perspective often remains overlooked: the voices of the first responders. These brave individuals saved lives, offered aid in relief camps, and documented the earliest accounts of …

Join host Santbir Singh as he delves into the profound impact of 1984 through the personal reflections of guest Pritpal Singh. In this intimate and moving conversation, Pritpal offers a rare, firsthand perspective on how the events of that year shaped the lives of countless Sikhs. Moving beyond historical accounts, this episode brings listeners int…

Patti is a poetic form rooted in the Gurmukhi alphabet. Traditionally, students in Punjabi culture used a wooden tablet, called a patti, to practice writing letters. The Guru Granth Sahib contains several compositions structured around the alphabet, including the Patti revealed by Guru Nanak Sahib. This particular Patti consists of thirty-five two-…

To mark the 40th year of the violence of 1984, we reflect on the events that unfolded in India and make connections with the ongoing and durable violence against Sikhs, Muslims, and other minority groups in India and the diaspora. Featuring:Uma Chakravarti (https://sikhri.org/people/uma-chakravarti)Shruti Devgan (https://sikhri.org/people/shruti-de…

In Maru Kaphi, Guru Nanak Sahib reflects on the grief caused by separation from IkOankar, showing that even with worldly comforts, one remains unhappy without this connection. It emphasizes that the transient nature of worldly relationships and explains that eternal union with IkOankar can be achieved through the Guru’s wisdom. Explore Maru Kaphi: …

In this Sabad, Bhagat Sain Ji sings the ‘Arti’ of the transcendent Supreme Being, IkOankar (the Divine). He emphasizes that the true 'Arti' of IkOankar is not a ritualistic act of adorning a platter with incense, lamps, and ghee. Instead, it lies in adoring and singing the praises of IkOankar. Through this, a seeker experiences bliss and fulfillmen…

In this episode, we embark on a deeply personal and spiritual journey to Sri Harimandar Sahib, the Golden Temple, through the evocative words of Inni Kaur. With her vivid storytelling, Inni shares the emotional and transformative experience of her pilgrimage, where reflection, connection, and self-discovery come to life. Immerse yourself in this mo…

‘Pahare’ is considered to be a form of folk poetry in Panjabi. This poetic genre is based on the consciousness of time. Examples of this poetic genre are found only in the Guru Granth Sahib. Dividing day and night into four quarters each and expressing one’s feelings through them is the classical basis of this poetic genre. To liberate the commoner…

Guru Arjan Sahib’s Chaubole focuses on love, teaching that true devotion to IkOankar (the Divine) brings constant joy. A lover fully immersed in this love is ready to sacrifice everything for the Beloved. Their mind remains absorbed in the Divine, while those attached to worldly possessions and relationships remain unhappy, despite material comfort…

These four stanzas are four stages of a seeker’s union with IkOankar (the Divine). They depict the seeker’s spiritual journey. These four stanzas are also sung when the Sikh bride and groom circumambulate four times around the Guru Granth Sahib to solemnize their wedding. Featuring: Jaswant Singh (https://sikhri.org/people/jaswant-singh) Explore La…

The ceremony of ‘Anand Karaj’ (blissful task) is very important in ‘Anand Sanskar’ (blissful ceremony). ‘Anand Sanskar’ is considered complete only with the ceremony of ‘Anand Karaj.’ Before the Anand Karaj, there are many other ceremonies in which Gurbani is recited and sung. These ceremonies and the Sabads recited in them have been discussed in d…

The term 'karhale' is derived from the Rajasthani and Sindhi word 'karhal,' which means camel. Historically, traders loaded their goods on camels to sell in distant lands, enduring long, arduous journeys. To relieve fatigue and express their emotions, they sang songs called 'karhale' about the harsh desert climate and their separation from loved on…

Inni Kaur joins Sikh Heritage Month to discuss the deeper meaning of Anand Sahib by Guru Amardas Sahib. While 'anand' translates to happiness and joy, its true meaning is more profound. The composition highlights that the eternal Wisdom (Guru) is the source of bliss, which can only be experienced through this Wisdom. It brings steadiness and discip…

The Guru Granth Sahib contains many Sabads related to the wedding ceremony, in which themes of happiness, blessings, and teachings are conveyed through vocabulary related to the wedding. Some Sabads are read before the wedding ceremony and some during. Although no fixed protocol exists, these three Sabads are typically read or recited before the we…

Amrit Ceremony is a fundamental and an essential rite for a seeker to join the Khalsa Panth. Through this the seeker is given ‘amrit’ and the core principles and values of Sikhi are explained to them. It is a unique and meaningful life-changing experience for the seeker. Featuring: Jasleen Kaur (⁠https://sikhri.org/people/jasleen-kaur) #GuruGranthS…

Manvinder Kaur and Santbir Singh explore the events of 1984 that forever transformed the landscape of Sikh history and politics in India. They look at the June attack on the Harimandar Sahib Complex, followed by the devastating November pogroms, and then further examine the significance of these events in the broader context of Sikh-India relations…

Santbir Singh delves into the complex and sometimes controversial legacy of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale during the events of June 1984. Utilizing Sikh historical and political context, he explains the actions of the Sant and refutes the major criticisms of Bhindranwale's actions and choices. Featuring: Santbir Singh (https://sikhri.org/people/s…

In Vanjara, the seeker has been affectionately addressed as a merchant friend (vaṇjāriā mitrā). They have been made aware that they have come to this world to trade in the Nam. They are, therefore, instructed to engage in this true trade so that their face may be radiant in the court of IkOankar, and their cycle of birth and death may be ended. Fea…

Through vivid imagery and heartfelt verses, Inni Kaur revisits 1984, weaving threads of courage, resilience, and unwavering devotion. Join this lyrical exploration today. Featuring: Inni Kaur (https://sikhri.org/people/inni-kaur) Read the article: https://bit.ly/legacy-of-1984 #SikhGenocide #Sikhs #History #40Years #June1984 #NeverForget #Operation…

Listen as Santbir Singh delves into an in-depth conversation with Harinder Singh about Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, a pivotal figure in 20th-century Sikh history. Jarnail Singh played a significant role in the events leading up to the June 1984 Ghallughara. While celebrated by many in the Sikh community, he remains a contentious figure, often d…

Santbir Singh joins Manvinder Kaur to discuss his recent article, “No More Blue Stars.” They delve into the evolving terminology surrounding the events of 1984 and explore ways the community can reclaim and reshape the narrative of these significant events.Featuring: Santbir Singh (https://sikhri.org/people/santbir-singh) Manvinder Kaur (https://si…

Join us for a heartfelt conversation between Inni Kaur, SikhRI’s Creative Director, and Darsnoor Kaur, SikhRI’s graphic designer, as they explore the profound impact of June 1984, known as the Ghallughara or “Operation Blue Star.” In this emotional exchange, Darsnoor seeks Inni's reflections on this pivotal chapter in history, delving into the deep…

The Sikh funeral ceremony is crucial to Sikh culture as it emphasizes the belief in the impermanence of life, the significance of commemorating the departed with affection and admiration, and establishing a connection with IkOankar (the Divine).Death is essentially the end of human life; the rites and customs related to it are included in the funer…

Harinder Singh, Senior Fellow of Research and Policy at the Sikh Research Institute, delves deeper into the themes of Genocide Remembrance, Condemnation, and Prevention. April is recognized as Sikh Heritage Month in Canada and is also dedicated to these critical themes. He explores the intersection of these important topics. --- Support this podcas…

Alahania, a sorrowful Punjabi folk song, emphasizes the belief in IkOankar, the all-powerful force behind existence. It reflects on the transient nature of life, where attachment to worldly things leads to suffering and perpetuates the cycle of birth and death. However, those who meditate on IkOankar's divine essence and follow the teachings of wis…

Join Harinder Singh and Mo Dhaliwal as they delve into the profound experiences of the Third Ghallughara (large-scale massacre) in India in 1984 and beyond. This insightful conversation goes beyond mere recounting, aiming to illuminate diverse perspectives on Sikh history, politics, spirituality, and future aspirations. Don't miss out on this enlig…

Harinder Singh, Senior Fellow in Research and Policy at the Sikh Research Institute, speaks with Sukhman Singh, Co-Founder and Director of Ensaaf, delving into the occurrence, extent, and aftermath of the Sikh Genocide.Their dialogue seeks to illuminate the organized violence orchestrated by the Indian State against the Sikh community, resulting in…

Tune in to Whispers of the Beloved: Reflections in Spring, a heartwarming podcast episode that intertwines the breathtaking beauty of nature’s rebirth with the seeker’s profound spiritual journey. Immerse yourself in the vivid imagery and contemplative verses inspired by the timeless wisdom of Guru Nanak Sahib. Join Inni Kaur on a poetic odyssey wh…

Alahania is a mournful or sorrowful Panjabi folk song. When a person dies, friends and relatives usually visit the deceased’s family to share their sorrow and memories of their loved one’s life and deeds. Expressing such feelings creates the core of the folk poetic form Alahani.The Alahania composition revealed by Guru Nanak Sahib redirects and tra…

Join Santbir Singh and Sean Holden as they delve deeper into the captivating saga of Rani Jind Kaur in the concluding episode of this podcast series. In this installment, the nefarious machinations of the British against Rani Jind Kaur are starkly exposed. Exiled and subjected to a reduction in her rightful share from the Panjab treasury, Rani Jind…

Tune in to Santbir Singh and Sean Holden as they delve into the captivating tale of Rani Jind Kaur, the last queen of Panjab, in the inaugural episode of this podcast series. But why is it crucial for us to unravel her narrative? Understanding this epoch of Sikh history holds paramount significance, marking the advent of colonialism and its endurin…

Introducing Paigham-i-Goya: Expression of Love, new translations of a selection of ghazals from Bhai Nand Lal “Goya.” Today’s podcast begins with a recitation of Bhai Nand Lal’s ghazal in Persian, followed by a new English transcreation, the result of a unique collaboration between Dr. Fatima Fayyaz and Dr. Nadhra Khan of Lahore University of Manag…

Revealed to Baba Sundar, the great-grandson of Guru Amardas Sahib, Sadd holds great significance in the Sikh funeral ceremony and is recited during final rites. In this composition, Baba Sundar records the last instructions from Guru Amardas Sahib for the Sikhs to observe when the Guru departs. These instructions cover spiritual and social guidance…

The date of Guru Nanak Sahib's birth is immaterial.Our focus needs to be on the Infinite Wisdom; that’s Prakash Purab.In Sikhi, it's not about the birth date; it’s about the profound ideas, and what we do with these ideas — the impacts they generate — are what truly matters. Featuring ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Harinder Singh⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Ask a question today at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠…

Last week, The Guru Granth Sahib Project launched the annotation of pauris thirty-one to forty of Anand Sahib by Guru Amardas Sahib (1479-1574 CE) in Rag Ramkali, a musical mode that evokes compassion.In the Sikh tradition, Anand Sahib is of such great significance that the entire composition or a portion (first five pauris and last pauri) is recit…

In Sikh ideals, preference is not to use the term "God" as it often carries gendered imagery. Instead, we embrace ੴ pronounced as IkOankar, the genderless and transcendent Being. IkOankar is not just gender-neutral; it transcends gender. "Ik" signifies the 1, "Oankar" represents the creative and pervasive Force – so it’s the 1Force. Featuring ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠…

The Guru Granth Sahib Project is pleased to launch the annotation of nine Sabads (Infinite-Wisdom) of Guru Teghbahadar Sahib in Rag Gauri. Gauri is a Rag (musical mode) of serious nature, which evokes a thoughtful and reflective mood. Explore Rag Gauri: http://bit.ly/Rag-Gauri Featuring Jasleen Kaur: ⁠⁠https://sikhri.org/people/jasleen-kaur --- Sup…

This composition explores the idea of bliss and how to achieve it. In the Sikh tradition, Anand Sahib is of such great significance that the entire composition or a portion (first five pauris and last pauri) is recited or sung to conclude all congregational and private ceremonies. Explore Anand Sahib: ⁠https://app.gurugranthsahib.io/bani/ASahib⁠ Fe…

"I think it matters because what is our indigenous term? And what is the term which those who were studying us in the last hundred years started calling us? Our native term is Sikhi. Sikhism is something which was born out of the study of religions. “-ism” also implies that there is not a unity of doctrine, that there is too much multiplicity." Fea…

When we look at the two meanings as they existed at the time (in Sanskrit and in Pali) and incorporate them into what we now call Sikhi, it actually means learners who are of the Guru. Guru is a mentor, Guru in Sikhi is Perfection. A Sikh then becomes someone who is modelling their life as the Gurus lived it on earth. Featuring ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Harinder Singh…

Stanzas eleven to twenty of Anand Sahib by Guru Amardas Sahib delve into the pursuit of bliss, a concept of great significance in the Sikh tradition. Discover the joy within and experience the resonance of Rag Ramkali. Embrace the journey towards bliss with us! Explore Anand Sahib: https://app.gurugranthsahib.io/bani/ASahib Featuring Inni Kaur: htt…

Join us for an inspiring talk on the profound connection between personal Sikhi practice and our collective responsibilities in today's world. Listen as Harinder Singh sheds light on how Sikhi guides our individual lives and shapes a better society. https://sikhri.org/people/harinder-singh --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/po…

Delve into the profound wisdom behind the word 'anand,' as the Guru emphasizes that genuine bliss originates from eternal Wisdom, guiding seekers toward a joyful transformation. This composition underscores the pursuit of a blissful life through the Guru's wisdom, and the profound state achieved when connecting with IkOankar. In Sikh tradition, it'…

The initiation of community development with Guru Nanak Sahib marked the introduction of protocols aimed at organizing and highlighting the essential roles of governance and unity in any community. Featuring ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Harinder Singh⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Ask a question today at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SikhRI.org/Ask⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/th…

Delve into the profound essence of "Chardi Kala" in this enlightening podcast episode. Discover how embracing Nam and forging a connection with a potent force converge to bring forth the manifestation of Chardi Kala—Rising Power.Submit your questions to us at SikhRI.org/AskAsk SikhRI is completely anonymous; it doesn’t require your name or contact …

It has been 39 years since the 1984 Sikh Genocide orchestrated by the Indian government. Why is the legal course of action still necessary? What outcomes have been achieved so far, and what else is being pursued? How can the Sikhs and non-Sikhs help in Panjab, Inspora, and Diaspora? Harinder Singh’s conversation covers a range of themes with Mr. Ha…

In Sikhi (commonly known as Sikhism), women's fundamental equality exists in both private and public spheres and within personal and corporate relationships. Women possess the freedom to lead in any capacity without predefined roles. Nevertheless, despite these core principles, there are often observable disparities between theory and practice. Thi…