Sikhs In Ireland

Jimmevaar Kaun? - Who is Responsible?

2010-12-14T15:51:00.004Z

This video by Fateh-Multimedia is an eye-operner for all of us. It shows the dismal state of sikhi knowledge among sikhs in Punjab.

A Sikh Face in Ireland: Photographic and Life History Project

2010-05-07T09:53:00.007+01:00

A Sikh Face in Ireland exhibition opens. In association with FOMACS (Forum on Migration & Communications, DIT) and Irish Sikh Council. Photographic and life history project, A Sikh Face in Ireland, will be on view at the Chester Beatty Library from 7 May - 18 July.

This multimedia exhibition is produced and supported by FOMACS (Forum on Migration and Communications) in collaboration with photographer/oral historian, Dr Glenn Jordan, and researcher, Satwinder Singh.

A Sikh Face in Ireland is the first systematic exploration of the Sikh presence on the island of Ireland - providing both a profile of the present and a social and cultural history of Sikh immigrants and their descendants. The key themes of the exhibition include issues of culture, experience and identity. The exhibition illustrates that 'being a Sikh' is not a homogeneous experience; that people from similar backgrounds may live their identities in different ways. The exhibition portrays men who do and do not wear turbans, further depicting generational and gender differences. More generally, it explores the lived experiences and narratives of people often perceived as 'Other' by members of the general public - especially since 9/11. 

A series of parallel events designed in collaboration with the Chester Beatty Library’s Intercultural Education Programme builds on different objects in the exhibition: photographic portraits accompanied by life stories; a short film, 'How to Tie a Turban'; a photographic and sound installation featuring contemporary Sikh musicians; an exhibition catalogue comprising essays, photographs, and extensive life stories in English and Punjabi; an interactive website designed for use in diverse educational settings, in addition to public workshops.

The project has been defined - in the context of a conversation with members of the Irish Sikh Council and FOMACS - as a contribution to anti-racist education and transcultural understanding.

Finding Sikhism on St. Patrick’s day

2009-04-30T10:40:00.002+01:00

http://blog.jrn.columbia.edu/site/coveringreligion/2009/04/05/finding-sikhism-on-st-patricks-day/#more-1043

Dinesh Singh lived in India as a Hindu for 22 years before embracing Sikhism in Ireland.(Photo: Mirjam Donath)

By Maria Tirmizi
DUBLIN- Dinesh Singh listened to the drumbeat and soaked in the energy. He then steadied his wooden stick, slapped his thigh and struck at his opponent. Their sticks clacked. He stepped back, twirled his wooden weapon with one hand and hit again with sudden speed, left, right and center. Singh, 27, wearing a long white tunic and a saffron turban, was performing the gatka, an old battle-tested ritual that originated in India, at a temple in the heart of this capital city of Ireland.

Ireland’s history is almost synonymous with Catholicism, but for Singh, this is the land where he first discovered Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred Sikh scripture, on the very day the Irish celebrate for the advent of Christianity in Ireland.

Singh, a former Hindu who lived in India most of his life, embraced Sikhism in Ireland thanks to St. Patrick’s Day.

Like many South Asians looking towards the West for better opportunities, Singh, then known as Dinesh Kumar, arrived in Dublin five years ago from a small city in Haryana, India. He started working as a deputy manager at a supermarket. Two years later, a friend from India introduced him to the Sikh community at Gurudwara Guru Nanak Darbar, a temple in Sandymount, Dublin. The friend was a non-Sikh, but in awe of the gatka, and the shabads– hymns recited by the Sikhs. He often visited their temple to watch and participate. Kumar too developed an interest in the rituals and started accompanying his friend regularly. The temple also gave Kumar an opportunity to play a South Asian musical instrument he was good at, the tabla, which consists of a pair of small drums.

On 17th March, 2007, the Sikh Community of Dublin performed for the first time in St. Patrick’s Day parade. Kumar had been practicing the gatka with the Sikhs for a while now, so he also took part. He even grew a small beard for the role.

When the performance was over, he shaved his beard off. But this caused him a great deal of uneasiness.

“I felt really ashamed that I was just showing myself to be a Sikh for performing in the parade,” he said. “I felt like I was lying to myself.”

A couple of months later, there was a multicultural festival in Dunleary. The Sikh community performed again and so did Kumar. But this time when he kept a beard, he pondered deeply over its significance in Sikhism.

“The beard grows and you cut it and again it grows,” he thought. “So if it is going to grow, why cut it. Let it grow.”

This was his moment of epiphany. He converted to Sikhism, changed his last name to Singh and never shaved again.

Singh has been a Sikh for two years now. He visits the Sandymount temple twice a week, helps prepare food in its spacious kitchen and distributes it as a langar in a religious practice that promotes equality and hospitality.

“Now I feel like I have an aim in life,” he said. “I have to follow my gurus (spiritual guides). Following them gives me happiness. And when I do keertan (recitation of hymns), I get a feeling like I’m flying somewhere.”

He still practices the martial art, or gatka, that inspired him to embrace Sikhism. What he had demonstrated a short while ago, he explained, was a very small version of the real performance that took place on St. Patrick’s Day. Not only did the gatka entertain the crowd, accompanied by jubilant drumbeats, but also served as a sacred reenactment of the battles fought by the Sikhs in 17th century India.

Singh went back to India in July 2008 to meet his family after three and a half years. Not knowing that he had converted, they were shocked to see him in a turban and a beard.
He recalled their reaction and smiled. “I have the best parents in the world. They were taken aback, but they soon understood that this was what I wanted.”

His sister, however, said that she wouldn’t see his face again if he didn’t shave.

“I said ‘okay, whatever,’” he laughed. “After just one hour, she was okay. She’s my sister after all.”

The only aspect of his previous life stopping him from fully assimilating is his name, ‘Dinesh,’ which means ‘Lord of the Day’ in Hindu mythology. He was stopped twice by immigration officers in India for having a beard and turban, but a Hindu name. Upon returning to Ireland, he asked his Sikh friends to suggest a new first name. For now, he is leaning towards ‘Jarnail,’ the Punjabi translation for ‘General.’

For Singh, Ireland will always hold a special significance. This is where he found his true calling.
“I have sangat (company) here,” he said. “I learnt keertan here. I prefer to live here and serve my guru my whole life.”

Laughing at the wild prospect of finding Sikhism in Ireland through St. Patrick’s Day, he said, “It’s just destiny. I had to be a Sikh. It doesn’t matter if I spent 22 years in India being Hindu. I am a Sikh now. That’s destiny.”

Sikhs In New Zealand Parliament too! - Kanwaljit Singh Delivers his maiden speech

2009-01-17T10:08:00.003Z

Je Kar Jeeaange Taan Jeeaange Ankh De Naal --(if we live we will live honor..)

2009-01-13T10:56:00.009Z

January 5th was the Parkash Purabh (Birthday) of Ten Master, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Jee. As usual, Gurpurabhs are normally celebrated with holding of Sri Akand Path (Continuous reading of SGGS from begining to the end) the following weekend in the Gurdwara (Sikh place of worship). On the friday morning, Akand Path (Continuous recital of SGGS) would begin and it would finish on Sunday morning after around 48hrs. Last Sunday, 11th January, Sikh sangat (congregation) in Dublin celebrated the Parkarsh Purabh of Guru Gobind Singh Jee. Bhai Satnaam Singh ex-hazoori ragi of Darbar Sahib Amritsar and Jatha came from Uk to do the kirtan seva. Kirtan was awesome. Then a very young sikh, Jaspreet Singh read a poem, which was equally good.Here is the video..!

First Sikh Police Officer in NZ !

2008-11-19T16:46:00.003Z

First turbaned Sikh Police Officer of New Zealand, Amaninder Singh Sandhu, performed Police "Haka" (traditional Maori warrior challenge - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haka) on October 16, 2008 as part of graduation ceremony at Royal New Zealand Police College, Wellington.

Chardi Kala Jatha!

2008-11-18T11:42:00.002Z

Waheguru Jee Ka Khalsa Waheguru Jee Kee Fateh!

Most of People are aware of Jatha of American Sikhs who do amazing kirtan. I have just added a small video of Jatha singing shabad from Sri Jaap Sahib - this particular shabad is known as Gyatri Matra in Gurmat.

Dastaar Tying Competition - Pictures From Punjab!!

2008-02-10T18:21:00.001Z

My Friend Bhai Avtaar Singh Jee sent me pictures of Dastaar Mukabala (Turban tying Competition) which he organised 2nd time in his native Village Talwandi Chaudrian. His village is located on the Road which links Sultanpur Lodhi (Sri Guru Nanak Dev sahib spent around 13yrs in this city) to Kapurthala and Goindwall Sahib. Bhai Sahib is a computer teacher in Senior Secondary School in his village and has a lot of pyar for Guru Sahib's Sikhi. I remember when i met bhai sahib last year, he shared sad story about sikh kids and youth leaving sikhi saroop, and how manmukh people try to create uncessary trouble whenever he tries to do something positive. But I really appreciate that depite problems, bhai sahib has organised this competition this year as well. May Guru Sahib bless Bhai sahib with more seva!

Kids doing 'Pag Pooni'

A View from Top ('Kothe de Chhat ton kichi gaye photo')

Bibian Preparing Langar for Sangat

Bibian making 'Parsadhe'. It is very rare now that you would see roti-making on such a big scale in punjab these days!!

Participants seems ready to compete for places now!

Bhai Avtaar Singh seems to be reviewing the participants Dastaar :)

According to Bhai Sahib around 50 youngster partcipated in the Mukabala!

Prizes! In India People Loves these!!

Prize Distribution: according to bhai sahib Bibi Bhajan Kaur Dograwala, member SGPC was the cheif guest.

Even medals were given!! Can U believe!!

Young Sikhs doing Kirtan in the Pavan Pavittar Hazoori of Dhan Dhan Sri Guru Granth Sahib Jee!

Sangat: I think they are seeing the competition, not listening to kirtan?

Group Photo at the End!

Some of them has really Big Dastaars!

May Guru Sahib do kirpa on all these participants so that Dastaar becomes a integral part of their everyday lives, not a just one-off affair.

Back to Normal...........!

2008-02-07T22:05:00.000Z

It has been nearly six months since I last updated the blog. Hopefully I will update the blog more often. I will try to post pictures from events which took place in Ireland. So stay tuned....

Turban Ban in Ireland - Please Write an Email to Irish Authorities

2007-08-16T22:06:00.000+01:00

Recently a member of sikh community from Ireland volunteered to Join Garda Researve (Voluntary) Force. In the middle of his training, he was asked to remove his turban and wear force's hat.Please write an letter of appeal to Irish authorities and email it to following emails addresses.

srmstaff@garda.ie

info@justice.ie

taoiseach@taoiseach.gov.ie

webmaster@taoiseach.gov.ie

info@nccri.ie

Please spare five mintue and send a letter of appeal. Lets us protect our right to wear turban.

Gurdwara Visit

2007-06-06T22:20:00.000+01:00

Yesterday, a group of 22 young Irish men & women from Belfast visited Gurdwara Guru Nanak Darbar, Dublin. The visit was hosted by Irish Sikh Council. The group reached Gurdwara Sahib at 2pm.

Listening to Talk. Visitors listened to presentation with great interest and curiosity. Then at the end of presentation, they asked lot of questions and whole discussion continued for nearly 40 minutes.Most of questions centered around Racism, Kirpan, Marriage, Bringing Up of young kids in Ireland, purpose of coming to Ireland. With Guru Sahib Kirpa, all the questions were answered to satisfaction of Visitors. One girl made the local Sangat Laugh, when she asked, "do you need License to wear Kirpan?"

Then Bhai Sahib read Anand Sahib and did ardass. Bhai Gurmeet Singh served the parshaad to Sangat.

Visitors waiting for langar.

Hardip Singh serving the langar.

Visitor Enjoying Guru Ka Langer.

After Langer, Bhai Harpreet Singh gave brief introduction about Sikh Martial Art - Gatka.

Gatka Team, Doing ardass to Guru Sahib before the Gatka Demonstration.

Jaspreet and Simmi doing Gatka.

Hardip Singh with Chakar. Eve - inspiring Gatka demonstration was really praised by visitors.

Group Photo before visitors left the Gurdwara. It was so satisfying to see another 22 people knowing more about sikhs and sikh identity and Values! Hope Guru Sahib would continues to bless local Dublin Sangat with this seva.

St Patrick Day Parade Video

2007-06-04T00:50:00.000+01:00

Firewalking Entrepreneurs!

2007-05-31T13:04:00.001+01:00

This Event took place in Dublin Institute of Technology as part of closing ceremony for series of seminars aimed at minority entrepreneurship. It was really good exercise, to show that when your mind is focused, results are outstanding. when i received invitation from Lucia ( a fellow Ph.D student, also Manager for IME) I didn't believe her. I just thought it to be something, i would be watching only. But only to realise on the day when Lucia gave me a form to sign that, "I'm taking part in the firewalking exercise on my own and would be solely responsible for any injury caused'. Waheguroooo! I was like, "Are you really serious?. Anyway i soon realised that I'm not only to die this untimely death...LOL! Forms were being handed over to everyone without any 'discrimination' or 'predujice'. And surprisingly, EVERYONE wanted to walk on fire!

Well event is also reported on dit website, great!http://www.dit.ie/DIT/news/2007/minority-entrepreneurship.html

I got pistures for the event, will upload soon.

Right Now! You Need to Watch this Video!

2007-05-23T22:44:00.000+01:00

Message is Clear and Loud!

Peter & Brien in Ireland - Comedy

2007-04-30T22:31:00.000+01:00

Today my friend Aidan showed this funny movie this evening. It's from family guy. It is just hilarious!!

Kirtan in Dublin Gurdwara by Uk Singhs

2007-04-22T19:24:00.000+01:00

Bhagat Singh Doing Kirtan In Dublin Gurdwara. Bhai Inderjeet Singh on Tabla while Himmat Singh sitting behind.

Uk Singhs in Dublin

2007-04-21T23:43:00.000+01:00

Bhagat Singh with other Singhs on Dublin roads

Visit of UK Singhs to Dublin

2007-04-18T22:28:00.000+01:00

On Monday 9th April, we had a wonderful day! You know ...why? One it was Sukhjinder Singh's B'day and second we met Some wonderful singhs from Uk.

http://www.plashethc.co.uk/home.htm

Warriors!

Singhs from Plashet Hockey Club, London, came to Dublin to participate in Hockey comptition. They played very well and but lost in Final.

The Warriors managed to knock the host club Corinthians out of the competition, and landed themselves a place in the final. The very tired Plashet found themselves facing the mighty Monkstown, sitting 2nd in the Irish Premier League. Needless to say, Plashet put up a brave fight.. but unfortunately, their fitness let them down, and Monkstown took the Winners trophy.

By the help of a nice Irish man, who ranged his wife to get the Gurdwara Address and then gave it to Uk Singhs, they reached Gurdwara Sahib on Monday morning.

Paying their respect to Guru Sahib.

Baba Jee giving Parshad to Sangat.

It was Sukhjinder bhaji's B'day, so we have gone to gurdwara Sahib to do Sukhmani Sahib da path. (Sukhjinder with Kesri Dastar)

Bhagat Veerji doing Kirtan after the path, while Inderjit (indi) bhaji on tabla. Kirtan was really blisful!

Then everbody went to langer hall have Aallo-Gobi walle paranthe! Sukhjinder bhaji actually managed to save money by celebrating b'day in gurmat style, which he normally don't recommend for others!

Sukhwinder and Daljeet Veerjee Enjoying Aallo-gobi walle paranthe!
Gary making sure he is covered in picture!

Singhs seeing the pictures of St.Patrick Festival.

after that we decided to take Uk singhs to Howth.

Coming outside and having group photo! before we leave for Howth.

The small harbour town of Howth, in North County Dublin 15kms from the city centre, is as famous for its fresh fish as it is for the craggy hill which towers above the town and dominates Dublin Bay.

Taxi Seva!
Karanjit Singh leading others! Karanjit Bhaji is our local community turist guide, and best thing about him is that he doesn't charge!

Absolute Free!

Guess! what is missing....?

After half an hour drive we reached Howth!

Howth is a peninsula - linked to the mainland by a narrow spit of land. The name Howth is derived from the Danish word 'hoved' which means head.

Seems as if Kirandip giving passing some information to Visiting Singhs

Toward the destination...

I think some people got impressed with singhs.

Singha di Fauj, Kardi firae Mauj!

Going down to bless the water....

It was really difficult to get down, but singhs refused to give up!

Ajaypal and Sukh Bhaji.

Ajaypal Veerjee Send all the pictures from Uk. So thanks Veerjee!

Uk singhs having some fun while coming down

Still long way to go.....

Blessed souls who touched the ground before others

Ranjit, Kamaldip and Gurmeet Singh.

Rana & Darry, waiting for others

Rab Bhalla Kare!

Singhs Coming down....slowly but surely!

Singh watching Punjabi Style trekking

Desi Style Trekking!

"Oh Veerjee! for god's sake, Please Come down", Gary.

"Wish I could also go there..." Bhagat Singh

Bhagat Veerjee did beautiful Kirtan.

Oh gaye, oh gaye !

Coming back

Nearly there...

Mission Accomplished!

Himmat Bhaji, Kia smile hai !

Gurpreet, Bagga, & Gary with Cone

After we reached parking, then everyone was facilitated with a cone, which was a great challenge in itself, given speed of wind out there.

And finally reached Gurdwara Sahib, did Rehrass Da Path and then Kirtan.

then Uk singhs took langer and left for Dublin Ferry Port. We met them by chance but it was such a nice experience that everyone will remeber. All singhs were very nice and we mixed up so quickly as if we knew each other for long time. we will be waiting for their next trip, when they come again to not just play hockey, but take the trophy. we wish good luck!

Launch of FOMACS

2007-04-12T21:52:00.000+01:00

Couple of Weeks ago, Launch of FOMACS ( Forum on Migration and Communications) took place in DIT.

FOMACS is three-year media driven programme producing print, photographic, broadcast, and interactive stories on the topic of immigration and integration, with the aim of reaching and enganging ethnic communities in Ireland. It is first of its kind iniative in ireland so far, hoping to do lot of work on interculturalism.

Different communities newspaper were invited and put their stalls. It was just amazing to the number of ethnic publications.

Ronit Lenit (lady with shawl) is senior lecturer in Dept. of Sociology at Trinity College Dublin. She holds strong pro-immigration views and writes frequently on issues affecting ethnic communities in Ireland.

Kaurs!
Harkiran, Harpreet and Pavittar Bhainjee. It was good that they came along to help us to give a balanced representation of Sikh community at the lauch!

Enjoying the Exhibition: Potraits of Somalian Elders.

Kirandeep Singh with his famous orange-coloured bag!

Having a time with South African Ambassdor to Ireland.

Dr. Aine O'Brien

She heads the Centre for Transcultural Research and Media Practice.

Mrs. Priscilla Jana - South African Ambassador to Ireland, giving talk. Her talk was interesting!

This speaker was very intersting. He analysis of Irish Government policies of Immigation was hilarious!

Talking to Glenn about his work!

Final One!

Mastak Singh, Harkiran Kaur, Lucky, Satwinder Singh, Glenn, Harmindar Singh and Harpreet Kaur.

Singh in Call Centre!

2007-04-07T14:26:00.000+01:00

Gurpreet Singh doing his job in Call Centre. Seems a very relaxed working environment!

Sabhlow Warriors

2007-04-07T14:12:00.000+01:00

Japnitt Singh Khalsa!

St. Patrick Festival , 2007

2007-03-19T23:12:00.000Z

Saturday17th Mach, 2007 was a very special day for Irish People worldover, and it was even more special to sikh Community in Ireland,

St. Patrick's Festival is Ireland's official celebration for Ireland's national holiday. Saint Patrick is the patron saint and national apostle of Ireland who is credited with bringing christianity to

Ireland.

Saint Patrick is most known for driving the snakes from Ireland. It is true there are no snakes in Ireland!!

On Saturday around 650,000 people came to streets of Dublin City to watch 4000 performers in the parade.More than 400, media were there to cover the parade! Millions of people around the world watched the parade live on televisions.

Gurvinder Singh & Bhai Jasvir Singh With Festival Banner

This is very first time that Sikh Community in Ireland participated in the Parade.

Kids as young as 5yr old Participated in the Parade.These kids were really a great attaction in the parade.

Gudu Veer Jee & Gurmeet Singh Gill

Both put lot of efforts in training the 30 member Martial Art Team! Two Martial Art group, Baba Deep Singh Gatka Akhara, Dublin and Baba Ajit Singh Gatka Akhara, Uk were involved in the Event.

"Ireland de dharti te Gabro Punjab de"
Kirandeep Singh and Harinderpal Singh, two member of Soul of Punjab Bhangra group. Jagroop Singh and others put a lot of efforts to give the best possible performance!

Bhangra & Giddha Performers Team with all the colours!

Soul of Punjab Bhangra Group, Dublin and Asli Bahaara Punjab Dhiyan, Uk, gave a electric performance!

Gurmeet Singh, Bhai Pirthipal Singh jee, Hardip Singh and Ranjit Singh

Singh With two other Participants!
Singh was in great demand for photo sessions throughout the parade!

Getting ready for Parade to start!

Performing during the parade!

Gatka Demonstration!

Bhai Sukhwinder Singh on Float

Singh is the King Hai!

No less than a celebrity!

Bhangra & Giddha Performers while moving thorugh College Green.
There performance was brilliant! they continued to dance nearly for 2hrs and travelling

After our group reached the finishing point!
Everyone trying to squeeze in to be part of Picture!

Singha Da Roop Niralla!

Educate Together National School, Lucan

2007-03-01T23:05:00.000Z

Today was Sikhism Week in Educate Together National School Lucan. Sachman Singh Khalsa is student of Junior Infant in the School. Today morning, he gave a small talk on Sikhism and why he ties his Dastaar (Crown) everyday. Then he sang a beautiful poem, 'Mighty mighty Khalsa...We are the Khalsa'.

Bibi Jaskiran Kaur (Bhabi Jee) going to Assembly Hall With Japnitt Singh

Educate Together is the representative organisation of the Educate Together schools and associations throughout the Republic of Ireland. Today there are 41 Schools, 19 of which are in the greater Dublin area

Lining Up for the Assembly.

All the Student holding flags in their hands with a 'Khanda' drawn on it.

Sachman Singh Going to Class after the assembly Talk! Well done Sachman Singh!

Educate Together aims to meet a growing need in Irish society for schools that recognise the developing diversity of Irish life and the modern need for democratic management structures. In particular, Educate Together guarantees children and parents of all faiths and equal respect in the operation and governing of education.

Photo of the Week!

2007-02-25T11:15:00.000Z

Well! there are quite a few interesting pics in our picture khajana, so we are going to select one of pic (with consent of our members of Khalsa Garh, except one who's pic is going to be live) and post it as photo of the week! ...what do you think ?

"...pag de larh theek kar reha si... na ki sorry mang reha", Bhai Gurpreet Singh (mohali wale)

Post Grad Ireland's Education fair!

2007-02-22T23:28:00.000Z

Like every year , postgrade ireland organised education fair in RDS on 21 feb.
what's so special about this year?...................nothing except the fact that some Singhs accepted the organisers invitation and decided to visit the fair!

RDS - One of Main Exihibition Centre In Dublin

RDS (Royal Dublin Society) was established in 1731, it's purpose being to promote the development of arts, agriculture, industry and science in Ireland. It moved to it's Ballsbridge site in 1879 and currently the site covers 40 acres. There are 10 multi-purpose exhibition halls, meeting rooms, the RDS stadium, restaurants, bars, and over 2,000 car parking spaces!

Trinity of Singhs!

(From LtoR) Subek Singh, Kirandeep Singh, and Bhai Gurpreet Singh(mohali wale)

Kirandeep is so happy to receive this blue bag from organisers, hope he won't use it for bringing grocery from supermarket!

Subek Singh enquiring about MBA programme at UCD Micheal Smurfit School of Business. Smurfit Business School runs One of best MBA programme in Ireland.

Enquiring about DIT's Research programmes. DIT is the largest third level College in Ireland.
College and universities from all over UK put their info stalls as well.

After the fair, we went to Gurdwara Sahib, which is just five mintues walk from RDS. Being the main exihibition centre, there is always something going on in RDS.

Being a Sikh !

2007-02-10T14:41:00.000Z

Charles Meacham with friend/translator Shera Singh in Amritsar, India.

Charles "Chad" Meacham is a professional photographer from USA. His website gallary includes pictures plus simple and precise information about various communities. It also have section on 'Being Sikh' & ' Khalsa'.

Check this out http://www.charlesmeacham.com/

Justice after 3years for Balbir Singh Bains UK Feb 07 - See.

2007-02-08T23:40:00.000Z


India News segment of how Delhi Police falsely implicated and imprisoned Bhai Balbir Singh from UK, and conjured up a case against him.

2007-02-07T23:11:00.000Z

Sikh Identity - Interesting Video reflecting reality

Sikh who come from India, come to UK with the intentions to make themselves better as an individual. But instead get involved with the wrong crowd and get easily influnced. .....

One Paragraph That Explain Life --------- Interesting!

2007-02-06T00:37:00.000Z

Taken from Sikhnet Discussion board.........

Arthur Ashe, the legendary Wimbledon player was dying of CANCER. From worldover, he received letters from his fans, one of which conveyed: "Why doesGOD have to select you for such a bad disease"?

To this Arthur Ashe replied: The world over -- 5 crore children start playing tennis, 50 lakh learn to play tennis, 5 lakh learn professional tennis, 50,000 come to the circuit, 5000 reach the grand slam, 50 reach Wimbeldon, 4 to semi final, 2 to the finals, When I was holding a cup I never asked GOD "Why me?". And today in pain I should not be asking GOD "Why me?

Happiness keeps u Sweet,

Trials keep u Strong,

Sorrow keeps u Human,

Failure Keeps u Humble,

Success keeps u Glowing,

But only God Keeps u Going....

Waheguru jee Ka Khalsa
WAHEGURU JI KI FATEH

Gurdwara Visit By John Scottus School Students

2007-02-01T23:20:00.000Z

On 18th of January, Students of John Scottus School visited the Dublin Gurughar. Students are planning to visit India in near future, so visit was part of their efforts to learn more about sikh community. ISC sevadaars did their best to make their visit a memorable one.

Front of Gurdwara Guru Nanak Darbar Dublin. This is only Gurughar in whole Republic. Students were scheduled to arrive around 12o'clock, but they did arrive even 15mintue earlier. so preparations was done on war footing.

Bhai Gupreet Singh (mohali wale) tying one students scarf.

"Bhaji daikhion mera scarf theek hai ke nahi",

Students were busy covering their head.

It was nice that all the students came one by one and paid their respects to Guru Sahib.

Students sitting on one side after matha tek

Setting up projector.

Students waiting for presentation

Students listening to the presentation.

Gurmeet Singh serving the Karha Parshad to visiting students.

Student were bit hesitant initally to ask for Karha Parshaad 2nd time, but when one of them did ask,then everyone was so pleased to have it second time.

Interestingly We had a tough time explaining them the recipe of Karha Parshaad!!

"Singh Sahib, Waheguru Jee ka Khalsa Waheguru Jee Kee Fateh"

One of tutor decided to practice the Sikh greetings in the Gurdwara.

"Fantastic! we are so happy to be in Gurdwara"

Well Students' overall feedback was very positive during their stay in the Gurdwara.

Students Enjoying Guru Ka Langar, while ISC sevadaars making sure that everyone is being served properly.

Waheguroooo !! It's so delicious!

To our surprise, students made rolls of Parshaade (Chapatian), stuffed it with Chholian di Sabji, te fir ke... Chhak gaye Waheguru Keh Ke...!!

"Baba jee langar tusi aap tyar kita", well that's what girl seemed to ask our beloved baba jee.

With Guru Sahib Kirpa, babajee prepares langar da parshada with great sharda, so normally everyone asks how you prepare it :)

Continued......................!

2007-01-22T18:21:00.000Z

"We've already finished", Arash and Jonathan. Students really enjoyed Guru Ka Langar!

After serving the langar to students, then they enjoyed display of Gatka (Sikh Martial Art) performed by ISC Volunteers.

Shashtars!

Sukhjinder Singh performing with Soti.

Hardip and Ranjit Singh

Gurmeet Singh (Gill bhaji) performing with two Kirpans. it's quite difficult to perform!

Gill handing over chakkar to hardip singh

Hardip Singh performing while rolling on floor!

Students enjoying the Gakta demonstration!

After seeing the gatka, students left Gurdwara around 2pm, exactly an hour late than their schedule!

Sikhs and Turban - Enjoy!!

2006-09-21T21:08:00.000+01:00


A documentary films that tells about Sikhs and the Turban. There is no download option for this video. If anybody knows how to download, please let me know

2006-09-21T19:05:00.000+01:00

Disadvantages of Eating Meat

This video explains the disadvantages of meat-based diet. The facts given are good eye-opener for switching over to vegetarian diet! A must see video for all.

Why Ireland Has No Snakes?

2006-09-20T19:58:00.000+01:00

The fact that there are no snakes in Ireland, gives bit of refief if you go out touring the country side. Back home in India, one of the prime phobia, people used to have was snakephobia! fear of .... rabba kiteh sap na larh jave...used to keep lurking the mind, when people were forced to go out to fields (khet) (at night) to switch on/off tubewells or check water in the fields.

I just came across this article from internet which explains why Ireland has no snacks..including the commonly held myth that St.Patrick drove all the snacks from Ireland!

Legend has it that St. Patrick drove all the snakes from Ireland. Sometime back in the fifth century he stood on a hill, the story goes, and used a staff to herd the slithering creatures into the sea, banishing them for eternity. It's true, aside from zoos and pets, there are no snakes on the emerald isle. In fact, there never were any snakes in Ireland. This state of affairs probably has more to do with the vagaries of geography than any neat tricks performed by St. Patty.

Snakes first evolved from their lizard forebears about 100 million years ago during the late Cretaceous period, about the same time that Tyrannosaurus rex first appeared. Early snakes were small and wormy, resembling modern blindsnakes (suborder Scolecophidia). Ancient snake fossils are found only on southern continents, suggesting that snakes first radiated from Gondwanaland—a former supercontinent comprised of modern-day Antarctica, South America, Africa, India, and Australia. Migrating to Ireland wasn't an option at this time, as the area was completely underwater. The chalky sediments that would eventually become the 700-foot Cliffs of Moher on Ireland's west coast were being laid down at the bottom of the sea.

During the Cenozoic era, beginning 65 million years ago, the world's climate gradually began to dry out, and vast tracts of grasslands and other open habitats came to dominate much of the northern hemisphere. Large dinosaurs went extinct, opening the door to new groups of animals. By the Eocene epoch, 50 to 35 million years ago, the predecessors of boas and pythons (called the basal Macrostomatans) were widespread throughout the northern hemisphere. Explosive radiation of snakes in the suborder Colubroidae, including vipers and cobras, occurred during the Miocene epoch, 25 million years ago. Now snakes are found in deserts, grasslands, forests, mountains, and even oceans virtually everywhere around the world. Everywhere except Ireland, New Zealand, Iceland, Greenland, and Antarctica, that is.

One thing these few snake-less parts of the world have in common is that they are surrounded by water. New Zealand, for instance, split off from Australia and Asia before snakes ever evolved. So far, no serpent has successfully migrated across the open ocean to a new terrestrial home. As the world's oceans have risen and fallen over the millennia, land bridges have come and gone between Ireland, other parts of Great Britain, and the European mainland, allowing animals and early humans to cross. However, any snake that may have slithered it's way to Ireland would have turned into a popsicle when the ice ages hit.

The most recent ice age began about three million years ago and continues into the present. Between warm periods like the current climate, glaciers have advanced and retreated more than 20 times, often completely blanketing Ireland with ice. Snakes, being cold-blooded animals, simply aren't able to survive in areas where the ground is frozen year round. Ireland thawed out for the last time only 15,000 years ago. Since then, 12 miles of icy-cold water in the Northern Channel have separated Ireland from neighboring Scotland, which does harbor a few species of snakes. There are no snakes in Ireland for the simple reason that they can't get there.

Snakes and Myths
So where did the myth of St. Patrick and the snakes come from? Most scholars agree that snakes symbolize paganism, which St. Patrick is also credited for banishing from Ireland. Snakes as symbols of evil are prevalent throughout Judeo-Christian mythology, most notoriously in the Garden of Eden as a tempter of Eve. Other societies have viewed snakes with more favor. Snakes were venerated in ancient Egpyt, and many gods were represented by snakes, such as the cobra goddess Neith, founder of the universe. More recently, Ben Franklin advocated making a rattlesnake the symbol of the United States.

Mythology aside, herpetologists (scientists who study snakes and other reptiles and amphibians) like to point out that snakes play an important role in many ecosystems throughout the world. Snakes benefit humans by controlling rodent populations, and snake venom has been used to treat various diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and hemophilia. Unfortunately, some 200 species of snakes are considered threatened or endangered, the biggest threat being habitat loss resulting from human activities. Unless humans start taking more of an interest in their survival, real-life snakes may find themselves banished from more places than just Ireland.

—Jill Locantore

Dun Laoghaire Festival of World Cultures

2006-08-30T14:08:00.000+01:00

Festival of world Cultures, (2006) has become one of biggest annual event ever since it started in 2001. Last year over 200,000 people flocked to Dun-Laoghaire to experience the cultural diversity which it promised to showcase. Number of visitors is said to be much more this time. This year was special b'cose small, but vibrant sikh community in Ireland made their presence felt in the festival. On Saturday, there was talks session on sikhism.

Bhai Sukhwinder Singh fromUk gave a brief presentation about Sikhism covering core beliefs and cultural part also.

Audiences - turnout was bit low than what we expected b'cose of location of canteen where talks were organised, but whosoever came were taken care of.

Tea Party with bread & paneer wale pakore.....and discussion!

(Singh Pakoreya to bina kisse naal kar ke razi nahi)

Dhan Guru Dhan Guru de Sikh!

Bhai Jarnail Singh jee & Bhai Ragbir Singh jee.

Rambo and His wife with Bhai Jarnail Singh jee

Singh Arranging shashtars

Singhs seeking Guru's Sahib's kipra by doing Ardass

Bhai Jarnail Singh Jee with Nishan Sahib. On the other side is Bhai Ragbir Singh jee. These three elder Gursikhs (Bhai Jarnail Singh, Bhai Ragbir Singh and Bhai Pritpal Singh jee) were the main attraction for the media and other irish people, who kept on clicking photographs...as if they are from other world!

Young Khalsas (from Baba Deep Singh Gakta Akhara, Dublin) performing sword fighting. Ferocity with which these young khalsa's traded swords was just amazing!

Gudu Veer Jee (R) Vs Gurmeet Singh or 'Gill Bhaji' from Baba Deep Singh Gatka Akhara Dublin.

Bhai Prithipal Singh (uk) performing with King-Size Tega!

Singh from Baba Ajit Singh Gatka Akhara (Uk) putting up brave face to others singhs.

As the singhs were performing with beats of dhol, more and more people were coming to see the singhs in action. when it was about to finsih, event manager has to stop the gatka demonstration midway, bcose he did not have enough security staff to controll the crowd. people had started to climb the walls erected on sea side!!!!

Irish Sikh Council Jindabaad!

Bhai Sahib from Uk and other Singhs With Irish Sikh Council banner. Majority of Singhs in the picture are active sevadaars in ISC. It just has been bit over two years that ISC is founded, since then it is doing commendable job with Guru Sahib's Kirpa.

Every time Bhai Sahib come to Ireland, most of us feel honorned to see off them! it is really a blessing to have sangat of these Gursikhs.

Singh Is King!

2006-08-28T22:35:00.000+01:00

Indian (SIKH) soldiers of the United Nations force in southern Lebanon , known as UNIFIL, stand at an observation post along the Lebanese-Israeli border across from the northern Israel town of Manara Friday Aug. 25, 2006.

U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan was trying Friday to persuade European nations to contribute troops to the United Nation's expanded peacekeeping force for Lebanon, building on the momentum created by France's promise to provide 2,000 more soldiers. (AP Photo/Alexander Zemlianichenko)

Trip 2 Galway - Day Two -Burren & Aran Island

2006-08-15T16:26:00.000+01:00

On 2nd day we had plan to visit Aran island and cliffs of moher. But as we going to aran island we also spent time at Burren. The Burren lies south of Galway in County Clare, Ireland. The name Burren is from the Irish - bhoireann meaning a stony place. Its formation has lain unspoiled since the ice-age and is composed of karstic limestone, the largest area of such in western Europe.

Bharpreet answering nature's call !

As we driving for aran island, we had to stop near a place called Burren, for reasons obvious to everyone now! We didn't had any plan to stop here, we were just finding a place where we can park our cars without blocking the traffic. As everyone got out of cars, we found out sea on one side & white rock on the other side of us.

The Burren code is an intiative designed to inform people as to appropriate behaviour when visiting the Burren. The people who live in the Burren depend on the landscape for their livelihoods based on agriculture and tourism. The limestone pavement, flora and built heritage are the resources on which tourism in The Burren thrives. Respecting and conserving this resource will sustain the community’s wellbeing.

hasda...khelda.....Bodi wala Japnitt

Bharpreet, Sachman, & Gurpreet sitting on rock.

Clibing the hills

You can see cars parked on the road.

Kirandeep, Hardip, Karanjit, Ranjit, Phulpreet, Gurvinder, & Satwinder, while coming down from top.

Having Group Photo while sitting on Stones.

Here the unfolding layers of limestone form terraces on the slopes of the hills

(L2R) Harpreet, Harkiran Kaur, Satwinder, Kirandeep, Hardip, Phulpreet, Karanjit, Gurvinder, Gurmeet Singh

The Burren is a limestone plateau occupying an area of over one hundred square miles in North Clare.

Pani naal takkar lainde hoye! Kirandeep almost had a bath.

In the picture below...ranjit and hardip running out to save themselves.

SuperSingh -Karanjit Singh

Bhai Gurvinder Singh jee

Coming back to road - Bhai sahib leading the battalian

Runner up prise! Rab jane ke...where did he get coloured mushroom?

Family Photograph!

after so much adventure, everybody was sahi -salamat

Then we drove to ferry port. we reached there at exactly 2pm and ferry was about to leave. Took tickets immediately and went upto ferry staff to ask them to wait for few mintues as some of us were still finding the place for parking. As everybody came we boarded the ferry and set off to aran island.

Hardip, Karanjit and Phulpreet Singh

Ferry was very small and was shaking very badly

Bhai Harpreet Singh

Aran Island is 14 kms in length and 3.8 kms in width. Aran is a walker's paradise. Aran is full of wildlife and has some 437 varieties of wild flowers. One can hire a bike or take a pony and trap, or a guided tour with a modern minibus, from the pier. Alternatively,you can also see Aran on horseback alongwith live commentry!

Taking pictures on ferry wasn't easy.

Harkiran with Japnitt & Jaskiran Bhabi jee.

As we reached Aran Island, first thing we did, to find a place where we can take lucnch.

Enjoying alloo - gobi wale paranthe.
Pulpreet veer je and Kanval Bhabi je.

Attention please!

Singhs taking care of Langar.

Bringing kids out of cold walter..........Burrrrrrrrrrrrhhhhhhhhhhh!

Island has a small sandy beach, with Crystal clear water. Water seemed 100% free from pollution.

Glider in the sky! Aran Island has glider airport! infact very near to where we had our lunch.

"Run sachman run...!" Bhai Harpreet singh coming out of water.

Rescued!!

Kirandeep on fort wall

You can see houses in the back. this island has papulation of 1218 in 2006. People depends on fishing for their survival and speak irish language.

ISC brigade kilhe te ............!

Morcha fateh!

After that we joined others back our base station and went to take ferry back.

Trip 2 Galway - Day Two - Cliffs of Moher

2006-08-15T12:20:00.000+01:00

After coming from Aran Island, we went to see cliffs of moher. It was half an hour's drive from aran island and we reached there around 5pm. After parking our cars we went to see cliffs. Situated in County Clare and bordering the Burren Area, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's most spectacular sights.

Gurvinder Singh entering tourist Centre.

Sachman enjoying the view.

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's most visited attractions and when you've been there, you'll know why.

Singhs waiting for other people to come.

There is lot of construction going on to develop the place for tourists!!

Cliffs are 230 metres above the ground at their highest point and 8km long, the Cliffs boast one of the most amazing views in Ireland. On a clear day, one can see the Aran Islands as well as the valleys and hills of Connemara!! A walk along the cliffs is not to be missed. One has to be very careful as there are no safety barriers and sections of the cliff sometimes give way. Those with a brave heart can easily walk to the edge of the cliff and view the Atlantic Ocean below.

"Smile please.....", photographer, ...& putting a smile on face is most difficult thing while standing on the edge!

Jaspal, Satwinder, Kirandeep,Gurmeet, Hardip and Karanjit Singh.

(L2R) Sachman, Gurvinder, Karanjit, Gurmeet, Satwinder, Hardip & Phulpreet Singh

Karan Bhaji putting up brave pose for picture.

if you can see a tower (very small, straight up to Karan's dastar). The Tower was built by Cornelius O' Brien, to impress female visitors at that time!

Jaskiran Kaur & Sachman Singh

(L2R) Harkiran, Jaskiran & Harpreet Kaur

A small shop near the car park, which sells souvenirs.

Bhai Harpreet Singh in car park. After we drove back to Galway, it took around two hours to be back at home. Everybody was dead tired.

Langar Preparation - Ranjit Singh inspecting Fulka (Roti).

Jaspal Singh 'Bhatti' making some witty remarks.

Harpreet Kaur, Gurmeet and Hardip Singh preparing dinner.

Trip 2 Galway - Day One

2006-08-14T19:20:00.000+01:00

Summer is nearly over and atleast we had a trip - trip 2 galway! 19 of us, including 4 kids, packed in 4 cars headed to galway around 11am on 5 August. Plan was to leave dublin around 5am but thanks to sleeping pattern of some of the singhs who only sleep at amrit vela i.e., 3am, that we were only behind the schedule by 6hours! Anyway we had to take some harsh methods to wake them up at 6am and then could only leave at 11am.......

Singhan de jave car shookdi............otte jhoolde kesri jhande!

Galway is 280km from Dublin. it took us around 3 hour to reach there and and another half an hour to find the holiday home which we rented for a week. Bhai Karanjit Singh was leading the convoy and I was helping him with direction from map. Just one mistake at roundabout and another half an hour. then we rang the house owner and he helped us out.

While we stoped at Athlone Gas station, an irish guy (who was sitting in nearby car with his family) came to us. He has been to Amritsar last year, so he knew about sikhs & was very happy to see Punjabi Sikhs in Ireland! while leaving he folded his hands and very clearly said, "waheguru jee ka khalsa waheguru jee ki fateh"! another surprise for which none of us was prepared!

A photo including photgrapher as well!

Wait ....let us join (Sadi Vee photo khichoo!)

(R2L) Karanjit, Ranjit, & Hardip Singh. Athlone city is at one hour's drive from Dublin & is at centre of Ireland. Athlone city is now being developed as hub of economic activity.

Beautiful view while heading to Connemara National Park. Some of Ireland's finest scenery is in North connemara. Connemara is a unique and very special part of County Galway. It is situated on the most western seaboard of Europe, and features breathtaking scenery, a rugged unpolluted coastline, dramatic mountains, numerous lakes and rivers, woodlands, and a National Park. Many of the inhabitants of Connemara are Gaelic speaking. The Irish langauge (Gaelic) is the everyday spoken language in large areas of Connemara known as the 'Gaeltacht'

Another View! it was hour and half drive from galway. sideviews were simply beautiful. The area's National Park covers about 4,000 acres of untamed countryside.

Bhai Harpreet Singh with Sachman & Japnitt Singh (while other gang members seem to planning strategy to break into park intrance)

It was evening when we reached park and we didn't had much time to take a big round of park. so we decided to take a short round of park.

(R2L) Kirandeep, Gurmeet, Satwinder & Hardip Singh

Picture at post no 3. there were marks in the park which people have to follow in order to finish their journey in time. if you have want to take short cut route then you have turn from a paticular no. Our critical post no was 3. In pic are Jaspal singh and his wife, karnajit & japnitt Singh, harkiran, jaskiran & harpreet Kaur.

"Hamari Sehat ka raaaj" - Bhai Harpreet Singh

Baba Hardip Singh dublin wale - ek zaadgar photo

Je dhosti ham kabhi na tore ge...! Pardhan sahib and Khajanchi

Both Bhai sahib also do seva as President(Pardhaan) & treasurer (khajaanchi) in Dublin gurdwara management committee.

Gabhan de mamle vich khajaanchi nu 5 saal jail !
Bhai Karnjit Singh jee at one of park gate.

do mahapurakh bhagti karde hoye!

After samadhi, Ranjit singh going back to his kutiyah (cottage) on his bicycle ?

Baba Hardip Singh jee in jubliant mood.

Baba jee blessing the park!

Baba jee in deep meditation!

Maya naal hi mere swass chalde han........maya dekh ke mere smile vapas aah jandi hai....!!

Gill bhaji Baba Hardip Singh jee nu maya bhet karde hoye.

Kids near safety signboard. well kids didn't care for anyone and were the first to finish the round.

Bibi Jaskiran Kaur and Sachman on their way.

Bhai Karanjit Singh and Japnitt Singh

Rukkhi bhai photo khichan valiyah...mainu theek tara baith lain de...(Wait....let me sit properly)

Hamara Parvaar! - family Photograph

Spanish people were so happy to be in picture....!

(R2L) Phulpreet, Kirandeep,Ranjit, Gurmeet, Satwinder, and Hardip Singh.

After we came out of park.

After visit to Connamara National Park, Singhs relaxing in the room. Gurvinder Singh (2nd from right) joined us in the evening. Pictures from 2nd and 3rd day are follow soon. stay tuned!

Wonderful and Interesting Facts!

2006-08-14T17:21:00.000+01:00

From a forward email.............

Armadillos are the only animal besides humans that canget leprosy.

Your stomach has to produce a new layer of mucus every two weeks otherwise it will digest itself.

Only one person in two billion will live to be 116 or older.

A duck's quack doesn't echo, and no one knows why.

Emus and kangaroos cannot walk backwards, and are onthe Australian coat of arms for that reason.

Certain frogs can be frozen solid, then thawed, and survive.

To escape the grip of a crocodile's jaws, push your thumbs into its eyeballs - it will let you go instantly.

If you toss a penny 10000 times, it will not be heads5000 times, but more like 4950. The heads picture weighs more, so it ends up on the bottom.

Babies are born without knee caps. They don't appear until the child reaches 2-6 years of age.

The longest recorded flight of a chicken is thirteen seconds.

The average person falls asleep in seven minutes.

A 'jiffy' is an actual unit of time for 1/100th of a second.

If you yelled for 8 years, 7 months and 6 days, youwould have produce enough sound energy to heat one cupof coffee. (Hardly seems worth it!)

If you fart consistently for 6 years and 9 months, enough gas is produced to create the energy of an atomic bomb.

The human heart creates enough pressure when it pumps out to the body to squirt blood 30 feet.

A pig's orgasm lasts for 30 minutes.

Banging your head against a wall uses 150 calories an hour. (Still not over that pig thing!!!)

Humans and dolphins are the only species that have sex for pleasure.

On average people fear spiders more than they do death.

The strongest muscle in the body is the tongue.(Hmmmmm.....)

You can't kill yourself by holding your breath.

Every time you lick a stamp, you're consuming 1/10 ofa calorie. (Licking?)

You are more likely to be killed by a champagne cork than by a poisonous spider.

Right-handed people live, on average, nine years longer than left-handed people do.

A crocodile cannot stick its tongue out.

The ant can lift 50 times its own weight, can pull 30times its own weight and always falls over on its right side when intoxicated.

Polar bears are left handed.

The catfish has over 27,000 taste buds, that makes the cat fish rank #1 for animal having the most taste buds.

The flea can jump 350 times its body length, It's like a human jumping the length of a football field.

A cockroach will live nine days without it's head,before it starves to death.(Creepy!)

Some lions mate over 50 times a day.

Butterflies taste with their feet.

Elephants are the only animals that can't jump.

A cat's urine glows under a black light.

An ostrich's eye is bigger than it's brain.

Starfishes haven't got brains.

MEET THE PRESIDENT:multicultural garden party at the Áras an Uachtaráin - the official residence of the President of Ireland

2006-07-31T19:15:00.000+01:00

The Áras an Uachtaráin - the official residence of the President of Ireland

It has been a while that President of Ireland, Marry McAleese played host to 'New Irish' at her official residence. The day was Friday, June 14, with excellent sun in the sky. There was good gathering, around 400-500 people from every community. Although most of them (around 80%) were from african continent... and five from Sikh Community! Like Everybody else, we also reached Cross car park in Phenix park, where buses were waiting to take 'guests' to president's residence. As we reached president's residence (hardly 2mitues drive), President and her husband received all the guest on one to one basis and exchanged 'pleasentries' with visiting dignitaries! :)

(LtoR) Bhai Harpreet Singh, Dr Martin McAcleese, President McAleese, Bibi Jaskiran Kaur and me. Bibi Jaskiran Kaur presented flowers to President while we all posed for this important pic!

Me and Bhai Harpreet Singh in The Francini Corridor.

Person who were guiding us through President's residence explained so about this .....all i can say now is this ...is very rare and precious object!

This is State Dining Room, which was built in 1849 for a visit by Queen Victoria. The table, u see was made in 1927 and brought to this place in 1960. The Very first meeting of new Governments is usually held around this table after Ministers have received their Seals of Office from the President. Also, all the visiting dignitaries held their discussion with president in this room!

This is Council of State Room. The furniture in this room is replicas of Louis XIV furniture. The painting you see on the top is of the first meeting of the Council of State, the President’s advisory body, presided over by Douglas Hyde in 1940 and is by Simon Coleman RHA. The other oil paintings in this room are 18th and 19th century landscapes on loan from the National Gallery of Ireland.

Kids Entertainers! Keeping kids busy by painiting their faces with coulours.

Photo with some members of Singing group . Their performance was simply awesome!
This Gentleman from some east european country(forget name) was too impressed with Sikhi Saroop that decided to have photograph with us! amazing isn't!

Bibi Jaskiran Kaur having talk with a member of Musical band. While enjoying straberries (see right hand!)

I forgot this group's name, but their singing coordination was amazing, their voices varied as if they were being remote controlled!

African dancers - Good performance too! Majrity of people present there were from African continent.

Life is the coffee.....................!

2006-07-28T17:06:00.000+01:00

From email..........

Life is a lot like drinking coffee, or tea, in oriental culture. We sometimes be distracted by the cup which holds the coffee.but the thing is the cup itself adds no quality to the coffee. In most cases, it's just more expensive and in some cases even hides ,what we drink. What all of us really want is coffee, not the cup, but lots of us consciously go for the best cups.

Life is the coffee, and the jobs, money and position in society, and all or the 'luxuries' are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain life, and the type of cup we have does not define nor change the quality of life we live. Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the coffee God has provided us.

Written by Lin li(London)

Sikh Soldiers in Lebanon!

2006-07-28T17:02:00.000+01:00

July26: Troops carry the body of one of the three unarmed U.N. military observers killed by Israeli airstrike in Lebanon. Complete story @ FoxNews.com

U.N. peacekeepers from India carry the body of one of the U.N. observers who was killed in Israel's airstrike in southern Lebanon on Tuesday. Complete Story @ MSNBC.com

All the networks are repeatedly showing the footage on T.V. where peace keepers from India (including Sikhs) are assisting in the aftermath of the bombing in Southern Lebanon. Pictures courtsey FoxNews.com, CNN.com, MSNBC.com.

Top 10 US Employers in Ireland

2006-07-05T16:05:00.000+01:00

Ireland is currently home to 620 US companies, which employ more than 100,000 people directly and a further 250,000 indirectly through related industries and services. The US is Ireland's single largest source of inward investment, making Ireland the 4th most popular destination for US manufacturing investment overseas!

The following is top 10 US employers in US:

Intel : 5,000
Dell : 4,300
IBM: 3,200
Wyeth: 3,090
Boston Scientific: 2,600
Hewlett-Packard; 2,500
Jassen Pharmaceutical: 2,200
Bausch & lomb: 1,800
Analog Devices: 1,500
EMC Ireland: 1,400

World Refugee Day Awards 2006

2006-06-20T22:51:00.000+01:00

Today there was two events which took place in Dublin. One was AGM of Integrating Ireland and another one was World Refugee Day 2006 Awards. Integrating Ireland is an umbrella organisation which works with over hundred of ethnic/immigrant led organisations in Ireland. Irish Sikh Council (http://www.irishsikhcouncil.com) is also a member organisation. I was quite surprised by the fact that some of most active member organisation/ persons are coming from african background & how they are helping to raise issues associated with their communities is eye openers for us.

Then there was world refugee day 2006 awards at Dublin City Council building. Programme started at 7pm. I reached there around quarter to seven and saw that everybody was being serving nice stuffed, vegetarian samosas and rolls.I took some pictures, then a man came to me and said, "sardar jee, how are you". I cudn't believe my ears for a moment. I asked him how do you know that I am a sikh. then he told me that he had taught biochemistry in CMC Ludhiana for 3 years in 1980's. At present he is teaching in Trinity College Dublin. He was very friendly guy and had been very appreciative of India, especially of sikhs throughout the conversatioin. As programme started there was address by Lord Mayor of Dublin. and before they stated other things, to our surprise, person incharge of stage announced the Punjabi Dancers are welcomed to stage!

these Drumers (informally) started the programme, by plying there drums. All the four participants belong to different countires!

Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr. Catherine Bryne giving her inauguration speech.

Jagroop & his Bhangra Team giving their performace. It was very nice performance.

Bhangraaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa! (Punjabi folk dance)

Giving them bit of support!

Audiences enjoying the Bhagra!

Audiences were from all countries, majority of them from africa.

Hardip, Ranjit and Vivek in the background.

Mayor giving awards to nominated members.

Dr. Ronit Lentin, Dept of Sociology, Trinity College, Dublin, inviting people for awards.

( LtoR) Naimah Manna, Salome Mbugua, and Kay Mulhall nominated and awarded for their work in Community & Environment Category.

Nigerian Community presenting their dance. It was funny that they were asked by the stage secretary to perform better than the Punjabi dancers!

Mr. ......., Director of Integrating Ireland, giving his speech.

(LtoR) Memet Uludag & Laurence Van de Hogen awarded for their work in Education & Youth Category.

Drumers- a trually diverse team!

(LtoR) Dass, Vivek and Hardip Singh, at world refugee day.

(LtoR) Dass, with Ranjit & Hardip Singh

Vivek Jee with big smiles!

As we came out, some of afgani came to us and said, "Sardar ji ki hall hai...chak de fatteeeh"....We all were very surprised and had photo with them.

Ranjit Singh outside Dublin Civic Offices!

Vivek outside Dublin Civic Office.

After that we decided to go to nearby Museam but nobody thought that museam is open for certain time rather than 24hrs! Front doors were open for some other reasons, as we went inside, security guard told us that museam is already closed!

Hardip and Gurcharan Singh on the way to Museum!

World Entrepreneur of Year!

2006-06-13T15:36:00.000+01:00

Irish Man, Bill Lynch, named World Entrepreneur of Year

The Irish born chief executive of one of the biggest transport companies in South Africa, Imperial Holdings, has won the Ernst & Young 2006 World Entrepreneur of the Year award.

Sixty two year old, who is originally from Ballybunion in Co. Kerry, emigrated to South Africa with his wife Ann in 1971.

More Pictures of Departure!

2006-06-13T14:58:00.000+01:00

The following pictures are of 28th may, sunday evening, when Singhs from uk were leaving for home. Due to summer time, Dublin airport were very busy. There were long queues in front of every boarding counter. We had then good opportunity to have gurmat veechar with Singhs while they waiting for their turn ! Also Singhs were very much centre of attraction at the airport, it was perhaps first time that so many singhs, most of them in khalsa dress, were together at the airport!

Bhai Sohan singh ji, Bhai Jarnail Singh ji , Bhai Ragbir Singh Ji, Bibi Nirmal Kaur ji, Phulpreet Singh and dass.

More Pictures from Samagam

2006-06-01T16:10:00.000+01:00

After Gurmat Veechar with youths, there was awesome kirtan by the visiting Sevadaars from Uk.

Bhai Dabinderjit Singh, Birmingham doing keertan seva. Bhai Hardip Singh from Slough is on Tabla.

Bhai Tarsem Singh ji doing keertan seva.

Bibi Indermohan Kaur Jee from Coventry doing kirtan

Bhai Sohan Singh Ji in seva of Guru Sahib

Bhai Nanak Singh (Slough) doing keertan.

Bhai Jatinder Singh ji doing keertan. On the left is Bhai Tavinder Singh, and Bhai Harpreet Singh is playing tabla.

Bhai Jatinder Singh again...

Sangat during Saturday evening divan.

Bhai Sukhwinder Singh Jee doing Asa Di Vaar da Kirtan on Sunday morning. Veer Tavinder Singh (with Chhaine) along with Bhai Prithipaal Singh are on stage.

Bhai Sukhwinder Singh along with Bhai Dabinderjit Singh and Bhai Nanak Singh Ji

Bibi Indermohan Kaur Jee along with other Singhnian doing kirtan

Panj Pyare (five beloved ones) coming to Guru Sahib after Amrit Sanchar Ceremony.

Bhai Jarnail Singh Jee in service of Guru Sahib

Bhai Jainder Singh Jee during gurmat veechar

Photos Sessions with Singhs after Samapati (finishing) of samagam on sunday.

(from L to R) Bhai Singh from Uk , Bhai Phulpreet Singh Jee (Dublin) and Bhai Sukhwinder Singh Jee with all the smiles!

(from L to R) Bhai Ranjit Singh, Bhai Phulpreet Singh, Bhai Sukhwinder Singh and Bhai Satwinder Singh.

Bhai Gurmeet Singh, Bhai Sukhwinder Singh and Dass. Bhai Gurmeet Singh or Gill bhaji is our local gatka master, with sole reponsibility of getting adults and kids together on Every tuesday for Gatka practice. Bhai Gurmeet Singh jee always remains ready (tatpar) to do any sort of seva in the Gurdwara.

No comment, Picture speaks for itself!

Bhai Gurwinder Singh jee (extream right) and Bhai Hardip Singh (3rd from left)
Bhai Harpreet Singh , Bhai Karanjit Singh (Japnit Singh), Rana Bhaji and Bhai Hardip Singh with someone else's laptop!, and Mr Gurpreet. Bhai Harpreet Singh jee are doing seva as Mukh Sevadaar (President) in recently selected managing committee of Dublin Gurdwara.

2nd International Akand Kirtan Samagham - Dublin

2006-05-31T16:06:00.000+01:00

Sangat in Ireland was blessed by Guru jee to organise 2nd International Akand Kirtan Samagham on the eve of Guru Arjun Dev Jee's Prakash Deehara in Dublin Gurdwara on 27-28 May. Kirtan Seva was done by Sevadaars of AKJ uk, like always, kirtan was very chardi kala. Guru Jee also blessed dublin sangat with Amrit Di Daat. Five Ablakhi got Khande di Pahul, including dass. On Saturday evening, there was youth discussion session, where sangat had the opportunity to listen to Gurmukh Pyare from Uk, and then had questions regarding amrit. It was very enjoyable as Bhai Jatinder Singh made everyone to speak why he/she hadn't take khande de pahul yet!! still some people managed to avoid their turn by changing sides :)

Bhai Prithipaal Singh Jee (from Manchester) gave Powerpoint Presentaion on Importance of Seva & Simran in Sikhism

Bhai Jatinder Singh Jee giving talk to sangat.

Bhai Jatinder Singh jee had one to one talk with most of sangat.

Sangat listening to the talk

Young sikhs listening to talk with full attention.

Bhai Sukhwinder Singh jee gave very good talk on purpose of life!

more pics to follow:

Bhai Jasbir Singh Jee - Granthi Singh at Gurdwara Guru Nanak Darbar, Dublin

2006-05-15T19:03:00.000+01:00

Today is 15th May 2005, a normal day for me and most of you out there. But it holds a special place for Bhai Jasbir Singh (Guru ke Vazeer-Granthi Singh at Dublin gurdwara. 15th may marks the completion of a Decade long seva of Bhai Sahib in Dublin Gurdwara. Bhai Sahib came to Dublin on 15 May 1996 and has been in Guru Sahib's Seva ever since.Bhai Sahib has lot of pyar for Guru Sahib's seva. Bhai sahib is often praised for his service in the langar. He always make sure that anybody coming to Guru sahib's darshan do not go back without having langar or tea! Hope Guru Sahib would continue to take seva from Bhai Jasbir Singh in future as well

Bhai Sahib blongs to Garhshankar town in Hoshiarpur District in Punjab.

Anadpur Sahib - Our Ture Birth Place

2006-05-05T18:52:00.000+01:00

Beautiful Poem received in a mail.....

Anandpur Sahib
Our True Birth Place
O Anandpur Sahib
City of Bliss
Land of the Pure
Birthplace of Mine

Cradle of the Khalsa, Home of Kesgarh Sahib, Our Guru Ji's Shrine,

You were first founded by Guru Tegh Bahadur, Nanak Number Nine,
Who soon summoned Gobind Rai to his side at the tender age of nine.

His father was deep in thought so he inquired, what was on his mind?
The Guru replied that tyranny had sunk their country into dire decline.

Gobind Rai proclaimed, why my noble father, let the blood be thine,
For I would rather go fatherless than see innocent millions maligned.

Thus a helping hand he did extend as all the while his life was on the line,
But the language of love is sometimes not enough as his brave son did find.

O Anandpur Sahib, City of Bliss, Land of the Pure, birthplace of mine,
From whose sacred soil sprang forth the Khalsa on the Vasakhi of 1699

Where the five beloved ones were baptized as they all knelt in a line,
And the tenth master declared, I am likewise your discipline as your art mine.

Here the Red Cross was foreseen well over a century ahead of its time,
Only they battlefields, not aiding the wounded was considered a crime.

You see neither friend nor foe, only faces of children of the One Divine,
With walls which shine dazzling white and borders that are colour blind.

Countless Pilgrims have been blessed by thee since the Spring of 1699,
May thy message of human rights spring eternal in our hearts and minds.

And so, to where Gobind Rai was reborn Guru Gobind Singh, I humbly pine,

O Anandpur Sahib
City of Bliss
Land of the Pure
Birthplace of Mine

Multi-Linigual Ireland!

2006-05-02T19:12:00.000+01:00

Can any one guess that how many laguages are being spoken in Ireland? ...10 or 25 or 70 or 100?.........exact no is 167, if you believe the researchers of National University of Ireland, Maynooth. I was quite taken aback by the number itself, and...well.. as expected Punjabi is one of them! list is quite long, does't feel like typing it ....what i will do is scan it and then upload it.....it is quite insteresting to see that so many languages are new to us .....

An Evening on Beach!

2006-04-23T17:37:00.000+01:00

Once upon a time, some singhs from dublin visited the sandymount beach near dublin gurdwara. what they did there is unbelieving! .....lol.................check out yourself.

mera oondo-oondo kare jee ni sahelio.... Karan Bhaji !

Rab Jane ke Phulpreet Bhaji kish cheez di practice karde aah?

let me fly today..... gill bhaji

landed back safely.....vadayian!

mera ajj nachan nu jee karda.....wah bhai hardip sian

antar bhaji thora sanbal ke chalna haiga!!

attention please!
(L2R) sukhbir, Gurpreet, Sodi and Antarjit

Departure Day!!

2006-04-04T00:28:00.000+01:00

It is much easier to read posts on other blogs than writing and updating this blog, and worst this seems to be waiting for pictures to upload. I'm just wondering is there any easier way or format to upload pic. ...contitueing the story, on 3rd of april, Bhai Sohan Singh and His Son (Bhai Gurpreet Singh) ended their month long trip to Ireland. They came here on 2nd of march, since then gurdwara was full of activities. Now their absence is felt by everyone in the sangat as they have a created a sense of togetherness in dublin sangat through kirtan, katha, kaveshari, and gatka. Now they are in Uk for five months and promised to visit dublin sangat again in july...below are some pictures...

Picture taken in Divan Hall a evening before Bhai Sohan Singh's departure.

Bhai Sohan Singh(left) with Bhai Jasbir Singh (right-Granthi Singh in Dublin Gurdwara)
Dass with Bhai Sohan Singh

At Dublin Airport

Flower Singh(left), Bhai Gurpreet Singh and Gurmeet Singh (right)
Singhs - Flower, Gurpreet, Gurmeet, Antarjit, Hardip and Karanjit (L to R)

Hola Mahalla Celebrations

2006-03-28T19:34:00.000+01:00

Bole So Nihaaal...Sat Sri Akaaaaaaaaaaal

Guru jee finally had kirpa on sangat in Ireland as sangat is able to celebrate hola mahalla with chardi kala! It was lovely demonstration by all the singhs who practiced day and night for two weeks to be able to perform on coming sunday after Hola Mohalla.

Sachman Singh With chakar!!...Can u do that?

Sachman and Daman (Youngest Members of Khalsa Brigade) showing their kala de johar!!

The newly formed Khalsa Brigade (Gatka Team) is going to shanon this saturday for showing their skills (kala de johar!) hope to have more pictures!!

More pictures of Hola Mahalla celebration are uploaded this morning by Bhai Harpreet Singh on website. here is the link..

http://www.irishsikhcouncil.com/hm2006/sunprog/main.htm

Guru Fateh,
Satwinder.

Dublin Gurdwara -Guru Nanak Darbar.

2006-03-27T05:20:00.000+01:00

For last one month, there is lot of activity going on in gurdwara due to efforts of Bhai Sohan Singh and his son Bhai Gurpreet Singh, who have come from Sri Hazoor Sahib and teaching the sanagt kirtan, and gatka. As sikh community is very small in Ireland (roughly 1ooo people - most of them live in Dublin), Gurdwara used to be quite place during the weekdays, most sangat coming to guru-ghar on sunday or special days. but now everyday is like sunday, and sunday is like gurpurab or divali...in terms of attendence of sangat. Both singhs are in chardikala and equally good in katha, kirtan, kaveeshari, gurbani santhia and gatka, attracting all types of sangat!! you can see some of gatka pictures on http://www.irishsikhcouncil.com/GatkaTraining2006/main.htm.
http://www.irishsikhcouncil.com/hm2006/hmdayprog/main.htm
Also gurdwara detail are available on the website. I will try to put more pictures as i get time.

Guru fateh,
Satwinder.

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

2006-03-26T19:04:00.000+01:00

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

it is 2nd time that i am trying my luck with blog, hope all goes well this time. last time i mangaed to create blog but when after a week i wanted to post something, i cudn't log on to it..rab jane ki hoyea!

There is lot of activities going on in dublin gurdwara as Two Singhs have come from india and they have been blessing the sangat with katha, kirtan, kaveeshery, and gatka. I will post pictures as well. so you can visit this page in coing days!

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Satwinder,
Dublin.