Sikhi: American Sikhs

Sikh80 · #1 (**permalink**) 17-Jan-2008, 16:07 PM

Spreading Sikhism, the American way
Asha Ahuja

Ludhiana, April 27
Tall, handsome and well-built, three handsome American Sikhs Harmanjot Singh; Sadasatsimran Singh Khalsa and Mr Jagatguru Singh Khalsa have adopted Sikhism and are spreading the message of Gurus through kirtan. Presently, they are in Amritsar learning several things at the Miri Piri Academy. They had sung kirtan using correct nuances of Punjabi at Gurdwara Singh Sabha, Model Town Extension, Ludhiana, on Baisakhi Day.
Reference:: Sikh Philosophy Network http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/sikh-news/19324-sikhi-american-sikhs.html
Talking to Ludhiana Tribune, they said, “We have done kirtan seva in more than 60 countries. We are staying in Amritsar and learning more about gurmat sangeet. We are taking training from Ustad Narinder Singh Sandhu of Amritsar and are learning several things at the Miri Piri Academy under the guidance of experts.
Reference:: Sikh Philosophy Network http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/showthread.php?t=19324
They said, they were the second generation American Sikhs as their parents had adopted Sikhism after getting inspired by late Harbhajan Singh Yogi. “Both our parents and we think that Sikhism is one of the best religions in the world.”
These American Sikhs are attired in Khalsa “banha”. Bhai Harmenderjot Singh Khalsa said, “My parents were born Christians but embraced Sikhism. For the past 35 years we have been followers of Sikhism. Many Americans have been attracted to Sikhism inspired by the talks of Harbhajan Singh Yogi. We all love doing kirtan.”
Jathedar Avtar Singh, president, SGPC, is impressed with the sincerity of these young Sikhs. He said, “It is ironic that our own youngsters are moving away from the religion, are getting their hair cut and getting addicted to drugs , while young men from foreign shores are showing us the true path to Sikhism.”
These young Sikhs are adept in playing gatka. They are learning different instruments like harmonium, tabla and tanti saaz. Asked if they have been around India and which place they liked the best, they replied that they have been all over India and their favourite place is Amritsar.
They have performed kirtan at the sanctum sanctorium of Harmander Sahib and at the house of the Prime Minister.
They added that they often go to Mexico to participate in 3HO (Happy, Healthy, Holy Pogramme). They are working overseas in de-addiction programmes run by this body. Prof Davinder Singh Chhina of Punjab Cultural and Promotion Council has honoured this jatha and presented them portraits of the Sahibzadas.
http://www.tribuneindia.com/2006/20060428/ldh1.htm