Vaheguru ji ka khalsa, Vaheguru ji ki fateh,
Today I received an email in my inbox, without doubt it was so sad to hear that Veer Nirmal Singh from Birmingham had passed away, his personality and sevaa was one of a gursikh who really understood the youth of the west and what they needed to help them stay on the path of sikhi and progress..I was fortunate to have met Veer Ji at Khalsa Camp just last year, he had just attended another Gursikhs antam sanskar (Bhai Mani Singhs Ji).. Veer Nirmal Singh was in higher spirits than I could have imagined, he talked about how the cancer was wearing him down and leaving him with no or little energy but the conversation we had was full of so much energy, almost make's me smile thinking about how veer ji knew the cancer will eventually win but was so concerned about the state of youth bodies in the UK the state of AKJ UK Youth, the state of BOSS youth... I jokingly said "do you really need to worry about these things in your current health", he laughed and said "I can't change a habit of a life time".... Veer ji will be remembered by many for his energy, sevaa, parchar, leadership, and many other attibutes which people like me could only dream of having... he was a sant siphai, a parcharak, a speeker of truth... he would not mix his words or try to be politically correct, he callled it as he saw it and didn't worry about people's feelings, perhaps that is why many youth reacted to his talks in a very positive manner...may sache pathshah bless his soul with nivaas in his charan kamal.. help his family and friends to accept his bhana and bless other souls that have learn't from him to carry on his good work....
Veer ji also had the blessing of being a true panthic sevadar though he had many friends in all jathebandis he would go everywhere to do his talks and parchar, mingle with many who some would say "why bother with them, they are a lost cause"... such are the gunns that every gursikh should have
by Ajit Singh
Taken from AKJ Forum
Sunday, 1 November 2009
The Sikh Youth need more Gursikhs like Bhai Nirmal Singh
WaheguruJeeKaaKhalsa WaheguruJeeKeeFateh!
When Gursikhs pass away we are left with a tinge of sadness and regret that we will not have sangat with them anymore. However I am happy that I personally knew Bhai Nirmal Singh Jee for over 20 years, probably a tad more and that he isn't in pain anymore. When he was diagnosed with Cancer I went to meet him with fellow Gursikhs. The cancer affected his health but not his spirit. He was the same as ever, worried about the world and Sikh youth. Was he a worrier??? Nope not at all, he was more like a concerned parent.
All the major Sikh Youth events which have happened in the UK for the past 20-30 years Bhai Nirmal Singh Jee was involved some how. It was his limitless energy that set him apart and also his honesty which sometimes would be raw, abrupt and non PC. I used to observe his lectures sometimes and talk to him afterwards, he was still full of energy from the talk but after a few minutes he would mellow and let you in and have a joke with you.
I always said to him that we are all Guru Jee’s Instruments and you are like the trumpet! Sometimes deafening but always a call to arms for the Fauj. The Sikh Youth needs Gursikhs like Bhai Nirmal Singh to tell them the realities of the world, and unless you have experienced them then you are just hollow, and trust me when I say Bhai Nirmal Singh Jee was a man of the world.
I had many talks to him regarding the years that have passed and overall even though it didn’t seem like it he was happy that he made a difference and that the Young Sikhs that he spoke to had become Gursikhs and were know doing Parchar when years ago there were only a handful who stood up to be counted.
There are very good parcharaks in the UK today and I’m sure majority of them would have come in to contact with Bhai Sahib and been influenced by him. Therefore we can say that he sowed the seeds of Sikhi in others through Guru Jee’s Hukam and Kirpa. We just need to find the energy that he had and be complacent when it comes to seva and parchar.
All that needs to be said is that if Bhai Nirmal Singh Jee affected your life and your path on the journey, then step like he did and fill the void he has left and do more camps, talks and represent Sikhi to the Masses as positively as you can.
As said above - may sache pathshah bless his soul with nivaas in his charan kamal.. help his family and friends to accept his bhana and bless other souls that have learn't from him to carry on his good work....
WaheguruJeeKaaKhalsa WaheguruJeeKeeFateh!
by info@sevatothemax
Taken from AKJ Forum
When Gursikhs pass away we are left with a tinge of sadness and regret that we will not have sangat with them anymore. However I am happy that I personally knew Bhai Nirmal Singh Jee for over 20 years, probably a tad more and that he isn't in pain anymore. When he was diagnosed with Cancer I went to meet him with fellow Gursikhs. The cancer affected his health but not his spirit. He was the same as ever, worried about the world and Sikh youth. Was he a worrier??? Nope not at all, he was more like a concerned parent.
All the major Sikh Youth events which have happened in the UK for the past 20-30 years Bhai Nirmal Singh Jee was involved some how. It was his limitless energy that set him apart and also his honesty which sometimes would be raw, abrupt and non PC. I used to observe his lectures sometimes and talk to him afterwards, he was still full of energy from the talk but after a few minutes he would mellow and let you in and have a joke with you.
I always said to him that we are all Guru Jee’s Instruments and you are like the trumpet! Sometimes deafening but always a call to arms for the Fauj. The Sikh Youth needs Gursikhs like Bhai Nirmal Singh to tell them the realities of the world, and unless you have experienced them then you are just hollow, and trust me when I say Bhai Nirmal Singh Jee was a man of the world.
I had many talks to him regarding the years that have passed and overall even though it didn’t seem like it he was happy that he made a difference and that the Young Sikhs that he spoke to had become Gursikhs and were know doing Parchar when years ago there were only a handful who stood up to be counted.
There are very good parcharaks in the UK today and I’m sure majority of them would have come in to contact with Bhai Sahib and been influenced by him. Therefore we can say that he sowed the seeds of Sikhi in others through Guru Jee’s Hukam and Kirpa. We just need to find the energy that he had and be complacent when it comes to seva and parchar.
All that needs to be said is that if Bhai Nirmal Singh Jee affected your life and your path on the journey, then step like he did and fill the void he has left and do more camps, talks and represent Sikhi to the Masses as positively as you can.
As said above - may sache pathshah bless his soul with nivaas in his charan kamal.. help his family and friends to accept his bhana and bless other souls that have learn't from him to carry on his good work....
WaheguruJeeKaaKhalsa WaheguruJeeKeeFateh!
by info@sevatothemax
Taken from AKJ Forum
Sunday, 4 October 2009
Audio from Bhai Sahib's Funeral
Sikhs Pay Last Resepects To Sardar Nirmal Singh Jee
More than 1500 people from across the UK and overseas gathered in the West Midlands to pay their respects to Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy, whose funeral took place on Saturday 21st March 2009.
The congregation arrived at Gurdwara Amrit Parchar Dharmik Diwan, Oldbury and from there made there way to the West Bromwich Crematorium where the cremation took place. A Gurdwara service was held at Gurdwara Amrit Parchar Dharmik Diwan after the cremation had taken place.
Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy peacefully passed away with family and close friends at his side in the early hours of Friday 13th March 2009, ending his two year battle with cancer. Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy left behind his wife and three young children.
Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy was born and bred in Birmingham, UK, and was a Sikh youth leader with undying passion for educating and aspiring youth. He was instrumental in starting up Sikh societies in Colleges and Universities across the UK over 20 years ago and continued to support these societies and various other organisations in a voluntary capacity throughout his lifetime. Through his voluntary work at youth camps, Gurdwaras, Universities and Colleges, he inspired countless youngsters into getting involved in voluntary work and become disciplined and proud of their Sikh Khalsa heritage.
Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy was one of the founder members of the Sikh Community & Youth Service UK and Sikh Youth Movement UK alongside his brothers, S. Dal Singh Dhesy, S. Amrik Singh Dhesy and S. Hari Singh Dhesy. Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy spent over 3 decades doing voluntary work to benefit the community with the AKJ (Akhand Kitani Jatha), BOSS (British Organisation of Sikh Students) and ASHT (Anglo Sikh Heritage Trail), Sikh Dharma (USA), Tarna Dal Harianvela (Punjab) and many other Sikh organisations, from across the world. Nirmal Singh Dhesy was instrumental in encouraging Sikh Youth to join the British Armed Forces and Territorial Army.
Over his lifetime Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy was involved in numerous campaigns working with various associations to improve the rights of his fellow citizens including the Anti Apartheid Movement, Ant Nazi League, Amnesty International UK, Committee Against Racism, Yorkshire Group Against Racial Attacks, Community Against Racism, Friends of the Earth and Greenpeace.
Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy’s many speeches caught the attention of thousands. When he spoke, he had a blend of humour, strength, compassion and a spirit about Sikhism. He was highly regarded amongst both Sikh youth and elders for his Services to the community and was able to bridge the divides between different religions and organisations.
People from various backgrounds and organisations attended Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy’s funeral including, Akhand Kirtani Jatha, All India Sikh Student Federation, Anglo Sikh Heritage Trail, Babbar Khalsa, British Organisation of Sikh Students, British Sikh Council, British Sikh Federation, Congress Party, Damdami Taksal, Nihang Sikh Sabha, Nishkam Sewak Jatha, Bhat-Rai, Ramgarhia & Ravidassia community representatives, Gurdwara representatives from across the UK, Shromani Akali Dal, Sikh Awareness Society, Sikh Federation UK, Sikh societies from across the UK, work colleagues from the Royal Mail.
Taken from Sikh Times
The congregation arrived at Gurdwara Amrit Parchar Dharmik Diwan, Oldbury and from there made there way to the West Bromwich Crematorium where the cremation took place. A Gurdwara service was held at Gurdwara Amrit Parchar Dharmik Diwan after the cremation had taken place.
Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy peacefully passed away with family and close friends at his side in the early hours of Friday 13th March 2009, ending his two year battle with cancer. Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy left behind his wife and three young children.
Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy was born and bred in Birmingham, UK, and was a Sikh youth leader with undying passion for educating and aspiring youth. He was instrumental in starting up Sikh societies in Colleges and Universities across the UK over 20 years ago and continued to support these societies and various other organisations in a voluntary capacity throughout his lifetime. Through his voluntary work at youth camps, Gurdwaras, Universities and Colleges, he inspired countless youngsters into getting involved in voluntary work and become disciplined and proud of their Sikh Khalsa heritage.
Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy was one of the founder members of the Sikh Community & Youth Service UK and Sikh Youth Movement UK alongside his brothers, S. Dal Singh Dhesy, S. Amrik Singh Dhesy and S. Hari Singh Dhesy. Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy spent over 3 decades doing voluntary work to benefit the community with the AKJ (Akhand Kitani Jatha), BOSS (British Organisation of Sikh Students) and ASHT (Anglo Sikh Heritage Trail), Sikh Dharma (USA), Tarna Dal Harianvela (Punjab) and many other Sikh organisations, from across the world. Nirmal Singh Dhesy was instrumental in encouraging Sikh Youth to join the British Armed Forces and Territorial Army.
Over his lifetime Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy was involved in numerous campaigns working with various associations to improve the rights of his fellow citizens including the Anti Apartheid Movement, Ant Nazi League, Amnesty International UK, Committee Against Racism, Yorkshire Group Against Racial Attacks, Community Against Racism, Friends of the Earth and Greenpeace.
Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy’s many speeches caught the attention of thousands. When he spoke, he had a blend of humour, strength, compassion and a spirit about Sikhism. He was highly regarded amongst both Sikh youth and elders for his Services to the community and was able to bridge the divides between different religions and organisations.
People from various backgrounds and organisations attended Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy’s funeral including, Akhand Kirtani Jatha, All India Sikh Student Federation, Anglo Sikh Heritage Trail, Babbar Khalsa, British Organisation of Sikh Students, British Sikh Council, British Sikh Federation, Congress Party, Damdami Taksal, Nihang Sikh Sabha, Nishkam Sewak Jatha, Bhat-Rai, Ramgarhia & Ravidassia community representatives, Gurdwara representatives from across the UK, Shromani Akali Dal, Sikh Awareness Society, Sikh Federation UK, Sikh societies from across the UK, work colleagues from the Royal Mail.
Taken from Sikh Times
Sunday, 30 August 2009
Sardar Nirmal Singh Jee
In the early hours of Friday 13th March 2009, Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy peacefully passed away with family and close friends at his side. Nirmal Singh Dhesy was aware that his journey in this world was coming to an end and listened to Keertan in his final hours before giving a farewell hug to his brother Dal Singh Dhesy.
“Our deepest condolences go to the Dhesi family, may Waheguru Ji give them the courage to accept His Will” said Jaspal Singh Bains Chairman of EMG Online
Family and close friends did Nitnam at his side, when Anand Sahib was completed, Nirmal Singh Dhesy took his last breath with joy and peace. His mother Bibi Charan Kaur, wife Mandeep Kaur, three children Akaaljot Singh Dhesy, Asees Kaur, Anand Singh Dhesy, brothers Dal Singh Dhesy, Amrik Singh Dhesy, Hari Singh Dhesy and sister Darshan Kaur, nephews, nieces and close friends, Harjit Singh Khaira from Canada, Balvinder Singh, Inderjeet Singh and Amandeep Singh and others were at his side during his final hours. Nirmal Singh Dhesy was the son of Late Labh Singh Dhesi and was the youngest of 7 brothers and 5 sisters.
Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy was born in the UK , and was a Sikh youth preacher with undying passion for Sikhi and seva. He was instrumental in starting up parchar in Colleges and Universities across the UK over 20 years ago. Through his seva at Sikhi camps, Gurdwaras, Universities and Colleges, he inspired countless youngsters into getting involved with seva and become disciplined and proud of their Sikh Khalsa heritage.
Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy was one of the founder members of the Sikh Community & Youth Service UK and Sikh Youth Movement UK and spent over 3 decades doing seva for the community with the AKJ (Akhand Kitani Jatha), BOSS (British Organisation of Sikh Students) and ASHT (Anglo Sikh Heritage Trail) and many other Sikh organisations, from across the World.
Nirmal Singh Dhesy’s many speeches caught the attention of thousands. When he spoke, he had a blend of humour, strength, compassion and a spirit about Sikhi. He was highly regarded amongst both Sikh youth and elders for his Services to the Sikh community and was able to bridge the jathebandic divides.
He always came across as a sevadaar who was dedicated to the Sikh youth, a person who had inner strength, and yet the ability to be compassionate.
Over the years thousands of Sikh youth in the UK have been inspired after hearing Nirmal Singh Dhesy speak at various Sikh youth events. As one of the eldest of the Sikh youth, he was regarded with dignitary type status. On the rare occasion that any issues would arise within the youth seva, he was often the person that people would speak to, to resolve issues. He was seen as someone who would say what needs to be said and deal with any issues.
Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy was diagnosed with cancer in June 2007, an Ardaas Benti Keertan Darbaar was held for him by the Sikh Sangat in Birmingham and across the UK .
Nirmal Singh Dhesy’s family originally came from the villages of Kana Dhesian and Sang Dhesian and were residing in village Raman Khella. Sang Dhesian was named after Baba Sang Dhesi Ji, who was introduced to Guru Arjan Dev Ji (1563 – 1606). Guru Ji saw a glimpse of a great man in him and changed his name to Bhai Sang Dhesi from Jodha, (“sang” literally means companion). Even today the majority of people from the Dhesi family around the world are active sevadars of the Sikh Panth.
Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy’s funeral will take place at 11am on Saturday 21st March 2009.
Cremation – West Bromwich Crematorium, Newton Road, West Bromwich,
West Midlands, B71 3SX
Followed by Paath, Kirtan & Guru Ka Langar at Gurdwara Amrit Parchar Dharmik Diwan, 65 Birmingham Road , Oldbury , B69 4EH.
Bhai Sahib with his close family
Taken from The Sikh Times
“Our deepest condolences go to the Dhesi family, may Waheguru Ji give them the courage to accept His Will” said Jaspal Singh Bains Chairman of EMG Online
Family and close friends did Nitnam at his side, when Anand Sahib was completed, Nirmal Singh Dhesy took his last breath with joy and peace. His mother Bibi Charan Kaur, wife Mandeep Kaur, three children Akaaljot Singh Dhesy, Asees Kaur, Anand Singh Dhesy, brothers Dal Singh Dhesy, Amrik Singh Dhesy, Hari Singh Dhesy and sister Darshan Kaur, nephews, nieces and close friends, Harjit Singh Khaira from Canada, Balvinder Singh, Inderjeet Singh and Amandeep Singh and others were at his side during his final hours. Nirmal Singh Dhesy was the son of Late Labh Singh Dhesi and was the youngest of 7 brothers and 5 sisters.
Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy was born in the UK , and was a Sikh youth preacher with undying passion for Sikhi and seva. He was instrumental in starting up parchar in Colleges and Universities across the UK over 20 years ago. Through his seva at Sikhi camps, Gurdwaras, Universities and Colleges, he inspired countless youngsters into getting involved with seva and become disciplined and proud of their Sikh Khalsa heritage.
Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy was one of the founder members of the Sikh Community & Youth Service UK and Sikh Youth Movement UK and spent over 3 decades doing seva for the community with the AKJ (Akhand Kitani Jatha), BOSS (British Organisation of Sikh Students) and ASHT (Anglo Sikh Heritage Trail) and many other Sikh organisations, from across the World.
Nirmal Singh Dhesy’s many speeches caught the attention of thousands. When he spoke, he had a blend of humour, strength, compassion and a spirit about Sikhi. He was highly regarded amongst both Sikh youth and elders for his Services to the Sikh community and was able to bridge the jathebandic divides.
He always came across as a sevadaar who was dedicated to the Sikh youth, a person who had inner strength, and yet the ability to be compassionate.
Over the years thousands of Sikh youth in the UK have been inspired after hearing Nirmal Singh Dhesy speak at various Sikh youth events. As one of the eldest of the Sikh youth, he was regarded with dignitary type status. On the rare occasion that any issues would arise within the youth seva, he was often the person that people would speak to, to resolve issues. He was seen as someone who would say what needs to be said and deal with any issues.
Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy was diagnosed with cancer in June 2007, an Ardaas Benti Keertan Darbaar was held for him by the Sikh Sangat in Birmingham and across the UK .
Nirmal Singh Dhesy’s family originally came from the villages of Kana Dhesian and Sang Dhesian and were residing in village Raman Khella. Sang Dhesian was named after Baba Sang Dhesi Ji, who was introduced to Guru Arjan Dev Ji (1563 – 1606). Guru Ji saw a glimpse of a great man in him and changed his name to Bhai Sang Dhesi from Jodha, (“sang” literally means companion). Even today the majority of people from the Dhesi family around the world are active sevadars of the Sikh Panth.
Sardar Nirmal Singh Dhesy’s funeral will take place at 11am on Saturday 21st March 2009.
Cremation – West Bromwich Crematorium, Newton Road, West Bromwich,
West Midlands, B71 3SX
Followed by Paath, Kirtan & Guru Ka Langar at Gurdwara Amrit Parchar Dharmik Diwan, 65 Birmingham Road , Oldbury , B69 4EH.
Bhai Sahib with his close family
Taken from The Sikh Times
Saturday, 29 August 2009
Monday, 1 June 2009
How Bhai Sahib changed my life...
VaahegurooJeeKaaKhalsaa VaahegurooJeeKeeFateh
I was sad to hear about Bhai Sahib, although when I did think to Guru Sahib I realised that Bhai Sahib has gone back home and Satguru's Charan. I really wanted to attend the funeral of Bhai Sahib Jee, but I could not attend due to unforeseen reason…
My experience of bhai sahib, what can I say...
I never knew bhai sahib on a personal level but his talk has never left me, and I still try to find this talk unfortunately I never can. Bhai sahibs talk helped change my life. I used to be a mona, smoking, drinking, taking drugs, fights, clubs everything else.
At university I started to think, is this all my life is? Have I experienced everything life can give me? There must be more...
I started to get slightly interested in Sikhi, for a few days I would stop all the things which gurmat is against (meat, drink etc.) but due to bad sangat I will get back to it again.
What changed my life was Bhai Sahib Bhai Randhir Singh Jees book, Bhai Sahib Bhai Rama Singh Jees book and Bhai Sahib Bhai Nirmal Singh Jees amazing talk
I still remember as it was yesterday... I went to the Sikhi Week talk at University. We all sat down and Bhai Sahib came to the front. His beautiful face just amazed me and reminded me of a warrior, his dumalla was worn with pride. His talk was so good about who we are and how we should be, that from the beginning to end I never flinched a muscle. If that talk can ever be found it should be on the web because it was such an inspirational talk that can pull a person toward satguru.
With Guru sahib’s kirpaa, I kept my kes, and Guru Jee blessed me with amrith, and am trying to be a Sikh.
I wish I had the chance to thank bhai sahib of such an amazing talk, unfortunately I never got to speak to him, as during rehainsubaaee were all trying to get lahaa and join with guru jee.
I thank guru jee that mothers give birth to Gurmukhs like him and I do ardaas more gurmukhs are born like bhai sahib.
I just had to share this... It has been on my chest for so long... Guru maharaaj is ghat ghat antar ki janat; guru jee must have felt that I needed to tell somebody about my experience with Bhai sahib and then I saw the blog. Vaaheguroo.
I hope I haven’t offended anyone in any way, and I am sorry for any mistakes.
Thank you,
Anon
Sunday, 10 May 2009
In Loving Memory Of Bhai Nirmal Singh Jee
Today, 13th March 2009, Gurmukh Pyaare Bhai Nirmal Singh jee (UK) passed away in the early hours of Amrit-velaa, having bravely accepted the Hukam of terminal cancer. Bhai Sahib was a Sikh youth parchaarik (preacher) with undying passion Sikhi and sevaa. He was instrumental in starting up parchaar in colleges and universities in the UK over 20 years ago. Through his sevaa in camps, gurdwaras, and universities, he inspired countless youngsters into becoming Sikhs and getting involved with sevaa.
I remember that Bhai Sahib attended Sikhi Camp 2008 despite feeling very weak from the cancer treatment. He did a great talk for the youngsters on building a relationship with Guru jee. Many people opt out of doing sevaa because they can't be bothered or too lazy. However, I remember talking to Bhai Sahib and him saying with a smile on his face, "I would have to die until I stop doing sevaa." He shared stories how in the early days they would go up and down the country to do sevaa in universities and how sometimes they had no money for parchaar material or petrol but having full faith in Guru jee they some how always managed to reach the colleges and universities and do sevaa. It's embarrassing how sometimes we can't be bothered to attend local camps, talks, events or help out with community projects on our door step, when Gurmukhs like Bhai Sahib and others used to drive for hours and hours to far and near places to simply share and spread the word of Guru Nanak, hoping that even one brother or sister could be awakened in finding their Guru. I remember him always radiating happiness and immense pyaar for Sikhi and gratitude to Guru Sahib for all he has given us. Thank you to Guru Sahib for sending such Gursikhs for doing such great sevaa and inspiring me and countless others. Dhan Guru, Dhan Guru Ke Piaare!
In June 2007, when Bhai Sahib got diagnosed with cancer, an Ardaas Benti Keertan Darbaar was held for him by the Sangat in Birmingham. During that time (12th June 2007) Bhai Jagjit Singh (Leeds) sent an email out to the Sangat where he talked about Bhai Sahib:
Vaheguru ji ka khalsa, Vaheguru ji kefatehPyaare jeeo, I first came across Veer Nirmal Singh back in 1992, when I attended Khalsa Camp as a mona. Veer Jee did a talk at the camp, which like so many caught one's attention and imagination. When he spoke, he had a blend of humour, strength, compassion, and a spirit about Sikhi and Sikh history. I remember leaving his talk really thinking about the words he spoke, and the message.I think over the years hundreds, if not thousands of Sikh youth in UK have probably heard veer jee speak at various sikh youth events. He is a popular figure amongst the Sikh youth, who bridges the tribalistic jathebandic divides. Having got to know him over the years, he has always come across as a sevadaar who is dedicated to the Sikh youth, a person who has inner strength, and yet the ability to be compassionate.He has spent 3 decades doing seva with the Akhand Kirtani Jatha and BOSS, inspiring youngsters to be disciplined and proud of Sikhi. As one of the eldest of all the youth, he was regarded with dignitary type status. On the rare occasion that any issues would arise within the youth seva, he was often the person that people would speak to resolve issues. He is seen as someone who would say what needs to be said and deal with issues without being a politician. Hence, we as those younger than him regard him as a honest soul with integrity.It is unfortunate to hear that veer jee has now contracted cancer and has only been given a short while left to live. Such is bhaanaa, and ultimately none of us know when our time will come. This is why we should remember Guru jee at all times, so that we fulfil this lifetime as our last, and break the cycle of life and death.The sangat has decided to hold a keertan darbaar as an ardaas benti for veer jee This is a person who spent the prime of his life dedicated to helping so many youth on their path to their Guru. Hence it would only be fitting if all the youth came together and sang Guru Jee's praises, and did an ardaas benti for his Chardi kala and for his family.
PHOTOS OF BHAI SAHIB:
Sikh Marriages & Relationships Open Forum at Wolverhampton Uni (Nov 2007):
Sikh Marriages & Relationships Open Forum at Wolverhampton Uni (Nov 2007):
Open Session with elder youth at 2007 Coventry Christmas Camp:
Talk at Boss Sikhi Camp 2007:
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Bhai Sahib knew his journey in this world was coming near an end and that Shaheed Singhs were waiting to take him to Sachkhand. He had been in a hospice because he was suffering a lot of pain, but he requested this week that he be allowed to go home. Last night Gursikhs gathered and did Keertan for 6 hours. Bhai Sahib listened to the Keertan and then everyone did Nitnem. As Anand Sahib was completed, Bhai Nirmal Singh jee breathed his last breath with joy and peace.
Sunday, 26 April 2009
Our Beloved Colonel Bhai Nirmal Singh Jee has gone back to his Father
Gurmukh Janam Savaar Dharageh Chaliaa
Spending this life fruitfully Gurmukh goes to the other world
Sachee Dharageh Jaae Sachaa Pirr Maliaa
There in the True court (of lord) he gets his True place
I'm writing to let you know that Bhai Nirmal Singh Jee, lovingly known as The Colonel passed away at Amritvelaa UK time today 13 March 2009 having bravely accepted the hukam to terminal cancer. He has left for Akaal Purakh Jee's Charan Kamal.
He left this world peacefully with close family and friends surrounding him with Naam, Bani and Pyaar.
As per Akal Purakh's hukum and a Gursikhs daily prayer of:
ਸੰਬਤਿ ਸਾਹਾ ਲਿਖਿਆ ਮਿਲਿ ਕਰਿ ਪਾਵਹੁ ਤੇਲੁ ॥
sambat saahaa likhi-aa mil kar paavhu tayl.
The day of my wedding is pre-ordained. Come, gather together and pour the oil over the threshold.
ਦੇਹੁ ਸਜਣ ਅਸੀਸੜੀਆ ਜਿਉ ਹੋਵੈ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਸਿਉ ਮੇਲੁ ॥੩॥
dayh sajan aseesrhee-aa ji-o hovai saahib si-o mayl. ((3))
My friends, give me your blessings, that I may merge with my Lord and Master.((3))
Gursikhs; not only accept Guroo Sahib's Will but accept it as sweet. The hukamnama from Sri Harmandar Sahib is today wonderful as always, but in the past few weeks; Guroo Sahib has been so very Beant that we have been able to get so much strength in these challenging times.
I'm not a good writer but what I can honestly say is that he was an amazing friend and wonderful brother. He was instrumental in starting up parchaar in colleges and universities in the UK, he served as an inspiration for the activities undertaken by BOSS and the Sikhi Camp. He was an avid collector of shasters, a huge fan of that outdoor survival gear as well as a talented photographer.
Above all he was a Singh that had a determined passion for Sikhi and Sevaa that I can tell you has kept me strong to this day and will continue to keep me strong in my journey too.
He will be so sorely missed by all that have been left behind: his family, his wife Mandeep Kaur, his children: Akaljot Singh, Asess Kaur and Anand Singh as well as his dear friends. He will forever be in our hearts and his passion and love for Sikhee is what will carry us through this difficult time. I can see him right now standing over with his arms crossed looking at us with his intense eyes, his arms folded, slowly unfolding, showing his pointy finger asking "What are you doing for Sikhee?...."
We will miss you soooo soooo soooo much much but we also know that you will also live in our hearts and continue to be a strong source of inspiration for us.
Thank you Guroo Sahib for blessing me with such a soul in my lifetime.
Shabad by Bhatt (Baba) Sundar in Raag Raamkalee on Pannaa 923; Raamakalee Sadhu is a beautiful Shabad to read..... http://www.sikhitothemax.com/page.asp?ShabadID=3376
This is an email that went sent out on the day that Bhai Nirmal Singh left this world by a very close friend of Bhai Sahib.
Wednesday, 15 April 2009
Bhai Nirmal Singh was a true Gem
Bhai Nirmal Singh was a genuine pillar of support for his Kaum, and a rare gem who dedicated part of his life to ensure the Panth flourished and maintained its preservation of ‘Tat Sikh principles’ to educate not only the Sikh community, but also the Western people at large. As such you would often find Bhai Sahib at almost every candle lit vigil, march, political campaign, etc all across the country. I recall meeting Bhai Sahib when I first took Amrit 12 years ago and throughout this time never saw his level of Seva diminish. I and many naujwan grew up listening to the talks and lectures delivered by this Gurmukh piara and as a result Bhai Sahib earnt our fondest respect and reverence for the way he strived to carry out Sikhi Parchar up and down the country’s universities, colleges, forums, camps, etc.
He also established groundbreaking links with key western dignitaries; in fact the links which we as naujwan today have with the British army are largely down to the efforts made by Bhai Sahib. He also arduously encouraged partnership working within the Sikh community and very often was the spear head that worked with the most staunchest of ‘Sikh politicians’ to form alliances, all in the name of Parchar. A key trait of Bhai Sahib was his forthright approach, where he would passionately speak out on topics others would ‘tread on as egg shells’ around, in doing so he bridged many gaps between Sikh generations, earning the respect and rapport from both sides, as well as cross-cutting jathabandis to organize camps, programs and events across the country. Through his lectures (which have been documented for you and I’m sure many naujwan to come) he inspired future generations of Sikhs to take Amrit, concurrently shaped a new breed of Sikh Parchariks who now like Bhai Sahib continue to spread Satguru Nanak Dev Ji’s Dharm across the West under the same Parcharik ambition and zeal found in this Gurmukh. That said, he also had a meek and extremely humble side to him and I never once heard him praising or even acknowledging his years of seva. One day I remember seeing Bhai Sahibs Dharma (beard) in full parkash and being truly awe-inspired so I commented how moving it was to see such a flowing Dharma, to which he humbly commented that it was indeed a beautiful thing, however it was wasted on a moorakh like him as he was not deserving of such a gift from Guru Sahib.
As I’m sure you, his children are aware, he was also a keen collector of Shaster and had a number of ‘purathan’ pieces in his collection. He would encourage Singhs to have better Shaster in their possession than the mass produced ‘Kirpans’ that were now coming out of
You may or may not know that your father was also a very environmentally friendly man (probably the first Singh I know who was actively dedicated to this cause), who changed my and I'm sure many others outlook and views about bio-friendly alternatives and in deed the eco-friendly steps we as Sikhs should be taking to set a precedence in society (I recall he was once even disturbed about the amount of cardboard I was about to discard in my office and how I was so moved when he took these boxes of card away with him to a recycling point…he was also the person that first got me using bio-diesel in my car!)
Words cannot express the respect, admiration and reverence your father established with so so many, especially during the autumn years of his life where despite all odds he remained steadfast in his mission to carry out his seva in his critical conditional. Whilst I could write pages about Bhai Sahibs achievements, merits, and prem for Sikhi, I fear it would always fall short of describing this Gurmukh Piaras contribution to his beloved Dharm. But to you, his children, the fact that his jeevan and his charai (ascent) will have continued to inspire so many thousands of Gursikhs is enough proof that his memory will have now been forged into the pages of Sikh history.
By Manjeet Singh
Bhai Nirmal Singh (1980's)
Tuesday, 14 April 2009
Farewell Message
If ever you should get this message then it means my soul has left this earthly existence. Thank you for all love, kindness, support, and friendship that you all gave me. Sorry I could not text you all individually, I am in too much pain. Don't cry over my departure but smile that we met in this life. I hope you did come by to see me and give me a hug and say GurFateh to me. Pray for my soul and do Ardaas. Be strong and positive. And if anybody cries, pull their ears.
Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh.
Saturday, 4 April 2009
Introduction
This Blogspot has been created to enable everyone to share experiences about how my dear Chacha Ji, Bhai Nirmal Singh, affected their lives. I have been overwhelmed by the number of tributes being made since he departed on various forums on the internet, by emails, text messages as well as in person. People have so many stories to share - and it’s through these that his legacy will continue.
As you may well know Bhai Nirmal Singh Ji, was the youngest brother - leaving behind his elder brothers and sisters and his mother. He had been married for 12 years and thus also left behind his wife and three gorgeous children, aged 7, 5 and 2.
It's for these kids that I would like everyone whose heart has been touched by Bhai Nirmal Singh, to share their experiences on this blogspot.
With God’s grace, these shared experiences may help the children to see the side of their father that were yet to see; to appreciate the difference their father made to so many lives, so that they can understand the passion he had for Sikhi. Up until eight years ago I only knew the family side of my Chacha Ji– it wasn’t until I myself came into practising my religion that I started seeing this whole new side of him which had always been there.
For these kids, he has been a fantastic father. Just as Akaaljot Singh (aged 7) said at the funeral, he used to take them 'everywhere'. However, Asees Kaur (aged 5) may find it difficult to recall her dad taking her and Akaaljot to kid’s camps, as well as the Sikhi Camps at which he gave lectures, and talked to many campers on a one to one basis.
Akaaljot remembers how his dad used to drop them off and pick them up from school, how he bought them ice-creams, took them to town to introduce them to the 'outdoor' gear he loved so much! He was a complete 'hands on' dad – he even tried to maintain this when he was diagnosed with ‘Cholangicarcinoma', a rare form of cancer with extremely low survival rates. The timing of this dreadful news coincided with the birth of their third child, little Anand Singh (who is now 2).
The last two years have been a battle, but my Chacha Ji fought hard like a warrior. He always accepted Guru Sahib's Will which meant he ‘lived’ life as well as he could.
He underwent life threatening surgery in Leeds after a second opinion, having been told that he had inoperable cancer by
On return to
I’m sure everyone would agree with me when I say that Bhai Nirmal Singh Ji made a profound impact on everyone he met. Not only a loving husband and father, but also a fantastic little brother, the youngest son, and the best uncle anyone one us nieces and nephews could wish for.
If you would like to share your thoughts or experiences on how Bhai Nirmal Singh Ji touched your life please write to: InMemoryOfBNS@hotmail.co.uk
Also, please let us know if you wish your submission to remain anonymous.
Akaaljot, Asees & Anand - this blogspots for you. Enjoy reading about your dad and his adventures!
Lots of love,
from Amerdip, your ‘big bhenji’ xx.
Bhai Nirmal Singh with his family
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