Weekly Inspiration

This week, as nationalism and jingoistic rhetoric swirl around the subcontinent, as tensions rise and Nation-states act without consideration for civilian life, as the most vulnerable once again must bear the worst of it, made 'collateral' yet...

This week, we are called to listen to the tender, ancient invitation by Guru Ramdas Sahib in the sacred Lava.

Guru Amardas Sahib poses this profound question in the third stanza of Anand Sahib—a rhetorical wonder—spoken not to seek an answer but to awaken us. Everything, seen and unseen, rests within the House of the Sovereign.

In earlier times, children would sit cross-legged on the floor, wooden Patti in hand, tracing each letter under the watchful eyes of their teachers.

In the rush of daily life, it’s easy to forget that time is more than a string of appointments and deadlines. The days blur. We move from one task to another. But beneath the surface noise, each day carries a quiet invitation—a call to pause...

Warm and heartfelt Vaisakhi greetings from all of us at the Sikh Research Institute (SikhRI)!

Threaded through much of South Asian love poetry is the theme of separation, longing, and union. The stages before the lover experiences union with their beloved are often portrayed as melancholy. But what other hues of longing might there be?

In a world that seeks quick answers and tangible markers of progress, we might lose patience with the non-linearity of our spiritual journeys.

It is our human tendency to want to know how things work, to understand them, and to explore our curiosity in hopes of finding answers. We want to make the world legible. But what do we do when there are things that cannot be understood?

The melodious musical mode of Basant evokes a sense of festivity and renewal. It ushers in the slow melting away of the frozen winter and evokes the warmth and anticipation of spring's potential to bring new life and movement.

Sikh Research Institute (SikhRI) extends warm wishes to the Sikh sangat on the commencement of Nanakshahi year 557 and the Gurgaddi Divas (Coronation Day) of Guru Harirai Sahib—a champion of environmental preservation and indigenous medicine.

Love is not merely an emotion; it is an all-consuming fire. The Chaubole composition draws us into this fire, where even the words are infused with the ecstasy of devotion.

There comes a moment—unexpected, unplanned—when something within us stirs. A quiet ache. A longing that no success, no possession, no title can seem to quiet. We climb one peak only to glimpse another in the distance. The hunger persists.

Some words do not just speak; they stir. They awaken something long forgotten. Have we drifted—without realizing it? Bhagat Surdas ji (1478–1583 CE) speaks only once in the Guru Granth Sahib, yet his voice lingers:

In the month of Phagan (mid-February to mid-March), something stirs beneath the surface. It is a time of exhilaration and quiet anticipation—creation is underway, yet birth has not arrived.

Exploring the realm of Vadahans Dakhni rag is like embarking on a journey through the rhythms of life—through loss, longing, and the quiet undercurrents of love.

The Ghoria composition, set in the rag of Vadahans, carries an emotional depth that reflects life’s most profound transitions: weddings and funerals.

From the beginning, stories and songs have been vessels of wisdom, touching hearts and guiding beings. Long before written words could reach the masses, these oral traditions bridged understanding, speaking directly to those who hungered for truth...

As winter softens its grip and the earth stirs awake, we, too, are called to awaken. In a world preoccupied with the external, Magh whispers a timeless truth: renewal begins within.

In today’s fast-paced world, where stress and uncertainty seem to shadow every step, finding a sense of lasting comfort often feels elusive. We navigate life’s highs and lows, searching for answers to ease our burdens, yet we rarely pause to ask...

In Sikhi, the Vanjara symbolizes something far more significant than material trade. They reflect the journey of every being—born into this world as a trader, destined to seek union with IkOankar, the Eternal One.

Today, with hearts filled with reverence and joy, we celebrate the Prakash Purab (illumination day) of Sahib Guru Gobind Singh, the rider of the blue steed.

It is the month of Poh (mid-December to mid-January). The year is 1705. The land is Panjab, shrouded in winter’s stillness. Guru Gobind Singh Sahib, the Sovereign of sovereigns, walks through the dense forests of Machhiwara.

A sacred hush envelops the month of Poh (mid-December to mid-January), a time steeped in shahadat—martyrdom. The air feels heavy as if the universe has paused its ceaseless rhythm, inviting us into a profound reflection and connection.

In the tranquil month of Poh (mid-Dec to mid-Jan), as frost blankets the earth, nature appears to pause in profound stillness. Guru Nanak Sahib, in Barah Maha, embodies the seeker as a human-bride addressing IkOankar (Divine-Husband, Spouse) with...

In a world where spirituality often intersects with performance, it’s easy to get caught up in appearances. Social media overflows with pictures from sacred pilgrimages, curated captions about fasting, and public acknowledgments of charitable giving.

In the vast expanse of 20th-century Sikh scholarship, one luminous figure stands out—Bhai Vir Singh (1872–1957), whose legacy transcends borders and identities.

Despite the vast evolutionary journey of humanity—spanning 300,000 years of existence and over four million years of ancestral development—the mind’s stubborn nature remains unchanged. It resists guidance, insists on its understanding, and often...

Today, we commemorate the martyrdom of Guru Teghbahadar Sahib and his three devoted Sikhs. Guru Teghbahadar Sahib, greatly revered for his infinite divine qualities, is celebrated in Sikh history as a Sovereign-Mentor, Mediator-Diplomat, and...

In the spiritual treasury of the Guru Granth Sahib, we encounter the Salok Sahaskriti, a unique composition by Guru Nanak Sahib, recorded on folio 1353.

Guru Nanak Sahib’s arrival illuminated a world steeped in darkness and ignorance, divided along religious, political, and social lines—much like today.

In earlier times, students learned the alphabet and its forms by writing on wooden tablets called 'Patti.' These tablets symbolized the sacred act of learning, where each letter came alive under the careful guidance of a teacher.

As we step into November, our hearts and minds turn to a chapter in history that is both painful and profound, forever imprinted with stories of resilience, unity, and the enduring human spirit.

Today, we celebrate Bandi Chor Divas一the Emancipation Day, marking a profound moment in Sikh history when Guru Harigobind Sahib secured the release of fifty-two political prisoners from the Gwalior Fort.

Across the globe, in every nook and cranny, humanity shares a common pursuit: immortality. Whether it's through technological advancements, medical breakthroughs, or spiritual practices, the longing to transcend the limitations of mortal life is...

From our earliest moments, many of us are surrounded by love, warmth, and teachings that shape our understanding of the world. Among these, deep spiritual wisdom is often passed down quietly, woven into our lives through sacred verses.

SikhRI joins the global Sikh community in celebrating the 20th of October, a day marking the Gurgaddi Divas of Guru Harikrishan Sahib and Guru-Eternal Guru Granth Sahib.

In today’s fast-paced world, where success is often measured by wealth, status, and knowledge, we quickly lose sight of what truly brings fulfillment. Even after accumulating material wealth and intellectual prowess, many are left with...

In today's society, we see the persistence of social divisions, even if they don’t always carry the labels of the past.

Our minds are constantly in turmoil. We are swept away by the currents of daily life, caught up in material desires, attachments, and distractions. But have we paused long enough to engage in a genuine conversation with our minds?

The Sikh Research Institute (SikhRI) team joins the global Sikh community in commemorating two significant days: 16 September, the Gurgaddi Divas (Coronation Day) of Guru Arjan Sahib, and 18 September, the Gurgaddi Divas of Guru Angad Sahib.

Today, 16 Sep (Nanakshahi 1 Assu 556), we reverently celebrate the 450th coronation anniversary (Gurgaddi Divas) of Guru Ramdas Sahib.

A seeker’s journey is rooted in the intention to cultivate a relationship with IkOankar—the One, the Divine, the Sovereign, the Beloved. For many, this quest is a vital part of living a meaningful life.

​​In the Guru Granth Sahib, nestled between folios 296 and 300, lies the profound composition of Guru Arjan Sahib, known as Gauri Thiti. This sacred text, composed of seventeen pauris (stanzas) and saloks (couplets), reveals deep spiritual insights.

Today is September 1st. On this day in 1604, the Adi Granth was first installed and ceremoniously opened in Sri Harimandar Sahib, Amritsar. Following Guru Arjan Sahib’s instruction, Baba Buddha ji, the first granthi...

​​Finding moments of genuine reflection can be elusive in our fast-paced, hyper-connected world, where distractions are only a click away. We juggle multiple roles, responsibilities, and emotions, all while striving to maintain a sense of balance.

Wedding ceremonies are celebrated worldwide as a testament to love and commitment, uniting loved ones in shared joy. Each culture imbues these moments with unique traditions, yet the essence remains universal—celebrating two beings coming together.

In today’s world, many pursue happiness through material comforts, fleeting relationships, and transient pleasures...

In life's winding journey, we encounter significant milestones like birth, marriage, and death. Each of these milestones is like a distinct chapter in the book of our lives, marked by unique rites and rituals interwoven into the fabric of...

Delving into the essence of "pure," it becomes evident that we, as humans, often playfully skirt around its profound meaning. The significance of purity unfolds, casting a revealing light on society's earnest pursuit of this coveted label.

The inevitability of death often brings a sense of emptiness and finality. How do we embrace Death, the only certain journey in life?

In the complex web of life, where doubts and uncertainties often cloud our vision, it's easy to lose sight of our divine essence. Since our first breath, we've been ensnared in the web of societal norms, haunted by whispers of doubt and burdened...

The' Vanjara' once walked the streets and villages of South Asia, their presence a familiar sight until the late twentieth century. These traders of women's cosmetics, known for their melodic songs sung during their travels, have since vanished...

The Sikh world commemorates July 2 as the foundation day of Sri Akal Takht Sahib.

Whether oral or written, narratives have always been essential to the human experience. They are a powerful way to convey experiences, emotions, and wisdom across generations.

In our fast-paced lives, we often find ourselves caught up in the daily grind, pursuing goals, seeking pleasures, and tackling challenges. It's easy to become so engrossed in these activities that we forget about the transient nature of life.

Today, we commemorate Guru Arjan Sahib’s martyrdom, the Sovereign of the Halemi Raj. Peace is the abiding nature of the Guru's benign dominion, where no one troubles or dominates anyone.

How do we make sense of genocide, war, human suffering, and the struggle for human rights taking place globally? How do we comprehend the daily struggle for survival faced by millions today?

Forty years have passed since the Indian government launched a devastating assault on the “Golden Temple” complex—Sri Harimandar Sahib and Akal Takht Sahib—and approximately 100 gurduaras (Sikh places of learning and worship) across Panjab.

Many of us experience the profound and unsettling feeling of separation at some point in our life journey. What exactly is this feeling?

Bhai Vir Singh further illuminates the significance of Gatha, recounting a moment when Pandits from Madha Desh, unfamiliar with the Panjabi language, visited Guru Sahib.

Embarking on a journey through the annals of history, we are confronted with stories of unparalleled sacrifice and unwavering courage.

In the intricate weave of life, a mother's blessings form an enduring thread that transcends the boundaries of culture, time, and faith.

In the gentle whispers of life's passing moments, we find ourselves amidst the ebb and flow of time, like sailors navigating the vast ocean of existence.

Nestled between folios 296 to 300 of the Guru Granth Sahib lies the profound revelation, Gauri Thiti, composed by Guru Arjan Sahib.

Entering the ethereal realm of Vadahans Dakhni, a musical mode resonating with life's rhythms, evokes the sensation of embarking on a profound journey through the intricate fabric of existence.

The entire Sikh Research Institute (SikhRI) team extends heartfelt wishes to the global Sikh sangat on the joyous occasion of Vaisakhi!

In our spiritual journey's labyrinth, we seek the ethereal "nectar," a substance that transcends mortal limitations and opens the doors to eternal liberation.

Like a melodious rag (musical mode), Basant arrives, heralding a season of festivity and transformation in the symphony of existence. It signals the departure of the cold, harsh winter and the anticipation of the vibrant spring.

Basant, a melodious musical mode evoking festivity and renewal, heralds the transition from winter's icy grip to embracing spring's promise.

In the rich mosaic of Sikh history, one name stands out luminously: Maharani Jind Kaur (1817-1863), affectionately known as Rani Jindan.

Embedded within the Guru Granth Sahib, we uncover profound insights nestled within the narratives of Ajamal and Ganika. These narratives, reminiscent of ancient parables woven into the fabric of human existence, invite us to delve into...

In the bustling streets of our modern world, the clamor for worldly knowledge often drowns out the whispers of the spirit. Like eager students poring over countless volumes, we devour information, seeking to build a fortress of intellect around us.

In the intricate mosaic of life, there are moments of profound revelation that beckon us to pause, reflect, and delve deeper into the mysteries of existence.

In the boundless expanse of existence, purity emerges as a beacon of hope, promising unfathomable joy and fulfillment. Yet, amidst our pursuit of purity, we often find ourselves entangled in the allure of external validations.

In the timeless tapestry of human existence, love stories unfold as eloquent verses in the grand poetic narrative of life.

In the expansive canvas of time, each historical thread intricately weaves a narrative echoing across ages. This poignant tapestry bears witness to the resilience, sacrifices, and triumphs of those who paved the way before us.

In the vibrant tapestry of contemporary society, where the relentless pulse of life intertwines with the pursuit of material gains and societal expectations, Guru Nanak Sahib's timeless wisdom, woven into the Pahare composition, emerges as...

In the profound verses of Rag Sorathi's eleventh composition, Guru Teghbahadar Sahib says: the being who does not feel pain in suffering, within whom there is no love for happiness and fear, considers gold as soil.

As the month of Magh unfolds its embrace (14 Jan – 11 Feb), we embark on a reflective journey. The harsh winter is slowly releasing its grip, paving the way for the promise of a new season. It's a time of transition.

We invite you to embark on a transformative journey through time as we explore the ageless query: How can we rise above negative thinking and immerse our minds in devotion to the One?

Today, as the celestial canopy gleams with the prakash purab, the luminous day marking the arrival of Guru Gobind Singh Sahib, the heartbeat of the Sikh Panth resonates with the essence of divinity.

In our pursuit of bliss, we often seek joy in transient flavors, tastes, and fleeting experiences. Throughout history, individuals, regardless of their spiritual inclinations, have yearned for this elusive state of joy.

In the sacred tapestry of remembrance, we bow our heads in honor of the martyrdom of the revered Mata Gujri ji and the valiant Sahibzade - Baba Fateh Singh (6), Baba Zoravar Singh (9), Baba Jujhar Singh (14), Baba Ajit Singh (18), and the...

A sacred hush descends in the embrace of Pokh or Poh (14 December - 13 January). It's a month marked by shahadat, a month of martyrdom.

In the tranquil month of Poh (mid-Dec - mid-Jan), as frost blankets the earth, it seems as if the external natural surroundings have collectively paused.

In the rich tapestry of 20th-century Sikh scholarship, one brilliant being shines beyond identity and geography—Bhai Vir Singh (1872-1957). As we celebrate his birthday on December 5, we fondly recall the 'Poet of the Sikhs,’ also known as ‘the Sixth

Today marks the Prakash Purab (illumination celebration) of Guru Nanak Sahib's arrival in the physical world nearly five and a half centuries ago.

Today, we remember the martyrdom of Guru Teghbahadar Sahib and his three devoted Sikhs. In Sikh history, Sahib Guru Tehgbahadar, the sword-warrior, is described with great reverence.

In a world riddled with chaos and strife, our yearning for genuine peace and comfort often seems as distant and elusive as a mirage on the horizon. The relentless tumult surrounding us inflicts a profound disturbance, at times bordering on trauma. Ho

Today, the SikhRI team and the global sangat celebrate Bandi Chor Divas – the Emancipation Day!

In the ever-changing world, where chaos and uncertainty often leave us pondering and anxious about the elusive concept of stability, Guru Teghbahadar Sahib's words in the fifty-sixth stanza of Salok Mahala 9 resonate deeply.

As we step into November, our gaze turns to a chapter of history that, although marked by pain and sorrow, carries a profound message of resilience, unity, and the unwavering human spirit.

The silk-cotton tree is straight as an arrow, very tall and thick. Those birds who come having hope return hopelessly, for what reason? Its fruits are bland, its flowers tasteless, and its leaves are useless.

In the profound verses of Guru Ramdas Sahib, we have the privilege of contemplating the extraordinary nature of our human bodies through the Ghoria composition.

What is love? It's a question that has perplexed philosophers, poets, and truth seekers throughout the ages. Today, we explore love deeply through Guru Nanak Sahib's composition in the Maru Kaphi rag (musical mode).

There exists an eternal truth that transcends time and space—a force undeniable, guiding, protecting, and nurturing those who seek it.

The Sikh Research Institute (SikhRI) team joins the global Sikh community in commemorating 18 September as the Gurgaddi Divas, Coronation Day, of Guru Angad Sahib.

In the depths of contemplation, one uncovers the essence of Sikhi's central principle: the recognition of Divinity in all things. This profound understanding guides the path of Sikh behavior and shapes its core values.

At the heart of Sikhi lies the revered Guru Granth Sahib, an eternal source of guidance and wisdom that encompasses every facet of a Sikh's existence.