Sikh Student Camp

Sikh Student Camp 2006 - 2007 Testimonials

“Even though I was only able to be there for a few days of the Sikh Student Camp it still had a lasting impression with me. The environment created by the organizers allowed people to share their opinions and questions about sikhi without any hesitation. Till this day, the shabad “saajanra” has a special meaning for me. All of the organizers at the SIkh Student Camp were a great source of inspriation for me, it was a pleasure to see their love and passion for sikhi. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of that experience.”

J Kaur, Toronto

“When I came to the camp, I had no idea what to expect. I had heard some weird stuff, but I was too curious to bother. The few days I was able to stay there turned out to be truly amazing. The students were highly spirited, enthusiastic and seriously looking into Sikhi. The sevadars managed to keep the atmosphere of the camp in such a way that it felt very safe for everyone to open up and allow deeper experiences. The talks in the mornings supported that by being very personal and inspiring, while pushing us students to look beyond our normal thinking. I see the camp as a great opportunity for young people to learn more about Sikhi, to get involved in it and to share their personal experiences, without having to worry about judgements. I feel blessed that I had the chance to be there.”

HA Kaur, Germany

“From the first day, when we started to sing “Jagh salonerie”, I felt that this camp had IT. I can never explain the feeling that I had in that moment… I have never felt it before… and all I could do was to close my eyes and sing along. From that day, that moment, I just loved everything about the camp.The kirtan was amazing, the people were wicked, the activities were really fun and the lectures were sooooo good. The thing I liked most about the lectures and the whole camp was that nobody said that you have to do this or that, or you are not allowed to do this or that and so on. The camp made you feel free to explore sikhi in your own way. And I think that if you explore sikhi by yourself you will never ever even think about leaving it or have any doubts about it.I loved the sangat at Sikh student camp and I keep telling everyone that the people at the camp, they are my sangat, not the people at our Gurudwara here in Sweden. And I loved 1A… best group ever…The whole journey felt like a dream, but when I reached Sweden, when I was sitting in the backseat of our car and found out what my sick relative had done this time, I was brutally awakened from my wonderful dream… I was back in Sweden again……”

N Kaur, Stockholm

“Cherdi kala is the word that best describes my experience at the London Sikh Youth Camp held from August 5th through the 11th. From literally the first moment of my arrival on Monday morning the 6th it was a non-stop immersion in the spirit of the Guru and the Dharma of the Sikhs. The young men and women who attended were very special. They came from all over the world, Malaysia, Sweden, and Norway as well as from all parts of England. The young people participating in the camp were like sponges, ready to absorb everything presented. And it was clear to me that they absorbed a great deal by the end of the week. They represented every level of the Sikh development – from sahejdhari to amritdhari. And they excelled in not judging each other, but rather helping each other along the Dharmic path.It is said that England and the United States are two countries separated by a common language, but after a brief period of “say again” and “excuse me” I began to pick up the language. A great number of them were from Birmingham, England. And when I met them I would say I’m from Birmingham also—Alabama that is! They could not even begin to pronounce it the way we Southerners do, and probably best that they didn’t. I would tell them how we pronounced it there “Birmin’ham” but to their grammatical credit, for the life of them, they couldn’t drop the “g”.Each day began with Japji Sahib, then a Kundalini Yoga class which was attended by all 150 students. Breakfast followed and then a presentation by special guests. The presentations were one of the highlights of the camp. Each presentation was followed by lively small group discussions about issues brought up by the lecture. These were followed by six special workshops on leadership, public speaking, Darbar Sahib, art & expression, meditation and team building. And, as unaccustomed as I am to public speaking I nevertheless led that group every day. The camp was divided into six groups or teams of about 25 each that rotate daily through each of the workshops. An additional cadre of about 25 sevadars who actually run the camp rounded out the attendees. Lunch followed, then classes in topics which students picked at registration: Kundalini Yoga (which I taught), Punjabi, kirtan, tabla, self-defense, and introduction to Sikhi. My daily Kundalini Yoga class had a steady 25 students who were incredibly enthusiastic, but then, everyone was enthusiastic.Next came activities, such as sports, team events and competition, and RAF trust and team building taught by members of the Royal Air Force just to name a few. Reheras came next and was followed by dinner and then an incredibly beautiful evening kirtan darbar which almost always moved me to tears.The presentations were always deeply thought provoking. They included one on the Treasury of Our Ancestors led by Amandeep Singh Madra which included showing us pictures of the beautiful and vast array of the art and heritage of the Sikhs. Then he proceeded to show us how they are being lost through neglect and actual willful and wanton destruction It was eye opening and illuminating and I believe everyone who participated in it will, in some way, work for the preservation of our past. We are the world’s youngest major religion and we have a real connection to our past, yet we are letting it slip through our fingers.Another was on Environmental Injustice in Punjab led by Pardeep Singh Rai. A fervent environmental activist, Rai showed us the great environmental challenges facing the Punjab today. I had no idea that the Punjab, the bread basket of India, was under attack because of high level policies that are creating the potential for economic and environmental disaster in the years to come. Because of these policies the Punjab’s most precious resource, water, may run out and the Punjab become a desert by the year 2025! Rai showed many shabds from the Siri Guru Granth Sahib referring to gardens, plants, and the environment in general. Certain high-level policies create a situation that keeps the Punjab’s farmers in debt and unable to export their crops when all other states in India are able to do so. The most startling statistic presented was that in the last 5 years over 40,000 farmers have committed suicide! I was dumbstruck by this fact.The Singh Twins, as Amrit and Rabindra are known, took us on a personal journey of their lives as artists and the discrimination and bias they had to overcome which began in school as they tried to develop their unique artistic style. They are artists of the first magnitude and their film 1984 about the massacre at the golden Temple in 1984 was amazing and will be presented at the Spinning Wheel Film Festival in New York in September. Their art is thrilling, moving and gorgeous. They have used their extensive talents as activists for the Sikh cause.

A presentation by Tirath Singh Nirmala was extremely thought provoking as he discussed the Siri Guru Granth Sahib from the mystic tradition of the Nirmala Sampradai order of scholars.

There is usually a moment, a point in time, in any group environment when it all “comes together” and at this camp it was a presentation on the fifth evening. It was the most astonishing and devastating lecture about the planned and systematic abduction of Sikh young ladies for conversion by Muslim men. There is a large sum of money being paid to these men for getting young women out of their Sikh homes and converted to Islam. Vulnerable women are targeted, usually while they are at school. They are showered with affection, gifts and “romance.” These men immediately begin the systematic undermining of the women’s faith and when they have them in their thrall, they take these young women away and marry them, get them pregnant, get a Muslim child, keep the child and discard the women. The first that the families learn of anything amiss is the failure of the girl to return home from work or school and then they hear nothing from them for weeks or months. The terrible thing is that their families will not then accept them back into the home. It is a tragedy of growing proportions. Because no law has been broken, the government was not interested in getting involved until the group working on this convinced it that these young women were the government’s worst nightmare - a Muslim with no hope in this life who has nothing to lose by becoming a suicide bomber.

This presentation provoked the most incredible discussion in which almost all of the camp participated. Several young ladies spoke of how Muslim men had begun to undermine their faith and shared many personal stories about this very thing, something they had never told anyone. Eyes were opened and we all learned how to protect the innocence of our young women.

The final day’s presentation was a group panel made up of the many of the presenters, including myself, who took questions from the audience. They were very deep, thought provoking inquiries from very dedicated young people. The devotion of the questioners and the quality of the questions were matched only by the candor and inspiration of the presenters.

I had the opportunity to address the camp on several occasions and each time I tried to give them the experience of Sikh Dharma from my perspective and my personal experience as one who has seen the “other side of life” and made the conscious choice of Sikhi. It was and is my hope that by sharing my “mistakes” in life, that they will not have to make the same mistakes. As the Siri Singh Sahib said, “We can learn at the hands of time and be pounded with all of its fury or else we can learn at the hands of teacher.” It’s easier to learn that the stove is hot from a teacher than to take the scar of the burn with you throughout your life. They were so bright, inspired and devoted. I pray that they learned enough from me that they can avoid the life lessons that I was forced to learn at the hands of time.

The sevadars and leaders of the camp were an amazing group. They kept the energy quite together and spirits very high. They were able to handle everything God and Guru threw at them with dignity and grace and keep the camp in a constant state of cherdi kala. By the end of the week most were exhausted, but a spirit of fun and light heartedness prevailed amongst them which overflowed to the campers, all inspired by the Guru’s grace.

I am truly grateful to have had the opportunity to serve the Guru’s mission in this manner and hope that the opportunity again presents itself to return to Sikh Student Camp.

One of the most amazing sights was the day when everyone tied a turban. The ladies and the men all looked fantastic! It was a magnificent transformation effected by the Guru. I was so happy to see that a number of them had them on the next day as well. By the last day it was very hard to leave. I made friendships which will last a lifetime and am happy to have been a part of this great event. “

Sat Jivan Singh Khalsa - CEO of Khalsa Law Firm

“My name is Pardeep Kaur Gahunia, and I went to Sikh Student camp last year for the very first time. I was wrong to just expect to only learn Jap Ji Sahib and Rehras da path, I in fact learnt so much more. As naive as this may seem, i learnt that Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji was not just ‘a book’, a belief most Sikhs have. The Guru is our present Guru, who is living and shows us the path to the one IK ONKAR. I now have a relationship with my Guru, that I did not have before, and will treasure this forever with the Gurus kirpa. I also meet the most amazing Sadh sangat, who i have still kept in touch with. Feeling so inspired from Sikh Student camp, we continued on a simran programme run by the youth of Hounslow, every wednesday.”

P Kaur, 19 years old, Hounslow, Medical student

“Sikhicamp 2006 will be my third camp. Camp has totally changed me and my life for the better. Having come from a Gursikh family I was used to having religion around me. It was not until I came to camp that I realised how important Sikhi was to the younger generation. Finally after years of being around non-Sikhs, I had found people who understood the importance of faith,religion, discipline, honesty and respect. I had always done paath in the morning and evening, kirtan and go to the Gurdwara every Sunday, but it was not until I went to camp that I truly understood the reasons behind everything. It made me appreciate Sikhi in a new light that I had never experienced before. I look forward to camp every year. It’s guaranteed to take away any worries and fears that I might have, so much so that I’ve referred to camp as my therapy as it helps keep me sane in this crazy worldthat we all live in!”

A Kaur, 22 years, Law Student, London

“Waheguru Jee Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Jee kee FatehMy name is Inderjit Kaur Gahunia, and both my son and daughter (Amandeep Singh and Pardeep Kaur) have been enjoying the blessings of Sikh Student Camp for the last few years. My son has been both a camper and a sevadar at the camp for the last four years, and I believe it has helped in both his spiritual and personal development. He has learnt so many things from this particular camp and has spread the love and knowledge of Sikhism he has experienced at this camp with myself, our family and family friends; all of whom have told me personally that they have fully appreciated and benefited from interacting with a participant of this camp.My daughter was a part of Sikh Student Camp last year. I allowed her to go due to all the positive responses I heard from my son and his friends who had helped organise this camp. My daughter arrived back home full of love for Sikhi and a new knowledge and perspective of our beautiful religion that she had not experienced previously. In the year since, she has begun doing her daily prayers and seva at the local Gurdwara on a more regular basis, whilst also assisting as a sevadar in smaller Sikhi camps for children around the country. I believe both my son and daughter have benefited immensely from Sikh Student Camp, and I applaud and thank the organisers of the camp for playing a big part in the spiritual and moral/values development of my children.

Waheguru Jee Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Jee kee Fateh”

P Kaur ,46 years of age, Financial Accountant, Hounslow.

Sikh Student Camp 2003 - 2005 Testimonials

“I have really had such a great experience being here in England, particularly at the Sikh Student Camp. This was DEFINITELY the high point of my visit. If I left after that week I would have been satisfied. I guess I kind of figured that the camp might just be “business as usual”. But to my surprise I had an amazing experience. This camp is truly unique. Much of my experience with other Sikhs has left the overall impression of Sikhs in general being very critical, judgmental, and close minded. So…even though I knew that this camp was focused on Sikhs who might not really know that much about Sikhi, and had a very open-minded approach, I didn’t expect to have the experiences that I did. There was such a mix of unique people that shared so much. The approach of the camp was really great. I watched as everyone around me transformed as they had different experiences at the camp. Everything that was taught was done so in such an open-minded way. Everyone was able to participate and do things that they might never have done. It allowed people to really experience sikhi in a way that many have never experienced. During the week it was like I was in a different world. It was like I was in a bubble at the camp and totally involved in the activities.My heart really opened up at the camp. There was so much love and joy from everyone. It was contagious. There were some campers that outwardly did not look like Sikhs but were so spiritual and had some amazing things to say. It really surprised me. It really goes to show that given the right environment people can really open up and blossom.The last few days of the camp I was so full of love and joy. Every time we got together and sang shabad kirtan in the Gurdwara tears would flow. I don’t know why. I wasn’t sad. This is the same experience that I normally have when I go to the Summer Solstice camp in Espanola. Guruji was definitely present with us at camp. You could feel it in the air.I know I haven’t really said many specifics about the camp, but there is soo much. I don’t even know where to start. Every aspect of it was great. The sangat of people there really did make the experience. The sevadhars of the camp really have to be commended. They worked really hard to organize this week long camp. I wish there could be camps like this all over and much more frequently.The Sikh youth of today are so confused and don’t really have a chance to experience Sikhi. There is so much judgment and close-mindedness that it pushes our youth away. It is sad to see this. However, when I go to camps like this and meet beautiful singhs and singhnis like I did…. I feel that there is hope. Slowly I know things will change.I highly recommend that you participate in the camp next summer. I will definitely try to come again next year. This will be a visit to remember. I look forward to travelling more and meeting sangat in other places around the world. It has been a blessing for me to be a part of this all. We all have so much to learn and share with each other.Chardikala!”

Gurmustukh Singh, Age Unknown ;-), USA (AKA, Mr Sikhnet)

“My first camp was amazing, the love I received from the sangat was overwhelming, nobody judged me, nobody expected anything of me. Having just come out of uni I needed sangat…and boy did I find it!!! Having been a kesdhari singh all my life it was only until I went to camp and met sangat that I realised “I don’t know much about Sikhi at all….theres so much more…its endless!!” It was through maharaaj’s kirpa that I went to camp and experienced what I would describe as “pyaar overload”. Sikh student camp totally changed me….where I wasn’t doing path before camp…..I was after it. Since camp my outlook on life has totally turned around, I see the good in everyone and love all….sounds cheesy but its true, camp changed me, the sangat changed me. I was feeling so nervous about going to my first camp, scared that I wouldn’t know anybody, but everyone was made so welcome. I went in alone and came out with friends for life, gursikhs that im forever indebted to.Camp was part of my pathway back into sikhi after coming back form uni, I loved it!!! I used to be a bhangrholic…..now its kirtan all the waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay!!!”

R Singh, East London, Self employed , 26 years.

“As a young female attending Sikh student camp over the period of 3 years, my own personal experiences of this camp have all been very positive and enjoyable. I found Sikh Student Camp to be spiritually uplifting, mentally stimulating and challenging and look forward to another year of learning, growing and being inspired.”

I Kaur, Bedfont, West London

“Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki FatehPiyaree Sadh Sangat Jio I have attended the Sikh Student Camp for the last four years with my family as a langar sewadar. The young sewadars of this camp have always been very respectful, polite and friendly and treated us like their own family. Our daughters have benefitted immensly from taking part in this camp and have grown up to become mature, responsible and level headed young ladies. With Guru’s kirpa they have had the good fortune of doing kirtan in thediwans. I have also thoroughly enjoyed the kirtan diwans.Every year many families have visited the camp to help out with the langar. As a family we have helped at several other camps held all over the country. In my local area I have been teaching Punjabi at the Gurdwara for the last 13 years. I also work with young children in a primary school as a teacher’s assistant.”

K Kaur, Woolwich

“Guru’s Kirpaa - The Gift of AmritToday my friend Bhaji Gupreet Singh Khalsa rang me. He recently took Amrit from Siri Anandpur Sahib while he was on a yatra trip visiting various Gurdwaras in India with a jatha from the UK. Gurpreet Singh was telling me about his visit to Sri Darbaar Sahib, Amritsar, Sri Hemkunt Sahib, Fatehgarh Sahib and Takhat Sri Keshgarh Sahib. Listening to his voice explaining the yatra and the anand (joy) of the experience overwhelmed me and me hairs on body feel tingly. I felt as if I was having darshan of the Gurdwaras in India which he had been to through listening to his experiences. August last year Bhaji Gurpreet Singh was cut-haired, and he used to be like the average Panjabi lad who drinks occasionally and goes out with his mates clubbing etc. However within this year Bhaji has internally flourished and the fragrance within has come and spread.I first met Bhaji at Sikh Student Camp in August 2004. I was originally sleeping alone in the balcony of the Diwaan Hall with one or two other sewadaars. A few days into the camp someone asked me to move into a room and sleep with the other campers, because the balcony floor was hard and uncomfortable. With Guru’s Kirpaa I met Bhaji Gurpreet Singh (Kent), Bhaji Amritpal Singh (Hayes), Bhaji Arvinder Singh (Reading), Bhaji Pardeep Singh and others who were sleeping in that room. We became friends and brothers and enjoyed having Gurmat Vichaar.I remember near the end of the camp Gupreet Singh told me that he had decided to stop shaving and trimming his hair and that he had gone off the thought of drinking alcohol and eating meat. The pyaar and shardaa that Bhaji and the other campers had for Sikhi was inspirational.Now look! A year later, Bhaji now asked Guru Ji for Amrit and became a member of the Khalsa. He practices rehat and does his nitnem (daily paath and simran). He is lucky that his father and mother are also Amritdhari. He said to me, “I have been reborn… After taking Amrit you see a whole new world… You cannot explain it in words”.(Quotes removed, please see full text to refer to them)My ardaas for Bhaji is that may he remain in chardikala and keep hold of the Guru’s feet. May the Guru continue to keep him on his path and hold his hand. :)”

posted by Manvir Singh Khalsa on his blog: http://manvirsingh.blogspot.com/2005_09_01_manvirsingh_archive.html

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh. “I was lucky enough to attend the 2005 Sikh Student Camp for a week. I thought the camp was absolutely fantastic. The actual reason I went was just to drop off my sisters but when I turned up and met the friendly Sikhs and took in the atmosphere I decided to stay for the week and I am so glad I did. The set up was brilliant from the website which gave you all the info you needed and also the camp itself. The venue could not have been better as it all the facilities we could want. The camp is not like other camps. As its mainly organized by younger Sikhs with the help of older members of the Sikh community, they understand how to make young Sikhs interested in their religion. At this camp they have a mixture of activities that will suit all and the amount of amazing friends and Sikhs you meet is incredible. You get to share your experiences and get to do seva that in a normal Gurdwarey the opportunity wouldn’t arise. The camp lets you get in touch with the real Sikhism and the spiritual feeling you get throughout the whole week is wicked. I made many good friends and learnt many things about Sikhism, people and life in general. All the people I speak to miss the camp so much and they cant wait to go back. I went last year and will be back this year. CANT WAIT!!!Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.”

G Singh, 22 Years Old, Bristol

“Everybody in this world is put here for a reason, and my purpose of existence in this world is to be united with God, the Almighty… The first time that I knew this was the life for me was two years ago at Sikh Student Camp in London.I felt intoxicated with love, love for my Guru, for God and for all my brothers and sisters. It was brilliant to see so many brothers and sisters immersed in Guru Jis love. It was like nothing I had ever seen or felt before.”

M Kaur, 20 years old, Harrow, Student

“Sikh Student camp was the first camp for adults that I attended when it started 5 years ago. At first it was just an excuse for me to chill out with my mates, but it soon became a major stepping stone in my spiritual progression. The simran, the sangat, the lectures, the seva and the chance to really experience sikhi, rather than just talk about it, have all kept me going back ever since. I have met the most amazing, open minded, challenging, inspiring and friendly sangat there many of whom have become very close friends of mine. Anyone who has been to the camp will tell you that the love you feel is out-standing. If you want a truly spiritual uplifting time and want to experience the great and profound revelations of our Gurus, then come to Sikh Student Camp, it WILL change your life.”

S Singh, 25, IT Graduate, West London ‘

‘Having attended Sikh Student Camp’s 2004 & 2005 I had a throroughly educative & spiritually uplifting experience on both occasions. I found the atmosphere at camp condusive to creativity & spiritual enlightenment. The people are what make it so special. The organisers & the campers work together in making a special event for all those involved. At camp I got to ask ”taboo” questions and learn so much about Sikhi and how it’s teachings can be practically applied in my life in all situations. I highly recommend Sikh Student Camp to all those who are interested in learning about the universal truths of the world in which we live.”

D Singh Dhillon, Age 21, BA Spansih & Philosohphy Student at Cardiff

“I’d like to take this chance to thank the sangat involved in Sikh Student Camp for their help in all areas of my life. I cannot begin to explain the profound effects it has had on my sikhi, my relationship with my family and friends, my confidence and my general happiness. If it wasn’t for them I would not look the way I do and I would not be studying philosophy and talking about Vaheguru all day long. As a 19 year old woman I received more respect from my brothers and sisters at camp than I have in any other sangat to date, be it sikh or non–sikh. The camp has truly provided me with the tools and positive energy to continue life in chardi kala.”

B Kaur, 19 years old, Kent

“I first went to sikh student camp in 2003 and was VERY reluctant to go at first but was dragged along by my cousin, but i am glad he did because it was definitely a life changing experience! i learnt SOO much at camp, how to diverse with like minded people, how to sit in Darbar for hours and not get bored!, i also learnt soo much about sikhi that i didnt even knew existed! sikh student helped to change my perspective on a lot of things in my life, general things as well as sikh things, i now look foward to going to the Gurdwara, listening to katha’s hearing hukamnama’s etc.. i felt safe at my first camp because all my cousins were with me but the year after they could not attend, so was again reluctant to go…but again i had an even better time than th first! the lectures are very well thought out and extremely thought provoking, rather than feeding us with th rights and wrongs of skhi and the do’s n dont’s we were encouraged to think and debate on a wide range of various issue’s. I also enjoyed th vast amount of activities that really brought us together like a big community in such a short space of time. So, to think at first I didn’t want to go, but by th end of the week I didn’t want to come home! i extremely recommend sikh student camp to everyone and anyone who is able to debate, diversify and add their own little spark in to the large fire that is sikh student camp.”

A, History and Study of Religion Student, SOAS

I have been to many camps since a very young age, and have found that every single one has something different to offer. Sikh Student Camp is unique in the sense that it gave me the oppurtunity to do things which I have never been able to do anywhere else, and I was inspired by the pyaar and motivation of individual sevadars to continue with these things every day of my life after camp. This camp provided me with such a chardi kala experience that I could not imagine having led my life without it and the many things that it has taught me.”

A Kaur, 17 years old, Kent

“I wasn’t doing anything in the summer of 2005 so I thought I’d visit camp. I went to Sikh Student Camp 2005 to learn more about Sikhi and learn more about the Sikh history, which I had only little knowledge about. I also had friends who encouraged me to come to camp as they had previously experienced it and very much enjoyed it. Throughout Sikh Student Camp 2005, I learnt so much about Sikhi in general. Even the basic principles of Sikhi were drawn to my attention. It was a very daunting as I didn’t know what to expect from camp but after the first couple of days I got used to it. The Kirtan and Katha from Sukha Singh, Ravinderpal Singh, and Captain Sukhdev Singh’s talks were very inspirtational. I also had the opportunity to do Seva with fellow campers, which I enjoyed. I also met some very interesting people and some good friends at camp.My life since camp has changed. I came back from camp with more knowledge and understanding of what Sikhi is all about and who our true Guru is. Since camp I have also started to listen to Kirtan which I hadn’t done in the past.At this moment I am working part time and looking for a full time career in my degree subject.”

G Singh, Age 23, London

“I grew up in New Zealand where there are not many Sikhs or Punjabis. The first Sikhs and Punjabis I met in the U.K. were at the Sikh Student Camp. I came to Sikh Student Camp and was totally shocked. The first thing I saw was everyone doing simran in the langar hall as it was being served. I had never seen so many turbans and so many young people wearing turbans in one place. I thought to myself that I will feel left out. But I felt at home. I was quite amazed to see so many educated professionals. I didn’t expect Sikhs to be so highly educated and into religion at the same time. I was deeply impressed with the guys who showed the qualities of true gurmukhs. A few people I remember from my first camp are Jujhar Singh who was always smiling and was doing durbar sahib seva. He had such a calm manner which made me feel that not all Singh’s with turbans are scary. Other people like Randeep also impressed me. Randeep touched me for his humbleness despite being so highly educated from Cambridge University.I found it a nice place and enjoyed. I learnt a lot and found my first experiences of amrit vela nitnem. Before attending camp I had never done panj bania da panth and after I have not missed a day. I have since taken Amrit and I owe this to Gurus blessings received at camp. I thought I would never be able to do Jaap Sahib but camp made me learn this. Everyone at camp was approachable and helped me learn my path and bania.. I was totally shocked that these people at camp had more sikhi values then people in India.I never expected to have such an experience. Especially in England. “

G Kaur , London, aged 30, Chartered Accountant.

“I have been going to the Sikh Student camp since it first began 4 years ago. It has taught me to be a better person. I believe I would not have got towhere I am if it was not for the people I met at this camp.”

S Singh, Age 23, Precision Engineer

“I have nothing but happy memories from all the Sikhi Camps I have been to (well, apart from the showers!)Sikhi Camp is a real refresher away from the daily grind of life. We have always come back buzzing with renewed inspiration and more insight into Sikhi which is difficult to do in our everyday lives. It is great to discuss genuine issues with people on a similar standing/age group rather than parents/religious leaders etc who may not be able to relate to youngsters.”

P Kaur, 26 Years Old, Ilford, Essex

“I have attended the Sikh Student Camp for a number of years and it has always been a positive experience. There are very few places within the community today that enable the younger generation to come together and really feel like they belong in the community. The enthusiasm of the organisers and the smiles on the faces of campers sums up why the camp should be supported by the sangat. Sikh Student camp attracts many Sikh youth on the basis that it promotes what many of us have forgotten and that is pyaar. This simple but fundamental trait of the Sikh Student Camp touches upon the core foundations of Sikhi, what many of us seem to forget in everyday life. It is obvious by the end of the camp week that the camp experience enables people who have barely been to a Gurdwara during the year, to actually form an attachment and link with Maharaj. The camp has such a positive effect on many peoples lives and it is a shame to forget these experiences on the basis of opinions by individuals who have themselves not been fortunate enough to experience the camp. It is true that noone is perfect, indeed no camp is perfect. However the Sikh Student camp team strive to enable future generations of Sikhs feel part of a community with their welcoming and friendly attitudes. To sum up I would strongly state that the wider community should realise that the Sikh Student Camp has had profound effects on the lives of many and in that I include myself. Without the camp we risk taking away the one medium in which many of the younger Sikhs in our community have to facilitate the creation of a bond with Sikhi. To take away camp would be to take away the opportunity of many to experience Sikhi.”

H Kaur, LLB

“It was the first time for me going to the Sikh Student Camp for that matter any camp at all, the Sikh Student Camp changed my life and all for the good.From the very first day that I went to camp I realised that this was the place where all our brothers / sisters should want to go at my age for the simple reason being everybody should get this chance to learn more about Sikhi.Not only was the discussions the whole experience of being at the Sikh Student Camp was great just to be around such caring people (Sangath) was amazing. The day that really inspired was the day we done kirtan outside on the grass that day felt like this was a whole new start for me and I felt like I had been blessed by Guru Ji, I felt so amazed I don’t even think words coulddescribe how I felt.It will nearly be a year since Sikh Student Camp 2005 but that experience I will never forget and for that matter I can’t wait for this years Sikh Student. I think the Seva everyone does to put this camp together is amazing and should keep up the great work because this really does make the difference to the Gursikhs out there today.”

S Kaur, Age 18, Sales Ledger Associate, Birmingham

“Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh. Sikh Student Camp has been one of the most important, inspiring and amazing experiences i have ever had! That may sound like an exageration but its not!.. The camp is excellent for those who know a little about there religion, or dont know very much at all, but want to know and find out more. I know people who have taken amrit as a result of attending this camp. The camp is inspirational, and emphasizes and expresses the love and beauty that Sikhi is about. The camp also emphasises the respect a sikh shud have for the Guru Granth Sahib Ji and for Sikhi in general. Never have i seen such emphasis made before in any Gurdwara!… Anyone who attends this camp is lucky and blessed!. I would recommend this camp to any young sikh person. The amount i learnt about Sikhi and what i have gained from it in regards to my personal sikhi is invaluable to me. Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh.”

G Singh, 23 years old, Business Entrepeneur

Sikh Student Camp experience (2005) Simran

Inspiration

Knowledge

Honesty

What does it mean to be a Sikh? This is just one of the questions I wanted to know the answer to when I went to Sikh Student Camp. I thought it would be quite hard to find the answer but I was mistaken.Before anyone said anything, the glow in the campers said a lot. Everyone was so friendly and open to discuss anything I wanted to talk about. The atmosphere was perfect. Being based at Guru Gobind Singh Khalsa College helped a lot, as all planned events were taking place at the same venue, including the sports events. To learn about Sikhi in such a friendly and happy way was an amazing point I learnt from the camp. Sometimes it seems that religion is only taught and understood in a strict manner, but I can confidently say that this I not the case. The camp made me realise that Waheguru always has His arms open for us, His children. Realising this, I saw how important a lesson camp had taught me. It was all through the hard work and dedication of the camp organisers.I left camp with a big smile on my face but at the same time with a tear in my heart, as camp was over for the year.I cannot wait for this year’s camp, as I’m sure it will be yet another great experience.Chardi Kalla all the way!!! “

S Singh Panesar, aged 23, Plumstead, Computer Programmer

“VJKK VJKF For the past few years since the Sikh Student Camp has been running, I have noticed that a few campers each year, leave the camp with alot more respect for Guru ji than they came with. There have been times at the darbar sahib, during the Kirtan when the whole sangat ( Campers & sevadars ) had tears of love. Such a spiritual atmosphere that one can remember it for a whole lifetime.One of the key components of Sikhi is love, love for Guru ji, love for all and I believe that this has been demonstrated at the camp. One tukh that I will always remember that I heard being quoted in one of the talks at the camp is“Sach kahoon sun leho sabeh, jin prem kiyo tin hi prab paiyo” ( forgive for the spelling mistakes)I am a “moorakh” who knows nothing, but I just hope I have another chance to do darshan of some of the amazing Gursikhs that come to the camp.

VJKK VJKF”

H Singh, East London

“I went to Sikh Student camp last year and can say with complete confidence that it changed me in a positive way. It made me a spiritually stronger person which can be fully supported by my parents. Everyone has noticed a great difference in the way I am after going to camp. I am in full support of the camp. They are helping the young Sikh generation to learn more about their own religion because nowadays us youngsters are not being encouraged and helped enough to learn and adapt Sikhi in ourlives. Overall I would recommend Sikh student camp to everyone and anyone because it is welcoming to any type of person.”

H Kallu, Gravesend. I am 19 years old and am studying Osteopathic Medicine in Surrey.

“I have been born And brought up in West London. My family are of punjabi background, and the punjabicultural influece was strong in my life growing up. I first attended Sikh Student Camp in 2003, which was an amazing experience for me, to the point that the following year I offered to help out as a sevadar.The strongest memory i have of camp was being approached by sevadars to do sehaj path seva. This was a very special experience for me because I had never got my head around the concept that I could do something like that. I thought only special people could do something like that, and plus I couldn’t read gurbani anyway, i had never had the opportunity to learn and had never needed to learn so had never made any efforts towards that direction. ‘why ask for directions for a road you have no plans to travel on?’However, at camp I was approached by sevadars to take part in reading. ‘I can’t read’..’its ok you can read in english’. All of a sudden the inaccessable was accessable. So I read in English. It was nice to read. But something was missing. The missing part was that I should have been reading the Gurmukhi. The camp was the push i needed to learn the language. Next time I wanted to be able to read in Gurmukhi, because now I was ‘allowed’ to read, so I wanted to do it properly. A door was opened. I had been lifted by the non-judgemental approach. I too was someone special, and special people had seen that and through their sight had allowed me to see it. For that I shall always be grateful for the gift that was given to me at camp. It was ok for me to be me because I was special. That was the first step towards my relationship with Guru Ji. As with all special relationships, that relationship grew. I learnt to read in Gurmukhi and then had the opportunity to take daily hukamnamas which totally changed my life. To the point that I could no longer go on without amrit which I was blessed with a year later.I want to be able to give back what was given to me. Being a sevadar of Sikh Student Camp is just a small way of being able to do that. As a sevadar of sikh student camp i have been blessed to hear the amazing stories and experiences of past campers. I wisheveryone could hear what i have heard and experienced from listening to the campers who have gone through the experience of camp.”

M Kaur, 31 years old.  School teacher 

“Camp for me is an event that I look forward to every single year. My only negative experience of camp is the lack of sleep, but even that adds to the experience of it. The Kirtan is always exceptionally moving and the talks are always inspiring. The greatest thing about Sikh Student Camp is that it is catered to suit all types of people, be that through lectures, events or kirtan. Each sevadar has their forte and they utilise that to the best of their abilities. I, or anyone I know, have never experienced any form of harassment or abuse that has recently been suggested by some people. The attitude/mentality at camp has always been that every Singh there is your brother, and every Kaur is your sister.Sikh Student Camp has inspired and changed the lives of many, and I have been a witness to that. “

J Kaur, Age 18, West London

“(I graduated this summer and hopefully will embark on an MA in Modern Literature in the Autumn. In my early years as an undergraduate, I had at best a tenuous link with the Sikh Society at university. Despite this, at the few meetings and gatherings that I did attend in those days, I made some acquaintances who gradually became friends. I found that this one particular penji would often mention a Sikh camp that she’d been to in the summer. She was so enthusiastic about it, and it was clear from the way that she smiled whenever she spoke about it that it meant a lot to her. When she asked me if I’d consider joining her at Sikh Student Camp, I found myself telling her that yes, I’d like to experience the camp myself. In all honesty, if it hadn’t been for her steadfast reminders and sheer enthusiasm for camp throughout the year, I would have forgotten that conversation and my words would have remained unfulfilled.I was blessed enough to have her at hand to remind me gently once term ended and after we broke up for the summer. We bounced emails in July and she kindly answered all of my questions. So August arrived and with it, those eventful seven days). What I experienced at Sikh Student Camp 2005 truly defies description, or what my language can express here, anyway. When asked why my time at Sikh Student Camp was so important, there’s only one simple answer I can possibly give: it gave me my first taste of Sikhi. I was 20 years old. This will sound bizarre at first, given that I was born into a Sikh background, to Punjabi parents. But investigate a little more and you will find that this is a common situation, a problem of epidemic proportions in our community. There are gaping holes in the knowledge and practice of many second generation sons and daughters.For me, Sikh Student Camp was the bridge, the stepping stone that allowed me to start to access the Sikhi that I had so often witnessed, but never experienced for myself before. I felt a change in me on the very first day when we sang the camp Shabad together. From that point on, I felt open to anything and so the week that followed was transcendent. Participating in the Kirtan felt like acceptance. The talks during the week affirmed what I had for so long believed to be just my own lofty and utopian ideals. Together with the other girls in my dorm, we would wake up earlier than required and rush to Darbar Sahib early in the morning to meditate on the name of the Lord. Unable to stop smiling, many of us felt unprecedented peace and simultaneous exuberance (I believe that it’s called it Chardi Kalla!)Finding a Sangat or a support system is undoubtedly one of the most important things to have come out of Sikh Student Camp. I was overwhelmed by the number of warm, articulate and devoted young people I met at camp. With such support, I have been presented with many opportunities for Seva. This ranges from being elected president of the Sikh Society at university in my final year; compiling the handbook for this year’s camp and being a group leader at a kid’s camp, to attending the odd soup run! Had I not gone to camp last year, had I not made such friends and had I not been given such opportunities for Seva, I do not know where I would be now. Together we strive to build our individual relationships with the Guru and our God. Our efforts are strengthened by our unity. Rumi’s words spring to mind:With friends you grow wings. Alone you are a single feather in disgrace.With them you master the wind, but alone, you are blown in all directions.Going to Sikh Student Camp opened my eyes, my mind and most importantly, my heart. It has impacted my perspective, my family and my future in ways that cannot be measured. I cannot say what life would be like had I not been there a year ago. It is something I don’t care to think about either; that’s someone else’s story now. All I know is that I’m ever grateful for the opportunities Sikh Student Camp has opened up for me. For the way it introduced my to my Guru and my God, who will help me master the wind.”

A Kaur, West London

“I Harvinder Kaur Dulku write this statement to confirm that I have been attending the Sikh Youth camp held at Chigwell for the past 2 years. I am 36 years old and have participated as a sewadar during these camps. During my attendance at the camp, I have never personally experienced/heard of any unpleasant moments with any members of the camp. We have enjoyed our week at camp, as there is a lot of indoors and outdoors activities organised by the camp organisers. I have left the camp at the end of the week feeling absolutely rejuvenated, knowledgeable, made loads of friends and look forward to going again this year. This will be a very special year as I will be bringing along my 2-year-old daughter and am absolutely looking forward to it and again I will be one of the sewadars.Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh”

H Kaur Dulku

“I have been camp for two years consecutively (2004-2005). My first time (like many campers) is an experience I never will forget.2004: the gift of a lifetime from MaharajI had been told a little about Sikh Student camp but wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. That’s the best way to go into camp. Expect nothing! One of my university mates had attended and had strongly recommended it as we worked together with our Sikh Society at university. Camp had this unexplainable ‘buzz’ where people were genuinely happy. group was perfect as the majority were university students or students who had just completed A Levels. Mature, open minded, loving people was our 2004 sangat.I had this constant smile on my face throughout the week and it wasn’t just me. The pyar was infectious. It was like being taken out of the real world, away from the panj chor, away from bad sangat, away from everything that bought people down and put into an environment full of positive light, people helping one another; be it in the langar hall, in lectures or on the field during activities. It was truly amazing. The connection felt in the sangat was out of this world. Nothing in this world compares. The evenings spent with Guru ji and the sangat are indescribable. It was a place you wanted to be forever and ever. The night when I came back home I cried. I cried my eyes out. I missed the sangat. I missed not seeing Guru Ji. I missed camp so much.2005: the recharge of the yearI went back to camp as during the year after 2004 camp I didn’t give much time for simran, sangat or sewa as it was final year studies at university. I went back to once again experience the connection that I missed so much. I felt incomplete without it.There were brilliant keertan moments whilst the sangat sang “Sajanrra mere Sajanrra” which did really bring everyone together. That was truly amazing. The togetherness felt whilst doing sewa for the nishaan sahib was amazing. As I watched everyone stand for ardaas and saw the amazing beam light that the nishaan sahib gave, I felt proud. Another amazing thing about camp washow I realised the power of sangat and simran together. People at camp did not judge me for who I am. People all over the place judge me for talking about Sikhi or having an interest when I don’t look like the model Sikh. But Sikh Student allowed me to realise and understand bani and made me realise that God is within and found with true love “Jin Prem kiyo tin he Prabh payo.” I learnt the importance of keeping kesh and although I am not quite there yet I hope to be in the future.Why have I become a sewadaar?I felt from inside I had to do this. The Hukamnama this morning (07 August 2006) from Darbar Sahib explained“Gur kee tahal guroo kee sayvaa gur kee aagi-aa bhaanee.” “Tahal” means to work for, to serve upon. Doing the work of the Guru “Guroo kee sayvaa” (the selfless service of the Guru) and living by the Guru’s command, decree, word “aagi-aa”. “Bhaanee” means I have fallen in love with them, I love them. I love doing this. I don’t do “sayvaa” because I have to but because I love to and I live to.

This is why I have become a sevadar in Sikh Student Camp. It has allowed me to experience what it means to do seva and no better place then to show this at camp. It gives me a chance to give back what I have taken out.

I thank you Guru Ji. I may not be part of the Khalsa but I am on this beautiful path of Sikhi. Please bless your daughter by allowing me to continually walk on this path and serve you by seva, simran and sangat.

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh”

S Kaur, West London, 22 Years Old,

“I went to the Sikh Student Camp 2005 as I felt that I had some free time before a full time career or further study. I wanted to do something productive and learn more about Sikhism. I thought the student camp would offer some good lectures as I had been to a few Sikh Student events throughout the year. During my week at the camp I discovered that many people my age could read paath and Gurbani, sing kirtan and carry out a Sikh life. This inspired me to want to learn panjabi and gurmukhi and since camp i have been attending weekly adult classes in Sikhism and Punjabi. At the camp I also fell in love with Kirtan which I didn’t quite understand before or feel the power of the word of god. But the kind, respectful and non-judgemental environment at the camp made me feel really good and comfortable and allowed me to learn a lot about Sikhism. I also enjoyed the activities throughout the week, which were provided by the metropolitan police, army, and royal airforce, this allowed me to see how I can live a good Sikh lifestyle with a career in one of these services. I also enjoyed the lectures by Navleen Kaur, Mr SikhNet, Mr Davinder Singh, and Peter Singh who taught me about Maharaja Ranjit Singh and his son Dulip Singh and the sikh history. It was great seeing real life newspaper articles from newspapers from the same date as Vaisakhi 1699 and of Udham Singh from 1940’s.All in all, during the week I learned a huge amount about Sikhism and why Sikhs practice their way of life, as sometimes my parents cannot explain these things to me and I was also able to do Guru Granth Sahib Ji seva which I cannot often do in the local Gurdwara. I learnt how I can incorporate Sikhism into my daily life style and I met a great sadh sangat, some of which are really close friends of mine now, one year later. I will defiantly be going to Sikh Student Camp 2006 and I will be taking my sister, cousins and friends with me and hope they can have a life changing experience, like I had.Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ke Fateh!Sorat’h, Fifth Mehla:God is the Lord and Master of millions of universes; He is the Giver of all beings.He ever cherishes and cares for all beings, but the fool does not appreciate any of His virtues. ||1||I do not know how to worship the Lord in adoration.I can only repeat, “”Lord, Lord, Guru, Guru.”"O Dear Lord, I go by the name of the Lord’s slave. ||Pause||The Compassionate Lord is Merciful to the meek, the ocean of peace; He fills all hearts.He sees, hears, and is always with me; but I am a fool, and I think that He is far away. ||2||

The Lord is limitless, but I can only describe Him within my limitations; what do I know, about what He is like?

I offer my prayer to my True Guru; I am so foolish - please, teach me! ||3||

I am just a fool, but millions of sinners just like me have been saved.

Those who have heard, and seen Guru Nanak, do not descend into the womb of reincarnation again. ||4||2||13||”

P Singh, 22, London, Currently studying MSc, attended Sikh Student Camp 2005

My name is Balvinder Kaur and I am 34 years old. I have been participating the Sikh youth camp held at Chigwell for the past 3 years. I am actively involved as a security and youth events organiser at the Sikh Youth camp. I have been attending camp with my 11-year-old son who tremendously enjoys his week there. This camp is full of challenging and fun activities for everyone to participate and enjoy.There is so much peace and love from everyone and my son really looks forward to making new and meeting up with his old friends at this camp. We are both going again this year. This camp has given us both a very positive outlook in life and something good to look forward to during the school holidays.

B Kaur

“I Savendar Kaur am 58 years old and am a regular attendee at the Sikh Youth camp held at Chigwell for the past 3 years. I participate as a sewadar for the Langar sewa during these camps. I have personally never experienced or noticed any unpleasant moments with any members of the camp. There is a great deal of respect shown to everyone attending camp including the young and old participants. I have enjoyed my week at camp, as there is a lot of indoors and outdoors activities organised by the camp organisers. This camp is truly a very positive and challenging experience personally for my family and me who attend this camp. The feeling of belonging to a big happy family is what I miss most when I leave camp. I certainly look forward to attending camp again this year.Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.”

S Kaur