Basics of Sikhi Podcast

Who is kirtan really for: the Guru or the crowd? Bhai Kultar Singh Ji, the 13th generation of a family of kirtanis going back to Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s time, shares the rule his father gave him: sing it for the Guru, not for the Sangat.

Bhai Kultar Singh Ji is a direct descendant of Bhai Sadharan, a disciple of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Bhai Sadharan was the second head of the Dharamsal, the school of learning Guru Nanak Dev Ji founded at Kartarpur (now in Pakistan) in 1521, and was given a Manji (a seat of te...

Gurbani Kaur grew up with Lamborghinis and designer bags. Yet the moment she felt like “the wealthiest person in the world” came from being surrounded by Gurbani and the love of Sangat. In this episode of the Finding Sikhi Podcast, Gurbani Kaur Bhenji shares her journey from a life centred on appearance and material wealth to finding strength, identity and belonging through the Guru. She opens up about arriving at the Gurdwara during a dark time at university, feeling she wasn’t good enough to wear a Dastaar or take Amrit, and the Gursikhs who supported her family when they l...

Eight years to translate Japji Sahib into English poetry. Bhai Satpal Singh explains why it took that long.

Bhai Satpal Singh, founder of Nanak Naam, joins Basics of Sikhi TV for a two and a half hour conversation about Gurbani, meditation and the project he could not put down: a poetic Japji Sahib English translation, set to music and structured as the question and answer that Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Bani has always been.

He explains why the existing English translations of Japji Sahib never carried the depth he found in...

An astrologer told Bhai Bahadar Singh’s family that he would live only until the age of 9. Now 87+, he shares the blessing he received from Baba Nand Singh Ji and his rare personal memories of Baba Isher Singh Ji of Nanaksar Kaleran.

In this special BoS TV Gurmukh Series conversation, Bhai Bahadar Singh takes us from village Bagh in pre-Partition Punjab to Nanaksar, Baghdad and Britain.

He recounts his family’s close relationship with Baba Nand Singh Ji, the years in which he received the darshan and Sangat of Baba Isher Singh Ji, and three unfo...

Was Sikhi ever meant to be only a private religion?

In this BoS TV podcast, Bhai Ranveer Singh author of Patshahi Mehima: Revisiting Sikh Sovereignty and founder of Khalis House explains why Patshahi, political freedom and institution-building run throughout Sikh history, from Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Kartarpur Sahib to June 1984 and the modern conversation surrounding Khalistan.

Ranveer Singh shares how questions about Sant Jarnail Singh Ji, the Sikh struggle and June 1984 led him backwards through 1978, 1947 and 1849 and ultimately to the time of the Gurus.

He argues...

Why would a British atheist become a Sikh at just 17?

Bishan Singh also known as Sam Ashton, shares how reading the Quran, Bible, Bhagavad Gita and Guru Granth Sahib Ji ultimately led him to Sikhi.

In this episode of the Finding Sikhi Podcast, Bishan Singh shares his complete journey from questioning religion to discovering Bhai Jagraj Singh, wearing a Dastar to school, taking Amrit and learning Gurmukhi from scratch.

Raised in a white British family in Nottingham, Bishan grew up with little connection to organised religion. As a teenager...

They threatened his wife and children. His response was not fear, it was Chardi Kala.

In this powerful live BoS TV podcast, Bhai Moninder Singh Ji speaks openly about Sikh activism, death threats, Shaheedi, Sikh Raj, Khalistan, anxiety, attachment, bullying, family, and what it means to stay rooted in Guru Sahib when fear is being used to silence the Panth.

This is not just a political conversation. It is a deeply personal and Panthic conversation about death, courage, responsibility, and living as a Sikh when the cost of speaking the truth...

From the dancefloor to wearing full Bana 24/7; Dharmveer Singh's journey to Sikhi is one of the most honest, inspiring and relatable stories we've ever heard on this podcast. Born and bred in Edinburgh, Scotland, Dharmveer grew up in a typical Punjabi household, Gurdwara on Sundays, meat on the table, and clubs on the weekends. But something was pulling him in a different direction. A cousin's invitation to a Rehras Sahib class, a moment in a nightclub mirror, and a heart attack at just 38 years old all became turning points on a path that would lead him to Amrit, full...

On April 29th, 1986, the Sikh Panth stood at a crossroads. Today, marking exactly 40 years since the Khalsa Declaration Day, we dive into the mechanics of Sikh sovereignty. This isn’t just a history lesson—it’s a masterclass on the systems, structures, and spiritual authority that define the Khalsa Panth.

In this podcast, we explore the transition from the Guru’s period to the 18th-century Jathas, the weight of a 'Gurmatta', and the pivotal events of the 1986 Sarbat Khalsa following the aftermath of 1984.

In this episode, we answer:

What is the difference between a Gurdwa...

In this special Gurmukh Series episode, we explore the inspiring life, seva, discipline, and spiritual fragrance of Bhagat Jaswant Singh Ji through the memories and experiences of the main sevadars of Gursevak.com.

From Bhagat Ji’s early life and training in the Damdami Taksal, to their lifelong dedication to Shudh Gurbani Ucharan, Gurbani arth, recording katha, Mangal Shudhai, and preserving Gurmat for future generations, this podcast looks at the jeevan of a truly remarkable Gursikh. We also hear personal stories of Bhagat Ji’s humility, discipline, compassion, and the lasting impact they had on thos...

Discover the inspiring life of Sant Baba Isher Singh Ji of Nanaksar Kaleran, a revered Sikh saint born on 26th March 1913 in Jhoraran, Ludhiana. Serving and carrying forward the legacy of Sant Baba Nand Singh Ji with deep devotion, Baba Ji’s life emphasises absolute reverence for Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji as the living Guru. Through his travels across India, he spread the message of Gurbani, encouraged countless Sikhs to take Amrit. Baba Ji’s life is a reflection of humility, seva, and unwavering faith in their Satguru, Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and complete surrender to their spir...

300 years ago, one man’s refusal to bow down sparked a revolution that saved the Sikh identity. In this hard-hitting episode of BOSTV, we dive deep into the life and Shaheedi (martyrdom) of Baba Tara Singh Ji Vaan. By 1726, after the Shaheedi of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur (1716), many Sikhs had begun to settle into "normal" life, attempting to integrate into a society that oppressed them... until Baba Tara Singh Ji stood up. We explore the incredible accounts from Bhai Rattan Singh Bhangoo’s Prachin Panth Prakash, detailing how a simple dispute over grazing land turned into a legendary stand agai...

From feeling lost in faith to finding “home” in the Gurdwara, Ram Kaur Bhenji shares her powerful journey into Sikhi. Raised in London with Caribbean roots, Ram Kaur describes how her search for truth led her to Sikh teachings, seva, and eventually the life-changing decision to take Amrit.

In this episode we discuss:

• Losing belief and searching for truth

• Researching Sikhi and the first visit to the Gurdwara (Southall, Park Avenue)

• The transformative power of Langar & Seva

• Amrit: surrender, discipline, and what changed after

• Dastaar, identity, and walking throug...

In the final episode of this podcast series, we journey through the most defining chapter of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s life - the ultimate expression of courage, compassion, and faith.

This episode explores the moment Guru Ji stood fearlessly against tyranny to defend the sacred right of others to follow their own faith. Experience the profound exchange between Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and the oppressive Aurangzeb - a timeless confrontation between light and darkness.

We also reflect on Guru Ji’s final moments, as they speak words of peaceful strength even to his executioner. The...

A Diwali / Bandi Chhor Divas Special | Finding Sikhi Series

This Diwali, as the world celebrates light over darkness and freedom from captivity, we share the powerful story of Dilveer Singh, a man who truly lived that message. Dilveer grew up in a typical Punjabi Sikh household, but with little Sikhi in his life. As a teenager, he got caught in the wrong crowd, falling into drug and alcohol addiction that eventually led to prison. It was inside those prison walls, in the darkest place of his life; that Dilveer discovered the light of Guru Sahib. Through Sikhi...

In this epic fourth part of our podcast series, we follow Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s incredible journey across the eastern lands of India — a chapter filled with blessings, miracles, and timeless lessons. From leaving Bakala Sahib and founding Anandpur Sahib, to travelling across countless villages, Guru Ji spreads light wherever they go — healing the sick, humbling kings, guiding seekers, and establishing new centres of Sikhi. This episode takes you through rarely heard stories — from the Makho Daint encounter, the Muslim Pir’s transformation, to the miraculous birth of Sri Gobind Rai Ji (Guru Gobind Singh Ji) in Patna Sahi...

This podcast marks 30 years since the Shaheedi of Bhai Jaswant Singh Ji Khalra — one of the most renowned Sikh figures of the 20th and 21st century, celebrated worldwide for their fearless human rights work.

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In this special podcast, Sant Baba Baljinder Singh Ji and Sant Hari Singh Ji come together for a rare and enlightening Q&A session. From the mystery of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s return to the practical steps of Naam Simran and Amrit Vela, this episode is packed with timeless wisdom, inspiring stories, and deep spiritual insights. This release is in tribute and remembrance of Sant Baba Baljinder Singh Ji, Mukh Sevadar Rara Sahib - (1962-2025).

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YOUTUBE: BoSTV - https://bit.ly/3rYk5IW

INSTAGRAM: @basicsofsikhi.tv - www.instagram.com/basicsofsikhi.tv

🙏 Pl...

A rare, heartfelt sit-down with the family of Amar Shaheed Bhai Amrik Singh Ji (AISSF President), recorded at Gurdwara Guru Nanak Smethwick, sharing intimate memories of Sant Giani Kartar Singh Ji (13th Jathedar, Damdami Taksal), Sant Jarnail Singh Ji, and Sant Baba Thakur Singh Ji. With English subtitles, this Q&A captures how Gurmat shaped their home, from early Santhia and Nitnem to the testing years around 1978–84. Guests: Mata Harmeet Kaur Ji (wife of Bhai Amrik Singh Ji), Bhai Tirlochan Singh Ji, Bibi Satwant Kaur Ji, and Bhai Jarnail Singh Ji. What you’ll hear:

Through this English audiobook, experience an authentic Sikhi guide to Naam Simran (meditation) through a historic discourse of Sant Ishar Singh Ji (Rara Sahib), a practical “map” of the inner journey, from understanding Naam to the stages of Simran and spiritual states that unfold with practice. This English audiobook is based on Sant Ji’s bachans recorded in London (Finchley), U.K. in 1974, later transcribed and translated into English for Sangat. It explores: What is Naam? Who is Vaheguru? Sat–Chit–Anand, true happiness, the stages of spiritual enlightenment, deepening concentration in Simran, and experiences at the Dasam Duar (10th spiritu...

In this episode of our Sikh History Podcast, we continue the remarkable journey of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and Bhai Makhan Shah Lubhana. Following the dramatic confrontation at Bakala, tensions rise as jealousy and greed burn within Dheermal and the masands.

This chapter explores one of the most powerful lessons of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s life – that forgiveness is not forgetfulness. Even in the face of betrayal, and attempts to undermine the Guru’s mission, Guru Ji responds with calm, divine wisdom and compassion.

Missed the earlier episodes? Catch up here:

Episode 1 – https...

Welcome to Part 2 of our special 5-part podcast series dedicated to commemorating the 350th Shaheedi Divas of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji, the Ninth Guru of the Sikhs and the protector of faith.

In this powerful episode, we trace the deeply spiritual and historic moments leading up to the revelation of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji as the True Guru, following the final days of Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji and his cryptic last words: “Baba Bakala.”

This episode explores the confusion that followed, the rise of 22 impostor claimants to Guruship, the deception of the...

In this explosive Reaction Video, we dive deep into the controversial legacy of KPS Gill, uncovering shocking truths and secrets hidden behind his carefully curated image. Responding directly to the claims made by KPS Gill’s brother, we explore the stark realities of Punjab's turbulent past, police brutality, and the ongoing struggle for justice.

📌 Highlights Include:

- The real reason behind the ongoing admiration for Sant Jarnail Singh and Shaheed Singh Singhnia worldwide.

- Challenging the narrative: Did KPS Gill truly end terrorism in Punjab?

- Exposing the brutal tactics and dark...

What Really Happened Inside Darbar Sahib in June 1984?

In this powerful first-hand account, Bibi Satwant Kaur Ji – daughter of Bhai Amrik Singh Ji and granddaughter of Sant Giani Kartar Singh Ji – shares her emotional experience of the attack on Sri Darbar Sahib during Operation Blue Star.

🎙️ Speaking as an eyewitness to the events of June 1984, Bibi Ji reflects on the legacy of her father, the vision of Sant Jarnail Singh Ji Bhindranwale, and the pain of watching the destruction of Sri Harmandir Sahib unfold in real time.

🔥 In This Episode:

The role of a Si...

From Islam to Sikhi: Haneet Kaur’s Powerful Journey of Faith, Healing & Identity!

In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Haneet Kaur, who shares her powerful story of leaving Islam and embracing Sikhism (Sikhi). Raised in a traditional Muslim Bengali family, Haneet struggled with feelings of disconnection, depression, and fear of judgement when questioning her faith.

Everything changed when her husband began coming closer to Sikh teachings, and she first heard the Naam Simran he was listening to. The peace and spiritual connection she felt was unlike anything she had ever experienced in Is...

In this gripping podcast (filmed in September 2024), we journey through one of the most turbulent and inspiring periods of Sikh history — the rise of the Khalsa Panth, its survival during oppression, and its eventual establishment of Khalsa Raj. From the courageous battles of the 18th century to the visionary leadership of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Ji, we explore the unparalleled spirit that allowed the Khalsa to thrive against all odds.

A big thankyou to Bhai Prabjot Singh for hosting this podcast and Bhai Mandhir Singh for sharing their gems of knowledge!

💥 Timestamps & Key Topics Covered:

0:0...

In this powerful first episode of our new special podcast series – Patshahi 9, marking 350 years since the Shaheedi of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, we explore the divine coming of history’s most fearless and spiritually elevated souls.

Learn about the birth of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the youngest son of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, and witness how this divine child was destined to walk the path of Bhagti (meditation) and Bir Rass (warrior spirit) from the very beginning.

🔹 Discover Guru Ji’s early interactions with his family,

🔹 The first battle he fought alongside his father,<...

"I Lost Everything… But Found Sikhi | Japjeet Kaur’s Journey"

Japjeet Kaur left behind her career, family, and everything she knew to follow Sikhi. But as she beautifully puts it—"I didn’t find Sikhi… the Guru found me."

In this episode of Finding Sikhi, she shares:

✨ Growing up Catholic & questioning faith

✨ First hearing Gurmantar & Mool Mantar

✨ Visiting Sri Harmandir Sahib for the first time

✨ Taking Amrit & transforming her life

✨ The challenges & blessings of being a Non-Punjabi Sikh

💡 "You don’t need to be perfect to walk this p...

Join us for an exclusive conversation with the team behind Virasati Asthan Seva a charity dedicated to preserving and conserving historic Sikh heritage sites. In this insightful episode, we explore why Sikh heritage is at risk and how collective efforts can help safeguard our rich legacy for future generations.

🙏 What You’ll Learn:

- What is Virasati Asthan Seva, and why was it formed?

- The importance of preserving Sikh heritage and historical Asthaans.

- How Sikh heritage sites have evolved over time and their current state.

- Challenges faced...

Dive deep into the visionary leadership and Raajneeti of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji and uncover the profound journey that shaped the Khalsa and transformed the course of history. In this insightful conversation with Satnam Singh, author of The Road to Empire, we explore the political education, spiritual philosophy, and revolutionary vision that Guru Ji instilled in the Sikh community during the late 1600s.

💡 What You'll Learn in This Video:

- The untold story of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s transformative leadership.

- How education and wisdom became the foundation of the Khalsa.

...

Dive into the extraordinary life and teachings of Sant Baba Harnam Singh Ji Rampur Khera Wale, a legendary spiritual figure whose humility, devotion, and selfless service continue to inspire generations. This episode of the Gurmukh Series is based on the acclaimed biography “Se Kinehiya”, a life-changing book that captures Baba Ji’s profound spiritual journey and timeless lessons.

🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

•⁠ ⁠Baba Ji’s incredible discipline and spiritual practices rooted in seva (selfless service) and complete surrender to the Guru.

•⁠ ⁠How Baba Ji connected directly with the Guru Sahibs through darshan and divin...

Step into part 2 of the profound life and teachings of Sant Baba Nand Singh Ji, a revered spiritual figure who embodied humility, devotion, and selfless service. This video dives deep into key moments, lessons, and stories from Baba Ji’s spiritual journey that continue to inspire seekers of truth. 🌸

✨ What You'll Learn in This Video:

- The characteristics of a true Sant, as described in Vichar Mala Granth.

- Unveiling the Khat Sampatti (Six Inner Treasures) and their significance.

- The establishment of Nanaksar's daily routine and maryada.

- Humblin...

In the final Installment of our special 3-part podcast series marking 40 years since the November 1984 Sikh Genocide in Delhi, we delve into the aftermath of one of the most tragic and horrific chapters in modern Sikh history.

Part 3 focuses on the aftermath of the genocide, exploring the responses of the Indian Government, the international community, and the Sikh community. We dissect the various official commissions set up by the Indian government in an attempt to investigate the events of November 1984 — commissions that, rather than delivering justice, often served to bury the truth and protect the perpetrators of th...

In this powerful episode of our three-part special series, we delve into the harrowing events that marked the beginning of the Sikh Genocide in November 1984. Join us as we uncover the systematic targeting and slaughter of Sikhs by the Indian government, police, and civilians during this dark chapter in history.

We discuss the widespread disinformation that fuelled the violence and the alarming level of coordination that allowed such atrocities to unfold. Through chilling firsthand accounts, we shed light on the horrific experiences of Beadi, rape, torture, and death faced by countless individuals.

This episode aims...

Join us for Part 1 of a compelling 3-part series commemorating 40 years since the tragic events of November 1984 in Delhi. This episode provides crucial context surrounding the Sikh Genocide, exploring the complex legacy of Indira Gandhi, who served as Prime Minister of India. We delve into her controversial use of violence to maintain stability of perceived threats across the country.

Having previously covered the events of June 1984, we turn our focus to the lives and motivations of Bhai Beant Singh, Bhai Satwant Singh, and Bhai Kehar Singh—key figures who orchestrated the assassination of Indira Gandhi. Discover insights an...

Welcome to our podcast episode introducing the groundbreaking Sikh Kirtan Exam! Join us as we dive deep into the rich world of Raag Kirtan and explore the significance of this new educational opportunity.

In this episode, we start by getting to know our guests: Dr Harjinder Singh Lallie and Bibi Sukhmani Kaur and their journeys into the world of Kirtan. We discuss where their interest in Kirtan originated and unpack concepts around Raag Kirtan. Through engaging analogies, such as comparing Kirtan to the Mona Lisa and using paint as a metaphor for Raag, we illustrate the beauty...

Join us for an insightful conversation with Davinder Toor, a renowned Sikh artefact collector and expert on Maharaja Ranjit Singh's incredible legacy. In this episode, we explore rare artefacts, untold stories, and the inspiring journey of preserving Sikh heritage.

What To Expect 🔎

The inspiring life of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and his timeless legacy.

Davinder Toor's journey into artefact collection and the challenges of preserving Sikh history.

The Wallace Collection exhibition: a deep dive into Sikh culture and artefacts.

The role of Sikhs and Gurdwaras in preserving cultural heritage.

🔗...

We are blessed to have the honor of hosting Baba Jagjit Singh Ji, who shares his incredible journey through life, spirituality, and devotion; exploring his experiences with various Mahapursh.

🔹 Life Journey and Spiritual Path Baba Jagjit Singh Ji opens up about his own life, tracing his spiritual journey and the milestones that shaped his devotion and understanding of Sikhi.

🔹 Sangat with Baba Jwala Singh Ji Harkhowale Discover how Baba Ji had the blessed opportunity to do sangat with Baba Jwala Singh Ji Harkhowale, learning invaluable lessons and deepening his spiritual insight.

🔹 Obtaining Vidhya from Nirm...

Dive into the transformative journey of Bhai Jagjit Singh. Witness his inspirational path from his early involvement in martial arts to navigating gang conflicts in Southall. Discover how he bridges the gap between Punjabi parents and kids, addresses grooming issues, and how he found solace and inspiration at Sikhi programs and camps from such a young age.

Bhai Sahib shares his encounters with influential figures like Bhai Rama Singh Ji, Bhai Bhai Jivan Singh and Bhai Sohan Singh Ji and their impact on his spiritual journey. Delve into topics like dementia and meditation, the power of Nitnem...

Welcome to the Q&A session following our four-part podcast series commemorating 40 years since June 1984. In this session, we answer your questions about the historical, political, and social aspects of this significant period.

Join us as we delve deep into these questions, providing historical context and addressing contemporary concerns. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated with our latest content.

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www.basicsofsikhi.com...