Chardi Kala lives in all of us! It is a call to rise, serve, and live with joy, even through pain. In today’s world, nurturing this light isn’t just an aspirational virtue—it’s a responsibility we carry, both for ourselves and for future generations.
Guru Sahib then initiated the Amritpaan ceremony. Amrit was prepared in an iron bowl, filled with water and patasse (sugar crystals), and stirred with the khanda (the double-edged sword) while Gurbaani was being recited. Firstly, Amrit was administered from Guru Sahib to the Panj Pyare, then, astoundingly, from the Panj Pyare to Guru Sahib himself. In a revolutionary step, their last names, the indicators of caste and division, were scrapped and replaced with "Singh" and "Kaur.” Thus, the Khalsa, a casteless community of Amritdhari Gursikhs, was born.
Every April, communities across Canada unite to raise awareness about the life-saving impact of organ and tissue donation, with National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Month at its core. It’s a time to spark vital conversations with loved ones about the lasting impact of donation. Fittingly, April also marks Sikh Heritage Month, offering a timely opportunity to explore the cultural and spiritual connections between Sikh values and the act of giving life.
Globally, we will be celebrating the 326th birthday of the formation of the order of Khalsa this year. The word Khalsa originates from the word khalis, meaning pure. Khalsa is pure in thoughts, pure in action, and pure in commitment.
As we honor the Sikh Heritage Month and prepare for Vaisakhi, it’s important to understand the significance of the five Ks of Sikhi. Initiated (Amritdhari) Sikhs commit to following the Sikh Code of Conduct, which includes daily meditation and wearing the five Sikh articles of faith, also known as the five Ks or panj kakaar, at all times. The 5 Ks date from the creation of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. They are not only an external aspect of a Sikh's identity but also represent deep spiritual commitments. Initiated Sikhs regard them as a part of their body. The five Ks are as follows:
The recent cap on international student admissions in Canada has sent ripples through universities nationwide, disrupting enrollment patterns, financial planning, and student experiences. For institutions that have had student populations woven with a multicultural fabric for years, the impact has brought about significant challenges spanning across multiple areas.
