• Vaisakhi: A Future of Green Nagar Kirtans
• Sikh Environment Day: Full Report 2013
• Sikhs Run for a Cause
• We’re Hiring! Job Opportunities with EcoSikh

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The New York Times recently covered the Sarbat Da Bhala Garden in Fresno California in an article on community gardens in immigrant and refugee communities.

‘The thinking of community leaders and health professionals is that gardens can help foster resiliency and a sense of purpose for refugees, especially older ones, who are often isolated by language and poverty and experiencing depression and post-traumatic stress.’

Below is an excerpt of the the article. You can read the full article here and view photos here.

At the new Punjabi Sikh Sarbat Bhala Community Garden, which means “may good come to all,” older Sikhs are mentors to younger gardeners, instructing them on how to harvest fenugreek seeds and use a hand sickle called a datri.

The old men who were farmers in India share memories of oxen races and tell folk tales that invariably end with a moral: hard work pays off.

Amandip Singh Gill, a 32-year-old garden organizer, observed that in the Gurdwara, or temple, “guys have to maintain a successful persona. You can’t say: ‘Oh, man, I just lost my job. How will I support my family?’ But here,” he said of the garden, “a shared history kicks in.”

In a warehouselike shelter, they gather to discuss mental health and community concerns, including a recent attack on an 82-year-old Sikh in Fresno who was beaten with a steel rod. The plan is to bring counseling and other social services to the garden, Mr. Gill said.

The young novices include Parmeshvar Kaur Dhaliwal, a high school senior, who is part of a group of female gardeners.

Ms. Dhaliwal was pruning as the night turned cool, a stack of rubber message bracelets — including ones for Sikh unity and Fresno conservation — on her wrist.

“Young women have to prove ourselves more than our brothers do,” she said. So the group members supports one another, “especially if a girl is down,” she said.

Arminder Singh, a young gardener and a former gang member, said he found himself fortified by his elders, including his grandfather, as they hoe and weed side by side.

“When I used to have free time, I didn’t know what to do,” he said. “Here, I don’t have to sit at home thinking about the past and what I don’t have.”

Please visit this link to read the report online or click to download the report as PDF.

The Sikh Environment Day 2013 (Sikh Vatavaran Diwas) proved a massive celebration with high enthusiasm and valuable participation from the Sikh community worldwide. More than 1500 Sikh Gurdwaras, organizations, academic institutions and members of the Sikh community at large celebrated this meaningful day. March 14th, an important day in Sikh history, commemorates the Gurgaddi Diwas (Enthronement Day) of our Seventh Guru, Guru Har Rai Saheb. To celebrate his legacy for love of nature and its biodiversity, Sikh Environment Day began as a grassroots movement three years ago. And with each year’s growing success, the impact on an individual as well as on a global level has been tremendous. Like previous year’s efforts, this year also trees were planted by young and adults alike, new vegetable and fruit gardens were installed for organic kitchen gardening, and seminars and workshops were organized to engage the community in a thoughtful dialogue for the future of a sustainable Mother Earth! EcoSikh team has compiled an extensive report on this year’s Sikh Environment Day celebrations.

This year the day falls on July 6, 2013, and Eco Amritsar will join hands with the SGPC, the administration, NGO’s and citizens at large to engage with the people of this Holy City to care for its natural resources and preserve its habitat and heritage for the future. Over 100,000 pilgrims and tourists visit Amritsar and many more visit on auspicious days.

Gunbir Singh, who has been asked by EcoSikh of America to head Eco Amritsar programme, said, “A sustainable, clean and well thought solution is needed for the city. We are inviting all citizens to adopt the maxim of Amritsar-My City, My Pride, My Responsibility, and join in this holistic program. The endeavour seeks to synergise the strengths of like – minded organisations and people towards a proud future for the city.”
Eco Amritsar committee members, who met over the weekend to plan the strategy, included: Gunbir Singh, AIPL Col. Kuldeep Singh Sandhu, Punjab Pollution Control Board’s Kuldeep Singh, Roop Singh, a Sikh Scholar and SGPC’s secretary, Dr. Balwinder Singh from Guru Nanak Dev University, Dr. H.P.Singh of GNDU, Arvinder Singh Chamak President of All India Brick Kiln Association, Dr. Dharamvir Singh from Chief Khalsa Diwan, Dr. Gurpreetinder Singh, psychiatrist, Indu Arora of Voice of Amritsar, Dr. Amrik Singh, President of Indian Medical Association in Amritsar, and Ravneet Singh, EcoSikh Program Manager in India. Dr. Rajwant Singh from Washington will also be a part of the group. This group will engage people from all over the world to join in this drive via social media. Baba Sewa Singh of Khadur Sahib and other learned members of the Sant Samaj shall be approached to lead the plantation and sustainability drive.

The Amritsar Foundation Day celebrations will include tree plantations and greening drives, art competitions and exhibition, green marches, street folk theater (nukkad natak), sustainable health fair by the medical community, video presentations, awareness campaign and bill boards by major national and international businesses. Natural remediation to agriculture and urban green belts shall be showcased. Media as print, audio and TV-media support shall be sought, along with social media and mobile phone application for engaging citizen activism.

“We have high hopes for Amritsar Foundation Day on July 6th and we are confident that it will reinforce the love and care for this spiritual city” said Dr. Rajwant Singh, EcoSikh’s President. He added, “Time has come that we commit ourselves to this important task of preserving Amritsar’s glory for generations to come. This city has impacted country’s history in many positive ways and we are sure this will be another great way to inspire and lead the nation.”

In the last meeting of Eco Amritsar in early May, took stalk of the developments pertaining to Amritsar initiated by EcoSikh: Amritsar city is one of the founding members of the international Green Pilgrim Network. Kahan Singh Pannu, the District Commissioner and Dalmegh Singh, SGPC’s General Secretary had represented Amritsar in Italy at GPN’s launch.. Roop Singh, Secretary SGPC, Gunbir Singh as WWF Punjab chairman and Ravneet Singh, EcoSikh, attended the United Nations ICLEI meet of 140 Nations at Hyderabad. Now a mandate for the city has been established for Eco Amritsar that reads: To be a wholehearted catalyst in working with all stakeholders and concerned citizen groups for a progressive execution of a sustainable road-map of Amritsar City.

Amritsar Industrialist Gunbir Singh addressing Eco Amritsar launch last year: others on the stage: L to R: Sanjay Sachdeva, major business group and CEO of Celebrations mall(AIPL) , Rep: Chief Khalsa Diwan, Rajbir Singh (Pingalwara Org), Joginder Singh (SGPC), Baba Sewa Singh (Khadoor Sahib), Dr. Rajwant Singh (EcoSikh), Bhai Manjit Singh (PEDA), Rep: DC Amritsar.

Launch of Eco Amritsar campaign in June 2012, at Amritsar

Links to press releases:

The Tribune

Sikh Siyasat,

Location: Amritsar

EcoSikh is a 501c (3)* nonprofit organization currently seeking to fill the position of a full- time Campaign Manager based in the Amritsar area. The incumbent will be a motivated self-starter who has a deep understanding and commitment to the Environment, and is able to utilize the knowledge of Sikh teachings and principles to inspire, motivate and formulate action plans to drive sustainable actions. The primary focus will be in Amritsar – while sharing learning’s and adopting best practices from elsewhere in the world.

Monthly salary will be 30,000 – 35,000 INR (negotiable) and will be determined based on capability, skills and experience.

Key responsibilities include:
• Coordinating and managing events from time to time as per annual work plan as well as dynamic developments thereto.
• Creating, developing and shaping new techniques to engage communities, institutions, organizations and businesses in Amritsar for environment initiatives
• Manage communication and reporting related to environment initiatives in Amritsar
• Dexterity to create press releases and communicate with media (Radio, TV Channels and Press)
• Demonstrated ability to fully leverage on-line channels (such as email, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, What’s App) to generate purposeful communication and portray EcoSikh as a credible, action orientated organization with the goal of transforming the approach, attitude and conduct of Sikhs in their day to day life as it relates to the environment
• Building a strong follower-ship for EcoSikh in Amritsar – inspiring and enrolling others through our work and creating a network of volunteers to provide support for programming needs
• Ability to communicate (verbal and in writing) effectively with the Board and the Community at large (partners, donors, volunteers, followers)
• Plan, organize and execute Fund Raisers in Amritsar or other cities as when required for Amritsar project
• Manage presentations and financial reports for board/staff meetings
• Maintain & update all web services including content and possibly creating a blog or website for Eco-Amritsar project
• Work with colleagues to coordinate and create compelling monthly/bi-monthly Newsletters, Annual Reports and other organizational collateral
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, work within tight deadlines, and maintain high level of productivity
• Openness to work occasional evenings and weekends to meet events and project deadlines
• Ability to work both independently and as a key member of a motivated, self driven and high energy team

Requirements:
• Bachelors or higher degree in journalism but any graduate with the desired skills could be considered
• Minimum 1 year of working experience preferred
• Preferred resident of Amritsar or happy to arrange is accommodation on his own
• Proficiency in English and Punjabi required with good typing skills
• Must have own computer system, and conveyance for movement in the city
• Knowledge of work style in a non-profit

The Program Administrator will work directly under Ravneet Singh (EcoSikh India Project Manager) and be responsible to carry of out the vision and plans of Dr. Rajwant Singh (EcoSikh President) and Gunbir Singh (Eco-Amritsar board Chairman).

Interested candidates should email their resume with a cover letter to the contact: admin@ecosikh.org

Job Period: 1 Year contract to be revised every year with 3 months of initial probationary period

Singh Sahibans in a meeting at Sri Akal Takhat Sahib – March 2013

EcoSikh has welcomed a directive by the Sikh spiritual leaders to celebrate Sikh Environment Day on March 14th by all Sikhs. During a recent meeting of five Takhats (spiritual seats of authority in Sikhism) at Amritsar, the Singh Sahibans (the spiritual heads of the Sikh community) declared that Gurgaddi Diwas (coronation day ) of the 7th Sikh Guru, Guru Har Rai, should be celebrated as a Sikh Environment Day each year especially ‘in light of the rising global environmental crisis’. Guru Har Rai, who became 7th Sikh Guru on March 14, 1644, was known for his deep sensitivity towards nature and its preservation. Read the original message from Sri Akal Takhat Sahib here.

Dr. Rajwant Singh, President of EcoSikh, welcomed the announcement by the Sikh spiritual leaders. “This declaration is extremely significant. This is the first time in the history of Sikhism that a day has been set aside to pay attention to nature and to take steps to harness it following the teachings of our Green Guru, Guru Har Rai ji. He inspired Sikhs to live in harmonious relationship with nature and with other living beings. This is the best way to remember him and to take lessons to shape our common future.”

He added, “We are thankful to our leaders for their thoughtful action and directive which is so critically needed in the current times when we all are facing environmental disasters across the globe and severe weather patterns.”

Akal Takhat Jathedar, Giani Gurbachan Singh, based in Amritsar, Punjab, had earlier given a special message to all Sikhs all over the world to plant a tree on March 14. In his directive, Giani Gurbachan Singh said, “The Gurmat (teachings of the Sikh Gurus) describes air as the Guru, water as the father and the earth as the mother and it reminds us to respect and take care of these three elements.”

Jathedar Sardar Kulwant Singh Ji, the head of Takhat Sri Hazur Sahib, based in Nanded, Maharasthra, this year released a message for Sikh community to plant one tree on the occasion of Sikh Environment Day on March 14 ‘as a token of love for Guru Har Rai Ji’. “The Sikh Environment Day is a religious effort in the honour of Sri Guru Har Rai to highlight the significance of God’s creation; flora and fauna in human life”, said Jathedar Kulwant Singh. “Due to immense environmental challenges facing the entire humanity, each Sikh is duty bound to respect Air the Guru, Water the Father and Earth the great Mother and plant one tree.” He said in his appeal.

In 2011, four year old EcoSikh, launched the initiative to have Sikh Environment Day celebrated on March 14th and it has become a global phenomenon. According to Ravneet Singh, “This year it was celebrated by over 1600 Sikh gurdwaras, educational institutions and various organizations have celebrated this year with varied action plans. These celebrations were marked with kirtan/katha, plantations, seminars and environment awareness rallies throughout the Sikh community. Many major Sikh gurdwaras in America, Canada, England, Australia and South East Asia celebrated with many action plans including taking a pledge to use steel plates and shunning Styrofoam or disposables.”

Ravneet Singh added, “Message from Singh Sahibans is exhilarating and it gives direction to all Sikhs to become environmentally conscious. EcoSikh believes this movement will gradually improve the religious celebrations, gurpurabs and Gurdwara buildings from environment aspect.”

This year, Shiromani Gurdwara Parbhandhak Committee (SGPC), an apex body of the Sikhs, organized plantation of 5000 trees in 145 Gurdwaras, schools and colleges. Takhat Hazur Sahib announced a local bus service in Nanded to reduce carbon emission and even organized a major plantation drive in the city under the aegis of Baba Narinder Singh of Gurdwara Langar Sahib. Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) involved its educational institutions via eco-assembly with a message from Gurbani and inspired the students to take action towards environment protection. 35 Gurdwaras in Pakistan, mainly in Sindh and Baluchistan, and in Nankana Sahib (birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev ji) observed this day with various activities such as plantations around the gurdwara complex. An interfaith seminar on Sikh Environment Day was also organized in Karachi. Naulakha Bagh, a 300 year old herbal garden originally planted by Guru Har Rai ji in the 17th century in Kiratpur Sahib, has been revived by Ganga Nursery with collaboration efforts from SGPC.

Expressing his excitement over the success of the SED in 2013, President of EcoSikh, Dr Rajwant Singh said, “We believe that this is the largest direct action by the Sikhs for the environment in the history of Sikhism.”

Editors note: this page is updated regularly so click this link here for the fresh entries.

Welcome to the timeline for the third Sikh Environment Day on March 14, 2013. Last year more than 1008 Sikh gurdwaras, schools, businesses and communities took part, planting trees, creating gardens, organising clean-ups. Read about Sikh Environment Day 2012 here.

This year we targeted that 1500 gurdwaras, schools, businesses and communities should take part in Sikh Environment Day 2013 by doing something positive, thoughtful and wonderful for their environment.

Please let Ravneet Singh (ravneet.singh@ecosikh.org) or register on our beautiful on-line registration forms to let us know what your gurdwara, school, business or community plans to do to mark this auspicious anniversary. And we will add this information to this page. This page is a sharing, on how we all are celebrating Sikh Environment Day 2013. It is a gift to the earth that will last, and do good, for a long time to come. Tell us your ideas. Inspire us with your actions.

Create your Sikh Environment Day plan today. Be an EcoSikh !

March 10, 2013; Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee is celebrating the Sikh Environment Day in all its 20 Khalsa Schools in the capital. They are also planning for a flower exhibition at Rakab Ganj Sahib on March 13 celebrations, plus slide show Sikh Vision on Environment.

March 10, 2013; City of Whittlesea and Supreme Sikh Council of Australia Inc., Australia has planned various activities in their community, plans to be updated later.

March 10th, 2013, Gurdwara Singh Sabha Model Town Extension, Ludhiana; Kirtan/Katha on the theme of environment and speech about Styrofoam and the issue of water will be shared with sangat.

March 9th, 2013; United Sikh, North America in collaboration with EcoSikh is planning to outreach all their members and sangat about Sikh Environment Day. They have planned kids activities at their respective schools to spread the word. They have shared desires for long term plans to collaborate with EcoSikh for environment projects.

March 9th, 2013; Dr. BS Brar from Nihal Singh Wala Village in Moga has brought together 20 different organisations from that area for celebrations on March 14. They have planned for planting 500 trees around Gurdwaras and cremation ground, they are trying maximum for Gulmohar, Chakrasia and Amaltas trees to plant,a seminar for School students. They will launch an environment organisation in their village named PETALS- Patto Eco Tree And Landscape Society, Patto is the name of another village collaborating and hiring Green Cops to take care of the new trees.

March 9th, 2013; Satbir Singh from Batala is organising plantation drive in his colony and neighbouring Schools.

March 9th, 2013; Basant Vihar, a colony at Ludhiana organised an evening event today on saving water and reduce the Styrofoam in their community park. Slide shows and YouTube movies were shown by VMAD club members and youth.

March 9, 2013; VMAD club’s volunteer Parminder Singh and Pavneet Singh outreached several Gurdwaras at Ludhiana and inspired the sangat to celebrate Sikh Environment Day. The gurdwaras include Gurdwara Sec 32, Chandigarh Road, Patshahi Chhevi, Gurdwara Baba Than Singh Chowk, Guru Granth Sahib Shabadi Jatha, and Gurdwara Kalgidhar as well. The duo also visited Mini Rose Garden, Ludhiana and shared the message of Sri Guru Har Rai and inspired general public to reduce the use of Styrofoam and disposables and keep the city clean and pollution free.

March 9th, 2013; Tapvir Singh from Doraha, an owner of School, plans to celebrate Sikh Environment Day in April at School premises. Updates later !

March 9th, 2013; Ravinder Singh Mehta from Jalandhar retired Principal of MGM Public School plans to outreach 20 different schools and academies across Punjab to spread the word and have them celebrate Guru Har Rai’s Gurgaddi diwas in April, as new session begin. Updates later!

March 9th, 2013; Founder and President Pakistan Sikh Council and now EcoSikh Ambassador of Pakistan Ramesh Singh approached 35 Gurdwaras in Pakistan to celebrate March 14 as Sikh Environment Day. Updates later!

March 9th, 2013; Gillco Flour Mills at Ludhiana will be sharing the message of Sikh Vision on Environment with their staff of 40 and their families, they will emphasize on saving water in the mill and for domestic use. Dharminder Gill has also shared his will to cover his neighbouring two villages for similar events.

March 9th, 2013; Gurdwara Sacha Dhan, Mohali in collaboration with Kalgidhar Sewak Jatha and Guru Gobind Singh Study Circle are organise kirtan darbar.

March 9th, 2013; A passionate young kirtania from Ludhiana Gurpreet Singh Baba Bakala, will be spreading the message of Sri Guru Har Rai Ji through Gurbani Kirtan at various places on 13th and 14th March and later he will always keep this issue as one of his major agenda in every kirtan darbar he is invited to.

March 8th, 2013; Guru ka Taal, Agra has accepted EcoSikh’s invite to celebrate March 14 at the Gurdwara. Baba Niranjan Singh ji welcomed the idea with high passion and promised for katha and kirtan programme at Gurdwara.

March 8th; 2013; Bhai Raja Singh Missionary is volunteering with EcoSikh to outreach a few schools and Gurdwara Patshahi Nauvi at Basti Shekh in Jalandhar. More updates later !

March 8th, 2013; Gurdwara at Kiran Vihar, Ludhiana, will share the impact of Styrofoam and disposables usage on air, water, land and health. The community have also decided to develop the community park and plant flower bearing and shady trees on the occasion of Sikh Environment Day.

March 8th, 2013; Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Sarabha Nagar, Ludhiana; decided for ‘Go Green’ plantation drive along with the pictorial installation of Barahn Mahan (Majh) at Gurdwara Museum. They are also planning for bicycle rally in April.

March 8th, 2013; Guru Gobind Singh Study Circle, Mohalli, conducting seminar and creating awareness through Sikh Vision on Environment PowerPoint Slide Show. Updates later!

March 8th, 2013; Association of Chandigarh Gurdwaras took the agenda of environment protection and reduction of Styrofoam and disposables at their Gurdwaras and Nagar Kirtans. The association Secy General, Harjit Singh has confirmed to take action in April during major Baisakhi events in the city.

March 8th, 2013; Sikh Society of Central Florida, Oviedo, Florida; Kirtan, Katha and Power point presentation to spread awareness on the theme of environment protection and what roles Sikhs can play.

March 8th, 2013; Jakara Movement Sacramento and Sacramento Tree Foundation: Plantation drive will be carried out on 9th March in a community park in Woodland California and on 23rd March in a wildlife preserve in Elk Grove, California.

March 8th, 2013; Gurdwara Saheb Charmahal, Hydrabad, Andhra Pradesh plans for kirtan and katha on the theme of environment, plant distribution, environment notice board showcasing Gurbani phrases related to nature. In coming future, they see a possibility for green nagar kirtan and eco-friendly features (solar energy and water recycling) in Hyderabad.

March 7th, 2013; Gurdwara Raj Khalsa, Sterling, Virginia; planned to organise Kirtan and katha on the theme of environment and art competition for kids for Sikh Environment Day celebrations.

March 7th, 2013; George Mason University Sikh Student Association, Fairfax, Virginia will be helping out with celebrations at the local Gurdwaras. They will be organising a workshop with Environment Sustainability Student organisation in the campus in honor of our Eco-Guru Guru Har Rai Ji.

March 7th, 2013; Gurdwara Kalgidhar Singh Sabha, Ludhiana: the Gurdwara has invited EcoSikh to share the message of Sri Guru Har Rai ji with sangat during the Sikh New Year and Environment Day celebrations on 13th March. The Gurdwara is the central place of the old city part and gathering of around 3000 is expected. The program will be telecasted live on local television channel on fast way.

March 7th, 2013; Arpana Caur, prominent Sikh artist from New Delhi, shared her work on Sikhi And Environment with EcoSikh for online display and use. The work truly describes the relationship of Kudrat and Kadar (God and His Creation). Check out her high resolution files at Flickr and make your favourite one as your FaceBook profile on March 14.

March 6th, 2013; Eleven more individuals from various places have committed via online registration that they will bring plant saplings to their Gurdwara, talk to Gurdwara committee to celebrate March 14 as Sikh Environment Day, go out for a nature walk with kids and family, gift plants to family or friends, nurture a plant etc. The list includes: Kawaljit Kaur from Paris, Gajinder Singh from Maryland, Shahbaz Singh from Bahadurpur, Dr. Manvir Gupta from Kotkapura, Mandeep Singh from Dhanbad, Sukhpreet Singh, Kolkata, Swarnjit Singh Cameotra from Chandigarh, Joydeep Singh from Jammu, Simarleen Singh from Ludhiana, Inderpal Singh Gumer from Texas, Partap Singh from Peru.

March 6th, 2013; Guru Nanak Dev Engineering College, Ludhiana will be screening the slide show on the theme of ‘A Sikh Vision on Environment’. A clean up drive will also be carried out by the college students, staff and National Social Service Cadets.

March 6th, 2013; Shiromani Gurdwara Prabhandhak Committee (SGPC), Amritsar, Punjab: President SGPC Avtar Singh Makkar announced that Gurdwaras across Punjab and Haryana will monitor 14th March as Sikh Environment Day along with SGPC schools and colleges. SGPC has 78 Gurdwaras, 11 aided colleges and 31 Khalsa schools. Plantation will be done along with Kirtan/Katha on the theme of environment.

March 6th, 2013; Gurdwara Roanoke, Virginia, USA is planning for Kirtan and Katha on the theme of environment, introducing eco-friendly features (solar energy or water recycling) in the Gurdwara building and increasing green patch in and around the Gurdwara.

March 6th, 2013; Group of Malwai Cultural Society, Mansa, Punjab will be holding a seminar on environment protection based on Gurbani, plantation drive or a ceremonial tree planting. The organisation will also be contacting around 80 schools to celebrate this day through eco-assembly and pledge.

March 6th, 2013; Gurdwara Sikh Simran Sewa, Peru, South America has planned to start a plantation drive on the occasion of Sikh Environment Day.

March 5th, 2013; Guru Gobind Singh Foundation, Maryland, USA registered to celebrate Sikh Environment Day, they have plans for activities for kids as last years plus kirtan and  speech on Guru Har Rai Ji and slideshow in Sikh Vision on Environment.

March 5th, 2013; Gurdwara Sheeshmahal, Kirtapur Sahib, Punjab: Celebrations will be held at the Gurdwara. The revival of Naulkha Bagh of Sri Guru Har Rai Ji is on its way. Plantation drive is going on. Kirtan and katha on the theme of environment will be shared with the sangat. Watch Naulakha Baag Video here.

March 5th, 2013; Gurdwara Bridgewater (GSSA), New Jeresy, USA will be focussing on Kirtan and Katha on the theme of Gurbani. They will also be showcasing environment focused Gurbani phrases in the Gurdwara premises or notice board and will increase the green patch in and around the Gurdwara.

March 4th, 2013; Sikh Foundation of Virginia, USA has already started with the long celebrations. They will be sharing power point presentation with the sangat and reciting kirtan from Eak Bageecha on March 14th. They also plan to introduce solar energy and water recycling the Gurdwara building. Apart from this they plan for Katha on the theme of environment, plant distribution, ceremonial tree plantation, environment notice board with Gurbani phrases in the Gurdwara premises, increasing green patch and planning for green nagar kirtan on the upcoming gurpurabs.

March 4th, 2013; Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha , Hertfordshire, UK. The youth club active at the Gurdwara called Khalsa Roots is planning to distribute a pot and plant to nurture to children as young as 5. The Gurdwara will also distribute plants among sangat for March 14 celebrations.

March 2nd, 2013; DAV School, Phillour; has planned to create awareness among masses through multimedia. The students and staff will deliver the message of Sri Guru Har Rai Ji via powerpoint presentations, speeches and poster and flyers in the surrounding community and villages. They will carry on the project for the whole year.

March 2nd, 2013; Tavleen Foundation of Indore, MP has created an inspirational  Tavleen Eco-Booklet PDF as a tribute to Sri Guru Har Rai Sahib, check out our EcoSikh Featured news about Tavleen.

March 2nd, 2013; Dagshai Public School, Solan, Himachal Pradesh is planning to celebrate Sikh Environment Day in a way that can bring home the message to all students. Activities include poster display, cleaning of the school campus from all non-friendly items, tree plantation including fruit bearing and ornamental trees, lectures and Kirtan by students and lastly lectures by specialists emphasizing how and what role they can play and contribute to environment protection. Check out Dagshai’s last years video.

March 2nd, 2013; Kanwar Satnam Singh Khalsa High School, Jallandhar, Punjab will inspire its students through seminar and activities related to Environment protection on the theme of Gurbani.

March 1st, 2013; Gurdwara Sahib Sukh Sagar, British Columbia, Canada; celebrations of March 17th will be dedicated to Sri Guru Har Rai ji and Kirtan and katha on the theme of environment will be done. They will also hand out approximately 200 tree saplings to the sangat. They are also planning to take green initiatives for the future nagar Kirtans.

March 1st, 2013; Gurdwara Sikh Center of Orange County, California, USA plans to organise Kirtan/Katha on the theme of environment protection. Along with this, they will be doing ceremonial tree plantation.

March 1st, 2013; Gurmat Gyan Missionary College, V-Making a Difference (VMAD) and EcoSikh Volunteers from Ludhiana will be holding a rally on March 10th. The motive is to create awareness through slogans. Approximately 200 families, students, senior leaders and volunteers are expected to join. Along with this the college plans to cut down the use of Styrofoam in their premises.

March 1st, 2013; Tavleen Foundation, Indore, MP, will be dedicating a very inspiring and informative 12 page booklet to Guru Har Rai Ji. It will be distributing in the  sangat along with a plant sapling.

March 1st, 2013; International Fateh Academy, Jandiala Guru, Amritsar will celebrate  March 14, Sikh Environment day, in their school. Details programme will be sent soon.

February 28, 2013; Jathedar Sardar Kulwant Singh Ji, from Takhat Sri Hazur Sahib released a message for Sikh community to plant one tree on the occasion of Sikh Environment Day on March 14 as a token of love for Guru Har Rai Ji, the Seventh Guru on his Gurgaddi Diwas. Read full press release and message from Jathedar Ji.

February 27, 2013; Village Lopon , Moga, Punjab, villagers and youth group will join the celebrations via plantation drive in their village and surroundings.

February 27, 2013; Philadelphia Sikh Society Gurdwara will also celebrate Sikh Environment Day along with the Sangat.

February 27, 2013; Singh Sabha Gurdwara Braddock Road, Fairfax, Virginia will be celebrating Sikh Environment Day.

February 26, 2013; Gurdwara Southall, London, Satinder Singh plans to celebrate with the sangat, detailed programme yet to confirm.

February 26, 2013; Khalsa English High School, Kolkata, will celebrate Sikh Environment day on 12th March, the program includes kirtan, katha, cleanup drives, rally of the students and lectures on Sikh teachings about environment and much more to announce.

February 25, 2013; GuruTeg Bahadur Ji Foundation, Connecticut, USA, plan to do Kirtan and Katha on the theme of environment and install environment notice board showcasing Gurbani on nature.

February 25, 2013; Guru Gobind Singh Ji Academy,Connecticut, USA, Reena Kaur, Virsa Teacher plans to organise seminar and speech on environment, exhibition on restoration of ecology and install recycling bins in the Khalsa School.

February 25, 2013; SAVE organisation, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, will celebrate Sikh Environment Day in April due to weather suitable for planting and involve school children and women. They will hold a community seminar on environment protection based on Gurbani, ceremonial tree plantation or plantation drive. They will organise quiz programme for all the students of Kashmir on 10th of April.

February 24, 2013; Gurdwara Sahib Hidden Falls, Michigan, USA, plans to hold Kirtan and katha Darbar on the theme of environment. They also plan for introducing eco-friendly features like solar energy and water recycling in the Gurdwara buildings.

Painting of Guru Har Rai Sahib by painter Rahi Mohinder Singh from Chandigarh

February 23, 2013; Painter Rahi Mohinder Singh from Chandigarh gifted this paint work describing Guru Har Rai ji planting a tree with his disciple.

February 18, 2013; Guru Angad Institute of Sikh Studies, Virginia, USA has planned to celebrate Sikh Environment Day via Kirtan/Katha on environment theme. They will be holding a community seminar on environment protection based on Gurbani. Apart from this, they will engage the community in tree plantation or ceremonial tree planting, clean up drive and plant distribution.

February 21, 2013; Guru Nanak Foundation Association Gurdwara, Maryland, USA, will involve the sangat for Sikh Environment Day celebrations through Kirtan and Katha on the theme of environment. They also plan to install environment notice board in their Gurdwara premises and showcase Gurbani phrases that relate to nature.

February 21, 2013; Gurseva Organisation an NGO from Sutton Lane, London will celebrate Sikh Environment Day by reflecting on Gurbani through Kirtan and Katha programmes.

February 21, 2013; Tagi Tagi Sikh Temple, Tavua, Fiji, The management was involved in plantation drive since last two Sikh Environment Day. They have beautified the Gurdwara surroundings with flowery plants and shrubs. This year they will engage in ceremonial tree plantation and increase the green patch in Gurdwara. They will also install environment notice board in the Gurdwara.

February 18, 2013: Guru Gobind Singh Study Circle, Durg Chhattisgarh is organising community cleanup drive along with plantation drive or ceremonial tree planting. They will reduce and recycle paper in the office as well.

February 17, 2013; Gurudwara Nishkam Seva, Taxas, USA will create awareness among sangat through Kirtan and Katha on the theme of environment and will hold ceremonial tree planting. The long trem plan is to increase the green patch in and around the Gurudwara.

February 16, 2013; Gurudwara Flower Enclave, Ludhiana will distribute 250 plant saplings on the occasion of Sikh Environment Day among sangat. The Gurudwara already has banned the use of Styrofoam cutlery in the langar hall and organised seminar on the issue of water.

February 16, 2013; Kalgidhar Senior Secondary School, Ludhiana joined the movement with Ten-Minutes Eco-Assembly. The students will take the pledge to save water, plant a tree and contribute in the cleanliness of the surroundings.

Chief Khalsa Diwan: Students from chain of 40 schools of Sri Guru Har Krishan Public School will take the pledge (via an Eco-Assembly) to protect the environment through individual actions on the occasion of Sikh Environment Day.

Satnam Sarv Kalyan Trust: Over 300 schools across Punjab will involve its students through Ten Minutes Eco-Assembly, essay reading on the theme of Nearer to Nature Nearer to God and pledge to plant and nurture a tree this year, 2013.
Khalsa Multivarsity Educate Punjab Project: The organisation will enroll more than 450 schools all over the Punjab engaging the students and staff for Ten Minutes Eco Assembly and Environment Pledge. They will also give lecture on the disadvantages of Styrofoam products (cutlery and more).
February 19, 2013; Ganga Nursery, Zirakpur has started plating Medicinal herbs at Naulakha Garden of Sri Guru Har Rai Ji at Gurudwara Sheesh Mehal, Kiratpur Sahib which shall finish on March 14. Check Press Note.

February 6, 2013; Gursikh Family Club from Ludhiana, (LINK) an organisation which comprises of over 100 families, plans for a club get together and celebrations on March 3rd, at Rose Garden, Ludhiana. They plan to include painting competition for kids, a powerpoint show, speech on environment plus they will bring plant gifts for all the members and extra plants to share with public to send out the message of Sri Guru Har Rai Sahib more powerfully.

February 6, 2013; Eighteen individuals from various places on various have committed via online registration that they bring saplings to their Gurdwaras, talk to the Gurdwara committee to celebrate March 14 as Sikh Environment Day, go out for a nature walk with kids, gift a plant to family or friends etc. The list includes; Tejinderpal Singh (Bathinda, Punjab), Swaran Singh (west Chandigarh), Tejinder Pal Singh (Jodhpur, Rajasthan), Harpreet Singh (Vikaspuri, New Delhi), Jasmeet Singh Madam (Jammu), Jasbinder Shergill (Village Khunda), Harjeet Singh ( New Delhi), Prabhjeet Kaur Minhas (Jallandhar), Simranjeet Singh (Ludhiana), Joginder Singh (Alwar, Rajasthan), Jeevanjot Singh (Faridkot, Punjab), Karandeep Singh (UP), Virpal Kaur
(Moga), Nisha Sidhu (Amritsar), Jaspreet Singh (Mullanpur, Ludhiana), Jaidev S. Anand (New Jersey, USA), Gurdeep Singh (Muzaffarpur, Bihar).

January 31, 2013; Gurdwara Sikh Cultural Society, Fishkill New York has been organising a kitan and katha diwan on environment. They have plans to increase their green patch and introducing waste recycle and solar plans as well. They will also display nature focused Gurbani on their Gurdwara notice board.

January 30, 2013; Jujhar Singh from Guru Nanak Dev Poly Technique College, Ludhiana would be organising a plantation drive at his college. And Guru Nanak Dev Poly Technique College, Faridabad Haryana plans for seminar and a speech on environment.

January 25, 2013; Divya Kalra from Ludhiana College of Engineering & Technology, Ludhiana is planning for seminar, painting, poetry and powerpoint show on environment at the college.

January 23, 2013; Vaish Public School from Rohtak, committed to start recycled paper for office to celebrate March 14.

January 19, 2013; a student Kalita Cheri from Lovely Professional University, Jallandhar is organising a poetry and painting competition to celebrate the day.

January 7, 2013; United Sewa Society of Jallandhar, Punjab has registered online and making plans for plantation drive or a ceremonial tree, eco-friendly commuting, reducing waste and recycling in their office at this Sikh Environment Day. They also plan for conducting community seminars on environment protection with the help of EcoSikh toolkit.

January 1, 2013; Punjab Environment Charity, Sukrit, will be celebrating the winners of the first Indian Ecofest competition for school and college students in March 2013, around Sikh Environment Day. The deadline is February 5. Link here for details.

December 19, 2012; Khalsa College International Public School,Amritsar registered for seminar, play on environment and a ceremonial tree to be planted during the month of March as a part of celebrations.

December 12, 2012; Alpine International Sen Sec School, Ludhiana plans for a seminar/speech on environment, recycling in office and installing environment notice board at their school as a way to bring a change this Sikh Environment Day.

December 6, 2012; Vatavaran, a strictly non-profit organisation from New Delhi, recently shared that they plan to use Sikh Environment Day Pledge Forms for sangat at various Delhi Gurdwaras and plans exhibition on environment to inspire Guru ki sangat with love for nature in Gurbani.

November 26, 2012: Takhat Sachkhand Sri Hazur Sahib, Nanded has sent plans for Sikh Vatavaran Diwas-2013, which includes a nature march or procession for mass awareness about environment safety and general cleanliness by students and staff from Khalsa School and Industrial Training Institute and Hazur Sahib Sangat. They have plans to involve the local MLA’s and MP’s to create meaningful outputs and projects following this Gurpurab. A special Kirtan Samagam focused on Nature and Guru Har Rai Sahib plus a plantation drive are being planned as well to celebrate this special day.

November 21, 2012; Will Duckworth, a deputy leader of Green Party Organisation of Dudley, UK plans to gift plants to relatives and talk about Sikh Environment Day. He also plans to go out for a nature walk with family and kids.

Kids with their school nursery

November 20, 2012: Government Primary School in village Kalwa, Haryana starts nursery to mark Sikh Environment Day 2013. A school with 50 young students, has initiated a school nursery project to mark this day. Each student contributes one and a half hour from the two activity periods every week. Read full press note HERE.

November 20, 2012. Four months before SED 2013, EcoSikh sent out an invitation to nearly 19,000 people on our mailing list, inviting everyone to celebrate Sikh Environment Day on March 14, 2014.

Click picture to download Tavleen Eco-Book PDF

Tavleen Foundation releases a 13 page PDF booklet for March-2013, Sikh Environment Day, dedicated to Guru Har Rai Sahib on his Gurgaddi Diwas  who inspired people to care for nature and who’s legacy provided one of the most inspiring models for our ecological consciousness.

This little booklet throws light on various prospects of environment to practice and make contribution for our living planet. Every page has a different thought to feel and digest; it speaks on how we feel when there is a power cut, how being vegetarian is being earth friendly, how water is so precious and its worth will grow in future, and various other thoughts like travelling and carbon footprint and many more.

In the past years on Sikh Environment Day, Tavleen foundation has conducted kirtan darbars, seminars and activities for kids to connect them to nature. This year they will be distributing this Tavleen Eco-Book in sangat and inspire them to adopt an eco-friendly lifestyle. Happy Sikh Environment Day -2013.

Take action in your Gurdwara, share your plans with us. Register Today !

Important links:

• Toolkit/resources to celebrate Sikh Environment Day
• Check out who’s taking part this Sikh Environment Day

All the participants are invited to celebrate their dedication to environment as Sikh Environment Day on March 14, which is Gurgaddi Diwas of our 7th Guru, Sri Guru Har Rai Sahib. Please check the link to download Toolkit for celebrating Sikh Environment Day at your Gurdwara or School.

Happy Sikh Environment Day 2013. Be the Change, Be EcoSikhs!

For any queries please contact 85688-03772 or 85679-64644.

“The Sikh Environment Day is a religious effort in the honour of Sri Guru Har Rai to highlight the significance of God’s creation; flora and fauna in human life”, said Jathedar Kulwant Singh. “Each Sikh is duty bound to respect Air the Guru, Water the Father and Earth the great Mother and plant one tree.” He said in his appeal.

Read the original message by Singh Sahib here.

The Hazur Sahib committee has planned for an evening kirtan darbar, plantation drive, buta prasad and environment rally involving school and college students and staff in the city. “We are installing the local deluxe busses for pilgrims to visit Gurdwaras in the city, which will cut down the air pollution level in the city. We also have plans for the energy efficient steam kitchen at langar hall in near future”, said Dp Singh Chawla, CEO Sri Hazur Sahib committee.

The Sikh Environment Day is a global action by Sikh community spearheaded by EcoSikh organization to amplify the environment consciousness and preservation among the Sikh masses through faith teachings. This year the Sikh Environment Day vision is to reduce the use of Styrofoam and other disposable cutlery in the Gurdwaras and all religious festivals and celebrations and over 1500 organisations are partaking in this global environment action as per EcoSikh’s previous press releases. EcoSikh believes this movement will gradually improve the religious celebrations, gurpurabs and Gurdwara buildings from environment aspect.

Picture collage of Sri Hazur Sahib sangat celebrating Sikh Environment Day 2011: