Simran is the act of remembrance, reminiscence, and recollection,” which leads to the realization of what may be the highest aspect and purpose in one’s life. Simran commonly refers to ‘meditating’ of the Nām, or name, of God. As stated in an article by Sikh Dharma International, “Simran is a continuous, meditative, longingly creative feeling. It’s a feeling, it’s a flow, it is a touch, it is a substance.” Although we may think meditation and prayer can be defined as Simran, they only provide us the strength to create an atmosphere and mentality for Simran. Once true simran is achieved by an individual, that individual does not tell anyone or feel they have the entire word in their hands. God will simply follow them in infinite spirituality. Reciting simran everyday provides a spiritual aspect to a daily life to an individual who otherwise may be successful, but only have previously immersed themselves in worldly matters. Sikhs have not been able to attend Gurdwara for over a month due to the public health emergency. However, it is most definitely still possible to stay connected to Gurbani and create a spiritual and earthly balance in our daily lives. Thanks to the blessing of Waheguru upon us, we are able to still experience virtual divans and are granted easy access to Gurbani, Shabad kirtan, and Katha through the existence of the internet.
NESSC/Nishkam TV Live Kirtan
The New England Sikh Study circle is streaming live Kirtan at Westborough Gurdwara on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturdays from 7:30-8:30 PM. There is also Weekly Asa Di Var on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:30 AM. This past week (April 13-19) , there was divaan everyday except for Tuesday to celebrate Vaisakhi and a Sehaj paath was also organized. The live stream can be found on the Nishkam TV youtube channel and live on the Westborough Gurdwara Sahib facebook page.
Sikhnet
Sikhnet is providing Kirtan, Banis, Simran, and Katha through Facebook Live. The website is also extremely helpful and has links to read or listen to the Guru Granth Sahib, radio for live Kirtan from Harmandir Sahib, stories for kids and much more. Sikhnet also provides recitation of Bani through media such as Bani Pro which is a CD put together by The Sikh Youth Federation of North America. The Bani is recited slowly in order to help listeners learn the proper pronunciation.
