Ik Onkaar Satgur Parsaad.

Nirmal Ashram Rishikesh

fBo wb nkÙow fueZy vkJe NIRMAL ASHRAM

AnAn IntroductionIntroduction

Nirmal Ashram, Rishikesh – 249201 Distt. () Phones : 0135-2433709, 2435143, 2431319 Fax : 2430457

E-mail : [email protected] Website : www.nirmalashramrishikesh.org Satjug tai maanio chhalio bal bawan bhaaeo. Tretai tai maanio Ram Raghuwans kahaaeo. Duapur Krisan Murar Kans kirtarth keeo. Ugarsain kao raaj abhai bhagtaih jan deeo.

Kaljug parmaan Nanak Gur Angad Amar kahaaeo.

Sri raaj abchal atal aad purakh phurmaaeo. (Page 1390)

Bhagwan Sri Ramchander

Bhagwan Sri Krishan

Jot roop Har aap kahayo. Ta te Angad bhyo tatt seo tatt milayo. Angad kirpa dhaar Amar satgur thir keeao. Amardas amrat chhatar gur Ramaih deeao. Gur Ramdas darsan pars kaih Mathura amarit baiyn. Moort panch parmaan purkh Gur Arjun pikhoh naiyn. (Page 1408)

Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ik Onkaar Satgur Parsaad.

Ekam ekankaar nirala. Amar ajoni jaat na jaala. Agam agochar roop na rekhia. Khojat khojat ghat ghat dekhia.

Nirmal Panth – An Introduction

Before introducing the readers to the Nirmal Ashram, Rishikesh, it has been consi- dered necessary to acquaint them briefly with Guru Nanak’s ‘Nirmal Panth’ or ‘Nirmal Community’ because it is always helpful to know the historical background before writing or reading or under- standing it.

The primordial guru, Jagat guru, the incarnation of Kalyug, Sahib Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj, was born of father Mehta Kalu ji and mother Tripta, on Wednesday 15 November, 1469, the Kartika Sudi 15 (Purnima) Vikrami year 1526 at Rai Bhoe’s Talwandi – Nankana Sahib, district Sheikhupura (now in Pakistan). He appeared in the world equipped with all the powers from God. Pehila Baabe paaya bakhas dar pichhode phir ghaal kamaai. (Bhai Gurdas) With the emergence of Guru Nanak, the darkness of ignorance disappeared and the world was lit with divine knowledge. The famous scholar Bhai Gurdas has described it in his works as Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj follows – Satgur Nanak pargatia this form and the virtuous in the impassible experience of Guru miti dhundh jag chaanan hoaa. vicious so that man could emanci- Nanak emerged that unique, pure Guru Nanak guided mankind pate himself. The ideal of the Nirmal Panth which has been with such super-natural vision Guru’s life was to deliver man- described by Bhai Gurdas in the that the disciples could identify kind from the bondage of life and following verse : their souls in the form of Brahm death by bestowing upon him the Maaria sikka jagat vich and could feel the formless within highest spiritual state. From this Nanak Nirmal Panth chalaaya.

1 Keeping in view the maryada of Gurughar, every care has been taken to adopt the and co-related words as they are, since this booklet is primarily for those readers who can not read or Devnagri script, although they are well aware of elementary terminology & language i.e. Ik onkaar, Panth, Gurbani, Sewa, Guru ka , Sant, Sriman etc. Nirgun aap sargun bhi ohi. Kala dhaar jin sagli mohi.

According to the above state- example of sacrifice, surrender, Besides preaching and spreading ment Guru Nanak was the renunciation and obedience, un- the message of the Guru, kept the founder of Nirmal Panth. After a paralleled in the history of the torch of the Gurmat alive through passage of time Guru Gobind world. Meanwhile, the five saints their pure and spotless conduct. ji gave a new, organised also presented themselves at the Once in the and systematic shape to the feet of the Guru, after acquiring tenth Guru, Sri Guru Gobind Panth at the holy place of Paonta spiritual knowledge from Kashi. Singh ji Maharaj clad in saffron Sahib, District Sirmur (Himachal They offered obeisance at the robes of detached sadhus came Pradesh) in 1686 when he holy feet, received innumerable out of the fort at midnight showered blessings upon his five blessings and prayed for amrit- to check the arrangements of paan. Bhai ji (Piare) community meals (langars) being and Bhai ji (Piare) conducted by various at became the preachers of these five different places. Guruji found saints. In this way, the temporal that no disciple except Bhai lineage emerged from these two Dharam Singh (Piare) was Piaras through the medium of the performing his duties properly. five saints culminated in the form Guru Maharaj was extremely of ‘Nirmal Cult’. pleased at this great and difficult The word ‘Nirmal’ means holy, service performed by Bhai pure, clean and unmixed. ‘Nirmal’ Dharam Singh and blessed him by or ‘Khalis’ is the person whose offering him his own saffron mind is free from vice, desire, robes. The words that emanated passion and hatred. The proofs of from the Guru’s heart were – the maturity of this office ‘Nirmal’ “Bhai Dharam Singh ! You are or ‘Khalis’ are found in the great ! Your service is unique ! Gurbani at innumerable places. Your humility is unparallel ! You Sri ji During the difficult period of have come out successful in our promising Sikhs, investing them Sikh history the Nirmaley Sant second test too. You have found a with saffron robes with his own (Saints), at times, offered many place in the ‘Nirmal’ rank free lotus hands and declared, “From sacrifices in defence of religion. from the dirt of all vices. today, you are my Sanyasi Nirmaley Sant (saints). After acquiring divine knowledge you shall become great scholars to preach and spread the message of Guru (Gurmat) in the country and abroad.” With such innumerable blessings, these saints were sent to Kashi (Benaras) to study the six philosophies through the medium of . In 1699, about 13 years after this super-natural event, Guru Gobind Singh ji Maharaj launched the Panth bestowing ‘Panj Piaras’ (five beloved ones) in Anandpur ‘Nirmaley Sant’ (Saints) being blessed by Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji before their departure Sahib which is an excellent for Kashi (Benaras) to attain Braham Vidya.

2 Sabh maih jot jot hai soey. Tis dai chaanan sabh maih chaanan hoey. Gur saakhi jot pargat hoey.

Temporal Lineage

˝

Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj ...... Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj

Piare Bhai Dharam Singh Ji

Sant Baba Ganda Singh Ji

Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji Maharaj in saffron robes of Sadhus on way to examine the arrangements of community meals (Langars) Sant Darbara Singh Ji (Sirhind Wale) The cult which will flow from you will continue to give birth to Baba Ji enlightened and imposing great- men from time to time. Kings and emperors will bow their Baba Sodhi Deep Singh Ji heads at their feet. People considering themselves to be belonging to high families will Sant Ram Singh Ji ‘Virakat’ come to them to learn. People seeking salvation will benefit Thakur Sant Dayal Singh Ji (Amritsar) from their holy sight alone. People having worldly desires will be blessed with wealth and Sant Dharam Singh Ji ‘Samadhi Wale’ (Amritsar) sons, etc. These greatmen will be the generous givers of the four elements–religion, wealth, Mahant Baba Buddha Singh Ji Maharaj eroticism and salvation. They will (Founder – Nirmal Ashram, Rishikesh) run community meals (Guru ka langar) for the poor, the orphan and the needy. They will provide medicines and medical treatment Mahant Atma Singh Ji Maharaj Sant Baba Nikka Singh Ji Maharaj for the sick. In this way these ‘Virakat’ benevolent great-men will bless the world with physical and Mahant Narain Singh Ji Maharaj mental happiness.” It is how Bhai Dharam Singh was enriched with a large number Mahant Baba Ram Singh Ji Maharaj (Present Mahant) of blessings. Hence onwards this Nirmal Ashram, Rishikesh cult is moving from generation to generation. One of its temporal lineage is given here. ❑

3 Taidi bandas mae koi na ditha tu Nanak mann bhaana. Ghol ghumai tis mitter vichole jai mil kant pachhana. Beginning of Nirmal Ashram and Other Information From amongst the Panj spiritual and academic growth of During his pilgrimage to Piaras bestowed by Sri Guru child Sant Buddha Singh ji took different holy places of the Gobind Singh ji, the Nirmal place under his care. With his country, an idea struck him that Sant tradition that flowed from blessings Sant Buddha Singh ji there should be a house of the Piare Bhai Dharam Singh ji got an opportunity to visit Kashi Guru (Gurughar) in Uttarakhand gave birth to one great ascetic and and interact there with Pandit and arrangements for boarding Sant Udhav Singh ji who was a and lodging should be made for great intellectual of that time. saints meditating in Jhaari on the banks of the Ganges. To give a concrete shape to this idea he purchased a piece of land in Rishikesh near the Ganges around the year 1900 and laid the foundation of the Nirmal Ashram. To start with a room for Sri and two other rooms were built. Some huts (cottages) were also constructed for the stay of sadhus and arrangements for Thakur Sant Dayal Singh Ji community meals (Guru ka accomplished personality, Sriman langar) were made. Thakur Sant Dayal Singh ji. It is After some time the coming because of his saintly excellence and going of devotees began. Mahant Baba Buddha Singh Ji Maharaj Sindhi devotees from Sindh that Nirmal Sect acquired a Founder – Nirmal Ashram, Rishikesh subname Sampardaye Thakuran. Province (Pakistan) came in large Mahant Buddha Singh ji – He His abode (dera) lies at Chowk numbers. Almost at that time, a was born at village Hallowal, Monni in Amritsar. piece of land was acquired at district Gurdaspur (). His Among the Saint disciples Kankhal () and father, Partap Singh ji of Sriman Thakur Sant Dayal construction of rooms began. This and mother Shrimati Shanti Singh ji was a great holy soul place is now known as Nirmal were deeply religious Bagh. All arrangements for stay known as Sant Dharam Singh minded persons. Mahant Buddha ji ‘Samadhi Wale.’ Physical, and Guru’s langar exist here. Singh ji was soft spoken, a Recitation of Gurbani, singing of great administrator, a scholar of hymns () and the study of Shastras and a great orator. Shastras are daily activities. He Endowed with all the virtues, also established a place known as qualities and capabilities he was Sangat Gyan Gufa in Kashi so appointed Secretary of Nirmal that students coming to study Panchayti Akhara, Kankhal from outside and sadhus might (Haridwar). He performed his job not feel any difficulty for stay. very efficiently and with full The entire life of revered responsibility and hardwork. Mahant Baba Buddha Singh ji After sometime, he was made the was dedicated to preaching and head of the Ramat-Prachar group spreading the message of the on behalf of Nirmal Panchayti Guru (Gurmat). According to the Sant Dharam Singh Ji ‘Samadhi Wale’ Akhara, Kankhal. divine decree, he took abode in

4 Ghat ghat mein har joo basai santan kahio pukaar. Kaho Nanak the bhaj mna bhao nidh uttreih paar. heaven on ‘Asu Vadi’ 12, Vikrami community kitchen (langar) and personality in Nirmal Panth’s year 1993, in 1937 A.D. at Nirmal cow shelter (Gaushala). sub-community, Sampardaya Bagh, Kankhal. Sant Atma Singh As mahant of the Ashram he Thakuran. Ji Maharaj was bestowed as the performed his duties most The word ‘Sant’ (saint) Mahant and took over the services efficiently till his end and during connotes a person who has of the Ashram. this period the Ashram achieved realized absolute truth in life. There were a number of multilateral progress. He was Sant Baba Nikka Singh ji Sant disciples of Param Sant known for his untiring services, Maharaj was such a holy soul who Sriman Mahant Buddha Singh learning, forbearance and love for after realizing the highest in ji Maharaj. Amongst them the the community. In the sacred spiritual growth through medi- memory of Mahant Baba Buddha names of Sant Jaimal Singh ji tation had merged completely Singh ji Maharaj he presented ‘Avdhoot’, Sant Giani Balwant with God. With recitation of with deep respect and devotion a Singh ji and Sant Arjun Singh ji God’s name, service and worship, ‘Bhikshu’ are worth mentioning. beautiful palanquin made from the leaves of gold and silver to Sri his heart and mind had become Besides, Sant Nihchal Singh ji, pure. He had reached the Sant Ram Singh ji ‘Bhorewale’ Nirmal Panchayati Akhara, stage where everything is united and Sant Madan Mohan Hari ji Kankhal. At the bidding of Pujya with the innerself and the ‘Sindhi’ were his prominent Sant Baba Nikka Singh ji individual cannot make a distinc- followers. But his most favoured ‘Virakat’, he appointed his most tion between oneself and others. ones were Param Pujya Sant obedient disciple Sant Narain Atma Singh ji Maharaj and Sant Singh ji as his successor. After This is the ultimate stage of the Baba Nikka Singh ji Maharaj. serving the Ashram selflessly for final merger and is known as Sriman Mahant Atma Singh a long time (1937 to 1973) he Nirvan Padd, Turi Avastha or Ji – He was born at village breathed his last on Sawan Sudi Chautha Padd. He rose above the 11, Vikrami year 2030, 9 August Patto-Hira Singh, District physical existence and resided in 1973. Ferozepur (Punjab). In 1908, the spiritual state. when he was still young, took Sriman 108 Sant Baba Nikka He was born in village Sihan shelter of Pujya Mahant Baba Singh Ji ‘Virakat’ – He was a Daud district Ludhiana (Punjab) Buddha Singh ji. During his stay great scholar and an ascetic in a Jat Sikh family around the in the Ashram he received the who was deeply devoted to year 1894 A.D. He spent his blessings of Gurudev because of Guru service and love to man- childhood in this very village and untiring services towards sadhus, kind. He was a top ranking saint received the initial teaching of construction work and highly and believed in simple living. Gurbani from the saints commendable arrangement of He emerged as a miraculous while living here. In his youth he took up farming and served in the army. He fought in the First World War of 1914 and when the war ended, he left the army. For some time he lived in the village. He took up farming, served the elders and got his sisters married. After getting his younger brother, Sardar Lachhman Singh recruited in the army, he resolved to become an ascetic and reached Haridwar. Here he came into contact with Sant Baba Buddha Singh ji Mahant Atma Singh Ji Maharaj Sant Baba Nikka Singh Ji Maharaj Maharaj, Mahant of Nirmal Bagh

5 Brahmgiani kao khojaih mahesur. Nanak brahmgiani aap parmesur.

Kankhal (Haridwar) and dedi- strong belief in God they have cated his body and soul to him. become a sacred place of pilgri- After some time he went to Kashi mage. They have overcome their to learn Sanskrit and at the ego and have risen above the instance of his Guru. While in feelings of pain and pleasure. Kashi, he gained spiritual Absolute truth resides in their knowledge and practised recita- hearts. Nanak washes clean the tion of God’s name and was able to feet of such gurmukh saints who attain the real motive of man’s life are God’s loved ones. –‘Param-Pad’, the greatest height In the same way, a man who in spirituality. Side by side, he has had a meeting with the used to cross the Ganges to innermost soul, realizes the abso- meditate and had his food by lute truth. He becomes engrossed begging. It was not enough for in the realization of that absolute him to have the knowledge of power which is omnipresent and Shastras. Instead he practised yet beyond every thing. His their teachings in his life. The individual feelings disappear and Mahant Narain Singh Ji Maharaj people of Kashi still sing the personal desires are washed out. Hoshiarpur district of Punjab and praises of his meditation. After Such a person, through his came to the Nirmal Ashram in some time, he came back to spiritual deeds, merges his 1922. He was educated here and Haridwar at the feet of the individual form into the uni- kept himself busy in recitation of Gurudev. Here he meditated versal. Brahmgyani, tat-veta Sant God’s name and guru-sewa. He deeply. Very few sadhus can do Baba Nikka Singh ji had a direct had deep regard for both Sant this. The aim of Sant Baba Nikka realization of Brahm (God). Baba Nikka Singh ji ‘Virakat’ and Singh’s life was to guide the Living in the will of God, he his Gurudev Sriman Mahant misguided people of the world on was a main source of inspiration Atma Singh ji and performed all the right path. Inspired by his life and uplift for the mankind. the services in accordance with full of divine virtues, innumer- During this period he travelled their wishes. He was very kind- able people became enlightened. the major pilgrim places of India hearted, sweet tongued, tolerant Darkness of ignorance was and all the persons who came in and temperamentally very calm dispelled from their lives and they contact with, were blessed with and quiet. He had a great were able to experience ever- godly knowledge. He travelled knowledge of Gurbani and other lasting happiness. widely in Punjab, Haryana, , religious Shastras. Side by About such pure and pious, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. He side he acquired Ayurvedic souls, Gurbani says : preached Gurbani and selfless knowledge and became a good Aise jan virle jag andar service to humanity. Ayurvedic physician (Vaidya). parkh khajanai paaya. According to divine decree he Sindhi people were very much impressed by his style of Jaat varn te bhae ateeta left his mortal frame at Nirmal Kutia Goraya (Punjab) at about 7 preaching and humble nature. mamta lobh chukaaya. During his sewa period (1974 to p.m. on Friday, 22 July,1983, Naam ratte teerath se nirmal 1982) the Ashram had all round Ashvin Sudi 13 Vikrami year progress. dukh haumai maill chukaya. 2040. The next day his holy body Nanak tin ke charan pakhalai was consigned to flames at Nirmal Once he requested Param jina Gurmukh saacha bhaaya. Kutia, Karnal. On July 25, 1983, Pujya Sant Baba Nikka Singh ji “My body does not cooperate with (Page 1345) his ashes were taken from Karnal to Nirmal Bagh, Kankhal me now. Please handover the i.e. there are very few persons in charge of conducting the affairs of this world whom God, after (Haridwar) and were immersed in the Ganges by the saints, the Ashram to some body else.” thorough investigation has given After a passage of time, Virakat mahatmas and a large number of a place in His treasure. They have Maharaj ji asked Mahant Narain devotees. freed themselves from the bon- Singh ji to appoint his prime dage of caste, colour, creed, Mahant Narain Singh Ji – He disciple, Bhai Ram Singh as religion and the feeling of greed or took charge of the Ashram in the successor to the seat of the Nirmal attachment. Because of their year 1974. He was born in Ashram.

6 Jabb lagg tutai naahi mann bharma tabb lagg mukat na koi. Kaho Nanak dyal soami sant bhagat jann soi.

Accordingly, Mahant Narain the Nirmal Ashram. According to Sriman Sant Bhagat Singh Singh ji appointed Bhai Ram divine decree he breathed his last Ji Maharaj – According to Sri Singh ji as his successor and at Nirmal Kutia, village Khokh Guru Arjun Dev ji Maharaj – entrusted the whole responsi- (near Nabha) on 30 May 1994. Teen biyapaih jagat kao turiya pavai koey. bility of the Ashram to him. Sriman Sant Kartar Singh Ji– Nanak sant nirmal bhaye jin mann vasia soey. As per divine decree, Mahant He was born at Daangarh village, Revered Sant Bhagat Singh ji Narain Singh ji left his mortal district Sangrur in a Gursikh comes equal to the touch stone of frame on 25 October 1982. With Jat family in the beginning of this intent of Gurbani. the blessings of ‘Virakat’ ji the 20th century. Since child- Maharaj, on the seventeenth day hood he was religious minded according to the tradition of the and temperamentally inclined Nirmal community, the whole towards satsang and service to Nirmal Sant community perfor- the sadhus. He received Gurmat med ‘Pagri Tying Ceremony’ and education from Sant Giani bestowed the honour of Mahant Chanda Singh ji Kattoowale. on Bhai Ram Singh ji. About the year 1960, he got Sriman Sant Dharam Singh Ji attached to the services of the – Sant Dharam singh ji was a

Sant Bhagat Singh Ji Maharaj Holy personalities like him appear once in a while after centuries. Embodiment of devo- tion, love and vedant-philosophy, he was blessed with accomplish- ment of mind, word and work. The melodious tune of ‘Ram’ Mantra present in each breath ever flowed from his tongue. Sant Baba Kartar Singh JI People sitting around listening Sant Dharam Singh Ji Maharaj Nirmal Ashram, Rishikesh and to that tune would find them- unique personality in the history dedicated the rest of his life to this selves elevated to the state of of Nirmal Ashram because of place. He was lucky enough to bliss. The holy company of Sant his selfless service towards remain in the services of Mahant Nikka Singh ji Maharaj was humanity. He was born in 1902 at Atma Singh ji, Mahant Narain instrumental in acquiring self- village Landran, district Ropar Singh ji, Pujya Sant Baba Nikka knowledge. Once Pt. Jawahar Lal (Punjab). By coincidence he met Singh ji ‘Virakat’ and Mahant Nehru, the then prime-minister Sriman Sant Basant Singh ji Baba Ram Singh ji Maharaj. He of India went to Haridwar on the ‘Virakat’ and was in his holy was a perfect saint. He was such a occasion of the Kumbh festival company for sometime. Travelling great well-wisher of the Ashram (1950) and showed his inclination along with him, he came to that Sant Baba Nikka Singh ji to meet saints like ancient Nirmal Ashram, Rishikesh. He used to call him ‘the Lock of the ascetics and . On his got education from Sant Nihchal Ashram’. While performing the request, Swami Ganesh Dutt ji Singh ji’ Sargodha Wale’, who was selfless service of the Ashram, he who was very close to him took a prominent devotee of Mahant left his mortal frame in the him to Sant Bhagat Singh ji Baba Buddha Singh ji. Sant Nirmal Ashram itself on 16 Maharaj for spiritual talk and Dharam Singh ji spent his whole August, 1988, the Sankranti of seek his blessings. Such was the life in selfless service looking after Bhadon. excellence of this saint.

7 Soi sant je bhave Ram. Sant Gobind ke ekai kaam.

He was born in about 1880 was a pious lady. He inherited his born at village Chakk Mallan, at village Takhat-Hazara district religious bent of mind from his district Hoshiarpur. He was a Sargodha (Pakistan) and father Sant Bhagat Singh ji, but scholar of Gurmat philosophy and happened to meet Sant Baba the spark of love for Gurbani master of authentic pronunciation Nikka Singh ji Virakat on the was ignited by Sant Baba Nikka of Gurbani. He was never tired of occasion of ‘Ardha Kumbh’ (1944) Singh ji Maharaj. Because of teaching the meanings of Gurbani Haridwar. The chance meeting Name recitation (Naam ), of two great souls turned into Guru devotion, worship and a permanent relationship. Sant meditation, he was able to reach Bhagat Singh requested Virakat the pinnacle of spiritual Maharaj ji to come to Sheikhu- realization. The flame of self pura Kutia and was able to get a knowledge got enlightened in his promise from him, too. According heart. This fire has been called as to his word Virakat ji went there destroyer of wicked deeds by Lord once. After the partition of the in the Gita. This country Sant Bhagat Singh ji knowledge liberates man from his Maharaj settled in Karnal. His vices and doubts, and enables him seat of meditation and worship to realize absolute peace. was Chhoti Kutia. Both the great Embodiment of renun-ciation and saints continued meeting here in benevolence, Sant Gopal Singh ji Sant Darshan Singh Ji holy atmosphere. went to a number of villages and to his inquisitive disciples. He was At the age of 82 he left his preached Gurbani to those who blessed by Nature with good mortal frame on the Kartika came in his contact. He inspired qualities like tolerance, simplicity, (Poornima) Sudi 15 (1962) in them for selfless service and noble humility and self restraint. Kutia (Chhoti) Wazir Chand deeds. His scholarship and He would easily explain in a Colony, Karnal. accomplished life had a deep effect few words the thoughts of Sriman Sant Gopal Singh Ji on them. He brought the people in Gurbani in relation to spirituality Maharaj – Sant Gopal Singh ji contact with his Gurudev Sriman by quoting other similar versus of was born at Takhat-Hazara, Sant Baba Nikka Singh ji Virakat: Gurbani to clarify the meanings. district Sargodha in about 1908. Gur parmesar eko jaan. According to divine decree this His mother Smt. Devi Jo tiss bhavai so parvaan. benevolent soul left this world for According to this statement, his heavenly abode on December he used to call his Gurudev the 25, 1978 in Nirmal Kutia, Karnal. direct visible image of Sri Guru Gurmukh janam swaar dargeh chaliya. Nanak Dev ji. Once when he Sachi dargeh jaye sacha pid maliya. fell ill and was lying in a semi- Mahant Baba Ram Singh ji conscious state in the Government Maharaj – Worthy of the grace of hospital, Karnal, he kept uttering most respected Brahmgyani ‘Gurudev, Gurudev’. ‘Virakat’ ji Sant Baba Nikka Singh ji Maharaj heard the call of his loved Maharaj and temporal successor one and graced him with a visit at of Mahant Narain Singh ji, the Karnal. He put his kind hand over present Mahant of Nirmal the head of his great disciple. Ashram, Sriman Mahant Baba Moments after, his body became Ram Singh ji Maharaj was born calm and still. in Delhi on October 17, 1950. His Sriman Sant Darshan Singh father Shri Aroor Chand Uppal Sant Gopal Singh Ji Maharaj Ji – Sant Darshan Singh ji was and mother Smt. Vimla Devi were

8 Sewak kao nikti hoye dikhaavai. Jo jo kahai thakur paih sewak tatkaal hoye aavai. religious minded. Because of good sincere services towards saints, deeds and meditation of previous Virakat Maharaj ji bestowed upon him the title of ‘Sant’ and asked him to be in the service of the Ashram under the guidance of Mahant Narain Singh ji. After a couple of months because of ill health, Mahant Narain Singh ji left for his On their visit to Canada, Mahant Baba Ram Singh ji heavenly abode on 25 October, Maharaj & Sant Baba Jodh Singh ji Maharaj 1982. Seeking blessings of of Gurbani is followed by Guru ka Sri Guru Granth Sahib and langar. Similarly he visits foreign Pujya Virakat Maharaj ji on 10 lands, too, and blesses the November, 1982 – the 17th day of devotees there. prayers, the traditional ceremony In a passage of time ‘Virakat’ of tying the turban was performed Maharaj ji graced two other loving at the Nirmal Ashram in the disciples, Bhai Jodh Singh ji and H.H. Mahant Ram Singh Ji Maharaj presence of saints, sadhus and Bhai Gurinder Singh ji (Chhotu) birth, he was interested in devotees and Bhai Ram Singh ji as saints. Sant sewa from the very childhood. was graced as the new Mahant of Sant Baba Jodh Singh ji After sometime his parents settled the Nirmal Ashram, Rishikesh. Maharaj – Sant Jodh Singh ji was in Karnal and had his schooling H.H. Mahant Ram Singh ji is a born on Saturday, August 14, here. Just after coming back from man of clean and pure conscience. 1948 in village Sihan Daud (Distt. school, he would go to Nirmal The radiance on his face and the Ludhiana). He is a man of Kutia, Karnal to bow his head at glitter in his soft kind eyes are a imposing personality and is the the feet of the great saints and clear and visible testimony of nephew of Sant Baba Nikka Singh would busy himself in community his spiritual powers. He is always meal service (langar sewa). While lost in the bliss of the soul, serving the saints he completed his obedience to the Guru and the worldly education, too. But he was glory of God. Light and knowledge becoming disinterested in wordly of absolute truth always burn in education. Once in a while, he his pure heart and he is would go to his house, but spent determined to permeate the whole most of his time at the feet of the world with it. great saints. After serving the Occasionally devotees come to community meal and washing him for the redressel of their clothes, he would seat himself at worldly and religious doubts. the feet of Sant Baba Nikka Singh Benevolent Maharaj ji enlightens ji Virakat. In accordance with the their mind through Gurbani and Guru’s order, he served in the blesses them with God’s Name Barnala (Punjab) branch of the (Naam daan) and offers parsad to Punjab and Sind Bank, but his them. Sriman Sant Jodh Singh Ji Maharaj mind was ever engrossed in his desire to be before the Guru. One Satgur Sikh kao naam dhan dey ji Maharaj. No doubt, devotion to day of May 1981 he took Gur ka Sikh vadbhagi hey. selfless service is mostly the leave from the Bank and came to Because of the love and result of the deeds of the previous see his Gurudev at Nirmal Bagh, affection of the devotees Maharaj birth, but he inherited this Kankhal (Haridwar). Pleased with ji visits their homes and work devotion from birth in the holy his humility and continuous places on fixed dates. Recitation family of Virakat ji Maharaj. His

9 Sewa saa prabh bhavsi jo prabh paaye thaaey. Jan Nanak har aradhya gur charni chit laaey father S. Lachhman Singh ji was he performed sewa at the Nirmal an agriculturist. His mother Ashram even before becoming a being a lady of religious dis- sadhu. After the passing away of position was devoted to serving Pujya Virakat Maharaj ji he the saints and this devotion began whole-heartedly and increasingly to flourish in him, too, from his devoted himself in all types of very childhood. He studied services for the progress of the Gurbani deeply along with wordly Ashram and its allied branches. education. For sometime he Services rendered by him occupy a served in the Gujranwala Town special and prominent place in the Sant Baba Jodh Singh Ji Maharaj branch (Delhi) of the Punjab & having a valuable discussion with the history of Nirmal Ashram. Sind Bank, but it was not the aim Trustees of Eye Institute. Sant Chaman Lal ji – Sant of his life. Seeing his inclination and renovation of old buildings, Chaman Lal ji was born in 1919. towards serving the saints, his celebration of annual and other Leading his worldly life quite unparallelled devotion to Sri functions of the Ashram. Gather- efficiently, he came into contact Guru Granth Sahib ji and his ing knowledge of the history of the interest in selfless activities, Sant Nirmal community in his passion. Baba Nikka Singh ji Maharaj That is why today Nirmal Ashram bestowed him as Sant on 3 April has become not only a religious 1983 and thus, freed him from the place, but a benevolent, vast, worldly bonds. He showered his social, educational and medical blessings and asked him to move care centre of Uttarakhand. to Nirmal Ashram, Rishikesh to Sant Gurinder Singh ji serve the Ashram along with (Chhotu Baba ji) – He hails from Mahant Baba Ram Singh ji. the town of Goraya in Punjab. His H.H. Mahant Baba Ram Singh parents made him understand ji Maharaj often moves about the importance of religion and among the people in the country sadhu sewa. He was fortunate to and abroad to enlighten them have a company of sadhus & Sant Chaman Lal Ji and spread the message of the saints and served them even in his with Sant Baba Nikka Singh Guru (Gurmat) for the benefit of early life. Most of his time he was ji Virakat. After retiring as mankind. With the passage of in the service of Sant Baba Nikka Deputy Chief Officer from the time, the activities of the Ashram Singh ji Maharaj and received his Central Bank of India in 1979, he are multiplying and by the grace blessings. At the Guru’s bidding served Virakat Maharaj ji. Later of the Guru, Sant Baba Jodh on he was given the responsibility Singh ji fulfills them all with great of managing the affairs of wisdom and far-sightedness. He Nirmal Bagh Kankhal which he manages, guides and takes care of performed very efficiently and all the benevolent institutions of with great devotion. Extremely the Ashram – Nirmal Ashram friendly, soft spoken, sweet Hospital, NDS (CBSE affiliated tongued and a lover of satsang he Sr. Sec. School), NGA (Free was very fond of reciting God’s school), Eye Hospital, Mobile name and the study of Shastras. Hospital, Silai Kendar (HSK) He secretly kept himself at the etc. Thus every activity of the service of sadhus and helping the Ashram is moving around him. needy. According to divine decree Because of his devotion and skill he left his mortal frame on 20 he is able to manage very April, 1990. Thus making his efficiently the construction of new Sant Gurinder Singh Ji (Chhotu Baba) mortal life a complete success.

10 Sarab dharam maih sarest dharam. Har ko naam jap nirmal karam. Nirmal Ashram – Activities

Recitation of God’s name take place. After the aarti, saintly H.H. Mahant Baba Ram Singh ji (Naam) and a life of noble and and under–priviledged persons Maharaj and to participate in the pious deeds can take man to the who come to receive bhiksha selfless services of the Ashram. feet of God. Our mind is like an (alms) are welcomed with shower- This flow of devotees increases ocean where waves of thoughts ing of flowers and offered food as especially in the months of May rise and fall. These waves are well as tea (Guru ka Langar). and June. About this time impediments in our attempt to During recitation of bhajans about Mahant Baba Ram Singh ji see ourselves. Only when these 700 persons are served daily. Maharaj generally stays at waves stop, we can very well see Simultaneously, devotees who Rishikesh. During the pilgrimage our own reflection. In the same are staying in the Ashram also to Sri Hemkunt Sahib manner when our mind becomes take their breakfast. After the and the Chaar Dhaam, the pure and stable, we will be able to community lunch (langar) and Ashram is full to the capacity due realize God. As per Guru vaak – the evening tea, recitation of to the coming and going of Such hovai ta sach paaeyai. Gurbani and other Shastras (Holy devotees. Devotees coming to this When your conscience becomes Scriptures) take place. The spiritual city not only receive the clear, you can know the reality. presence of Mahant Baba Ram blessings and love of Satguru Determinations and resolutions of Singh ji lends it additional charm Maharaj but also enjoy the an impure intellect and mind are and interest. The current which natural and spiritual atmos- illusory. Devotion to love and self- flows from the miraculous voice of phere of the place. In this way by less service make your conscience Maharaj ji rains sweet like cold remaining busy in selfless service clear. Similarly, we can see our own showers of a spring in a desert. and recitation of God’s name they reflection and our soul from within After dinner a congregation is enrich their lives. Undoubtedly ourselves– again held in which only Gurbani Sewa and Simran are the pillars Kaie kot prabh kau khojante. of strength. Aatm maih paarbrahm lahante. Organisation of Functions – It is necessary to control our Religious functions are organised thoughts and deeds to enjoy ever- from time to time in a grand lasting happiness. This control manner by Nirmal Ashram should be such as should not let Rishikesh. During the months of us deviate from our path even September / October, anniversary in times of difficulty. Nirmal functions are held in the sacred Ashram, Rishikesh is undoub- memory of late great souls mainly tedly an holy place which is in Nirmal Bagh, Kankhal and instrumental in finding the clean Nirmal Ashram, Rishikesh. and pure path and absolute peace. Thousands of devotees from all over the world take part in these Daily Routine – Serve all, love functions with great devotion and all is the watch word which love and receive the blessings of prevails here. All the activities of Mahant Baba Ram Singh ji reading his Gurudev’s great souls. At the beginning of the the Ashram proceed with a view to Parvachan from ‘Sahaj Katha’ new year day (English calendar), a achieve this high aim and ideal. shabads are recited. Gurbani- grand function is organised in the Message of Gurbani and spiritual charged-environment takes us to Ashram to celebrate the foun- thoughts continue in one form or the realm of ecstacy. Children dation day of the Hospital and the another from early in the morning receiving training for Shabad School. In the function on the eve of till late at night. In the morning Kirtan also get a chance to partici- each departing year after Bhog of recitation of Gurbani, singing of pate. 31 Sri Akhand Path Sahib of Sri hymns (Kirtan) and the daily Devotees keep coming to the Guru Granth Sahib, singing of satsang in lieu of Darbar sahib Ashram to seek the blessings of shabads and satsang go on uptill

11 Satgur kai updesai binse sarab janjaal. Andar lagga Ram naam amrit nadar nihaal. midnight in full religious atmosphere. After Glimpses of the Procession of the Centenary Function the Aarti, prayers are offered at the feet of the guru for a happy and prosperous new year. After this, H.H. Mahant Baba Ram Singh ji

Mahant Baba Ram Singh ji Maharaj offering parsad to devotees. Sant Baba Jodh Singh ji is sitting by his side. Maharaj offers parsad to devotees with his own hands and blesses them to remain attached in future also with service, prayer, satsang and noble deeds. The same type of functions are also organised in various branches of the Ashram according to the prescribed dates. Mahant Baba Ram Singh ji pleases the congregation with his presence at all places. Centenary Function – The Centenary Function of the Nirmal Ashram, Rishikesh was celebrated with great selfless service and devotion from 21st September to 23rd September on the occasion of the Barsi Samagam of Pujya Mahant Baba Buddha Singh ji Maharaj and Brahm Gyani Sant Baba Nikka Singh ji Maharaj. On the occasion, the new building of Sri Darbar Sahib was inaugurated with the Parkash of 31 Sri Guru Granth Sahib. The highlights of the function were the Kirtan darbar, Holy procession (Nagar Kirtan) food for the great souls (Bhandara), Guru ka langar, the release of Sahaj Katha (Vol. III) – a collection of spiritual speeches by Sant Baba Nikka Singh ji and laying the foundation stone of the building of the new free school – Nirmal Ashram Gyan Daan Academy (NGA) Khairi Kalan (Rishikesh). On the occasion of this historical day a very beautiful Centenary Memorial Gate was built on the way leading towards the Ashram from the Haridwar- Lakshman Jhula road.

12 Atthsatth teerath jaih saadh pag dhrai. Taih baikunth jaih naam uchraih.

Inside view of newly constructed Bhawan of Sri Darbar Sahib

During Sant Samagam, Pujya Sri Mahant Gian Dev Singh ji During centenary celebrations, sadhus being Vedantacharya delivering his spiritual speech. served with Guru ka Langar

Blessed ones, Bibi Jasjit Kaur ‘Ruby’ and her associates Foundation stone laying ceremony of NGA, Khairi Kalan, reciting Gurbani Shabad Kirtan Rishikesh in the presence of pious souls

13 Braham giani kao khojhai mahesur. Nanak Brahm giani aap parmesur.

Publication of Literature – by Bibi Jasjit Kaur ‘Ruby’ and Bibi by operation are undertaken free Efforts for the collection and Harminder Kaur ‘Babby’ are also of cost in order to restore vision to publication of the preachings readily available. the sightless. Free Medical and of great spiritual souls are Humanitarian Activities & Eye camps are organised at made by the Ashram. Some of the Nirmal Ashram has been render- different places in far off rural and preachings of Pujya Brahamleen ing great services in the hilly areas. Mahant Baba Buddha Singh Medical, Spiritual, Social and Hospital van/bus is provided ji Maharaj were published by Religious fields. The Ashram free of cost to patients to be Sindhi devotees at first in always takes part in selfless operated for eyes to bring them Sindhi language under the title humanitarian projects such from their homes and to take them back. To keep pace with the ‘Gurmukh Manmukh ke Lakshan as – Nirmal Ashram Hospital, modern technique, a building for tatha Nirmal Updesh’. Now this Nirmal Ashram Deepmala this hospital is under preparation book is available by the name Pagarani Public School (NDS), Nirmal Updesh in Punjabi, near the free school (NGA) at Nirmal Ashram Gyan Daan Khairi Kalan village. With the and English language. Some of Academy (NGA) and a separate inauguration of this Hospital the the spiritual preachings of department for treatment of eye great task of providing sight to the Sriman Sant Baba Nikka Singh ji diseases, etc. Hospital for Nirmal sightless will start at a higher Maharaj were recorded by his Ashram Eye Institute is also level. devotees. The collection of these nearing completion. Besides there invaluable preachings in the form are many more services which are of books ‘Sahaj Katha’ (Vol. I, II, being rendered at many other III) are now available in Punjabi places in Punjab and Haryana. and Hindi. This followed the Ever since 1990 Nirmal publication of ‘Ascharaj Vastu’. It Ashram Hospital has been contains in details the selfless providing all types of medical and benevolent lives of all the facilities to society with a sense of great souls connected with the dedication and service. In accor- Ashram and the brief histories of dance with the objective of ‘Nirmal the Nirmal cult and Sampardaya Mission for Vision’, checking up Thakuran. This book is the and treatment of every type of eye H.H. Maharaj ji inaugurating the precious treasure of the Ashram, diseases, and inserting of lenses New Accounts office as well as the whole Nirmal Panth. Some of the precious pearls out of the preachings of Pujya Virakat Maharaj ji, a book has been published under the title Pearls of Truth. Expression of deep philoso- phical ideas in simple language and style is a speciality of these books. On the request these invaluable books are given to the devotees free of cost. Besides, cassets and Cd’s of spiritual speeches by Sant Baba Nikka Singh ji read by Mahant Baba

Ram Singh ji and Shabad Kirtan Staff at work in Accounts Office

14 Sarab kalyaan keeye gurdev. Sewak apni laeo sev. Bighan na laagai jap alakkh abhev.

Nirmal Ashram Hospital, Rishikesh

The holy and tender heart of H.H. Mahant Baba Ram Singh ji has been the source of many plans for the help of the needy and the welfare of humanity. To see a smile on the sad and sick faces, the foundation stone of Nirmal Ashram Hospital was laid on 16 April 1986 in Rishikesh. The health services by the hospital began in 1990. People from far and near are benefitting from this service. Equipped with latest modern amenities, this hospital has proved a boon for The Main Building of the Hospital all classes and sections of society. This 125 bedded hospital having experienced, qualified and able doctors in every field (Gynaecology, Orthopaedic, Dental, Paediatrics, Leproscopy, Cardiology, ENT, General Surgery, Pathology, Radiology, ICU, Medical Store, Physio- therapy, Nirmal Health Care Centres) and equipped with latest modern instruments and equipments is trying to build a healthy society. Presently about 150 staff members are rendering their services to the patients with love and devotion. For the convenience of the patients, Ambulance service is also available. Free camps are H.H. Maharaj ji offering parsad to sadhus, saints, patients and blessing them organised in rural areas on every to get well soon. Sunday. Specialists in their own fields from different states of the country also visit the hospital from time to time and give their expertise advise. The poor, the disabled, sadhus and saints are provided free treatment. This hospital is situated in Mayakund at a short distance from the Ashram. New block of the Hospital under construction

15 Gur parsaadi vidya veecharai pad pad paavai maan. Educational Centres of the Nirmal Ashram

Nirmal Ashram Deepmala Public School (N.D.S.) Shyampur, Rishikesh – The whole system of education in India is either too traditional or too modern. But in fact, modernism is incomplete without tradition. So, tradition and modernism, or religion and science, both should be accepted together. Both should co-exist. Existence of science is not possible without religion. Situated on the Rishikesh- Haridwar road, Nirmal Ashram Deepmala Pagarani Public School Nirmal Ashram Deepmala Pagarani Public School, Shyampur, Rishikesh (N.D.S) is making such an effort. the three faculties – Arts, Science the modern system of education The foundation stone of this and Commerce. The board results will not only impart the best of institution was laid by Mahant of the school are 100% and education in the field of science but Baba Ram Singh ji on the meritorious. In the coming years also become the supreme medium sacred day of Baisakhi in 1994. this centre of education, with for taking the students to the top of devotion, concentration, yoga The vast building of the school was the traditional system of education of the ancient saints and and meditation. inaugurated on the first day of 1997 after the recitation of 31 Akhand Paths of Sri Guru Granth Sahib and in accordance with the Keeta lodiai kamm su harr paih aakhiai. Kaaraj dei swaar satgur sach saakhiai. Guru Vaak and the blessings of saints. This school has been attracting the attention of the people of the area and of far off At the Annual Function of School places from the very beginning. H.H. Maharaj ji, Sant Jodh Singh ji Maharaj & On the spot guidance by the Art teacher Affiliated to C.B.S.E, this the Chief guest S. Surjit Singh Barnala Keeping alive the Gurukul (the Governor Uttarakhand) Senior Secondary School is trying system, boarding facilities are hard to impart modern education being provided to students in through the medium of English. neat and clean, pollution free Side by side full attention is given environment with pure vegetarian to yoga, cultural activities, sports food. At present, 125 students are and games, moral education and learning to lead a life of good character building. At present, the conduct along with education in school staff consists of 150 this hostel. There is no doubt that members and about 1300 students in the near future this school will from India and abroad are be able to provide guidance to the studying in the school. Facilities Chief Guest, S. Tirlochan Singh, Chairman growing public school system in Minority Commission giving away exist for teaching the subjects of the prizes to the students India.

16 Aagaaha koo traagh pichha pher na mohdarra. Nanak sijh iveha vaar bahud na hovi janmada.

Nirmal Ashram Gyan Daan Academy (NGA) Khairi Kalan (Rishikesh) – On 21 September, 2003 at the time of the centenary celebrations of the Nirmal Ashram, was laid the foundation stone of Nirmal Ashram Gyan Daan Academy (NGA) at village Khairi Kalan, Rishikesh in the presence of saints and sadhus. With a view to provide modern education through English medium along with other facilities to the Nirmal Ashram Gyan Daan Academy (NGA), Rishikesh children of the poor, the needy society free of cost. Admission is dependent. A prayer (Ardas) was and the economically backward provided to the children of made before Sri Guru Granth sections of society, a grand economically backward sections of Sahib ji to seek permission to start building was built and the society without any prejudice of this service on the Barsi first session began on 2 April caste, colour, creed, region or celebrations of great souls (11 2004. In the First Session 178 religion. October, 2005). This free centre children were selected for LKG, I for training in sewing and and II class. H.H. Mahant Baba embroidery is running in the Ram Singh ji gave away books, premises of the Nirmal Ashram stationery, school uniforms and Rishikesh itself. At present 24 bags to the students with his own ladies are receiving training in hands. Parsad and fruits were this centre. At the end of the also offered and the children were training period, a sewing machine blessed for their bright future. is also given to each student as a Education through English Children reciting Gurbani Kirtan help along with a certificate. Bibi medium, school uniforms, books Paramjit Kaur (of Karnal) is and stationery, mid-day meal and rendering selfless service for buses for coming and going etc. running this centre. are provided free. Medical check- up and treatment of the children is also made free. All the staff members of the school render the services with a sense of devotion. Students participating in function Computer & Music Education, training in Kirtan, Gurbani reci- Hari Kirpa Silaie Kendar (Sewing tation, sports & games and above Centre), Rishikesh – all creating interest in Art are Another humanitarian idea some of the extra activities of this came to Mahant Ram Singh ji institution. This is the first school Maharaj for establishing a sewing of its kind in Uttarakhand which centre to provide help to the is fulfilling the primary needs of women of the poor, the needy, the the poor, the needy and the unemployed sections of society to Hari Kirpa Silaie Kendar, Rishikesh economically backward sections of enable them to become self

17 Paani pakkha pees daas kai tabb hohe nihaal. Raaj milakh sikdariya agani maih jaal. Nirmal Bagh Kankhal (Haridwar) Haridwar is an ancient place of piligrimage where people from every corner of all the states of India come. Innumerable pilgrims come to Haridwar on te occasion of Baisakhi, Ganga Dussehra, Somwari Amavasya, Kartik Poornima, Sankrati, Maaghi and Kumbh fairs. A thought came to the kind heart of Pujya Mahant Baba Buddha Singh ji Maharaj that an Ashram should be set up at Haridwar so that the devotees could have a comfortable stay there at the time of religious gatherings. With this view a piece of land was bought from Mahant Nihal Singh ji and some rooms were built in A view of Sri Darbar Sahib Bhawan, Satsang Hall and Ashram building. 1911. Saplings were planted on the remaining piece of land. This Ashram is situated on the Haridwar - Delhi Main Road near the Prem Nagar Ashram Chowk and is known as Nirmal Bagh. Rich with natural beauty, Nirmal Bagh is a pleasant place to watch. In the Sri Darbar Sahib Bhawan, as per norms (maryada) Aarti and Ardas are offered in the morning and evening. Facilities for stay and food (langar) exist for the devotees and pilgrims. A big satsang hall was constructed in 1994 where Barsi functions of Sant Mahesh Chander ji Maharaj Sant Bharat Singh ji ‘Vedantacharya’ great souls are celebrated. worked with his own hands and and deeply religious. He hails Akhand paths of Sri Guru Granth belonged to village Bhatti Kalan from village Beebiyapur, district Sahib and Shabad Kirtan are (Near Bhawanigarh) district Gonda (U.P.) To assist him in the recited. A clean and modern cow Sangrur in Punjab. According to management of the Nirmal Bagh, shelter also exists where cows of divine decree he left his mortal Shri Harbans Lal Bawa is perfor- foreign breed are reared and kept. frame on 9 February 2006. ming the services with his body, Cows are milked with milking Besides, daily routine, Sant mind and material. He always machines for convenience. Sant Bharat Singh ji Vedantacharya is takes care of every job of the Mahesh Chander ji had been managing community kitchen Ashram with great interest and performing his untiring services (Guru ka Langar) and taking care also takes care of the saints, for the care of the cow shelter, of Sri Darbar Sahib Bhawan most devotees and the visitors. Bhajan agriculture and the garden. He efficiently and with dedication. bandgi and the study of Shastras was extremely hardworking who He is very soft spoken, humble is the food of his life.

18 Chaar padaarth je ko maagai. Saadh jna ki sewa laagai. Nirmal Sant Niwas, Mumbai Long before the partition of India, Param Pujya Mahant Baba Buddha Singh ji preached gurmat in Sindh province through the recitation of gurbani and other shastras. He tried to bind every section of the Sindhi Samaj from the areas of Hyderabad, Karachi, Shikarpur and Sakkhar with Gurughar and blessed them with Naam daan. Sindhi people of those days were very much impressed by the supernatural personality of Maharaj ji and became his disciples in large numbers. At the time of partition of the country in 1947, almost the whole society suffered greatly and settled in Inside view of Nirmal Sant Niwas, Mumbai India. Because of devotion, faith, zeal and growing love of Sindhi devotees settled in Mumbai, H.H. Mahant Baba Ram Singh ji set up Nirmal Sant Niwas in Varsova (Mumbai) in the year 1994. Regular recitation of gurbani goes on here. Special programme of Kirtan is organised on each Sunday and Guru ka Langar is served. Every year Foundation Day of Nirmal Sant Niwas is celebrated in the month of February. Parkash Divas (Birth days) of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji and Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji are Daily routine of reciting Gurbani Shabad Kirtan by the devotees celebrated with great devotion on Kartik Purnima and in the months of December / January respectively. Recitation of Akhand Paths and Sahaj Paaths goes on uninterrupted. Untiring service and devotion of Sindhi and Punjabi communities have lent a unique grace and elegance to the place. Bhai Bhagwan Singh ji, a great disciple of Pujya Maharaj ji, a resident of village Bhorey (near Nabha) has undertaken the sewa (service) of the Ashram with great devotion and love, and is performing it with full cooperation of Saadh-Sangat. Mukhya Sewadar, Bhai Bhagwan Singh ji offering prayer

19 Jitthai baisan saadh jan so thaan suhanda. Oye sewan samrath aapna binsai sabh manda. Nirmal Kutia, Karnal (Haryana)

This sacred place is the place of devotees got together in the form of Maharaj which left an indelible meditation of Brahm Gyani, congregation and enhanced the impression on his life. After Brahmleen, Sriman Sant Baba grandeur of this yagya. All the sometime, he came to Rishikesh Nikka Singh ‘Virakat’ ji. After the Akhandpath recitors (Paathi) and and started doing selfless service partition of the country, he sewadars rendered selfless service at the Ashram. Once at the bidding showered his blessings to the in this unique function. This is the of Maharaj ji, he took over the sewa people of this city. During his stay first example of its kind in the of managing Nirmal Sant Niwas here he ran uninterrupted current history of the world and is worthy of Mumbai and reciting Gurbani to of satsang. It is a place which really being written in letters of gold. the devotees. Pleased with his enriches a devotee with the In Nirmal Kutia recitation of services, Mahant Baba Ram Singh spiritual bounties. The very sight Akhand Paths of Sri Guru Granth ji graced him as Sant and of sectum is captivating and Sahib goes on throughout the entrusted him the management of delightful which soothes the heart, year. Lodging facilities for Nirmal Kutia, Karnal. The life of freshes the mind and purifies the devotees coming from other Sarpanch ji is extremely simple. soul. This sacred place is the centre places are also there. At a From his very childhood, he has of meditation of devotees who flock distance of two kms. from this been very hardworking and to this place from very early place, there is a cow shelter in enjoyed working with his own morning till late at night. Inspired Nirmal Bagh where cows of hands. In the morning, at noon by H.H. Mahant Ram Singh ji, and also at night, he distributes people belonging to different foreign breed are kept and looked Guru ka Langar to the poor with communities, especially the youth, after very well. Fodder for cows is his own hands along with his other continue reciting Gurbani here. A also grown here. Besides, fellows. At this holy place of special Gurbani Kirtan Darbar is different types of fruit plants have meditation, almost 400 persons arranged in the evening on been planted which add to the perform different services (sewa) Sundays. Guru ka langar goes on grandeur of this place. daily with great devotion and 24 hrs. every day. People in large Sriman Sant Nirbhinder humility after paying obeisance. numbers, from India and abroad Singh ji ‘Sarpanch’ has dedicated Admiringly all services are come here with great devotion and his life to the services of this holy running free at this vast place. respect for the Nanak Darbar place and is performing his At this very place another established by ‘Virakat’ Maharaj ji services very efficiently. Before obedient disciple of Pujya and pray for the fulfilment of their becoming a Sadhu he was an Maharaj ji Sant Baba Kanwal wishes. Mahant Baba Ram Singh agriculturist and was also Inder Singh ji is assisting in every ji visits this place from time to Sarpanch of two villages for ten type of service. He has been time, blesses and inspires devotees years. During this period he had leading the life of a saint since to tread the right path. been seeking the blessings of 1997 after freeing himself from With the inspiration of Pujya Sant Baba Nikka Singh ji the worldly bonds. Maharaj ji a Mahaan Yagya was performed at this holy place in 1993 on the auspicious accasion of Deepawali. The function began on 10 November, 1993 with a large holy procession (Nagar Kirtan). During this function, recitation of 251 Sri Akhand Path Sahib ji of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji began together in one canopy (pandaal) on November 11 and were completed on November 13. Gurbani Shabad Kirtan continued throughout the Deepawali night followed by Aasa di vaar and Ardas (prayer). Guru Ka Langar went on uninterrupted during the day and night. Shabad Kirtan, lectures (Parvachan) and H.H. Mahant Baba Ram Singh ji Maharaj, Sriman Sant Nirbhinder Singh ji ‘Sarpanch’ Brahm Vichar continued. Lakhs of and Sant Kanwal Inder Singh ji in Nirmal Kutia Karnal

20 Jithai Jaye bahai mera satguru so thaan suhawa ram raje. Glimpses of Nirmal Kutia, Karnal

Main Entrance Nanak Darbar

Paath Sthaan Kirtan Hall & Rooms for the Pilgrims

Guru Ka Langar being served to the poor in the morning Modern Cow Shelter at Nirmal Bagh, Karnal

21 Thaan suhawa pawit hai jithai sant sabha. Dhoi tis hi no milai jin poora guru labha. Other Branches of Nirmal Ashram

Birth Place – Sant Baba Nikka Singh Ji Maharaj ‘Virakat’ Vill. Sihan Daud, District Ludhiana (Punjab)

Nirmal Kutia – Vill. Khokh-Kotli, Distt. Patiala (Punjab) Nirmal Kutia – Vill. Loh-Simbli, Distt. Patiala (Punjab)

Nirmal Kutia – Vill. Thuha, Distt. Patiala (Punjab) Nirmal Kutia – Vill. Bishanpura (Lopey), Distt. Patiala (Punjab)

Nirmal Kutia – Vill. Kutbanpur, Distt. Patiala (Punjab) Nirmal Kutia – Vill. Ghamrauda, Distt. Patiala (Punjab)

Nirmal Kutia – Vill. Asarpur, Distt. Patiala (Punjab) Nirmal Kutia – Vill. Bhorhe Distt. Patiala (Punjab)

22 Dhann so des jahaa tu vassya mere sajjan meet murare jiyo.

Nirmal Kutia – Vill. Nalvi, Distt. Ambala (Haryana) Nirmal Kutia – Vill. Goraya, Distt. Jalandhar (Punjab)

Nirmal Kutia – Vill. Akhlaspur, Distt. Hoshiarpur (Punjab) Nirmal Kutia – Vill. Dhanaula Distt. Sangrur (Punjab)

Nirmal Kutia – Vill. Bhotna, Distt. Sangrur (Punjab) Nirmal Kutia – Vill. Khatkar-Khurd (Banga) Distt. Nawan Shahar

Sangat Gyan Gufa, Karan Ghanta, Nichi Bagh, Kashi (Varanasi) Nirmal Ashram Estate – Kulri, Mussoorie (Dehradun – Uttarakhand)

Nirmal Kutia – Vill. Bhaddal-Thuha, Distt. Fatehgarh Sahib (Punjab) Nirmal Kutia – Vill. Bhattiwal-Kalan, Distt. Sangrur (Under construction)

23 Baabaniya kahaniya putt sputt karein. Je satgur bhawai so mann lain sei karam karein.

In the Sant Samagam – H.H. Mahant Ram Singh ji, Sri Mahant Gyandev Singh ji, Srimaan Mahant Teja Singh ji, Mahant Raghuvir Singh ji Shastri, Mahant Gopal Singh Ji, Swami Ramdev ji ‘Paathi’ Rishikesh, Swami Vishveshranand ji – Omkaranand Ashram, Rishikesh

KThe Founder’s Day of Nirmal Ashram Hospital and Nirmal Ashram Deepmala Public School (NDS) Shyampur (Rishikesh) every year in Nirmal Ashram, Rishikesh from 29 December to 31 December night. KFoundation Day of Nirmal Sant Niwas, Versova, Mumbai every year in February. KFoundation Day of Nanak Darbar every year on Baisakhi day in Nirmal Kutia, Sector - 13, Urban Estate, Karnal. KBarsi Celebrations of Sant Baba Nikka Singh Virakat ji in Nirmal Kutia Goraya, Distt. Jalandhar (Punjab) every year on Asaarh Sudi 13. KBarsi Celebrations of Sant Baba Nikka Singh Virakat ji in Nirmal Kutia Sector 13 Urban Estate, Karnal every year on Asaarh Sudi 14. KBarsi Celebrations of Mahant Baba Buddha Singh ji Maharaj and Sant Baba Nikka Singh ji Virakat in Nirmal Bagh Kankhal (Haridwar) every year on Ashvin Sudi 12. KBarsi Celebrations of Mahant Atma Singh ji and Mahant Narain Singh ji in Nirmal Ashram, Rishikesh every year on Ashvin Sudi 8. KBarsi Celebrations of Baba Beant Singh ji ‘Avdhoot’ and Sant Baba Nikka Singh ji Virakat at Nirmal Kutia, Vill. Khokh-Kotli (near Nabha), district Patiala (Punjab) every year on Ashvin Sudi 15 (Poornima). KParkash Utsav of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji Maharaj and Barsi Celebration of Sant Bhagat Singh ji Maharaj at Nirmal Kutia, Sector-13, Urban Estate, Karnal (Haryana) every year on Kartik Sudi 15 (Poornima).

Besides these, Barsi functions are celebrated in many other branches. Their dates are published in the spiritual tour programme of Mahant Baba Ram Singh ji, which is given to the devotees on the occasion of the Barsi celebration at Rishikesh. With the permission of Maharaj ji, dates of celebrations at the homes and business places are also given to devotees.

Published by : Nirmal Ashram Trust, Nirmal Marg, Rishikesh, Distt. Dehradun (Uttarakhand) Printed by : Sanchi Press, Patparganj, - 110092

24 A supernatural view of 251 Sri Akhand Path Sahib at the time of Mahaan Yagya on Diwali 1993.

On the 3rd Centenary (10-4-1999) of Khalsa Panth H.H. Mahant Baba Ram Singh ji & Sant Baba Jodh Singh ji, accompanied by other Nirmaley Saints marching towards Sri Anandpur Sahib From the Ganges Side, View of Nirmal Ashram Bhawan, Rishikesh

Nirmal Ashram Eye Institute (Hospital), Khairi Kalan (Rishikesh)