KHALSA DIWAN SOCIETY

VANCOUVER , B.C.

ARJAN SINGH CHAND

JANUARY 1959

Secretary, ARJAN SINGH CHAND

1866 West 2nd Avenue, 2

This family tree which is being entered here is produced from the family tree of Beas of Jaisalmer and Tawareekh-e-Patiala. No other family tree is found more reliable than this. This is supported by Tawareekh-e-Patiala. James Tod, the author of “Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan” has also recognized it as reliable and Wali Ulah Sidiqui Sahib of Faridkot, the writer of “Aaeena-e- Brar Bans”, has also recognized this family tree as the most reliable. So did Sir Lepel Griffin, the writer of “Punjab Chiefs”, who has accepted this family tree as correct and accurate also.

Late Maharaja Mohinder Singh of Patiala, in his time, assigned his minister Maulana Khalifa Sayed Mohammad Hasan to research this family tree. He also declared this family tree to be accurate and authentic to the maximum. This family tree of Beas ji, reached Faridkot from Chuni Lal Jaisalmeri, who was the recipient of a scholarship from Durbar Patiala.

The Beas ji family tree of Durbar Dhaulpur also supports it. And there is no room for any doubt because, ancient Sindhu, Aryan books also resemble this family tree. This Family tree was memorized by heart by the old Sanhsees, Bhatts and Marasees, which is lost. That’s why it is important and appropriate to bring it in writing.

“Arjan Singh Chand”

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Family Tree {Family Tree} From primordial Shri Krishan ji

Number Generation Name Remarks

1 Shri Narain ji 2 Kanwal 3 Brahma

Uttar Rakhshi Marich Kastab Suraj < From here the family tree of Surajbansi Shri Ram ji starts.

4 Som “Chander” is called Som. From here the Chanderbansi family started in which Shri Krishan ji Maharaj was born. 5 Budh 6 Parvarda 7 Ayu 8 Nagokh 9 Jajati Jatt clan starts from this king Jajati 10 Jado Jado clan originated 11 Karoshta 12 Bajarnabh 13 Swati 14 Usank 15 Chatrath 16 Sasi Bandhu 17 Prithu Sarda 18 Dharam 19 Usna 20 Rachek 21 Jamogh 22 Badar Beh 23 Karith 24 Karwant 25 Dhashat 26 Nabrat 27 Dasahar

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Number Generation Name

29 Baiyom 30 Jai Moot 31 Bikrat 32 Bhimrath 33 Naurath 34 Dasrath 35 Sakan 36 Kaaram Beh 37 Dev Raat 38 Dev Kshattar 39 Madhu 40 Kor Bans 41 Annu 42 Parvahittar 43 Ayu Shani 44 Saat Vat 45 Andhak 46 Bhujmaan 47 Badorath 48 Suvar 49 Sami 50 Pitri Khetar 51 Sevam Bhuj 52 Hardaek 53 Dev Mendh 54 Sursain 55 Basav Dev 56 Shri Krishan ji Baldev ji alias Maharaj Bal Bhaddar 5

Family Tree from Shri Krishan ji to Maharaj “Sanghar”

Number Generation Name Other Name Remarks (General Information) Popular Name

1 Shri Krishan ji Krishan Avatar

2 Pardevman

3 Anroda

4 Basarnabh Bajarnabh The offspring of noble king Raja Kehar of Kuch Bhoj Bhoj had their headquarters in Mathura

5 Ashmi Kumar 6 Part Bahu Sobahu Established the Kingdom of Khurasan in Bhera. Killed, Sandar cannibal of Sandarbar.

7 Pad Bahu Ugar Sain Gave up the occupation of Kshatriya and started doing business. Founder of the Aggarwal clan .

8 Sobahu Sur Sain

9 Roop Sain Sur Bann

10 Surat Sain Sobahu Extended his kingdom up to Turkastan

11 Talok Chand

12 Bikram Chand Raj Bahu Conquered Tatar, Tibet. Colonized the city of Ghazani. Devi Worshipper. 13 Kautak Chand Raj Sain 14 Ram Chand Prat Bahu Turks snatched Ghazani from him. 15 Sudhar Chand 16 Kalyan Chand 17 Bhim Chnad 18 Ladhar Chnad 19 Manak Chand 20 Abhay Chand 21 Sobha Chnad 22 Goman Chnad 23 Hari Ram Chand Constructed Harat Fort, occupied Afghanistan, Khurasan, colonized “Gorabad Fort” and city after the name of “Brother Gora” 24 Kavi Chand 6

Number Name Other Name Number Name Other Name Generation Generation

25 Attar Chand 56 Sochar Man 26 Keson Chand 57 Sughar Naresh 27 Samund Pal 58 Bajjar Bal 28 Bikram Pal 59 Surat Dev 29 Chander Pal 60 Gupt Char 30 Narinder Pal 61 Bhadar Charab 31 Divaish Pal 62 Charu Chander 32 Sahan Pal 63 Chittar Parat 33 Chatarmun Pal 64 Charar Raj 34 Gaind Pal 65 Bhan Dev 35 Anand Pal 66 Shubh Bhayam 36 Burd Bal 67 Sabha Dev 37 Mohan Pal 68 Parbhan Pal 38 Bhim Pal 69 Bhavno Man 39 Madan Pal 70 Chander Man 40 Karam Pal 71 Badar Bhan 41 Mittar Pal 72 Ratan Bhan 42 Uddar Parkash 73 Suvar Bhan 43 Maha Parkash 74 Prat Bhan 44 Sobal Parkash 75 Samantar Sudh 45 Jeet Parkash 76 Aparijat 46 Atsain Parkash 77 Sat Jat 47 Sehajbal Parkash 78 Satru Jat 48 Uradbaahu Parkash 79 Chatar Angad 49 Gobal Parkash 80 Bijay Pal 50 Sathptt Parkash 81 Chatar Karat 51 Chander Parkash 82 Basu Man 52 Sahib Parkash 83 Inder Sain Barat Bahu 53 Roop Chand 84 Barat Sain Dutt Bahu 54 Kesan Charan 85 Dosasan Bahu Bal 55 Pirthi Pat 86 Chatrang Bhan So Bhaye

7 Number Generation Name Other Name

87 Baag Bhan Dev Dutt 88 Birkh Bhan Prithi Sahaye 89 Aaidatt Mahe Pat 90 Sukarat Dev Marjad Pat Reoccupied Punjab, Khurasan, Ghazani, Guar, Harat. Acquired the name ‘Marjada Pat’ by formulating Marjada, “Rules” and laws.

91 Basiv Datt Sawat Sain Constructed Sawat Fort in Afghanistan 92 Soman Pal Sur Sain 93 Kardatt Pal Avdeep Sain 94 Kavi Pal Aprajat Occupied Ghazani and Punjab 95 Birkhu Dhajj Kanak Sain A great philanthropist 96 Sat Barat Sogan Sain Appreciator of talents. 97 Har Karan Maghwan Jeet Great donor 98 Anal Krit Sain 99 Gavardhan Bhagwan Sain 100 Birdhan Badahurath 101 Ond Pal Bikram Sain Made Lahore the capital city 102 Maha Sain Kamod Sain 103 Paau Brij Pal Constructed Bhanborgarh Fort 104 Bahan Pal Bajatjai 27 sons-27 grand sons 105 Sudha Sulajj Murat Pal 106 Sangramjit Rakam Sain 107 Brahat Sain Kanak Sain 108 Sur Parwah Utra Sain Again made Ghazani the capital, Maintained control over Punjab 109 Ajit Sawait Sain 110 Joroop Brat Sain 111 Subhadar Dev Ram Sain 112 Suharoop Sheh Dev 113 Kanak Pal Dev Sahaye 114 Ratan Pal Shankar Dev

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Number Generation Name Other Name Remark General Information

115 Ahangpat Dev Suraj Dev 116 Santokh Dev Partap Sain 117 Govind Dev Prat Sain

118 Parbal Sain Bhim Sain Lost Ghazani. Ruled Mathura and Farakhabad Killed in the battle of river Satluj in an attack by Turks.

119 Arad Dev 120 Sangat Dev Jagat Sawat Capital Lahore 121 Mittar Dev Bain 122 Bart Dev Dev Jas Issueless. Adopted nephew Parbal 123 Prabal Mool Raj 124 Sat Bal Rai Dev 125 Maha Bal Sato Rao Adopted Subal 126 Subal Deva Nand 127 Jeet Bal Jagbhoop 128 Pirthi Bal Budh 129 Soch Rang Ruhtas Colonized Ruhtas and constructed a fort in district Purab 130 Shamreek Prat Sain 131 Aitbal Mohtan 132 Sehaj Bal Basu Dev 133 Arad Puran Abhyan 134 Pirthi Pat Bir Sain 135 Govind Dutt Subiho 136 Sath Pat Surat Sain 137 Chander Pal Gun Pihoda Shifted Capital from Mathura to Lahore 138 Aj Dev Jag Pal 139 Sukh Chand Bhim Sain 140 Subhadar Dev Tej Pal 141 Biraj Bal Bhupat sain

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Number Generation Name Other Name Remark General Information

142 Amay Bal Rasanp Again conquered Ghazani 143 Kee Pal Chander Sain 144 Bhoj Dev Mool Mun 145 Lodhar Pal Lal Mun 146 Not Pal Sarang Dev 147 Anand Pal Dev Dutt 148 Mathra Pal Jeet 149 Jhanjj Pal Jag Pat 150 Mahan Bal Hans Pat Constructed Hisar Fort in the times of King Bikramajit. Died in Sammat 346 Bikrami 151 Jogisar Deva Gir 152 Basu Bal Bahar Bal 153 Nohan Pal Khoma 154 Khev Pal Arjan 155 Raj Sain Jhajj Sain Conquered other lands 156 Gujj Sain Acquired total control over Khurasan, Afghanistan. Died in the battle of Ghazani

157 Saal Bahan Born to the princess of King of Kashmir, Gio Kasel. Conquered up to South. Samvat started, constructed Sialkot Fort, acceded to throne in Samvat 259 Bikrami. In those days, King Bhoj ruled over Delhi. It is said that he had 1485 queens and 15 sons, married “Sanga Devi”, the princess of King Bhoj, Died in Sialkot. He was 69 years nine months and seventeen days old. 158 Balband

159 Bhati Rao Bhatti Rajputs originated from him, had ten brothers, the lineage of the name and caste of each of them originated, acceded to throne in 336 Bikrami, constructed Bhatnair Fort, Bhaati Gate of Lahore is named after him, had a treasure equivalent to the load of twenty four thousand mules, 60 thousand strong cavalry. Chagtu, the grandson of “Balband”, started his lineage in Ghazani which became famous as Chugte Mughal.

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Number Generation Name Other Name

160 Ahe Rao Abhay Rao Built Abohar Fort. Named after his own name. The entire offspring of Saalbahan stared to call themselves Bhatti due to the fame of Rao Bhatti 161 Karan Bhim Rao Very brave. Made Bhatnair his capital, 162 Kehar Pal Saato Rao Built two temples in Multan and one in Lahore, Conducted free community kitchens. He was a Devi worshipper. “Sato Rao” was well known for speaking the truth. 163 Kamad Khem Karan Khem Karan town stands after him name. 164 Randhir Rao Nirpat Rao Made Lahore his capital 165 Ratan Sain Gajo Rao Ruled from Farakhabad to Bukhara, was killed in the battle of Ghazazi. 166 Saher Rao Loman Rao Colonized the city of Sirhind, the kings of Khurasan. The Afghan, Tatarian and Bukhara kings lodged a combined attack. He was killed in the war. Start of bad times for Bhatties. 167 Sehaj Dev Rainsy 168 Sahib Dev Bhojsi Left Lahore and came to live in Malwa.

169 Anant Bal Mangal Rao Built LomanVahan Fort in sixth century Bikrami, Occupied Lahore as well

170 Abhias Rao Mandum Rao Married in the family of Sodhi of Sodha community. Built Marot Fort which is called Mallot these days, was killed in Sindh.

171 Ben Rao Sur Sain 172 Mundh Rao Ragho Rao 173 Manak Rao Mool Raj 174 Mangal Rao Doday Rao Conquered Kashmir, died after returning to Mallot.

175 Manam Rao

176 Kehar Rao Built Tanot Fort 177 Tano Rao Built Bijnot Fort. It was his son Thim Rao who built Kot Karor. 178 Bijai Rao Choorala Worshipper of Devi and she dwelled in his horse’s ears. Even today, Bhatti Rajpoots, makes the mark of tride Turshool and Moon on their horses’ forehead.

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The goddess was pleased and gave him a bangle to wear and thus started being referred by the name

“Choorala”. In the ninth century, in Bathinda Fort, Brah Chief on the pretext of marrying his daughter to his son Dev Raj, killed the invited marriage party at his house. His son Dev Raj was saved. A brahman brought him up. In those days, Bathinda Fort was

called Bikram Garh.

179 Dev Raj Maharawal “Sidh” Built Rawal Garh Fort in the tenth century. Re-established the Bhatti clan. In future became to be known by the name of Rawal and Maharawal. 180 Mand Rao Maharawal

181 Bachho Rao Maharawal

182 Rao Dusanjh Maharawal

183 Bijay Rao Lanjha Shani Maharawal In the times of Sultan Mehmood Ghazanavi

184 Bhojal Dev Maharawal Jaisal Acceded to throne in place of his nephew, King Jaipal Singh, ruler of Mandoor. Rawal showed

animosity towards him and was jealous of him, Jaisal weakened this king with the help of Mehmood Ghazanavi, {Note} Bhojal Dev happily gave the throne to his uncle, in sammat 1212, built the Jaisalmer Fort and made it the capital. The kingdom of Jaisalmer is named after him, this fort was built at the behest of Krishan ji Maharaj. 186 Rao Hem Occupied Haryana, Bhatyana, Lakhi Jungle, Hisar, Hansi, Bathinda, Bhatnar, Delhi, developed cordiality with Shahabdin Gauri and strengthened his state. Kept fighting with Panwar tribe and royal army, had 187 Rao Jondhar 21 sons, 21 lineages originated from him. 188 Batay Rao Acceded to throne in Bikrami 1324, was a famous chief. 189 Mangal Rao Was killed fighting the royal army in 1411 Bikrami 190 Anand Rao Occupied Hisar, was killed in a war in 1422 Bikrami

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Number Generation Name Other Name

191 Rao Khiva Khot Singh His relations with Rajputs were severed due to marrying in the family of a landlord of village ‘Neela” in the Bathinda area. He became famous by the name of Khot Singh. The veracity of this story and about his becoming jatt needs verification. {Note} A story about the development of differences between Rajputs and Jatts also goes like this - that among the Rajputs, the marriage of a widow was not possible. The custom of Sati existed. Some kind- hearted people introduced Chadar Andazi and put an end to the practice of Sati. Their branch was called Jaat {Jatt} and separated from Rajputs. The writer of Tawari Jattan, count the Jatts as a separate caste by recognizing Raja Yajati to be the forefather of Jatts from the ancient times, further research is required about it. (Arjan Singh Chand)

Sidhu surname originated from his name, founder of 192 Rao Sidhu Sidhu surname, marriage proposal came from Rajputs, but commanded good respect among the Jatts and re-established his hegemony. 193 Rao Bhura Singh Title of “Bir”, his son” Tilak Rao became a recluse 194 Rao Biha Singh and lived in Lakhi jungle.

195 Rao Sateg Singh Sat Raj Known for speaking the truth and brave 196 Rao Gol Singh 197 Rao Mahan Chand 198 Rao Hamir Singh 199 Rao Brar “Founder” of Sidhu Brar surname”, Among his sons, the kings of Patiala, Jind, Nabha are the offspring of ‘Rao Puri’ and the offspring of his other son, “Rao Dul” are the king of Faridkot and Brars of tehsil Moga, some of his offspring are the Jatt Brars from across the Yamuna, out of them, 200 villages of Vattus settled on the other side of Satluj.”

Remained involved in a brawl with his brother 200 Rao Dul Kanwar Paur Singh.

201 Rao Binay Pal Captured Bathinda Fort

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202 Maharaj Ajit Singh

203 Maharaj Manak Singh

204 Maharaj Tinda Singh

205 Maharaj Asi Singh

206 Maharaj Fatu Singh

207 Maharaj Sanghar Singh In the times of Emperor Shah Jahan, he established his damaged hegemony by his influence and recreated the seat of power. He had fourteen sons, Maharaj Sanghar Singh had two queens, a married queen to whom eight boys were born, 1 Bhalan, 2 Lal Singh alias Lala, 3 Jodha, 4 Chida, 5 Dhuni, 6 Ugra, 7 Giana, 8 Waryam, the other queen was the widow of his brother “Lungar”,

Maharaj Sanghar Singh married her by Kareva custom, six boys were born to this queen, 1 Surtia, 2 Razada, 3 Yakko, 4 Piro, 5 Ramal, 6 Nand, the detail of those villages where the offspring of Raja Sanghar’s sons is settled is as follows,

1: Bhalan - Maharaj Bhalan established a sovereign state

and resisting the Bhatties, exerted his hegemony from Ghagar river to Yamuna. “Bhalan tore the headgear in the court of Akbar”. In 1634, he along with his brother Sardar Lal Singh attained martyrdom in the Bundhail Khand war while helping Emperor Shah Jahan. He had no issue.

2: Lal Singh, alias Lala. His offspring became the owner of Faridkot state whose part of family tree will be given separately, “Arjan Singh Chand”

3: Jodha - Jodha’s offspring settled in these villages,

Rode, Rajeana, Lande, Samalsar, Kotla, Chanuwala, Budh Singh Wala, Chhoti Panj Garain, Chak Chimna, settled in Chak Sobha Singh of Bahawalpur state.

4: Chida - Sukhanand, Ladhaike, Kotla Rai Ka, Tharaj, Daluwala, Buraj Ladhe Wala, Behbal Kalan, Bhagta Chaudhary Wala, Marhi, Moga, Jalaleana, Baza,

Golewala, Kabalwala, Dalewala, Bhup Singh Wala, Hariyewala.

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4: Chida - Settled in Chak Totian Wala, Chak Mehmadi Wala, Chak Kundian wala, Chak Bande Wala and many other villages.

Dhuni: Mahla, Darapur, District Ferozepur

6: Ugra - Chand Purana, Chand Nawan, Gajanwala, Jaimalwala, Bhekh, Dadahur, Nathuwala, Langeana Vadda, Langeana Chhota, Alamwala Vadda, Alamwala Chhota, Bagha Purana, Chotian, District Ferozepur. Some settled in the state of Faridkot.

7: Giana - Settled in Bhaloor, Jeonwala, Hariyewala, Naathewala, Hasan Bhatti, Chak Karhian Wala, District Ferozepur and Faridkot state, and Chak Harna Wala, Chak Chopalia, Bahawalpur state.

8: Wariyam - Information about his offspring could not be found, research in progress. “Arjan Singh Chand”

9: Surtia - Settled in Mangewala, Barha Ghar, Baghelewala.

10: Razada - Information about his offspring could also not be found, research in progress “Arjan Singh Chand”

11: Yakko - The offspring of both of them is settled on the banks of Yamuna in district 12 : Piro - Karnal.

13: Raamal - Khara, Maniwala, Ghuduwala, Mehmuana, Chak Mallanwala, Udaikaran, Kotli, Sobha Singh and some in Bikaner state.

14: Nand - Settled in Niamiwala, Faridkot state and some in Barha Ghar.

The writer of family tree Beas ji, has explained the origin of Brahma from Kanwal and the origin of Kanwal from Shri Wahe Guru ji (GOD). Thus, it is also copied here the same way. Wahe Guru created this universe through Kanwal, or got it created by some other way, or humans existed even above this whose names could not be known. These are such questions to which human intelligence has not been able to find answers till today. Yes, intellectual dives are being tried a lot in this deep sea. Thus, the readers can also speculate as per their intelligence. Yes, if 25 years is the average age of each person then this comes out to be around seven thousand years. But on an average, the age of the old people in the past was much longer than these days. So it is difficult to find out the details of real and complete years. “What does the son know about the father’s birth.” “Arjan Singh Chand” Writer

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Number Generation Name

207 Maharaj Sanghar Hakim Singh*

208 Ugra Gulab Singh Naatha Singh

209 Shaiya Partap Singh. Jameet Singh. Jeeta Singh Beeka Singh Hira Singh, Deva Singh

210 Matta Ganda Singh. Santa Singh Gurdit Singh Mukand Singh Adopted Arjan Singh 211 Chaina Chaan Singh

212 Kandhari Karam Singh, Gurcharan Singh Amarjit Singh

213 Hakim Singh* Nachhattar Darbara Avtar Nirmal Deepa Barinderjit Sage Arjan Gurinderpaljit Singh Singh Singh Singh Singh Singh Singh 214 Gulab Singh

215 Partap Singh

216 Santa Singh* *Came to Canada in January 1909, went to home country at the time of Gadar movement of 1914. Returned to Canada in 1920. Many a time, served as the President of Malwa Reform Committee of Canada. Visited America in 1929 as a delegate on behalf of Malwa Reform. Many a time, served as Treasure and member of Gurdwara Vancouver and died in Canada on December 28, 1955.

217 Arjan Singh Mother Ram Kaur. Born on August 30, 1009 at village Chand Nawan. After completing education, joined his father in Canada on November 15, 1926. In Canada, he served as executive member of Indian National Congress. In 1933, served as vice-secretary of Khalsa Diwan Society Vancouver and as general secretary in 1936. Went to home country on November 27, 1937. On January 24, 218 Amarjit Singh was born in a 1940, married Chand Kaur daughter of Sardar Bachan Singh Zaildar of village Badhani Kalan. In hospital at May, 1945, joined Malwa Bus Service at Moga as a booking clerk and served till 1950. On Moga on November 18, 1950, left for Canada and reached Canada on December 22, 1950. Served as September 6, President of Khalsa Diwan Society Vancouver in 1951, as its member in 1952, 1957, 1958; as its 1947. General Secretary in 1961. The material regarding ‘The history of Sikhs in Canada’ from 1904 to Came to 1961 is available with him. Canada in August 1951. Writer Arjan Singh “Chand’

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Amarjit Singh Came to Canada in August 1951

Barinderjit Singh Born on August 7, 1972 in Madhe wale Hospital at Moga. 219 Sukhpaljit Singh Born on November 13, 1974 in Vancouver General Hospital. Gurinderpaljit Singh Born on March 31, 1981 in Vancouver General Hospital.

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In 1908 the lots at 1210 Topaz Avenue were purchased for gurdwara Victoria where the gurdwara now stands.

In 1908 where the holy book of Guru Granth Sahib used to be displayed for obeisance before the construction of gurdawara Victoria, was a rented place at Johnson street.These gentle men were the first office bearers of gurdwara Victoria, Mr. Heera Singh village Nangal President.” “Mr. Bachan Singh village Sur Singh Secretary.” “Mr. Sardara Singh village Kherhi Treasurer.” “Mr. Bishan Singh village Tailewal Member.” “Mr. Mehar Singh village Bhulair Member.” Mr. Sardara Singh Kherhi served as the treasurer from 1908 to 1913. From 1913 onwards Mr. Jawala Singh village Samrarhi became the treasurer of gurdwara. Jawala Singh embezzled $700.00. Mr. Kartar Singh “Chand” made the calculations and $700.00 were recovered from Jawala Singh.

In 1908 Mr. Sunder Singh Nathoke, Mr. Bhag Singh, Mr. Balwant Singh, Mr. Teja Singh, Mr. Sardara Singh of Malik came from Vancouver and praised the efforts of the community and motivated people for the new gurdwara. “As stated by Sardara Singh Kherhi”

In the “Khalsa Harold” punjabi newspaper of Vancouver BC, on Nov 20, 1911 this is what is published with regard to the construction of gurdwara Abbotsford, Abbotsford-gurdwara is under construction in own acreage. The true guru, through his grace is taking the services for the construction from brother Hari Singh (Sardara Singh). These brethren are fully engaged to complete the gurdwara. They were going to visit the home country but have stayed back for this. Abbotsford community is being specially motivated by the Guru Sahib. $415.00 have so far been collected in cash. “Khalsa Harold newspaper is present in my file. Writer Arjan Singh “Chand”.

Mr. Sardara Singh of Malik had the Gurdwara Abbotsford built by spending $2600.00 “as stated by Inder Singh Akharha” 18

First of all, the following gentlemen came to Canada in 1904 -

1 Santa Singh Guday 5 Mela Sukka Guday 2 Bhagat Singh Guday 6 Jawala Singh Kharoudhi 3 Sandhi Taili Guday 7 Maula Halwara 4 Inder Singh Sur Singh

Shaheed Bhai Mewa Singh’s father - Bhai Nand Singh, village Lopoke. His brother - Bhai Deva Singh. His Uncle (father’s elder brother) Bhai Chanda Singh. Uncle’s grandsons Thakur Singh and Swaran Singh. Nagar Singh of Village Naurangpur Kular. District Jalandhar, went to Honduras. Sham Singh Rajput of village Jagraon District Ludhiana, went to Honduras.

On Wednesday October 16, 1908 - priest Harkin Wright and Hopkinson and Sikh leaders held a conference in a Vancouver church where it was decided to send a Sikh deputation to see Honduras.

On October 25, 1908 - Bhai Nagar Singh and Sham Singh reached Honduras.

November 7, 1908 - Bhai Nagar Singh, Sham Singh came back to Vancouver.

On November 22-1908 - Bhai Nagar Singh explained the entire situation at Honduras to the congregation in Gurdwara Vancouver.

On December 6-1908 - a meeting was held in Gurdwara Vancouver in which, Doctor Munroe from Ottawa, the Secretary of the Government of Canada, two priests, three Punjabi speaking white men, Hopkinson etc. participated. They came to Gurdwara but did not enter the Gurdwara’s main Hall.

On December 10-1908 - Government of Canada passed that there is no intention to deport the Indians by force.

On April 16-1911- in a general public meeting of the Sikhs, Sikhs demanded that - the Indians be allowed to bring families.

Bhai Bhag Singh, Balwant Singh, Hakim Singh Jagirdar went to Hong Kong in July 1911 along with families. From there they came to San Francisco in August and they were sent back to Hong Kong again. From there, these gentlemen arrived in Vancouver along with families on January 21, 1912. Men were allowed to disembark. Women and children were taken into custody and were ordered to be deported from Canada. Upon appeal, it was ordered that women and children be released on bail and be present on February 6, 1912 (for hearing). On April 30, 1912, it was ordered that these women and children be deported from Canada. Women and children were again sent to the lock-up. At 12 o'clock at night women and children were released through the Law, “Habeas Corpus.” The case started on May 10, 1912 but was adjourned. After a long time, Indian women and children were allowed to remain in Canada on compassionate grounds. “ Arjan Singh Chand”

(Scribed in the left margin) Bhai Hakim Singh Jagirdar left his family with Bhai Bhag Singh and Bhai Balwant Singh in Hong Kong and arrived alone in Vancouver on November 5, 1911.

THE BRIEF DIARY OF CANADA 19 By Arjan Singh “Chand”

“Aik Onkar Sat Gur Parsad” ‘With the grace of one GOD, who is True.’ Date and Year

13 -12- 1911 On behalf of Khalsa Diwan Society Vancouver and United India League, the first deputation consisting of Sardar Teja Singh, Raja Singh, Doctor Sunder Singh and Doctor Hall went to Ottawa to meet Honorable Minister R. Rogers.

22-02-1913 A meeting was organized in the Dominion Hall to send the second deputation to India. It was passed in this meeting that - Nand Singh Sehra, Bhai Balwant Singh priest and Narain Singh Chopdar village Thikriwala be sent on the expenses of Gurdwara but Narain Singh went on his own expenses.

26-09-1913 Bhai Mitt Singh and Bhag Singh went to American immigration with regard to the bail of those brethren who had come to Seattle from Homeland but they were not permitted to go to Seattle.

07-10-1913 Habeas Corpus was obtained for Bhai Bhagwan Singh Jakh.

21-10-1913 Bhai Bagwan Singh was sent back by immigration Vancouver.

28-11-1913 39 men came from Homeland (India) by ship. After a long struggle with immigration, 35 men were allowed to disembark. Four men were not allowed due to sickness. 18-05-1914 Raja Singh was sent by boat to anchor Komagata Maru at Port Alberni dock. 20-05-1914 An attempt was made to go near Komagata Maru by small boat but the Canadian Government did not permit it. Following gentlemen went - Bhai Bhag Singh, Balwant Singh, Mitt Singh, Rahim, Babu Harnam Singh, Rattan Singh and Uttam Singh Hans. 23-05-1914 Komagata Maru ship arrived in Vancouver at 11 AM. 31-05-1914 Lectures were delivered in the Dominion Hall about the ship. Present brethren donated money generously. 13-06-1914 Received a telegram from Komagata Maru company that the installment of chartering charges be paid or return the ship. 17-07-1914 Bhai Bhag Singh, Balwant Singh, Babu Harnam Singh were taken into custody by (U.S.) Immigration when they went to meet Babu Tarak Nath because, the Canada immigration refused to take them back into Canada. As Bhai Mewa Singh had crossed the border into Canada, he was arrested and tried for possessing a weapon. 18-07-1914 Hukma Singh Acharwal attacked Mr. Rahim with a sword. Diwan Singh Johal and Nand Singh from Dhattan caught Hukma Singh and gave him a good beating. But Nand Singh was arrested in this case and sent back home. 20-07-1914 Battleship “Rainbow” along with military soldiers was called to intimidate the Komagata Maru passengers. The passengers were warned that, if they did not take Komagata Maru back, then Komagata Maru along with passengers would be drowned by hitting with a cannonball.

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Date and Year

21-7-1914 Mohammad Akbar, Kartar Singh Chand, Gudit Singh Bilga, Mitt Singh Pandori, Natha Singh, Rattan Singh, Arjan Singh, Ganga Singh, Uttam Singh Hans, Tara Singh Kauni went inside the Komagata Maru. They then discussed with the lawyer MacNiel who advised that the ship be returned. 22-7-1914 The food supplies were loaded on ship the whole day. After demands for more rations, the military was called in. 23-7-1914 Komagata Maru ship sailed back at four thirty in the morning. 31-8-1914 The dead body of Harnam Singh Phurlo of village Moom Gehal was found in the forest of Kitsilano. It is heard that he has been killed by Jagat Singh of village Sur Singh. 3-9-1914 Arjan Singh of village Sagdaulat accidently died at the hands of Ram Singh Tallewal. 5-9-1914 Went to cremate Arjan Singh Sagdaulat. Earlier at the same place Bela Singh of village Jain, District Hoshiarpur attempted to kill Mr. Bhag Singh and Mitt Singh Pandori. He could not get a chance due to the presence of a policeman nearby. Again on reaching Gurdwara Vancouver, Bela Singh seriously injured Mr. Bhag Singh and Mr. Badan Singh Kumbarwal with a pistol. Badan singh received seven bullet shots . Uttam Singh Noorpur, Jawala Singh Sagdaulat, Dalip Singh Nangal, Labh Singh Dhkkon and two others were also injured and the prosecution witnesses Balwant Singh, Mitt Singh, Raja Singh etc. were also taken into custody by the police. 6-9-1914 On this date Mr. Bhag Singh and Badan Singh left for the heavenly abode in the hospital. It was a Sunday. 7-9-1914 Both martyrs were cremated on the same pyre. 3-10-1914 Prosecution witnesses Raja Singh, Mitt Singh, Balwant Singh were granted bails. 15-10-1914 Mr. Uttam Singh, Puran Singh Dhudike, Santa Singh Chand, D. D. Kumar the pioneers of the Canadian movement of 1914/15, went back to the homeland. 16-10-1914 Partap Singh Tatuanwala got Bhola Singh Cheemna, Vice President of Gurdwara Vancouver, detained on the ship while leaving for homeland. 19-10-1914 Bhola Singh Cheemna was granted bail. 21-10-1914 Bhai Mewa Singh shot Hopkinson, the interpreter, dead in the court. 23-10-1914 Mr Rahim, Kartar Singh Chand Singh, Mitt Singh Pandori, Balwant Singh, Sohan Lal were put in the lock-up on the charges that they got Hopkinson killed. 29-10-1914 Case against Bhola Singh Cheemna was dismissed and Cheemna was acquitted. 30-10-1914 Mr. Mewa Singh was ordered to be hanged. 21

Date and Year

4-11-1914 Mitt Singh was arrested on the charges of getting Hopkinson murdered. Police could not arrest him earlier as he was a priest in Millside (Gurdwara). 20-11-1914 Bela Singh was acquitted. 4-12-1914 Sohan Lal, Mr. Rahim were acquitted from Hopkinson case and the case against Kartar Singh Chand, Mitt Singh Pandori, Bhai Balwant Singh was withdrawn. 8-12-1914 Bela Singh and Bawa Singh attacked Mitt Singh at Powell Street but he had a very narrow escape. He wrote a letter to police through the lawyer McRoss. 11-12-1914 Kapoor Singh Mohi, Hardit Singh Lamay went to home country. They were imprisoned in the 1914-15 movement. 11-1-1915 Bhai Mewa Singh was hanged at 8 A.M. Mitt Singh was present in the capacity of a priest. Mewa Singh read the following religious verse before his execution – {Har Jas Re Mana Gaya Lo (Piaria) - jo sanggi hai tero.} “Oh! my dear mind praise thy God. HE is with you.” Despite the heavy rain, a large number of people joined a procession. He was cremated at Millside. The police arrangements were commendable. 18-3-1915 Jagat Singh Mehra of Bhootwind had been planning to kill Bela Singh. In order to save Bela Singh, Partap Singh of Kotli caught Jagat Singh and threw him on the ground. Jagat Singh lying under Partap Singh on the ground, shot and killed him. Bela Singh ran away. 13-4-1915 Bela Singh and Party blew up Matab Singh Kathe Adhkari’s house with dynamite. Matab Singh died. Many others were injured. The house address was 1748-3rd Ave. West, Vancouver. 16-4-1915 Bela Singh Jian, Bhagat Singh Haripur, Sewa Singh Numane, Naina Singh Kandhola attacked Lachman Singh Khurdpur at 1668-2nd Ave West, Vancouver. 12-6-1915 Bela Singh, Bhagat Singh, each were sentenced for one year on the charges of attacking Lachman Singh Khurdpur and Sewa Singh, Naina Singh was sentenced for six months each. 12-9-1915 Mitt Singh was appointed as priest at Abbotsford Gurdwara. 1-10-1915 A hearing was held regarding the money spent on ship. 3-10-1915 When Mitt Singh was getting ready to go to bed at 9 P.M. in Abbotsford Gurdwara, Partap Singh Tootwaan Wala opened the front door and fired two shots at him. The first bullet went past near his right ear and the second bullet went over the left shoulder, burning only the shirt. Showing courage, Mitt Singh caught Tootwaan Wala and handed him over to the police. Prem Singh Tholi, who was accompanying Tootwaan Wala to help him, ran away. He was caught in the morning while coming out of the forest. 3-12-1915 Partap Singh Tattuan Wala was sentenced for four years. Prem Singh was acquitted. 28-5-1914 When Mitt Singh was serving as priest at Millside Gurdwara, somebody tried to attack him. Being noticed, the attacker ran away. Arjan Singh Chand

(Scribed in the right margin) On 13-4-1915 Bhan Singh Gahal Kalan and Dalip Singh Painsra were injured. Note: Partap Singh Kotli’s other name was Rattan Singh which was printed in the English newspaper during the trial of Jagat Singh for his murder. Arjan Singh Chand

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29-9-1914 Komagata Maru ship reached Budge Budge wharf of Calcutta and anchored at 11.00 A.M. The total number of passengers at that time was 321 and out of which 17 were Muslims and the rest were all Sikhs.

31-1-1936 Today, Mr. Rahim passed away. He was cremated, not buried.

2-4-1959 Bhai Mitt Singh has left for his heavenly abode On April 2, 1959 at his village Pandori.

On November 20, 1911; Kartar Singh released “Khalsa Herald” monthly paper in Gurmukhi from Vancouver.

On January 1-1914, Mr. “Rahim” started “The Hindustanee” a monthly paper in English which continued till June 1914.

Bhai Kartar Singh Akali released “Sansar” newspaper in Gurmukhi. The first publishing date is not available. Rough guess is 1912.

Doctor Sunder Singh published “Aryan” in English.

Bhai Kartar Singh Akali started “India and Canada” in Gurmukhi from Vancouver, on Thursday May 22, 1930. It was discontinued after the publication of the last issue in 1936.

Giani Tara Singh of Kot Fatuhi, published “The Canadian Khalsa” by machine on – (Date is not available) from Port Alberni. It was monthly and was discontinued after five or six months.

Bhai Gian Singh ji of Bidhipur released “The Canadian Sikh”, a monthly magazine in Gurmukhi and English in June 1961 from – 1025-Gilmore Crescent-Richmond-BC.

On May 31-1958 Karam Singh Chumiaria died in Vancouver.

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On 5 July 1920 “United India Home Rule League” was founded and remained in existence until 21 August 1920. Babu Kapur Singh Kharuadi became its President, Munshi Ram Bilga Secretary, and Mitt Singh Pandori Treasure.

On 14 January 1921 “The Hindustani Sawaraj Sabha of Canada” was founded and remained in existence until 23 July 1922. Its first President was Babu Kapur Singh Kharuadi, Secretary Gurdit Singh Bilga, and Treasurer Harnam Singh Ade Kali.

In December 1926 “Youngman Association” was founded and existed till 1931.

On 17 August 1930 “Canadian Hindustani Congress” was founded and remained in existence until September 1936. Babu Kapur Singh Kharuadi was appointed its President, Gurdit Singh Bilga Secretary, and Mitt Singh Pandori Treasurer.

Bhai Hakam Singh Jagirdar left his family with Bhai Bhag Singh, Bhai Balwant Singh at Hong Kong and reached Vancouver alone on November 5, 1911. This news has been published in the “Khalsa Herald” newspaper of 20 November 1911. “Arjan Singh “Chand”

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DATE A congregation of Khalsa Diwan Vancouver was held. With the consent of Khalsa Committee and Diwan (congregation), the following 6-10-1908 resolutions and items were passed. After having the opinion of the committee, five applications should be written as per requirement, about the reason, for not going to Honduras of which details are recorded below.

1: To the government office in Ottawa. (a big city and the seat of The Government of Canada )

2: To the Secretary of Hindustan, London. 3: To the Viceroy, Calcutta.

4: To the Chief Khalsa Diwan, Shri Amritsar. ] 5: To Tikka sahib Nabha, the Member of the Viceroy’s Council Punjab.

President: Bhan Singh Secretary: Bhag Singh

Sant Atar Singh ji be brought to Vancouver from India to lay the 26-10 1908 foundation of Khalsa Town because foundation should be laid with the grace of Sant ji with his own hands.

1- 11 1908 Any student or religious preacher who comes to Vancouver from India to serve the Diwan, should be allowed to reside in the Gurdwara. Passed unanimously.

It was resolved and passed that if there is an altercation among our Hindu, Muslim or Sikh brethren in future, it should be decided in the Diwan.

15-11-1908 The following resolutions were passed in the congregation of Khalsa Diwan, Vancouver. President 1: Khalsa Diwan Committee, after passing with one opinion, permitted Bhan Singh Bhai Teja Singh to bring his wife along with two children from New Secretary York to Gurdwara. And with regard to government or court work or Bhag Singh understanding English etc. or preaching to the Englishmen, the committee approves that – Sardar Sahib should do all these above mentioned things at this place. 2: Guru Nanak Mining and Trust Company should be registered to make permanent residence arrangements for Khalsa, (the Indian brethren). And Hindu, Muslim and Sikh brethren be humbly requested that they should help to complete this task wholeheartedly, soulfully, 22-11-1908 physically and monetarily.

Resolutions were passed at the Vancouver congregation. After the rendition of religious verses, the letter of Bhai Nagar Singh and Sham

Singh, (who went to British Honduras to see the climate and enquire about the salary) was read out to the congregation in which, the Sikhs from the places mentioned below were present in the Gurdwara. Port Moody, Barnett, Millside, Eburne, New Westminster

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The letter goes like this and in their own version - 1: The country is like Indaman. Nagar Singh and Sham Singh have returned to Vancouver from the British Honduras. After coming in the congregation and standing in the august presence of Guru Maharaj, the entire Khalsa community, Hindu, Muslim brethren who had gathered in the congregation, in the strength of around 500-600, explained the entire situation of that country. The details are as follows - 6-11-1908 1: The water and air of that country is such that it is unsuitable for the Indian. 2: Wages are very low which is from eight dollars to a maximum of twelve dollars, which is not enough to buy food. 3: Fresh milk or butter is not available at all. If, ghee (clarified butter) is available, it is very costly. 4: Fresh water cannot be seen even in a dream. Whatever is available is collected in the months of rainy season. When, sometimes it does not rain, then the water dries up completely and a company brings water from another river on boat. The water is sold to the households at a very high price and it costs around three or four dollars per month. 5: Seawater is available for taking bath, which is not suitable for washing hair because it is salty. Many Sikhs wash hair every week. Many do it every day for them it’s a big problem and thus, we dislike it. 6: The mosquitoes in that country are beyond the limit and their stings can cause many types of illnesses and diseases. 7: Labour jobs are available on contract basis. A bond is written with the contractor who provides the contract work. The contracted person cannot go to any other place until the contract is completed. That contract is not less than three years and the company may provide whatever they can supply or may not provide anything at all. 8: Some Indians already live there. Their condition is very bad today. They have been living in there for the last forty years. A small number of people who met us, we have the addresses and names. They don’t even have a single penny to pay the fare to go back to India and get a glimpse of their motherland, India. They implored us that somehow, 26

6-11-1908 show us that part of India and we have heard their children cuddling up to their fathers and saying, “Papa! When will you show us our old country?” When we heard this in the sweet languages of those children, we President experienced a lot of physical pain which means we were very Bhan Singh much distressed. But, what could we have done because we were not in a Secretary position to do anything. Bhag Singh 9: The Englishmen of the Honduras committee, (the two white men who went with us from Vancouver) asked us a few things about the food and water and then turned us out of that committee. To do such a thing is against the law because, the rule of the committee is that – nobody can turn anyone out until everyone has left. Every person automatically goes to his house when all others depart. So by turning us out of the committee like this, our prestige and that of the Khalsa Diwan committee has been damaged. After that we do not know what fraud was cooked. 10: In a way, we were also lured. To accept it, was a very bad thing for us. The interpreter gave a bag, meaning wallet to Nagar Singh which was stuffed with currency notes. Nagar Singh counted and it was three thousand dollars. After seeing the money, the sayings of Guru Maharaj came to Nagar Singh’s mind, “Why give up religion and fall for money” and at the same time, he also thought, “After strangulating the Indian brethren and throwing them in this hell for the sake of this money, where would we go?” That money was considered to be poison. When the interpreter learned that both of them (Nagar Singh and Sham Singh) would not sign the papers to go to Honduras, he took the dollars back from Nagar Singh. 11: After this, in the Vancouver Gurdwara, the entire congregation unanimously expressed the opinion that we would not go to Honduras and would organize to make arrangements for our brethren who are jobless by seeking help from the brethren from Japan, Hong Kong, Shanghai and India as many of our brethren who have jobs. By the next summer, all the arrangements would be completed. 12: In the end, all those things which Nagar Singh explained regarding Honduras, the Khalsa Diwan committee after accessing the whole situation, passed the opinion that – 27

that at the time of need, which means right at that moment, a telegram should be sent to India and the Government in Ottawa should be informed that we don’t like it and would not go to British Honduras and we will make our arrangements ourselves. {Important Note:- It appears from the earlier recorded proceedings, dated 22-11- 1908 that, that meeting was conducted after receiving the letter of Nagar Singh, Sham Singh from Honduras. It also appears from the further proceedings of 6-11- 1908, that the above mentioned conversation has taken place with Nagar Singh in Honduras on 6-11-1908, which he narrated himself in the Gurdwara, Vancouver on 22-11-1908. “Arjan Singh Chand”

22-11-1908 Bhai Waryam Singh has requested for the purchase of a lot which is near the Vancouver Gurdwara because purchasing it will benefit many things that are President connected with the Gurdwara. On hearing this request, the congregation Bhan Singh happily approved the purchase of the lot. Then, Sardar Teja Singh read out the passed resolutions at the last congregation and that application which was written to Government in Ottawa to the Khalsa (congregation), and the congregation after hearing it, accorded the approval Secretary Bhag Singh that it be sent to Ottawa. Which was sent to the Government in Ottawa after the members of the Khalsa Diwan committee signed it.

6-12-1908 A congregation was held at Khalsa Diwan, Vancouver. A splendor Hymn-singing was conducted. After which, a secretary, sent by the Ottawa Government to the Vancouver Gurdwara, to find out about the people’s plans to go to Honduras. He upon reaching Vancouver wrote a letter to Bhai Balwant Singh for the Gurdwara in which it was written that, “I will come to the Gurdwara on 6th (December) to ask the Indian people about their plans to go to Honduras. You should inform all the men in Vancouver, New Westminster, Millside, which means all the men living in the vicinity that they must come to the Gurdwara on that day.” So, all Sikhs, Muslims, Hindu brethren more than two to three hundred in number had gathered. The secretary had also sent the message that he would come to Gurdwara on Sunday, 6-12-1908 at 2 o’clock. He was awaited until that time but he didn’t show up. Then Bhai Teja Singh himself sat in attendance of Guru Maharaj and started reading the religious discourse. After a little while,

From left – Bhai Arjan Singh “Chand” : Sant Mani Singh ji: Bhai Dasaundha Singh September Secretary, Khalsa Diwan : Bhai Ka Priest Gurdwara 1936 Society Vancouver Dayalpura Vancouver This photograph is of Gurdwara Vancouver B.C. 28

6-12-1908 the secretary and Doctor Monroe, along with two priests and three Punjabi speaking white men, all came to the Gurdwara while the above said Sikh gentleman was still reading the discourse. But, they did not go to the upper floor of the Gurdwara (the place where the congregation is held). From below, a message was sent through a man that Sardar Teja Singh should come only for five minutes and listen to what they had to say. That Sikh gentleman replied to him that – I am narrating the discourse to the congregation and cannot leave because this is against the directions of Guru Maharaj. So it is better that they all come up here. The deliberations will be held with them in front of the congregation after the conclusion of the congregation activities. That man went and told them exactly the same thing but they did not come. They said that the Sikh gentleman must come down and talk to us alone. Again that man went up to the congregation and conveyed to the Sikh gentleman the same way as they had asked him to do. But the Sikh gentleman said in reply, Brother! I am sitting in the august presence of Guru Sahib at this moment and thus cannot go. But the instructions of Guru Maharaj for someone who is sitting in the congregation is also that he should not leave the congregation. So what they should do is that they should come up here and decide whatever they want because it was they who had written about gathering the people. So now all the people are present at this place and they should come and meet them. They should come up and tell all the people whatever the decision is. What can I do by coming down alone because it is the people who have to be asked about going to Honduras Furthermore, I will do as directed by the congregation. The congregation also said that they should come to this place in the congregation because they have called us. In the meanwhile Sardar Teja Singh’s wife who is noble, pious, truly religious and ready to lay down her life for the sake of Guru Sahib (who was present in the congregation at that time at the service of Guru Maharaj) also requested Sardar Teja Singh that leaving the Diwan is something against the directions of Guru Maharaj. So you should keep on narrating the discourse to the congregation. Go after the conclusion of the congregation. The virtuous wife of the Sikh gentleman herself has a very good knowledge of English and Gurmukhi. As per the request she had made to the Sikh gentleman, he narrated the same explanation to all the people present and he kept on rejoicing the people by continuing the discourse. After that the Sikh gentleman asked all the people that who so ever wants to go to British Honduras should raise his hand or stand up himself in the congregation. No one did that. After this the Sikh gentleman again - 29

6-12-1908 said that if nobody wants to go then loudly utter the Sikh salutation, “Victory to the wonderful Lord”. At this, all uttered the salutation and the (Ardas) supplicatory prayer was performed. The blessed pudding was distributed among the congregation. Then Sardar Teja Singh went down to those Englishmen (who were waiting for him) and they said to him that you did not comply with our orders. Then the Sikh gentleman explained to them everything about the directions of Guru Maharaj and the discipline of the congregation but they said that we are very high ranking officials. You should not have done like this. But the Sikh gentleman said in reply to this that if I would have complied with your order today, then I would have been held guilty by my school of religious belief because it has been a tradition with us since the beginning of time that one should not leave the congregation in between even if you are beheaded. President At last, those Englishmen asked if anybody wants to go to British Honduras? Bhan Singh Upon this the Sikh gentleman replied that nobody wants to go. Wow! Wow! Secretary Sardar Teja Singh, jewel of the community! You believe in the religious activities Bhag Singh to the extent of having to lay down your life. Amazing! Amazing! May the lord create beloved person of the community like you everywhere.

13-12-1908 At the time of conclusion of the congregation, this resolution was passed that President Bhai Randhir Singh along with his wife be brought from India to here in Bhan Singh Vancouver because, he should come and serve the Diwan. All the people Secretary happily approved it and at the same time, all the brethren very generously Bhag Singh donated money.

4-4-1909 Amrit was prepared at Gurdwara Vancouver 1866-2nd Ave West Names of the five beloved ones Bhai Amar Singh Katani, Bhai Gurdial Singh, Bhai Dharam Singh, Bhai Hera Singh Nangal, Bhai Narian Singh Thikriwala Names of the persons partaking Amrit 1 Chanan Singh _____ Dharam Singh 5 Narian Singh _____ Sundar Singh 2 Puran Singh _____ Puran Singh 6 Sundar Singh _____ Veer Singh 3 Chirag Singh _____ Daya Singh 7 Munsha Singh _____ Gian Singh 4 Bishan Singh _____ Prem Singh 8 Jhanda Singh _____ Jhanda Singh

The Anand marriage ceremony of Munsha Singh of village Chitti who is a gold smith Sikh was performed on the same day with Mrs. Annie. Mrs. Annie was named 30

Labh Kaur and Munsha Singh was named Gian Singh. At that time the priest which sits in attendance of Guru Grant Sahib was Sardar Teja Singh, double M.A. Sardar Teja Singh and Bhai Sundar Singh are the witnesses to this proceeding.

27-6-1909 A copy of the paper that Khalsa Diwan had printed about Honduras had been sent to Punjab to Bhai Diwan Singh Jallupurkherha, district Amritsar and he had President asked for permission to print it there in the Khalsa Samachar Amritsar. Bhan Singh Diwan granted the approval.

3-10-1909 The following resolutions were passed in the Diwan. 1: In the last Diwan the decision was taken with regard to Bhai Bhag Singh and Bhai Sundar Singh’s going to the home country, today Khalsa Ji granted both of these brethren to continue to stay at the Gurdwara. And permission was also granted with regard to sending Bhai Balwant Singh priest to home country. (Both) Bhai Ji would leave for the home country around 22 October and bring their wives. 2: Bhai Waryam Singh, in the absence of Sundar Singh and Bhai Balwant Singh will serve as priest and serve the Guru Maharaj. 3: The Seattle community was asked for a lot for the Guru Nanak Guru Gobind Singh United home. Earlier this lot was purchased by Teja Singh through Himat Das and 147 dollars 40 cents was paid for this from the company’s account. But after that, the installment was not paid at the fixed time. So now the community has decided to purchase that lot for 900 dollars. Some Sikhs have loaned dollars to the Diwan for a short time and many brethren also gave donations. 4: A student, Naryan Singh is studying in an Engineering school in Burma which is situated in the city of Insalin. One of his brothers, named Gopal Singh, lives in the United States and he had requested the community for his brother’s education. Naryan Singh himself had also sent a written request because now at this time Diwan does not have enough funds to educate Bhai Naryan Singh. For the time being, his brother Gopal Singh himself should arrange for his brother’s education with his own money. And when Bhai Gopal Singh will not be able to bear the expenses or if he is in a condition of unemployment, then the Khalsa Diwan Committee, with due consideration will make arrangements with the permission of the Diwan (Congregation). 31

10-10-1909 Passed that – a fund should be established for the children of the Khalsa Nation to receive an American education and a committee will be established. Every member will be required to pay $15, dollars fifteen per year. Nobody will be made a member without paying subscription. No outside person will be allowed to interfere in the work of the committee. The students of the Sikh Nation will be given education in engineering, medicine, electric engineering, chemistry, agriculture and other education, which is beneficial to the community. The students will be requisitioned from Chief Khalsa Diwan and Chief Khalsa Diwan should send good gentle students. 23-1-1910 The congregation was conducted with great hustle and bustle. Bhai Waryam Singh priest was granted leave of absence. Bhai Hakam Singh of Harijan will be asked to perform the duties of the priest until the returning of Bhai Balwant Singh. In case he declines, then Bhai Mangal Singh or Dharam Singh will be asked to perform the priest’s duties. 17-2-11910 392 dollars were sent to Khalsa Sindh Bank for conference through delegate Bhai Balwant Singh. Out of it, rupees 200 was for Girls College Ferozepur. President Garib Singh, Secretary Batan Singh 20-3-1910 After the refusal of Bhai Hakam Singh, Mangal Singh, Dharam Singh, Bhai Hari Singh was appointed as priest in place of Bhai Waryam Singh until the returning of Bhai Balwant Singh. President Garib Singh, Secretary Batan Singh 5-4-1910 A letter was sent to Chief Khalsa Diwan re priest Balwant Singh, If anything happens with Balwant Singh, that Chief Khalsa Diwan get involved and help him. This request letter was sent to Chief Khalsa Diwan on behalf of Vancouver Diwan. President Garib Singh, Secretary Batan Singh 12-4-1910 That – on 6-3-1910, Vancouver Diwan Committee had passed a rule that it wanted to organize a discourse by Teja Singh for a few days but now from 12-4- 1910, Khalsa Diwan cuts off all relations with him. From now on, Diwan have nothing to do with Teja Singh. In general terms, he is still like all other brethren. President Garib Singh, Secretary Batan Singh 32

12-4-1910 Bhai Balwant Singh, who was sent by Khalsa Diwan, Vancouver as a preacher was helped with a sum of $142.00 at village Khuradpur, District Jalandhar. President Garib Singh and Secretary Batan Singh

7-8-1910 1 : A letter has been received from Chief Khalsa Diwan which has been sent by Dr Medro. It was decided in this regard that – First a letter should be sent to the Secretary of hospital that kindly sent us a copy of the names and expenses of those persons who have been in his hospital and those who have been already paid. The remaining unpaid amounts should be arranged by us. Money will be paid after making arrangements. 2: A letter about the above matter should be sent to Chief Khalsa Diwan that – we will make arrangements about this and no one had informed us about this earlier. 3: In future if our people come to the hospital, the society will be responsible only for that person who will have a letter from the society. 4: Hari Singh M.A. has been appointed missionary of Khalwa Diwan Society Vancouver from today’s date. A letter of missionary should be issued to Hari Singh. 5: A Sikh, who will do the service of Diwan, will be issued a letter according to his position, instead of, according to the rules of the community. Garib Singh President. Secretary Batan Singh

20-11-1910 1: A person in the habit of drinking alcohol will not be appointed to the committee for any reason whatsoever. 2: Anybody, who comes to the Gurdwara under the influence of alcohol, first, the secretary will issue him a report (warning). But if that person does not accept it, then he will be turned out of the Gurdwara. If that person creates trouble, he will be handed over to the police. If anybody helped that person, then that person will also be liable to the same punishment. 3: If somebody wants to give a lecture about his own religion or any other nation, then that person should reserve a hall or any other such venue and give his lecture. And whosoever needs, will go and listen to his lecture. Lecture with regard to other religions will not be allowed inside the Gurdwara. President Garib Singh Secretary Batan Singh

17-12-1910 1: Only that person will be a committee member who does not use any drugs and should be conversant with the religious traditions. 2: A letter be sent to Babu Tarak Nath Das that – he should give us a decision with regard to the lot at Seattle. President Garib Singh Secretary Batan Singh

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8-4-1911 The resignation of Badan Singh secretary has been accepted. He has withdrawn from the service at his own free will. Bag Singh has been appointed Secretary in his place. Badan Singh has submitted all our accounts and committee and the congregation has very happily approved it. t President Garib Singh Secretary Bag Singh

13-5-1911 1: Bhai Sudh Singh has been relieved (from Gurdwara) for using opium. A rule has already been passed and on place that – if any member uses any type of drug he will be removed. Thus Bhai Sudh Singh has been given permission (to leave) and Diwan has also been informed on 14-05-1911. 2: The lot in Seattle which Diwan has purchased is not registered in Diwan’s name. It’s in the name of a white man. It cannot be transferred to Diwan. It should be in the same way whatever the congregation decide to do. President Garib Singh Secretary Bag Singh 6-8-1911 God is one; With the grace of the True Guru: The congregation passed the resolution Decision taken 1: First of all every Sikh present in the Diwan gave his opinion. After this, an opinion was passed that whenever there is a public gathering, after the final prayer, ‘Fateh’ should be pronounced and then Sat Sri Akal should be pronounced loudly and (Jo Bulavwy Jaikara, So Guru Da Piyara) has been prohibited. 2: Presented and passed that in August 1908, Bhai Teja Singh M.A., who was assigned the responsibility of missionary of Khalsa Diwan, Vancouver and used to negotiate with the Government regarding the community matters, has been providing his services under the instructions of the congregation in America, England, Germany where and when required; now again, as per instructions of the Diwan, a telegram had been sent to him on 17 July 1911. Now, he has joined back the Diwan and accepted his previous service. Diwan has reappointed him as missionary and also for the government related work to stay here. President Garib Singh Secretary Bagh Singh.

31-3-1912 Passed that to run every Gurdwara which is common to the public, 5 persons should be appointed from that place. Income and expenditure account be submitted to the Vancouver Committee every month. They should be considered separated if they do not submit it for three months. Any member of the Vancouver committee can go there and check their accounts. The administrators of the outside Gurdwaras can keep twenty five dollars with them and can spend up to fifteen dollars for the expenses of the Gurwara. The Vancouver committee should be asked if anything else needs to be done. 2: Any brother who wants to apply for other should write a request letter to the sewak 34

31-3-1912 - After due consideration, the community will permit that person. From the content of that letter, if there is any fear of commotion in the Diwan then that person will not be allowed to make a submission at that time. President Bhag Singh Secretary Mitt Singh.

4-4-1912 As per above mentioned rule, seven members got together at seven o’clock at night. It was decided that the law exists in Canada against our women and children and two women and children are under deportation order. To inform our nation and understanding the need to help them, a telegram should be sent to the President of Fifth Sikh Education Conference Sialkot. The telegram was sent after a unanimous resolution. President Bhag Singh Secretary Mitt Singh. 14-4-1912 Today, this committee passed this resolution that Karma and Chanan had been requesting for a long time to join the Khalsa cult and have been following the principles of Sikhism for many years. Today, Khalsa Diwan Society Vancouver has approved to let them join and both of them have submitted written agreements. Chanan, son of Buta, caste, Sheikh, village Bohranwala, Patiala State, Post Office Bhikhi. Karma, son of Butta, caste Sheikh village Bohranwala, Patiala State, Post Office Bhikhi. After the baptism ceremony with Amrit, Chanan was named Daya Singh After the baptism ceremony with Amrit, Karma was named Ram Singh. President Bhag Singh. Secretary Mitt Singh

5-5-1912 Today, the following resolutions were passed. 1: Accounts be demanded from the delegation of Ottawa. 2: The letter of missionary be taken back from Sardar Teja Singh. 3: A telegram should be sent to England regarding the injustice done with us here. 4: A big congregation was organized by Khalsa Diwan Vancouver specially to protest against the immigration law because, the Government of Canada has ordered two Sikh women and their children to be deported from this country. The following brethren gave lectures- 1 Bhai Balwant Singh gave half an hour spirited lecture on the heroic deeds of the Sikh elders in the past and impressed upon the Sikhs to participate in this kind of service in the present times as well. 2 Bhai Raja Singh opposed the speech of Mr. Stevens which Mr. Stevens delivered on May 3rd in the Mount Pleasant Hall. 5th May 35

5-5-1912 Mr. Stevens in his speech had said that – the Sikhs stood up to help the British in the mutiny of 1857 because if they had not helped then the Muslims would have finished the Sikhs off. To contradict this he said that – in those times, the Muslims had nothing against the Sikhs. The help was provided just on seeing the Englishmen being tormented. 3- Bhai Kumar opposed those words of Mr. Stevens which he said to his people on that day that – The Sikhs liked to lead their lives by residing in the cities only. They do not inhabit any outside place. And also what Mr. Stevens said that –The Indian people had not benefitted anyone with their old civilization. 4- Bhai Harnam Singh Tundilat also said a few words against the immigration law and emphasized that Sikhs should come together to cooperate. 5- Mr. Rahim proposed the following telegram to be sent to the Secretary of State for India and Duke of Connaught which was unanimously approved and passed. To Secretary State for India, London. Khalsa Diwan and United India League Vancouver implore your office Stop Deportation order of Sikh wives and children. This is a Gross Breach of Imperial unity by attack on Sikh Homes – Mitt Singh Secretary Here is its translation in the Punjabi language.

This telegram was sent the same day. President Bhag Singh (Secretary Tehal Singh, earlier name Mitt Singh)

2-6-1912 Passed that – 1: The Guru Nanak Trust company be charged rent for the office at the rate of ten dollars per month from the beginning. 2. Five dollar will be collected from every person to pay the debt on Gurdwara, Vancouver and help the Gurdwara, Victoria. 3. Bhai Balwant Singh will be the priest of the Gurdwara and he will be paid a salary of $52 per month. 4: Bhai Hari Singh will be the head priest of Millside Gurdwara and he will be paid a salary of 36 dollars. President Bhag Singh Secretary Tehal Singh Mitt Singh

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16-6-1912 Passed that – 1: Regarding the Gurdwara of Victoria, it was decided that Bhai Balwant Singh from Vancouver will go to help the brethren of Victoria to collect donations. And wherever the Victoria brethren go, and whoever is the manager of that mill, he should help them in every way. 2: To open the country for wives (women), it was decided that – whosoever wants to get the country opened for wives, should get their names registered. A committee will be formed of these persons when the names of 100 brethren get registered. These brethren will elect members out of them and the brethren who register their names will have to perform their duties. This work will start after they become members. President Bhag Singh Secretary Tehal Singh alias Mitt Singh. 28-7-1912 This rule was passed that – A priest or any manager of the Gurdwara cannot bring books or iron bracelets, combs from home to sell. All these things should be bought with Diwan’s fund and sold, so that the Diwan makes profit. 20-10-1912 Community kitchen be constructed at Gurdwara Vancouver and an estimate of cost be obtained after getting the site plan prepared. Approved unanimously. Bhai Waryam Singh has been stopped from going to home country for this purpose that he will render community kitchen services and collect money for the immigration case from brethren of far and near places and help the Khalsa Diwan, Vancouver committee. Bhai Sahib happily accepted this responsibility. Due to the low number of members in the committee, Bhai Uttam Singh and Bhai Waryam Singh were requested to join the committee. President Bhag Singh. Sewak (secretary) Mitt Singh 22-12-1912 The congregation elected a new committee in the main Hall of the Gurdwara in order to deposit or collect immigration fund. The names are given below - Balwant Singh, Bhag Singh, Narain Singh Chopdar, Raja Singh, Teja Singh Jathedar and they were given full authority by the congregation. Bhag Singh Ram Singh Dhuletewala be asked if that Gurdwara (he is running) is connected with this Gurdwara then the accounts of that Gurdwara should be maintained like the other Gurdwaras and receipt books should be maintained in that Gurdwara in the same way as in this Gurdwara. Secretary Mit Singh 9-2-1913 The following resolutions were passed 1- That Bhai Balwant Singh be asked if he can accompany student Nand Singh with regard to the immigration case or not? 2- Bhai Balwant Singh replied in the congregation that – First of all, I am not competent for this job But, on being asked by the congregation, I am ready to go. But I request the congregation that – 37

9-2-1913 The first thing, I can only go if Bhai Waryam Singh remains the priest of this Gurdwara in my absence. Second, that last year’s Committee carry on managing the Gurdwara for the next year until I come back. Bhai Waryam Singh agreed that he will do the service and the congregation also happily accepted his proposal re: the last year Committee. Secretary Mitt Singh 16-2-1913 It was passed and approved in the congregation that – Return tickets be purchased for Bhai Balwant Singh and Nand Singh for their return from India. President Bhag Singh Secretary Mitt Singh 2-3-1913 Bhai Nand Singh requested the congregation that – it’s better for them (Bhai Balwant Singh and Nand Singh) to go to London first. The congregation very happily gave its approval. Jathedar Bhag Singh Mitt Singh Sewak 6-4-1913 The following resolutions were passed. 1- Bhai Hari Singh priest and one member of the committee be sent to collect donations for the immigration fund and their fare, either for train or boat be paid from the immigration fund. Less than five dollars will not be accepted from anyone for the immigration fund. The name of the person whose name is not on the collection list, will also be written down. Jathedar Bhag Singh Mit Singh Sewak 27-7-1913 1- That the manager of Sansar newspaper be sent a letter and asked – How does he want to manage the affairs of the newspaper? Does he want to do it in collaboration with the Vancouver Society or on his own? If he wants to run it separately, how would he run it? He should show up on Sunday, August the 10th to decide about these matters. 2- A letter should be sent to Bhai Hari Singh regarding the letter from the doctor in regards to the brethren in Port Moody. He should be paid as he has taken the responsibility for this matter. Mitt Singh Sewak 17-8-1913 These resolutions were passed 1- The managers of Sansar have asked for one week’s time. It should be granted. 2- Another letter should be sent to him in which it should be written that they should show up at the Gurdwara, Vancouver on Saturday, August the 23rd at three o’ clock. And should also bring the registration papers with him. Bhag Singh Jathedar Mitt Singh Sewak 14-9-1913 1- A decision was made regarding the Gurdwara, New Westminster that – Bhai Bishan Singh should first enquire from the New Westminster Gurdwara Committees. Afterwards that –The Committee should discuss it with the Vancouver Committee and then decision should be conveyed to that committee on this matter. 2- The brethren who went to India from this country, are stuck in Hong Kong because they haven’t received their passports. They should be sent a letter so that they send a list of their names including the villages and districts to Khalsa Diwan, Vancouver so that some arrangements can be made for them. 38

3- A letter should be sent to the C. P. R. officer that – We have received a complaint from many men that the flour you have provided to the people on the ship, is not good at all for our brethren. So that flour should be changed. Bhag Singh 4- A letter be sent to the immigration officer in Washington that – three or four persons Mitt Singh be permitted to travel to and from the United States on behalf of our Diwan, whenever they want. Sewak 5- That five persons should be appointed for our cases who decide our cases.And proper rules should be made for those five. 28-9-1913 1- The holy book lying here should be given to Bhai Bishan Singh. 26-10-1913 1- A request from the committee of United India League had been presented for the Bhag Singh purpose that they should be allotted a room in the Gurdwara. It was passed that one room Jathedar be allotted to open a library on the condition that in the case when Diwan needs it, then the secretary of the League will be notified one month in advance. After that the League will have to make some other arrangement. 16-11-1913 1- It was purposed by Mitt Singh Sewak that today Sundar Singh Mallanwala has created commotion in the Diwan and has broken the rules of Diwan. This should be discussed. 2- Passed with majority vote that he should be pardoned because it is the first case of its kind in the Diwan. Jathedar Bhag Singh, Mitt Singh Sewak. 9-12-1913 1- A flyer should be published for the purpose that through it the “Sansar” newspaper of Victoria be exposed and all the brethren be alerted. Jathedar Bhag Singh, Mitt Singh Sewak. 14-12-1913 1- The income and expenditure account should be taken from the persons appointed by the Committee with regard to the cases of newly arrived 38 men at Victoria, and entered in the books of Diwan. The names of the appointed brethren are entered here 1. Uttam Singh Hans- 2- Rattan Singh Raipur Dabbe, 3- Partap Singh Shankar, 4- Kartar Singh Chand. 2- It is passed that - Bhai Kartar Singh Chand and Bhai Sampuran Singh Borhanwal should be appointed with regard to the case of fourteen 14 new men who had arrived in Victoria. and an account should also be taken from them and entered in the books of Diwan. 3- Unanimously passed that – the arrangements be made to start a newspaper because there is a big problem without a newspaper and we cannot express our woes. 4- Passed with majority vote that machine should be brought in (to print) an English and Gurmukhi newspaper. 5- Unanimously passed that – a person from our community be hired who knows English language very well. Thus, Diwan and our other brethren will benefit a lot from this. 39

14-12-1913 6- It was passed that Bhai Kartar Singh Chandanwala be asked and appointed for the resolution 5 job. 7- It was decided that less than 40 dollars out of present should all be given to Kartar Singh. And in the case of above 40 dollars, two parts should go to Diwan and the third part should be given to Kartar Singh. 8- It was passed that five persons be appointed to make new rules for the Diwan. 1- Bhag Singh 2. Mitt Singh 3. Uttam Singh 4. Raja Singh 5. Kartar Singh. After making the rules, they will be presented before the Committee and approval will be obtained. Bhag Singh Jathedar, Mit Singh Sewak. 16-12-1913 It was passed that – in the room behind the lot number 8 near the toilets, which was the horse’s stable, a lithograph machine be purchased and installed. This cost will be borne by the Diwan and money will be paid in installments. Bhag Singh Jathedar Mitt Singh Sewak 28-12-1913 Vancouver Diwan urgently needed a missionary person and they selected Bhai Bhagwan Singh (Jakh) for this job. Bhai Sahib had performed the duties of a priest in Hong Kong for three years and can preach the Sikh religion very well. Khalsa Diwan Vancouver had received a letter of commendation for Bhai Sahib from Hong Kong Committee. This proves that Bhai Sahib is a very competent person. He had received a gold medal from the Khalsa Diwan, Vancouver and also has one or two very good reference letters. He has reformed many people here through his good discourses also. So Bhai Sahib was appointed for the missionary job. He can visit all of Asia and Europe and preach and teach Sikhism. Bhag Singh Jathedar. Mitt Singh Sewak. 3-1-1914 Samund Singh Jathedatr proposed that – Doctor Sunder Singh says, the decision taken by six men, all its copies have been given to Khalsa Diwan Vancouver by those persons. 3-1-1914 that decision to But we have enquired form Bhai Partap Singh Shankarwala now. He says that we had sent a copy of that decision to Doctor Sunder Singh by registered mail. One copy was given to Bhai Mitt Singh, the Secretary of Khalsa Diwan Vancouver and we have one copy of it with us. Bhai Badan Singh Kahriwala showed the receipt of the registered letter. Then Bhai Bhag Singh Jathedar read out the affidavit of Doctor Sunder Singh to everyone. He has recorded in his statements that I have started this press in the beginning. He has also shown in it that the other partners have joined in one after the other. Then Bhai Sahib told about the bylaw of the Gurdwara and said that he has asked the lawyer to get copies of the bylaws printed. When those are printed we will distribute a lot of copies among the people. The money we have given to the Sansar newspaper manager was, for the purpose, that we could express our woes through the newspaper. 40

Jan -3-1914 3-1-1914 The decision regarding the Sansar newspaper was kept in abeyance. After this a lot of discussion was carried on and the meeting was adjourned. Bhag Singh Jathedar. Mitt Singh Sewak. 5-1-1914 1-After placing many conditions it was passed that Bhai Kartar Singh should himself cost the paper, fee etc’s estimate and present it to the Committee. 2-Passed by majority vote that 100 dollars be sent to South Africa on behalf of Diwan and an appeal should be made in the Diwan for help in this matter. Bhag Singh Jathedar. Mit Singh Sewak. 9-1-1914 Today, at the lower hall of Gurdwara Vancouver a few brethren gathered for the above purpose. Before the meeting started, Bhai Partap Singh Shankarwala was elected as the Chairman of the meeting. 1-First of all, Bhai Bhag Singh explained that a few brethren had come from Victoria to express something with regard to Sansar newspaper. It is hoped that they will express their views before us now. Then Bhai Sardara Singh said that they have come in connection with the decision the six 6 persons have taken regarding the Sansar newspaper and land. That decision has been accepted by Doctor Sunder Singh and his associates. This decision should be clarified. After this, Bhai Bhag Singh replied that Bhai Badan Singh Kahriwala has told us that Doctor Sunder Singh and his associates have rejected this decision. Then Bhai Babu Harnam Singh explained the entire past situation and said that the ten 10 members we elected will have the same rights as those three brethren who have signed the memorandum. Thus some solution should be sought to avoid the involvement in court cases. After this Sardara Singh asked the reason for not replying to the letter. In reply to this, Babu Kapoor Singh explained about the letter. After this Bhai Kartar Singh explained about the letter from the lawyers. After that Sardara Singh said that the members of the association have sent with a message that Khlasa Diwan Vancouver can conclude this matter with a decision as it pleases. Get the rules of the association changed as you wish because involvement in court cases is not good for us at all. In reply to this Bhai Uttam Singh said that we are also not interested in court cases. We filed the case only when we felt totally exhausted. Then Sardara Singh said that we have come after consulting forty 40 persons and brought the signatures of Doctor Sunder Singh and Kartar Singh Akali. After that Bhai Bhag Singh said that we want to have the signature of those ten 10 brethren on that memorandum which has been signed and these three persons and all those rules which are found to be inappropriate will be removed after consultation with the lawyer. 41

9-1-1914 Then Bhai Piara Singh said that we accept this proposed decision. We do not want to make our own property. Then Bhai Bhag Singh said that if you didn’t want to make your own property then why did you three form an association after constituting a council? We are all the supporters have the same rights as you three had. Thus you should have elected the members after convening a meeting and involving everyone. Then Bhai Badan Singh said that decision letter which we sent, we didn’t received a complete decision in reply of it. After that Bhai Bhag Singh said that we want to make such a decision that the ten 10 brethren who have been elected will also have the same rights as these three. Piara Singh accepted it. Then Sardara Singh said that since you both the parties have agreed to it, thus the members of the committee should go to Victoria, visit a lawyer and get the paper work done with regard to this decision. In reply to this Mitt Singh Sewak said that we consider it’s inappropriate to go to Victoria to make a decision. Thus it is better that Doctor Sunder Singh and Kartar Singh Akali be called here and make a decision. Then Piara Singh agreed to it that we will call the doctor to come here and the papers should be prepared tomorrow. Bhag Singh Jathedar, Mitt Singh Sewak.

18-1-1914 1- Passed that the perjury by Bela Singh in the court to defame the name of the Committee, some arrangements should be made by consultation with a lawyer. 2- Passed that Bhag Singh, Mitt Singh and Uttam Singh are given full authority to incur as many expenses as required in the case of Bhai Bhagwan Singh. 3- A letter should be sent to Lyall Gazette newspaper published from Lahore on behalf of the Diwan regarding the article it has published against Bhai Bhagwan Singh. Amar Singh Editor should be asked about that article through the letter from Diwan. Bhag Singh Jathedar. Mitt Singh Sewak.

2-2-1914 Today, Harnam Kaur, the wife of Bhai Bhag Singh was cremated at six minutes past twelve P.M. She had left this world forever on the night of thirtieth 30 January at fifty minutes past six. At the time of cremation, Bhai Bhag Singh read out those words which Harnam Kaur had said to Bhai Sahib before leaving this world. (1) Every year, money be sent to Sikh Girls College Ferozepur for one day’s food. (2) For one day to the Amritsar Orphanage. (3) One hundred rupees be sent to Peshawar. Then Bhai Sahib said, “In the event of my death per Guru’s wish, the Committee of Khalsa Diwan, Vancouver, should keep on sending the money to orphanages every year because my will of succession is in the name of Khalsa Diwan, Vancouver only. I want to remind this to all brethren that whichever Committee comes in the future should keep this in mind.”

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2-February

2-2-1914 1- Passed that – On behalf of Diwan, some arrangement should be made for Bhai Bhag Singh’s children because it is difficult for Bhai Sahib to take care of the children. Passed in the committee. Then the congregation was informed about this resolution. The entire congregation happily approved it and pronounced that Victory is to the Wonderful Lord. After that Bhai Bhag Singh told that Kartar Kaur has agreed to bring up my children. Thus I am very thankful to all the brethren because all of you have sympathized with me. I do not want to put this much burden on Diwan because Diwan already has many other burdens to bear and I am thankful to Kartar Kaur who has very happily accepted such a big responsibility. After that, a few brethren from the committee ordered that although it was Bhai Sahib’s obligation to say these kind words it is the duty of Diwan and Diwan will have to fulfil its duty. This was said to Diwan by Sewak Mitt Singh and were accepted. After that a meeting of the committee was held on the lower floor of the gurdwara at which Bhola Singh was not present and Bhai Bhag Singh and Juala Singh were present in this committee. 2- Passed that a telegram should be sent to India to Bhai Balwant Singh’s group, mentioning the news of departure of Harnam Kaur for the heavenly abode. 3- Passed that new rules for the committee of Diwan be framed and after their verification from a lawyer, seven persons be nominated (for the committee). 4 - Bhai Bhag Singh requested to the committee that he should be lent one hundred dollars from the funds of the Diwan for six months as he has spent a lot this time. Passed that Bhai Sahib be lent 100 hundred dollars for six months. Bhag Singh Jathedar Sewak Mitt Singh 22-3-1914 1- Passed that a letter should be sent to the Department of Immigration of Canada mentioning that, many of our people who went from here are sitting in Hong Kong, asking for their decision in their case and to resolve this matter with us. 2- Passed that President and Secretary be sent to get accounts from all the Gurdwaras which are branches of this Gurdwara. 3- Passed that a telegram should be sent to Viceroy Hardinge regarding that the wall of Gurdwara, Raqab Ganj, which has been demolished, be restored to the same condition as this property of the Gurdwara belongs to the Sikh community. Bhai Gurdit Singh proposed and Dayal Singh seconded. 5-4-1914 Bhai Ujjagar Singh was asked whether, the letter he had sent to the editor of Khalsa Sewak, was sent on behalf of the entire public or on your own behalf? He replied, ‘I think, I probably have sent it on my own behalf but I should be pardoned if I had written something on behalf of the public by mistake.” Mitt Singh Sewak.

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17-5-1914 1- Passed that two committee members from the commitee of Khalsa Diwan Society, Vancouver be put on the commitee which has been appointed for Komagata Maru ship. Bhai Bhag Singh and Bhai Mitt Singh were appointed. 2- A telegram be sent to Nand Singh to ask whether you have received dollars or not. 3- Passed that we do not want to prepare any papers regarding an agreement etc. with Khalsa Diwan Victoria. Paper work is done with persons who are not trusted. This is Diwan’s work. Mitt Singh Sewak 12-7-1914 1- The accounts be asked from Bhai Balwant Singh regarding the expenses incurred on his travel as delegate. 2- Passed by majority vote that Nand Singh be brought here by sending hundred dollars. Mitt Singh Sewak 23-8-1914 1. Proposed by Bhai Bachan Singh that we have been sent by the Committee of Khalsa Diwan, Victoria that we are ready to transfer the entire property related to Gurdwara Victoria in the name of Vancouver Diwan if Vancouver Diwan accepts the following two conditions. (1) That the same rights should be given to the Committee of Victoria Diwan to manage Gurdwara Victoria as the committee of Vancouver Diwan has, to manage Gurdwara Vancouver. (2) A special committee for all the Gurdwaras of Canada be constituted which should manage all the Gurdwaras. The Committee accepted the above mentioned conditions and an agreement was given in writing. Basant Singh seconded and Narain Singh supported it. 2- A lawyer should be consulted regarding the tax exemption of Gurdwaras under the law of British Columbia. If not, then should be granted. 3- Passed that Roniq Ram Arya, who has hurt the hearts of thirty lakh Sikhs through a booklet entitled “Reality of the Sikh Community”, with harsh and mean attack on our religious mother of the Sikh community, Ganga Devi, we, all the Canadian Sikh express our strong displeasure over it and recommend that he should be fully punished for his offence. The copies of this resolution should be sent to Sikh newspapers. 4- Passed that on behalf of the Gurdwaras of Canada a big congregation be held in Punjab, India. A committee be appointed in that congregation from brethren who have gone from Canada by inviting them through letters. Passed unanimously in the Diwan. 5- Passed that a Sehajdhari (Clean shaven) can never become a member of the committee of the Diwan. Passed unanimously. 6- Passed that Bhai Balwant Singh be relieved from the duties of the priest because Bhai sahib wants to go to the home country along with the family. Passed unanimously. Mitt Singh Sewak 4-10-1914 1- Passed that Bhai Balwant Singh will not take any salary for the period he resides at this place. This resolution was unanimously passed in the Diwan.

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4-10-1914 2- Passed that this committee will neither give money for the disputes among the fellow country men nor will give testimony for anyone. Sewak Gopal Singh President Hari Singh 7-2-1915 1- The bylaws formed by the Committee were read out to the congregation and the congregation heard with great interest. All bylaws were amended after discussion and the entire congregation approved them. The congregation gave full authority to the Committee to work in accordance with these bylaws. Passed unanimously. 2- The bylaws which means the resolutions passed by the Committee should be presented before the congregation. If the congregation gives approval after hearing, then they should be registered. This request was accepted by the congregation. Gopal Singh Sewak 30-5-1915 1- That, we regret the disruption of the eighth conference because, the involvement of administrator had caused and will cause great harm to the Sikh community. Letters of sympathy be sent to the newspapers. 2- Maharaja Kapurthala is in San Francisco to attend an event. A telegram should be sent to him that he should go via Vancouver while returning to India and should delight the public by paying obeisance at the Gurdwara. 3- A letter should be sent to Stockton Diwan regarding the above request that, that Committee should also request that the Maharaja Jasjit Bhupinder Singh, must pay a visit to Gurdwara, Vancouver. The resolutions passed unanimously. Tara Singh Jathedar. Gopal Singh Secretary 18-7-1915 Passed that Bhai Amar Singh should be called from Victoria and asked how the expenses for the daughter of Late Shriman Bhai Bhag Singh are being managed? What kind of arrangement has been made with the woman who is taking care of the girl? The whole matter should be enquired. Tara Singh President. Gopal Singh Secretary. 23-8-1915 Bhai Amar Singh was called on 23-8-1915 August 23rd and was asked about the expenses of Bhai Bhag Singh’s daughter. At that time, these committee members were present Bhai Kartar Singh, Gurdit Singh and my humble self and Mota Singh, Lachhman Singh, elder son of Bhai Hakam Singh Jagirdar: from outside. Bhai Amar Singh was asked how the arrangement for the expenses of the girl was going? How much expenses do you have every month? Are you paying the expenses regularly or are they still due? Now the Sikh community is ready to bear the expenses of the girl in future. You should hand over the girl’s care to the community. Bhai Amar Singh kept talking about many other things but did not give us any hint about how much expenses they are paying every month or how much is still due. He replied that they keep on paying whatever they can and they have no receipts etc. Neither we have taken any receipt nor are going to take any. I cannot say at this moment whether I should hand over the girl’s care to the community or not. I will let you know tomorrow after asking Naurang Singh. We happily accepted this proposal. Amar Singh, returned on the third day which means 45

23-8-1915 on August 25th. We again asked him about what he has thought. Bhai Tara Singh, Bhai Munsha Singh alias Gian Singh and his wife Labh Kaur and my humble self were present at that time. Bhai Amar Singh said that I myself want to take care of the girl. You leave this responsibility with me. I ask this on my own free will. He was then asked what Naurang Singh’s idea was about this. He told that Naurang Singh has said that the girl’s care can be handed over to the community on the condition that the community should pay the entire past expenses and the girl will remain with the same white woman and nothing has been put into black and white in the past nor it will be done. The community can also not send the girl anywhere else on their own. We told Amar Singh that these conditions are not acceptable to us because if the community takes this responsibility, then something in writing must be done with that white woman. A receipt will be taken for whatever expenses are paid to her. If the community thinks it not appropriate to let her continue with the white woman then it must be changed. and you will be consulted. Whenever the community deems it proper, the girl will be sent to some care home in India and you will be consulted in each matter. Now tell us about the past expenses and how much is still due? Amar Singh replied that I do not know about the expenses at the moment and how much is still due. The white woman would know how much is due. But I request you that – although this girl does belong to the community but leave this responsibility with me. I do wish that I should do this service. We asked Bhai ji many times about the expenses but Bhai ji kept on giving the same answer. Tara Singh President. Gopal Singh Secretary 31-10-1915 Passed that Hari Singh be asked about the lots at Millside. 12-12-1915 1-Passed that a separate committee be formed for unclaimed dead bodies fund and the permission to form this be obtained in the congregation on eleventh January 1916 on the day of the religious celebration. 2- Passed that $50 be sent from Diwan’s funds to help the newly built Stockton Gurdwara in America. 3- Passed that in case Bhai Tara Singh who goes to America for company’s work happens to meet with Bhai Nand Singh who was sent to India as delegate, then he should bring from him the papers regarding his activity. If there is a need to spend something about this, then he can spend up to twenty five dollars. Permission from Diwan is required if he needs more. 20-2-1916 Passed that the arrangements for the daughter of Late Bhai Bhag Singh should be discussed again. After a mutual discussion, it was decide that Bhai Hakam Singh should ask Bhai Amar Singh and Naurang Singh and request to them, what concern they have, with regard to, handing over the care of the girl to the community? Let them express and hand over the care of the girl to the community as Diwan earnestly desires to take care of the girl. Jeon Singh Vice President Gopal Singh Secretary 46

2-4-1916 1- The approval for building the community kitchen has Jeon Singh Vice President 3-6-1916 already been granted in the congregation on 19 March 1916. Gopal Singh Secretary Bhai Mitt Singh and Chuharh will go for community kitchen donations collection. 9-11-1916 The birthday of the first Guru Shri Guru Nanak Dev ji Maharaj was celebrated on November 9th in Gurdwara Abbotsford. At the end of the congregation at eight 8 P.M. a meeting of the Committee was held to discuss the debt of Bhai Hari Singh Malikwala. The Diwan had borrowed and spent about eleven hundred dollars from Bhai Hari Singh and spent it on the lots of Millside. The following gentlemen were present at that time: Bhai Tara Singh President, Bhai Jeon Singh Vice President, Gopal Singh Secretary, Bhai Gurdit Singh Member, Bhai Jagat Singh Member, Bhai Sham Singh Priest Victoria, Bhai Labh Singh Secretary Victoria, Bhai Sunder Singh President Abbotsford, Bhai Juala Singh Secretary Abbotsford. These gentlemen gathered together and discussed that it has been a very long time since this money was borrowed from Bhai Hari Singh and used but Diwan has not been able to pay the dollars back to Bhai Sahib due to a shortage of funds. Thus a decision be reached with Bhai Hari Singh whichever way is possible at this time. Bhai Tara Singh after having tolerated many physical troubles and passing through many other difficulties and requesting to the brethren living in America, has collected and sent some money from America to pay Diwan’s debt. Thus it is our foremost duty that the debt be paid back. Although we are not in a capacity to pay the entire money, yet Bhai Hari Singh be asked for some discount for the sake of Guru’s house and the remainder dollars should be paid. Discussed and decided that six 600 dollars should be paid and get the remainder waived by making a humble request to Bhai Hari Singh. After this decision, Bhai Hari Singh was called. Bhai Hari Singh was requested that at this moment all these brethren request you that you settle the matter with Diwan by taking six hundred dollars and waiving the remainder. Bhai Hari Singh said that these dollars are very less. I will waive of only three hundred dollars in favour of Diwan. Pay me the rest. In the end, after a lot of discussion, these brethren said that we can pay seven 700 hundred dollars due to the shortage of money. Bhai Hari Singh accepted it and at the same time pledged fifty 50 dollars for helping Gurdwara Abbotsford. This entire decision was made unanimously and slogan of Fateh was pronounced.

Be noted that Bhai Tara Singh President has returned to Vancouver from America on November 5, 1916. President Tara Singh. Secretary Gopal Singh.

{Note} It has been known from the elders that when Bhai Tara Singh Kauni had gone to America to collect donations for Gudwara Vancouver, at that time, the donor Sikhs

(Scribed in left margin) living in America donated money quite generously. With this money Bhai Tara Singh paid back the debt of Gurdwara, Stockton and Gurdwara, Vancouver. Arjan Singh Chand, Writer. 47

15-11-1916 On this date, Bhai Hari Singh Malik was paid $700 seven hundred dollars with regard to the lots at Millside in the presence of President Bhai Tara Singh, Jeon Singh, Vice President and Hamir Singh, Hauldar Vinjhal. The remaining three hundred and eighty five dollars were waived by Bhai Hari Singh as donation to Gurdwara. Tara Singh President. Gopal Singh Secretary. Hari Singh Malik 18-11-1916 1- Passed that – the entire debt on the Gurdwara should be paid back. 2- Passed that – whatever expenses Bhai Tara Singh has incurred in California, be paid. Tara Singh 3- A discussion was held on Bhai Tara Singh’s collection of donations for the Gurdwara within last three months and Bhai Tara Singh should be paid some salary for those three months. Bhai Tara Singh refused to accept the salary. Thus Bhai Sahib has rendered his services free for the last three months. The Committee thanked Bhai Sahib for it. Tara Singh President. Gopal Singh Secretary. Note:- Bhai Tara Singh’s village is Kauni District Ferozepur. Writer, Arjan Singh “Chand” 23-12-1916 Passed that – the congregation be informed tomorrow about bringing Bhai Parduman Singh, who had come from America for the religious celebration and has been detained at the border, and an action should be taken as suggested by the congregation. The congregation was requested and it was passed by majority vote that a lawyer should be hired to bring Bhai Sahib. Jeon Singh Vice President. Gopal Singh Secretary. 24-2-1918 Passed unanimously that two thousand $2,000 dollars be sent soon to help California Diwan as that Diwan suddenly has to pay for the roads etc. Uttam Singh Jathedar, Raja Singh Secretary 20-9-1918 A letter has been received from Ocean Falls that the public here wants to organize an Akhand Path (48-hour continuous recital of the Holy Book), four Pathis (readers of Holy Book), along with the Holy Book and Manji sahib, (cot) should be sent there. Passed that more Pathis are not available. Bhai Gopal Singh and Harnam Singh be sent. Thus they were sent. Giani Harnam Singh Jathedar, Takhat Singh Sewak 24-11-1918 Discussion was held that the Hong Kong Diwan has passed a resolution to build a Gurdwara in Calcutta. Two Gurdwaras already exist there. Bigger or smaller Congregation? What’s the reason for building a Gurdwara Howrah Station? Should be enquired. It is difficult to send the money without enquiry. It was discussed that information be sought by writing a letter to Secretary, Hong Kong. 2. A second letter with similar situation was received from Stockton Diwan. A Gurdwara is being built near the University. Money is needed. Discussed that – if a group from Stockton wants to come to Vancouver to collect donations, it will be a pleasure for us. On their visit, we will offer whatever help we can. Giani Harnam Singh President. Takhat Singh Sewak 28-9-1919 The congregation approved five hundred dollars for donation to General Hospital, Vancouver - donated. Bhai Waryam Singh agreed to donate a hundred dollars. Bhai Mit Singh agreed to donate fifty dollars $50. Jiwa Singh President. Tara Singh Secretary. 48

25-10-1919 Passed unanimously that a telegram be sent to Maharaja Nabha on the birth of the prince. Jiwa Singh President. Naurang Singh Secretary 30-11-1919 Passed that we do not agree with the advertisement brought out under the orders of Badan Singh Kaglain B.C. in the month of November 1919 and we all the residents of Canada express our displeasure on behalf of Khalsa Diwan. Jiwa Singh President. Naurang Singh Secretary. 25-1-1920 1-Passed that Santa Singh who has arrived from home country and has been in custody for the last three months, be helped to set free. Passed in Committee and passed in the congregation. 2. Passed that at first, an enquiry be made by writing a letter about the Gurdwara, Stockton. If this is true, then a flyer should be published referring to what Bhai Mela Singh has written that – a sense of displeasure has prevailed in all the Gurdwaras about the hat wearing people having been elected in the Committee. Hat wearing people cannot be on the Committee. Jiwa Singh, Naurang Singh. 9-5-1920 1- Passed unanimously that donations be collected in order to send help on behalf of Diwan, in the memory of martyrs killed with the bullets by General Dyer in the Jalianwala Bagh, Amritsar on April 13, 1919. 2. This congregation thanks those national groups, newspapers and national volunteers very much who have made efforts physically, monetarily and dedicatedly to get the political prisoners released. 3- Passed that Sikh League, District Sikh Leagues and Punjab Provincial Congress be requested that they should arrange to send new countrymen to Canada. 4. Passed that the volunteers who have participated since the passing of the Rowalt Act until today and are taking part in nation building should be thanked. Bhagwan Singh President Mit Singh Sewak 4-7-1920 1- Passed that United India Home Rule League and the Committee of Canada be requested that, whoever has collected the donation for the Jalianwala Bagh after July 4, 1920, that donation should be deposited with the Diwan Committee as in accordance with the resolution passed by the League, on July 4, that Diwan has all the rights to it. 2- Passed that the letters expressing happiness be sent on behalf of the Diwan to political prisoner brethren on their coming back home after being released from prisons. Bhagwan Singh President. Mit Singh Secretary. 25-7-1920 Passed that money be sent on behalf of the Diwan in the name of the Secretary Jalianwala Bagh Memorial Fund. Majority was in favour but some brethren were against it. 2- Passed that the brethren who are trying to come back to Canada be informed at Hong Kong by telegram that we are making arrangements. You wait and stay. Bhagwan Singh President, Mit Singh Secretary 49 22-8-1920 Passed that – Diwan should be credited and honoured for all the money collected for Amritsar. As the League was also established with the effort of Diwan. 2. Gurdit Singh proposed that All India National Congress be requested through the newspapers that the piety and eminence of Pandit Lokmanya Tilak be propagated day by day. We Indians residents of Canada are always ready to stand by you as per our capacity through physical, monetary and moral support. 3. Passed today that, we all Sikhs (Khalsa) and Indians pray from the core of our heart that the Almighty grant the pious soul of Pandit Lokmanya Tilak ji an eternal sojourn at His feet. 26-9-1920 Passed that Pathis (Holy Book readers) be called in on September 26 and remove their doubt re the Abbotsford Gurdwara resolution, President Bhagwan Singh Secretary Mit Singh 26-9-1920 Passed that two judges be elected to resolve the dispute between the Akhand Pathis. Bhai Bhagwan Singh and Jaswant Singh were appointed. 2. Afterwards, it was decided after a long discussion that priest Gopal Singh be fined two and a half dollars as he had baptized Sher Singh by making him partake Amrit without his consent. Bhai Harnam Singh Aade Kali be fined one dollar and a quarter as he had delivered a message contrary to the statement of Bhai Bhagwan Singh. Fine was imposed. Bhagwan Singh President. Mit Singh Secretary. 5-12-1920 Passed that the money received or collected in the fund of Diwan for Bibi “Karam Kaur” daughter of Bhai Bhag Singh, be paid through cheque drawn in the name of Naurang Singh and Nawab. 2. Passed that the fare of Bibi Karam Kaur be paid by the Diwan which is eighty three dollars $83. The detail of the money is as follows Dollars Cents Collected in the congregation last year 457 00 Received from America 59 00 President Fare, to be paid by Diwan 83 00 Bhagwan Singh Grand Total 599 00 Secretary To be paid for Balwant Singh’s children 50 00 Mit Singh Balance. Approved for issuing a cheque 549 00 3- Passed that one thousand dollars be sent to Sikh League for Prisoner Family Assistance Fund through Diwan, Vancouver. 4. Passed that – all the Diwans of Canada should be requested that they should oblige by sending money from the funds of their respective Diwans to help the Prisoner Family Assistance Fund.

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6-2-1921 Today, in the full congregation of the Khalsa Diwan Society, the following resolutions were passed. 1. Khalsa Diwan, Vancouver congratulates Sardar Mangal Singh, Editor “Akali” newspaper, for rendering his services to the nation, through the newspaper, and sympathize with Sardar Sahib for going to jail. 2. This congregation fully sympathizes with those four military soldiers, who have been thrown in jail in Allahabad for committing a crime of keeping the beards flowing. 3. This congregation fully sympathizes with all the three newspapers, “Panth Sewak”, “Akali” and “Satjug” as the Government of India has asked for their bail fearing from their services to the nation. 4. This congregation expresses its disdain for the misdeed of Gajjan Singh Ludhiana for having filed a case against Sardar Mangal Singh, Editor “Akali”, Sunder Singh, Manager “Akali” and Master Mota Singh. 5. This congregation, while thanking Sardar Harchand Singh Noble of Lyallpur from the bottom of its heart for rendering his services nationally, religiously and specially to the Canadian Khalsa, prays to the Creator Lord that He may bestow upon him the energy to serve more. President Bhagwan Singh Secretary Mitt Singh 10-4-1921 1-Passed that – one thousand rupees be sent to “Akali” newspaper, telegraphically. President It will be discussed later re: sending more. Bhagwan Singh 2- Passed that an Akhand Path (continuous recital) be organized starting on Secretary 24 April 1921 for the martyr brethren who sacrificed their lives for the religion at . Mitt Singh Nankana Sahib. 15-5-1921 Passed that the money already collected for the Martyrdom Fund of Nankana Sahib will be sent to the Gurdwara Managing Committee. The remaining collection will be sent later. President Bhagwan Singh. Secretary Mitt Singh. 12-6-1921 Passed that – a letter should be written to The Government of Patiala regarding sword that it should not interfere with the religious matters. President Bhagwan Singh. Secretary Mitt Singh. 3-7-1921 Passed that Bhai Batan Singh and Arjan singh Jhingarh be served a notice that they should not print anything about the Diwans of Canada in their flyers like the paper which they name as “Hindustan Dalair Canada” or “Vande Matram”; because they are spreading lies and misunderstandings. President Bhagwan Singh. Secretary Mitt Singh. 10-7-1921 Today, in the congregation at Duncan, a telegram sent by Bhai Chainchal Singh Jandiala regarding the demise of Bhai Batan Singh “Kahri” was read out. The following resolution was passed.

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10-7-1921 We express our sorrow at the untimely and sudden demise of our national volunteer Bhai Batan Singh “Karhi”. While sympathizing with the Bhai Sahib’s family at this unbearable loss, pray to the Creator Lord to grant an eternal abode at his feet to the soul of Bhai Sahib. President Bhagwan Singh Secretary Mit Singh. 17-7-1921 Passed that - As Arjan Singh Jhingarh has not given a satisfactory answer to our request re: not to publish anything in his flyer regarding the matters of the Diwan, thus to clear the position of the Diwan, a flyer should be published by Diwan and be sent to all places wherever possible. President Bhagwan Singh Secretary Mit Singh. 7-8-1921 Passed that the donations be collected from all the brethren for Alkali Dal. Secretary Mit Singh 14-8-1921 Passed in the full congregation that “Sardar Sardul Singh” be congratulated for going to jail and maintaining the national prestige. President Bhagwan Singh, Secretary Mit Singh. 11-9-1921 Passed in the full congregation that a letter should be written to Bhai “Hari Singh” of Chotian, District Ferozepur that he is being elected as a member of The Shiromni Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee on behalf of Khalsa Diwan, Vancouver. Thus he should represent the Canadian brethren fearlessly according to the Sikhism principles and make us thankful. Passed unanimously. Seconded by Bir Singh, Naurang Singh, Gurdit Singh, Ram Singh. 2- Passed that information be sought from Bhai B.S. Inder Singh Secretary, Stockton Diwan re: what they have done in connection with the students who were taken into custody by the Seattle Immigration Department? 3- Passed that the students who are in custody in Seattle be contacted by phone. The names of many brethren who pledged money for furnishing their bails are given below. 1: Harnam Singh Karhiana 100-00 9: Hardial Singh Chuhar Singh 25-00 2: Hazara Singh Sotal Babe Ki 100-00 10: Kishan Singh Alamwala 25-00 3: Babu Kapoor Singh Kharodi 100-00 11: Sucha Singh Chand 25-00 4: Mahna Singh Khukhrana 25-00 12: Naurang Singh Dubli 25-00 5: Tara Singh Kauni 25-00 13: Waryam Singh Tungowal 25-00 6: Natha Singh Haripur 25-00 14: Harnam Singh Khiala 25-00 7: Hari Singh Budala 25-00 15: Harnam Singh Numane 25-00 8: Mit Singh Pandori 50-00 16: Ram Singh Ranian 150-00 52

11-9-1921 Passed that the students should be asked to give in writing that they serve the Nation at least for one year without any salary. Passed that – a notice be given in the newspapers that the students who come to America or Canada should come after making their own arrangements. Passed that – A letter be written to the brethren who have children in this country i.e. Canada, that they should enroll their children to schools for education. “Panth Sewak” newspaper be requested to let us know, on whose responsibility they had published an article on behalf of Canadian brethren? President Bhagwan Singh Secretary Mit Singh. 9-10-1921 Passed today in the full congregation that Ranjit Singh Numane be sent back and Diwan pay his fare if, the immigration do not send him and pay his fare as he has been in mental asylum for a very long time and has not convalesced. Many brethren also assured to donate money. President Bhagwan Singh Secretary Mit Singh. 16-10-1921 Today in the full congregation Mit Singh proposed that he will present a resolution on the resignation of Bhai Gurdit Singh and Sardar Mehtab Singh Barrister, who are eminent persons in the city of Lahore. Bhai Sahib presented his resolution as follows. 1- We the Khalsa residents of Canada and all Indians are very happy on hearing the news that Shriman Sardar Mehtab Singh has kicked the presidency of Punjab Council and resigned. He has resigned after listening to the voice of the Guru’s Community. He gave priority to the National prestige after considering the attitude and interference of the bureaucracy in the religion, which is harmful. We extend our congratulations to him on this big sacrifice. We call upon the remaining Sikh members of the councils to give top priority to National prestige and they should resign and receive the blessings of the Nation. Passed unanimously. 2. The letter of Bhai Ajmer Singh, Priest of Calcutta, was discussed and it was decided that he should not take the trouble to come here because there is a greater need to preach in the home country. He should continue to stay there. President Bhagwan Singh Secretary Mit Singh. 25-12-1921 Passed in the congregation that each of the brethren must wear Khadar (homespun cotton) cloth at least a little, if not much, as per the resolution passed in the home country. 2. The brethren were requested to quit potation. The following brethren gave up potation. (1) “Santa Singh Chand” (2) “Samund Singh Mehli” (3) “Veer Singh Ghuarwali” (4) “Fakiria Kanjliwal” President Bhagwan Singh Secretary Mit Singh.

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5-2-1922 1- Proposed that – All Diwans of B.C. Canada be affiliated with Shiromani Gurdwara 5 February Parbandhak Committee the headquarter of which is at Akal Thakhat in Amritsar on the following conditions – 1922 1: Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee should remain a common forum purely for the entire Sikh community. 2: The common Sikhs should have the right to elect Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee. 3: If Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee is brought under the control of a particular group or any Sikh Raja area or through the high handedness of the British Government or any states and any group, then as per clause (2) no committee election be held. In that case, Canadian Khalsa will have the absolute right to disaffiliate itself by informing the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee in writing. 4: At the time of disaffiliation, at least a minimum period of one year be fixed to discuss with the Shiromani Committee through correspondence and the Canadian Khalsa can reduce or increase the period of time. 5: At the time of disaffiliation the Canadian Khalsa must be informed one month in advance and whatever resolution is passed at that meeting should be accepted. 6: Passed that these resolutions be sent to all the Diwans in Canada for discussion and any Diwan who wants to express a different opinion should send it through a letter to the Vancouver Diwan so that it can be discussed again at the time of the election of the new Committee in April 1922. 7: This Diwan confirms to hold the election of the committee every two years as per resolution 8 of Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee. 8: Passed that – Bhai Piara Singh and Bhai Hari Singh WHO are our elected representatives should also be consulted with regard to this through a letter. President Bhagwan Singh Secretary Mit Singh. 26-2-1922 Passed that – a telegram be sent to Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee that – we the residents of Canada congratulate the entire Sikh community on the victory of President getting the keys of Darbar Sahib by Sardar Kharak Singh Rais (Noble) Jathedar and Sardar Bhagwan Singh Mehtab Singh and all other nation lovers. It was sent. Secretary Mit Singh 12-3-1922 Passed in the full congregation that a telegram be sent to Congress and Sikh League on the arrest of Mahatma Gandhi. President Bhagwan Singh, Secretary Mit Singh. 19-3-1922 Mahatma Gandhi has been sentenced for six years. We the residents of Canada congratulate Mahatma Gandhi on his arrest and request the entire Country and the Khalsa, Hindus, Muslims and the Sikhs to spend their whole energy together to achieve the independence. President Bhagwan Singh, Secretary Mit Singh. 16-4-1922 With only one dissent, it was unanimously passed by the rest that Pardesi Khalsa newspaper, which has started its publication under the patronage of Sikh Canadian American Society should continue to be published under the same name of Sikh Canadian American Society and Sikh Canadian American Society has the absolute right that it can transfer its office to wherever it wants. 54

16-4-1922 Passed with a majority vote that two thousand rupees be sent by telegram in response to the telegram received from “Pardesi Khalsa” in the name of Bhai Bhagwan Singh because Bhai Piara Singh has appealed for money. President Bhagwan Singh Secretary Mit Singh. 13-5-1922 This congregation passes that we offer congratulations to “Hari Singh” former priest Vancouver, B.C. Canada, on his arrest again and to the Akali Sikhs and other patriots who are serving India by filling the jails. We also pray to the Almighty that the Wonderful Lord may let all of them pass this test. We also express our disdain towards the current atrocities by the bureaucracy. President Hira Singh Secretary Bhagat Singh 21-5-1922 Passed that regarding the two boys who have come from our home country and have been quarantined, Diwan should make arrangements for them as they are our countrymen. It is the moral duty of the Diwan to help them. President Hira Singh Secretary Bhagat Singh 4-6-1922 Today, the President Hira Singh requested the full congregation that two students have come from the home country; one Kehar Singh Dhudike and the other is Achchar Singh from Dhutan. Kehar Singh has been allowed to land after furnishing the bail. Achchar Singh is still in quarantine. With regard to him, the Government of Ottawa has been asked through lawyer Bird to ensure the medication be supplied to him for another month. The lawyer will also charge fees and furnish the bail. What arrangement should be made with regard to the expenses incurred? At last after a lot of discussion, it was passed unanimously that – keeping the welfare and education of our country men a top priority, whatever expenses are incurred, they be paid by the Committee from the funds of the Diwan because, the community is responsible for those who have no guardian. President Hira Singh, Secretary Bhagat Singh 9-7-1922 Today, Sunday’s congregation gathered in great strength. After the singing of the religious verses Dhian Singh Kotliwala requested in the congregation that my son, Hukma Singh has not returned home since the last Sunday. There is no news, no information. The people should try to search for him. The entire congregation listened to the request of Bhai Dhian Singh Kotliwala and showed concern. Some people among the congregation said that this thing is not acceptable. Now the community should try to find Hukma Singh no matter what expenses the community has to bear because eight days have passed and there is no information. A committee should be elected Immediately in the congregation to conduct the search. Passed unanimously that the right kind of committee should be elected and the persons who are elected should search for Hukma Singh without caring about the expenses. The following brethren were elected - 1- “Hira Singh Dhada” 2-“Gurdit Singh Bilga” 3- “Bakshish Singh Salaudi” 4- “Basant Singh Sandham” 5- “Balmukand Sakruli” 6- “Batna Kaleal” President Hera Singh, Secretary Bhagat Singh

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6-8-1922 After a long discussion it was passed that we should not meet Shastri on our own accord as we are non-cooperators. If Mr. Shastri himself wants to come and meet, then we can talk to him considering him to be a countryman but not in his capacity as an officer. It was also passed that the Gurdwara should appoint brethren to hold the talks in case Shastri comes. The congregation has elected the following brethren 1. Babu Kapoor Singh 2. Gurdit Singh Bilga 3. Mitt Singh Pandori President Hira Singh & Secretary Bhagat Singh. 2-8-1922 It is passed by this congregation that Giani Sher Singh, Master Mota Singh who have gone to the temple of freedom (jail) while serving the country and the nation are congratulated and we express our disdain towards the misdeed of the government and pray to the Creator Lord that he may bestow spiritual power upon the people sacrificing their lives for the country and the religion. President Hira Singh, Secretary Bhagat Singh 8-10-1922 Proposed that a wireless message be published in the English newspapers of Vancouver that in India there has been a riot in Punjab and 12 twelve men have been killed. Four hundred have been injured and eight hundred have been arrested. After hearing it and after a serious discussion the following resolution was unanimously passed by the congregation. “Resolution” It is passed by this congregation that a reply paid telegram be sent to Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, Amritsar to get the information regarding the telegram published in the local newspaper pertaining to Punjab riot. Information is likely to be received quickly by telegram. Passed that the students who have come here be allotted one room in the Gurdwara for the time being instead of them living in some other place. Because, when we are sending money from here to the home country for education and the education is being spread in the home country, then the students who come here must also be helped. President Hira Singh, Secretary Bhagat Singh 12-11-1922 On this date the weekly congregation of Khalsa Diwan Vancouver was organized in which the following resolutions were passed unanimously. A good number of Sehajdhari and Hindu brethren were also present. 1- Passed that this congregation congratulate Akali Khalsa of Guru ka Bag, on their withstanding the intolerable and inexpressible torture to keep up the prestige and glory of their religion by remaining peaceful and getting beaten up. And after that, going to the jails in great numbers now. 2. This congregation thanks all the Community Newspapers who have proved that by remaining united on this issue that we are all one when it comes to dealing with another Nation. 3- This congregation is thankful to all the Hindu and Muslim newspapers, especially “Vande Matram”, Lahore, who have presented the atrocities inflicted upon the injured Akali brethren before the people of India through their articles and have fulfilled the purpose of national service by calling upon them for help. 56

12-11-1922 4- This congregation also thanks all the leaders of the home country from the bottom of its hearts who have seen the Akalis being tortured with their own eyes and expressed it before the public, especially Swami Shardha Nand, who accepted the hardships of jail along with the Khalsa. 5- This congregation is also thankful from the core of the heart to the Khilafat and all other national groups who have proved their complete sympathy with the Khalsa by sending doctors and money and volunteers etc. 6- Passed that money be sent to help the injured Akalis of Guru Ka Bagh. A small amount of three thousand rupees was sent to Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee by telegram. 7- Passed that the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee be requested that there should be no agreement on the Gurdwara Bill until, all the religious prisoners and Akalis arrested in connection with, ‘Black Turbans, Guru Ka Bagh and Sword’ are released. At the end, it was prayed before the Creator Lord that He may bestow unity among the Sikhs, Hindus and Muslims so that freedom can be achieved. President Hira Singh, Secretary Bhagat Singh. 25-12-1922 1- Passed that this congregation offer its congratulations to the Akali Sikhs, who are bearing unbearable hardship in the jails for the sake of religious freedom and express heartfelt sympathy with their families. 2- This congregation passes that – the biggest representative of the Khalsa Community, Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, the hardcore, modest groups, and the entire Khalsa community who is fighting with the British Government for Gurdwara reforms, humbly request, not to take a single step backward in this fight until a total freedom is achieved for all the Gurdwaras and the Khalsa brethren in the jails are released unconditionally. 3- This congregation thanks from the bottom of its heart the brethren and Sikh martyrs who sacrificed their lives at Panja Sahib and got themselves cut to pieces by lying in front of the train in order to safeguard their religion. And while expressing our disdain towards this kind of bad and mean attitude of the Government, pray to the Almighty that Oh! Almighty, put an end to the atrocities of this cruel Government and bestow the soothing independence. Resolutions were sent to the vernacular newspapers. President Hira Singh, Secretary Bhagat Singh 3-6-1923 1- A meeting of the committee was held in the office that the money at Port Moody should now be brought to Vancouver Gurdwara, because, the Holy Book is no longer displayed there for paying obeisance. Passed unanimously. 2- A letter should be written to Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee about the Sikh Criterions in connection with – “How the Sikhs are permitted to eat meat? And if one goes away collecting donations, should they eat bread or not like white people who live in this country? Whether their food is appropriate for Sikhs to eat or not?” President Bhagwan Singh Secretary Jagat Singh 17-6-1923 On this date, a Committee meeting was held in the office of Khalsa Diwan Vancouver in connection with Akali Singh, who is in jail for the independence of the country -

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17-6-1923 to collect some money and send to their families and children as help. A congregation will be organized on 8 July 1923. 8-7-1923 On this date 8-7-1923, the outside Committees were also present and the above mentioned resolution, passed on 17-6-1923 was read out to the congregation. A lot of discussion went on. After the lengthy discussion, the resolution was passed. It was also passed that a letter should be sent to Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee to ask, to which place the Prisoner Assistance Fund should be sent? And to provide separate addresses for all other funds including this Fund. President Bhagwan Singh, Secretary Jagat Singh 5-8-1923 On this date a meeting of all outside Committees was held in the office of the Vancouver Committee. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee had requisitioned two members from Canada through newspapers. The Committees elected and presented these members in the full congregation: 1: “Piara Singh Langeri” “Mitt Singh Pandori” “Hari Singh Chotian” “Bhag Singh Uppal” “Chainchal Singh Jandiala” “Narain Singh Thikriwala” “Naurang Singh Dubli” 2:A vote was held on Piara Singh and Mitt Singh in the congregation. But both were elected unanimously. Their names will be sent to Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee in India. It was passed that Chaudhary Mehar Chand who has prepared the history of Canada, the expenses incurred on its printing, $150 one hundred and fifty be paid to him after reading it. Kapoor Singh, Nahar Singh, Harbans Singh, Munsha Singh were appointed for this task. President Bhagwan Singh, Secretary Jagat Singh 13-8-1923 On this date, $125.00 one hundred and twenty five dollars were paid to Mehar Chand but those who were assigned to read it, didn’t take the responsibility to do so. Then Mehar Chand asked for a letter of recommendation from the History of Diwan. But the Committee said that it will decide after giving it a thought. President Bhagwan Singh Secretary Jagat Singh 2-9-1923 On this date, the Committee held a meeting regarding the letter Mehar Chand has asked for. After a thorough discussion by all the members it was passed that the letter should not be issued. Then the resolution was read out in the full congregation. The congregation also disapproved it. Then Mehar Chand said in the congregation at 4 pm that he would return the $125.00 which he had received from the Committee. President Bhagwan Singh Secretary Jagat Singh 26-9-1923 1-Passed that a strong disdain is expressed towards the Government conspiracy to dethrone Maharaja Nabha and the Government is looked upon with contempt. 2- Passed that – To fulfill the cause of Panth (Community), Diwan request to all the Sikh Rajas and Community Groups that at this time, by following the instructions of the Shiromani Committee, all should try a joint effort to bring the Maharaja back. President Bhagwan Singh Secretary Jagat Singh 30-9-1923 Passed unanimously that – One thousand dollars should be sent regarding the Sikh League, which is to be held on 17th, 18th and 19th of October in Jalandhar per Piara Singh’s telegram, received by the Committee in the month of August. 58

30-9-1923 And this money should be sent by telegram. And furthermore in future, when and where needed, the money should be contributed as required. The money should be taken from the outside Gurdwaras fund as per fund requirement. The remaining money should be contributed from the Vancouver Gurdwara fund. The money for the fund should be collected through donations from the congregation. The Sawraj Sabha will also be requested to contribute some money. Some money should be collected regarding the earthquake in Japan and sent as help. President Bhagwan Singh Secretary Jagat Singh

7-10-1923 This congregation unanimously pass that – The Khalsa Diwan and all the Indians are very happy at the release of, ‘The pride of the Nation’, Shriman Lala Rajput Rai. And in recognition of his service and sacrifice, sends him congratulations and prays to the Almighty God that he may bestow good health upon Lala ji so that he can fulfill his remaining objectives, free the Indians from the chains of slavery and spend the rest of his life happily in the shade of the tree (Sawraj) planted by him. We also look upon the Government of India with contempt who kept Lala Ji, ‘in the temple of freedom’ (jail) in spite of his bad health. President Bhagwan Singh, Secretary Jagat Singh. 16-10-1923 The following telegram was sent to Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, Amritsar, regarding the news published in the English newspaper “Sun” on Monday 15-10-1923 that – The G. P. Executive Committee has been arrested. The telegram is as follows- Gurdwara Amritsar Khalsa Diwan Strongly Denounces Government’s High Handedness arresting President Mehtab Singh and Shromni Executive. Urges Panth Stand Heroic Struggle primly Till Desired Goal achieved. Heartfelt Sympathies. Sikh Temple Vancouver. BC. It means that – We look upon with disdain on the arrest of Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee and President Mehtab Singh. President Bhagwan Singh Secretary, Jagat Singh 2-12-1923 An Akhand Path conclusion ceremony was held in Gurdwara Vancouver for the arrest of Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee and the leaders of the Akali Dal. In this congregation, the following resolutions were passed unanimously. 1- This congregation offers congratulations on the arrest of Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee and the leaders of the Akali Dal and expresses disdain towards the cruel action of the bureaucracy. 2- This congregation expresses disdain on the behaviour of the bureaucracy and the way it has declared the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee and the Akali Dal illegal to trample their religious movement. 3- We all Indian brethren residing in Canada as instructed by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee are ready to do everything peacefully and are ready to make every kind of sacrifice. 59

2-12-1923 4- Bureaucracy and the disloyals of Nabha, who have been disrupting the Akhand Path at Jaiton have desecrated the Gur-bani (verses) and insulted the Community. This congregation, not bearing this insult, condemns it and expresses disdain towards Gurdial and his disloyal accomplices. 5- This congregation expresses disdain towards the bureaucracy for using improper methods to disrupt the Central Sikh League general house meeting at Jalandhar City and congratulates the Khalsa Nation on fulfilling their vow. 6- This congregation, while having full confidence and pride in the community services by Bhai Mitt Singh and Bhai Piara Singh who are the Canadian representatives of Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, congratulates them on their arrest. 7- This congregation strongly urges all the Sikh Rajas and Sikh Groups, Hindu and Muslim leaders that they recognize their duties at this time and join hands in this common cause and end the atrocities of the bureaucracy. President Bhagwan Singh, Secretary Jagat Singh 22-12-1923 Passed that the fund which had been collected from the public in 1921 for Ajit Singh of village Numane be sent to him because it has already been passed in the congregation that this fund is meant for him and should be sent to him. President Bhagwan Singh, Secretary Jagat Singh 13-1-1924 1. Today, on the birthday celebration of Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj, a meeting of the Canadian resident brethren was held in Gurdwara, Vancouver. The Canadian congregation unanimously prayed to the Creator Lord that the (Indian) Government of the time has given a good example and ample evidence of its atrocities, immorality and cruelty, by making cruel and cowardly attacks on the Sikh religion. Oh Lord! have mercy and put an end to this rule of cruelty. 2- This Congregation passes unanimously that – the temporary bureaucratic Government, by declaring Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, ‘the representative of the Sikhs’ and Akali Dal, as rebels, has openly challenged the entire Sikh community. Accepted this challenge. This congregation declared that whatever religious work the above said Committee and Akali Dal have been doing, is in full agreement with them. It still is and will remain so. 3- This congregation, expressing utmost disdain towards the mean action of the bureaucracy for disrupting the Akhand Path at Gangsar Jaiton, strongly and humbly requests the Shiromani Committee that – this protest shouldn’t weaken until the Akhand Path is resumed again; no matter how much sacrifice needs to be made. 4- This congregation, while praising the wonderful sacrifice by the volunteers of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee who have gone to “the temple of freedom” jail, offers them congratulations. 60

13-1-1924 5- This congregation thanks the common Hindus, Muslims, especially Khilafat and Congress, who have assured us help in our difficulties. President Bhagwan Singh, Secretary Jagat Singh 10-2-1924 (1) This congregation, passing unanimously, congratulates Mahatma Gandhi on his release and also, keeping sympathy for his entire family thanks them for remaining peaceful. 2- This congregation passes unanimously that the Government of India has kept the persons like Mahatma Ji in the “temple of freedom” jail for such a long time without any crime. It expresses its disdain and take it as contempt because the Government is deracinating itself. 3- This congregation prays to the Almighty that He may bestow good health on Mahatma ji so that this plant (Sawraj) bear fruit. President Bhagwan Singh, Secretary Jagat Singh 2-3-1924 Today, the outside Diwans and the Committee of Vancouver Diwan held a meeting. The following resolutions were passed and read out to the congregation and were passed again. 1- Shiromani Gurdwara Pabandhak Committee is in great trouble at this time. Thus five thousand $5000.00 dollars be sent. 2- Every resident of Canada should donate one day’s earnings until the matter of the country and Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee is decided. 3- An appeal has been received from General Hospital,Vancouver that they should be given some help. So $200 two hundred dollars was passed in the congregation and donated. 4- Five thousand dollars $5000.00 which is to be donated to Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee should be collected from each Gurdwara according to the population. Such as Khalsa Diwan Society Fraser Mills 500-00 ” ” ” Victoria 600-00 ” ” ” Duncan 200-00 ” ” ” Abbotsford 250-00 ” ” ” New Westminster 150-00 and the rest should be contributed by Khalsa Diwan, Vancouver from its funds. President Bhagwan Singh Secretary Jagat Singh. Note:- The further proceedings have been recorded in record book number two. Arjan Singh “Chand” 61

In the 1914-15, National Movement, the patriots who had been sentenced in the Lahore court to gallows, life imprisonment and serving lesser sentences; their district wise number, which is already have been listed, is as follows :- Arjan Singh Chand, Writer

Ludhiana 48 Jalandhar 5 Poona 1 unknown Villages Ferozpur 16 Hoshiarpur 15 Mandi State 7 and names 23 Patiala 8 Kapurthala 2 U.P. 4 Jehlum 3 Lahore 28 Ambala 1 Gujranwala 2 26 Amritsar 41 Shahpur 1 Chavi Pragana 1 159 Gurdaspur 18 Sialkot 3 Gujrat 1 27 159 27 16 16 Total 228 ______

On 24 November, 1912, Surain Singh village Muhim partake of Amrit in Gurdwara, Vancouver. Was given another name, Surain Singh in place of earlier name “Labhu.” ______

On 4 February, 1962, Pakhar Singh Mannawali expired. Expired in the basement hall of Gurdwara Vancouver. Cremated on 10 February, 1962 ______