2nd Annual Ladies Samagam: Toronto, Canada

On September 27, 2008 the Toronto branch of the Sant Nirankari Mission held its 2nd annual ladies Samagam. The evening was filled with spiritual bliss where ladies sang devotional songs and shared thoughts on Nirankar (Formless God). Although the evening was geared towards women, the sangat hall was filled with men and children also. Women actively participated in all duties, such as seva dal, playing instruments, photography and video recording.

One saint mentioned the importance of equality in today’s society. In particular she mentioned, that "even though women have greater opportunities in certain areas whether professional, in the family, and politically, they still face discrimination and ignorance”. However, Satguru Baba Hardev Singh Maharaj continues to set the example of respecting women as mothers, sisters, and daughters. The role of women in the Sant Nirankari Mission has constantly been valued and women are encouraged to participate in all aspects of the sangat. This is exemplified when His Holiness presides on stage along with Pujya Mata Ji and Raj Mata Ji.

The evening continued where the saints rejoiced and sang praises of God Almighty in the form of group songs. Particularly, there was cohesion amongst the various branches whereby the women of each branch sang songs in groups so that everyone was able to participate in the samagam. The songs conveyed the message of remembering God in good times and in bad. Human beings have the tendency to only remember God in times of need but it is crucial that we remember God at all times and count our blessings.

The evening was concluded with a special DVD vichar by Nirankari RajMata Ji. During her vichar she praised the youngsters who live in the west and still pay respect to Baba Ji by bowing down to him and bringing his teachings into their lives. Mata Ji also gave an example about the importance of being alert in the presence of Satguru and satsang. Once she was sitting in a room with Shehensha Baba Avtar Singh Ji and he asked her something three times but she didn’t reply because her mind was somewhere else. He stressed to her that when you are in the presence of the Satguru your mind needs to be focused on him at all times to absorb the blessings and wisdom. Mata Ji also said that when we spend time with Baba Ji one to one we never want the time to end, but when Baba Ji is on the stage we are always in a hurry to leave. She stressed that this is when we should take full advantage of being in the presence of the True Master to receive the divine words and blessings throughout the entire sangat.

Hundreds of women gathered to make this samagam a success. The 2nd annual Ladies Samagam was an enlightening experience for all those who attended and may Baba Ji bless everyone to continue their efforts in spreading the word of God Knowledge.

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