From the 6th to 10th of January 2016, Khalsa Camp Australia took place. Recharging your spiritual batteries is a great way to start the year. Campers young and old, came from all corners of Australia and the globe to experience blissful Amrit Velas, inspiring lectures, engaging workshops and recreational activities.
With Vaheguru’s Kirpa, the speakers this year were Bhai Sukha Singh Ji (UK), Bhai Tarsem Singh Ji (UK), Bhai Manvir Singh Ji (UK) and Bibi Balbir Kaur Ji (UK). The speakers shared their wisdom, knowledge, positivity and love with everyone, something that all of those who attended will carry back with them to their own lives.
With topics ranging from Begampur, Sikhi in Maya, Sarbat Khalsa, Saakhi’s of our Guru’s and so many more, campers were able to immerse themselves in the inspiration of it all as Sikhs, disciples committed to learning and always improving.
A memorable experience for all was that of the bonfire night. Here, all the sangat congregated under the stars and around a camp fire, as we listened to the emotional, awe-inspiring and amazing account of Dhan Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s sacrifice.
The day starts with Amrit Vela, in the early early hours of the morning when most lay dormant. Everyone sits together in Darbar Sahib, where the profound and phenomenal energy of Simran and Gurbani vibrates strongly. Here, youth are given the opportunity to learn Maharaj’s seva. Singhs and Singhnia all enthusiastically came forward to do seva and this had a domino effect, as others felt encouraged and inspired to do so as well.
Throughout the day, campers experience motivating lectures full of knowledge and wisdom, workshops which present as opportunities for new learning, and fun activities such as rock climbing and canoeing. The days are jam packed – so as to take maximum benefit.
Leaving camp is always hard. Hearts become heavy, goodbyes are hard and the soul yearns to stay at home. On the last day of camp an inspirational open-mic session took place. Here, campers of all ages were given the opportunity to talk about their experiences at Khalsa Camp. There was hardly a dry eye in the room as we opened up and shared our stories, connected with each other, and reflected on our own personal journeys. As the buses drove up the campsite driveway, brothers and sisters bade their farewells, and Fateh’s were exchanged.
Khalsa Camp lives up to its title as a high quality and inspiring camp. It is at Khalsa Camp where some are blessed to have their lives changed, it is an opportunity to improve our own Gursikhi Jeevans, and a chance to continue on a journey of endless learning. Each year, people young and old, new and familiar, make their way to this sanctuary. It’s a sanctuary like no other – away from the world. In the presence of Dhan Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and the loving souls of our Gursikh brothers, sisters, mothers and fathers, it is here we feel at home.
We hope to see you in 2017.