The Sage of Rakab Ganj : Gyani Dyal Singh Ji

As we approach the birth anniversary of Guru Ramdas, enjoy some of my favorite shabads associated with the fourth Guru.

A magnificent shabad from the Bani of Guru Nanak Sahib, sung by Bhai Sahib Santa Singh Ji - a poignant reflection on the human condition

A shabad of great comfort from Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib - a magnificent rendition in Raga Hamir by Bhai Sahib Samund Singh Ji

A beautiful shabad by Bhagat Kabir in which he uses the metaphor of a horse that he has fashioned out of his consciousness, who soaring to the heavens, epitomizes the poet's connection with the Divine. The episode has two dazzling renditions of the shabad by Gyani Dyal Singh Ji and Bhai Sahib Dharam Singh Zakhmi Ji. 

As my journey in Gurmat Sangeet continues, I meet a lion of an old school Ragi Singh at Bridgewater, NJ in the 90s

I encounter the formidable Gyani Dyal Singh Ji, Principal of the Rakab Ganj Kirtan seminary in Delhi

Through the kindness of a fellow Gurmat Sangeet premi, the author is introduced to the fabulous kirtan of Bhai Sahib Dharam Singh Zakhmi and his Jatha

A mentor is found and a protégé receives a most precious gift. 

A young Sikh in Milwaukee in the late 90s, searching for his moorings, develops a passion for both Gurmat Sangeet and Shahstriya Sangeet. An unexpected gift arrives.

The soul stirring Gurbani Kirtan of Sardar Prem Singh, who goes by 'Virji'