info@darshansinghkomal.com
Background
Personal Life
Sangeet Professor Darshan Singh Komal was born 2nd September 1918 (16 Bhadon 450 Nanakshahi / 1975 Samvat Bikrami) in the Punjabi village of Nangal Kalan, District Hoshiarpur, into the house of Hauldar Maluk Singh and Bibi Manho Kaur. Komal Ji was heavily influenced by both parents, receiving a strictly disciplined lifestyle from their father who served in the Army as well as a very spiritual and devoted influence from their mother.
At the age of 2, Komal Ji lost sight in both eyes due to an illness and became blind. Komal Ji's family was facing extremely difficult circumstances and was financially poor. The family accepted the Hukam of Waheguru when their son became blind, however, their difficulties did not allow for any education for Komal Ji.
The parents had wanted to get Komal Ji into a sangeet vidiyala but were unable to afford the costs. Giani Waryam Singh insisted that the family enrol Komal Ji into the sangeet vidiyala of Ustad Rababi Bhai Sain Ditta Ji (Punjab Gharana) at the Chief Khalsa Diwan in Amritsar. As the family was unable to afford the cost of travel and enrolment, Giani Waryam Singh offered to cover the cost of 40 rupees required and arranged his travel. The parents refused to accept the money, however, Giani Ji was very insistent and sent Komal Ji to Amritsar.
Komal Ji was consequently enrolled into the Sangeet Vidiyala of Ustad Rababi Bhai Sain Ditta Ji at Chief Khalsa Diwan in Amritsar. Komal ji studied there for seven years in which time they mastered the art of Sangeet. After these seven years, Komal Ji went to Multan and began teaching as Sangeet Ustad for a further seven years in the school of Master Hukam Chand, while also developing their skills further.
In 1934/35, Komal Ji returned to their village of Nangal, and began the Guru Nanak Sangeet Vidiyala. The first student to be enrolled into this vidiyala under Komal Ji's tutelage was Gurbachan Singh Hamdard (Laksihan), followed by Niranjan Singh (Laksihan), Jathedar Amar Singh (Laksihan), Sarwan Singh (Acharwal), Kehar Singh (Acharwal). At the same time, Komal Ji formed a Ragi and Dhadi Jatha with Gurbachan Singh Hamdard, Jathedar Amar Singh, Kartar Singh (Sarangi) Chanan Singh Nirmaan and Karam Singh Bahowal. This Jatha quickly became popular in the Punjab region and went on to do tireless sewa throughout the Panth until the death of Komal Ji on 24th April 1962 (12 Vaisakh 494 Nanakshahi / 2019 Samvat BIkrami).
Komal Ji began to teach regularly in many villages throughout Doaba. As well as Nangal Kalan, Komal Ji would travel to teach students, in Banga, Thakarwal, Phagwara, Bohn, Hoshiarpur, Bada Pind, Goraya and Cheema Kalan (Malwa). Komal Ji had approximately 2000 students from their teaching career. Throughout this time, Komal Ji would remain with their first and most senior student, Gurbachan Singh Hamdard for the vast majority of their life, as a trusted companion and also as Komal Ji's friend and close confidant. They both enjoyed an Ustad-Mittar relationship which was to endure until the end. Komal Ji would also narrate any compositions to Gurbachan Singh Hamdard to write and record on paper.
Komal Ji was regarded as a milestone of Gurmat Sangeet, Kirtan, Raag, Kaav and Astrology, and was known as the heartbeat of Punjab, and Shahenshah (Emperor) of Geet and Ghazals, while also being a devout Sikh, Desh Bhagat and Premi of Punjab and the Punjabi language and fearlessly advocate for a Punjabi suba. Komal Ji had studied and mastered the art of Astrology.
Komal Ji had many influential Punjabi figures support and honour him. Jinda Shaheed Munsha Singh Dukhi, Bhagat Ram Musafir (Bada Pind) and Singh Sahib Sharam Singh (Jathedar Kesgarh Sahib) among many others were very close friends of Komal Ji. Singh Sahib Sharam Singh stated that Komal Ji may have been blind, but very awake and wide open eyes.
On one occasion, Dr Ajaib Singh, a student of Komal Ji, was at an event and had met Bhai Ralla, a famous generational Muslim Rababi. Bhai Ralla, for whatever reason, in his own pride and ego told Dr Ajaib Singh that "Sikh ragi nahin ho sakde" (there is no place for Sikh ragi's) and openly challenged any Sikh ragi to outperform him. At the time, kirtan was performed predominantly by Muslim Rababis, some descending directly from Bhai Mardana and other puratan kirtaniye. Dr Ajaib Singh was shocked at this statement and immediately went to see Komal Ji and told him what had happened. Being a humble individual, Komal Ji listened to the story and did not pay too much attention. Dr Ajaib Singh asked if Komal Ji would answer the challenge and put Bhai Ralla in his place, to which Komal Ji refused and said he would not respond directly, unless it is meant to be, then God would make it happen. Soon after, Bhai Ralla was at the same event in the village of Dihana, where Komal Ji was performing and challenged Komal Ji on stage to accompany him on the Tabla, which Komal Ji did, successfully, playing to every taal Bhai Ralla could sing. Eventually, Komal Ji asked Bhai Ralla if they should switch roles and Komal Ji sat with the harmonium and Bhai Ralla on tabla. Still in his ego and bursting with pride, Bhai Ralla accepted and asked Komal Ji to play something difficult and Komal Ji began playing, however, even after several cycles, Bhai Ralla was unable to decipher the beats to the raag and was consequently unable to start playing tabla. Komal Ji had began playing a vilambit (introductory slow tempo) 16 beat cycle Teentaal but played it in such a way that Bhai Ralla did not even recognise it. This began to annoy Bhai Ralla as he thought it was not even a recognised beat cycle and that Komal Ji was playing randomly, but then Komal Ji began to slowly increase the tempo on each cycle and eventually it reached a point where Bhai Ralla realised what Komal Ji had rendered. This left Bhai Ralla completely awestruck and humbled causing him to bow down to Komal Ji and presenting his own turban to Komal Ji as well as his children and students asking Komal Ji to be their Ustad. From that point on, Bhai Ralla, his family and students took their sangeet vidiya from Komal Ji. Bhai Ralla was an ancestor Ustad of Sardool Sikandar.
During their later years, Komal Ji developed a disease, Jalodar which led to Komal Ji fainting and suffering from severely swollen legs, due to severe fluid retention. Komal Ji was taken to Laksihan and cared for by Gurbachan Singh Hamdard and Jathedar Amar Singh for many weeks and treated by Hakeem Tedha from Hoshiarpur. Komal Ji recovered from Jalodar, however, this woud not be the last time they developed an illness.
Komal Ji contracted Tuberculosis in early 1962 and was given only weeks to live. Komal Ji was treated by the famous Hakeem Telu Ram of Mahilpur. In this time, Komal Ji was taken seriously ill while in the village of Bahowal and was taken to the house of Karam Singh and Ragi Jagat Singh. Gurbachan Singh Hamdard was also present at this time and was responsible for organising the care of Komal Ji.
Due to Komal Ji's mastery of astrology, many years prior, they had foretold their passing in 1962 to Hamdard Ji and some others. No one was keen to hear such news and had their faith in Waheguru as did Komal Ji, who would frequently have Hamdard Ji recite verses of Gurbani. One day, Komal Ji took a turn for the worse. Hamdard Ji therefore went to get medication from Mahilpur from Hakeem Telu Ram. On their return, they gave Komal Ji the medication which helped Komal Ji recover. At this point, Komal Ji requested that Hamdard Ji read and recite Swayiye Mahale Pahele Ke repeatedly. After listening to the Paath, Sangeet Professor Darshan Singh Komal left this World at 4:37 pm on 24th April 1962 (12 Vaisakh 494 Nanakshahi / 2019 Samvat BIkrami) at the age of 44.
Komal Ji's Antim Sanskar and Ardas was held at the village of Bahowal and the first Smagam in tribute to Komal Ji by their students was held in June 1962, in the village of Paldi. Consequent Barsi Smagams were then held at Komal Ji's village of Nangal Kalan. At the Antim Sanskar programme, all the students of Komal Ji in attendance came to an agreement that Didar Singh would be made Sangeet Professor (Jaansheen) in charge of the Guru Nanak Sangeet Vidyala. This decision was finalised and announced by Dharam Singh Zakhmi, Shamsher Singh Zakhmi, Gursharan Singh Zakhmi, Gurbachan Singh Hamdard and GIani Inderjit Singh (Derby) to all sangat in attendance.
As Komal Ji passed away in the month of April, during the busy Vaisakhi harvest season in Punjab, it was decided that the annual Barsi smagam would be commemorated on Sangrand in the month of Asu (mid-September) so everyone can freely attend during this busy time of year in Punjab.
Following Komal Ji's death, Didar Singh (Nangal Khurd) and Gurbachan Singh Hamdard included Gian Singh Surjit into the Jatha, which went on to do Kirtan and Dhadi together throughout Punjab and other parts of India until 1967 when Gurbachan Singh Hamdard left for England, followed by Gian Singh Surjit in 1968, where they both continued their sewa as a Jatha until 2000, and Didar Singh Ji went on to become Hazoori Ragi at Takhat Sri Kesgarh Sahib.
In the mid 1990s at a Kirtan programme in Southall, students of Komal Ji, such as Giani Sital Singh Sitara, Giani Ajit Singh Mutlashi, Giani Inderjit Singh (Derby), Giani Tejinder Singh, Ragi Beant Singh Bijli, Giani Gurbachan Singh Hamdard, Giani Gian Singh Surjit among others, decided a Raag should be instated in Komal Ji's name and memory. After some discussion, it was decided that an addition of shudh "Ga" to Raag Malkauns would be made and Ragi Beant Singh Bijli suggested the new raag be named Raag Komalkauns, which was approved and accepted by all the students. Giani Sital Singh Sitara also gained permission for Raag Komalkauns to be made official through Sangeet Karyalaya Hathras (Uttar Pradesh, India).
Sangeet Professor Darshan Singh 'Komal'
written by Sarwan Singh Amolak
published in Komal Rachnawali
(Punjabi text translated into English)
The esteemed professor in the world of Sangeet, Professor Darshan Singh "Komal" was born 2nd September 1918 in the famous village of Nangal Kalan, District Hoshiarpur, in the house of Sardar Maluk Singh (Hauldaar Pensioner) and Bibi Manho Kaur. Komal Ji's mother was very understanding and spiritual. Around the age of 2, Komal Ji lost his eyesight due to an illness. Komal Ji received his initial education at the Sangeet Vidiyala Chief Khalsa Diwan, Amritsar, from the renowned Ustad Rababi Sain Ditta Ji over a period of around 7 years, after which Komal Ji went to Multan and spent around 7 years teaching Sangeet students in Master Hukam Chand Ji's Sangeet Vidiyala. It should be noted that Ustad Bhim Nagarchi of Multan was a big fan of Komal Ji.
Komal Ji then returned to his home village, Nangal Kalan and went on to form Guru Nanak Sangeet Vidiyala. Alongside Jathedar Amar Singh, Jathedar Kartar Singh, Giani Gurbachan Singh Hamdard and Giani Chanan Singh Nirmaan, Komal Ji formed a Kirtan and Dhadi jatha, which went on to recite Gurbani Kirtan and Dhadi Vaaran in front of Sikh Sangats throughout Punjab and India.
Komal Ji went on to tutor and teach students in many villages, towns and cities in the area, including Banga, Garhshankar, Thakarwal, Phagwara, Bohan, Bahowal, Hoshiarpur, Goraya, Phillaur, Rurka Khurd, Bada Pind, Cheema Kalan (District Sangrur) and at Sant Teja Singh (Double M.A) Dera and spread Sangeet knowledge among Sangeet lovers all over. Komal Ji had approximately 2000 students. Komal Ji preferred a comfortable village life rather than a city life, which is why Komal Ji never set up residence in any city.
Komal Ji was a Sangeet Professor of the highest standard, an esteemed Punjabi Kavi (Poet) and a master of Astrology (jyotish). Komal Ji is regarded as the Shahenshah (Emperor) of Geet and Ghazals. Many Ragi's sing Komal Ji's songs with pride and the listeners enjoy this. Komal Ji's works are full with signs of spirituality from his mothers influence. Komal Ji had a very strong military style discipline, gained from his father with strong elements of patriotism being evident. Komal Ji was the heartbeat of Punjab's heart. Komal Ji had the privilege of being one of Punjab's most esteemed, respected and renowned personalities and was a rare, priceless jewel in the Sikh World.
When Komal Ji went to Sant Jawalla Singh JI's village, Jandiala (near Mahilpur) District Hoshiarpur to study braille, Sant Ji gave Komal Ji a condition. In exchange for teaching Komal Ji braille, Komal Ji would teach Bhagat Singh Sangra Sangeet Vidiya. Prior to this, Sangra Ji spent around 2 years taking sangeet lessons in Jaijon Doaba from someone, however was unable to grasp the art of Sangeet in this time with this particular teacher. Komal Ji learnt braille very quickly from Sant Ji, and Sant Ji was consequently extremely pleased at Komal Ji's progress and stated "Tusi Ta Dhur Dargaah Hee Parrey Hoe Ho, Tuhanu Kise Vi Parraee Di Lorh Nahi" (you studied directly from God in heavenm you do not need any education). These words spoken from Sant Ji's mouth turned out to become true. Komal Ji ended up teaching Bhagat Singh Sangra and imparted the true art of Sangeet. Bhagat Singh Sangra remained a senior officer at All India Radio for many years. Sangra Ji then went on to become the student of Punjab's esteemed Sangeet scholar Sri Daleep Chand Bedi. Sangra Ji also became an esteemed individual in the World of Sangeet.
Moving onto Astrology - Komal Ji studied Astrology from Pandit Thakur Dass Ji, a renowned Astrologer from the village Daroli Kalan (District Hoshiarpur). Pandit Ji also produced Jantri's. Komal Ji excelled so much in astrology that he began to search beyond what Pandit Ji could teach and challenged Pandit Ji to anwer questions. Pandit Ji stated to Komal Ji "This education is the result of an invention of the Human brain, and it is not a form of God's nature. You have manifested everything I have taught you. What is left in this vessel? Grow! Expand! I am proud that one of my students has challenged me and come to the outcome that Astrology requires further exploration and study. The World however, thinks of Astrology as the furthest education."
Komal Ji contracted Tuberculosis, which only gave them 6 months to live. Komal Ji passed away on 24 April 1962 (12 Vaisakh Samvat Bikrami 2019) at 16:37 at the residence of Sardar Karam Singh and Ragi Jagat Singh in Bahowal (District Hoshiarpur). Komal Ji as only 44 years of age. Komal Ji's students and other followers from various areas held an Akhand Paath in the village of Bahowal on 10 June 1962. Sri Prem Dutt Panchhi, the head of the Public Relation Dramatic Company Hoshiarpur, cancelled their party's programme to go to Kullu upon hearing of the death of Komal Ji and was immediately compelled to pay tribute to Komal Ji by performing their act in the village of Bahowal in memory of Komal Ji and continued to perform in the surrounding villages for over a week. Following the Bhog of Sri Akhand Paath, a spectacular Sangeet Darbar and Kavi Darbar was held in which Master Haridev of Sangeet Vidiyala Goraya, Sant Sarwan Singh Dubbal (M.A Sangeet) Domeli and Bhai Sahib Bhai Didar Singh Ji amazed the congregation with their tributes to Komal Ji, accompanied by Punjab's renowned Tabla maestro, Ranjit Singh Ji.
During the Kavi Darbar, Kavi Nand Lal Noorpuri stated that this was the first time in his country that such tribute has been given to any Kavi in this manner. This was a very proud and happy moment. Komal Ji was the Sultan of composing thoughtful geet as he was also an extremely proficient singer. Komal Ji was extremely talented in both writing and singing. Noorpuri Ji melted everyones hearts like candlewax and brought tears to everyones eyes.
Sarab Sri Amritsariye Ram "Chaman", Lok-Kavi, Gurdas Ram "Alam", Bhagat Ram "Patunga", Harbhajan SIngh "Ankhi", Pritam Singh Doaba Kavi Sabha Jallandhar, Sohan Lal "Raahi", Narinder Dosanjh, Harbans Singh Lok-Geetkaar, Naseeb Singh "Nazak" Hadiyabadi, Oodho Ram "Nirmaan" also paid tribute to Komal Ji. Sarwan Singh "Amolak" assumed the duty of Stage Secretary. Karam Singh Bahowal's sister, Nachattar Kaur and family arranged Langar and accomodation for all sangat in attendance, including for the Kavi's (poets), Sangeetkars (musicians), Kalakaars (artists), Aaguan (leaders).
To continue Komal Ji's legacy, Dr Ajaib Singh Dihana, with the agreement of everyone in attendence, chose Bhai Didar Singh Ji (Nangal Khurd) as Komal Ji's Jaanasheen who continued the duty and responsibilities with great success.
Komal Ji was a strong supporter of Master Tara Singh (Panth Rattan) and Giani Kartar Singh Ji tried many measures to persuade Komal Ji to support him, however, all proved unsuccessful, including bribing Police officers to threaten Komal Ji. Despite all methods used, Komal Ji did not fall into that trap. Giani Kartar Singh Ji even had CID officers follow Komal Ji in order to find out their where abouts and actions.
At one point, Giani Kartar Singh Ji broke off from Master Tara Singh and formed a fake Akali Dal. Komal Ji strongly opposed this bitter action by Giani Kartar Singh and saw it as an action against the Sikh nation as it insulted the Sikh Nation as opposed to benefitting it. Komal Ji's patriotic flare was awakened in order to preserve Panthic unity and on 25 February 1951 at Gurdwara Tahli Sahib in Gondpur, Komal Ji held a special, impressive Kavi Darbar under the management of Sant Bakhtawar Singh Ji, Balachaur to cover the current issue. The topic of the Kavi Darbar was "Bipta wele Panth nu kion ditta dhokha" and famous Kavi's of Punjab took part and exposed Giani Ji's actions through their compositions. There was a renewed sense of optimism and energy in the sangat for Panthic unity. The success of the Kavi Darbar was attributed to Komal Ji who held the responsibility of Stage Secretary during the event.
During the Punjabi Suba Morcha (movement), the central government had several arrest warrants issued for Komal Ji, due to their outspoken views and compositions in favour of Panthic unity and for the Sikh Nation.
Following the death of Komal Ji, the Punjabi Bhasha Vibhaag (Punjabi Language Board) of Punjab issued the following statement:
Kavi Darbars will be held in tribute for deceased Kavi's.
Chandigarh - 17 June - Punjabi Vibhaag will hold special Kavi Darbars as tribute and in memory of deceased Kavi's. The first Kavi Darbar will be held 28 June 1962 in Village Paldi (near Garhshanker) District Hoshiarpur to commemorate the anniversary in memory of Punjab's leading Kavi, Professor Darshan Singh "Komal" Ji. Giani Kartar Singh Ji will overlook the Kavi Darbar. Very famous and special Kavi's will take part in this Kavi Darbar.
- Rozana Jathedar, Jallandhar
18 June 1962
The above mentioned programme was held with great pomp and fervour in memory of Komal Ji in the village of Paldi. Giani Kartar Singh Ji oversaw the event and Dr Jeet Singh "Seetal" oversaw the stage duties. Giani Ji paid tribute to Komal Ji with great honour and respect. First of all, Prasidh radio singer Bhupinder Kaur sang a Geet written by Shiv Kumar Batalvi "Menoo Heere Heere Aakhe Hai Ni. Munda Lambran Da". This untimely sung Geet annoyed Giani Ji and he had to object by saying some words in protest and disappointment. In the Kavi Darbar, Sarab Sri Atma Singh "Panchhi", Bimla Devi, Charan Singh "Charan", Harbhajan Singh "Rattan", Sarwan Singh "Amolak", Amritsariya Ram "Chaman", Jaswant Rai "Rai", Darshan Singh "Aavaara", Isher Singh "Bhaia", BIshan Singh "Upashak", Arduman Singh "Dilbar", Madhosh Farid Koti, Shiv Kumar Batalvi, Barkat Ram "Yuman", Hazara Singh "Mustaak", Tara Singh "Kaamal", Divaan Singh "Safri", Jeevan Singh "Tej", Nand Lal Noorpuri and Joga Singh Jagaasu all performed their soft, loving compositions. All India Radio Jallandhar recorded the entire programme and broadcast it on Jallandhar Radio.
Komal Ji composed countless writings but due to certain misfortunes they are not found in any one place. These compositions lie scattered with many people all over the place. Even after searching for many years, we may not be able to gather all of Komal Ji's compositions. The search will however continue and every effort will be made to locate and gather these compositions. During their lifetime, Komal published only (1) Waddh-Mulle Heere, (2) Nazrana (3) Komal Takoran (4) Komal Taraane. "Komal Kala" Kaav Sangreh was published in 1969 by Sarwan Singh "Amolak" with the assistance of Giani Gian Singh Surjit and Giani Gurbachan Singh Hamdard. Sohal Kalayee was also published. All efforts have been made to publish authentic and original compositions in their original form.
In "Komal Kala" Singh Sahib Giani Sharam Singh, Jathedar Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, Sri Anandpur Sahib wrote;
"Professor Darshan Singh Ji Komal ik prasidh kalakaar, oh bade changey Kavi, bade changey Kirtaniye, bade changey Dhadi, bade changey wakta atey Raag vidiya de Ustad sun. Ohna de shagirdan da ghera bohat vadda hai. Komal Ji diyan Komal par folaadi asar paann waliyan rachnawan sunnke janta badee prabhavat hundi hai. Ohna di likhni da vishesh jhuka Panth, Punjab, Desh Pyaar te samaaj sudhaar si"
(from 'Komal Kala')
Shiromani Kavikul Bhushan and Gadri Desh Bhagat Sardar Munsha Singh "Dukhi" views on Komal Ji were as follows;
"Sangeet Professor Darshan Singh "Komal" ohna sache suche heereyan wichon sun jehre aap de jeewan de ratt di ik ik boond Kaum de lekhe la gaye.
Oh bhawen netar-heen sun par ohna de underleeyan akhan poori tran khuliyan sun. Ohna di kavita atey snageet utey iko jahi pakarr si. Senkrey nahin, hazaran lokan ne ohna nu sunniya atey ohna de sangeet guddhey kaav-rass nu maaniya hai. Par bohat thorey hun jihna Komal Ji de asli jeewan nu samajhiya atey realise keeta.
Komal Ji di eh "Komal Kala" aonn waale gabhruan nu hulsaundi, uthondi te garamaundi rahegi. Desh layi, Kaum layi mar mittann di parerna dindi rahegi"
(from 'Komal Kala')
Mahant Bhagat Ram "Musafir" Sampadak "Saptaahik Mahatma" secretary of Amritsar Udasin Mahamandal Punjab writes about Komal JI's are and talent in the following words;
"Swargeeya Professor Darshan SIngh 'Komal' Sangeet aachaariya, Nangal Kalan, Zila Hoshiarpur de naam ton Panjab nahi balke Bharatvasi atey wideshan de wasneek vi bhali parkaar jannu hun. Komal Ji bade suchaje kalakaar sun. Menu ohna de nede honn da kaafi saman milda reha hai. Oh bade sunjeeda, gumbheer, neetee sapun, milann-saar te baarsookh hasti sin. Komal Ji di desh sewa ton kaun jaannu nahin hai? Komal Ji ne deshwasiyan nu kavita diyan amul daatan bakshiyan hun. Jiwen Kavi Kaalidas, Kavi Bhushan atey Sayad Waris Shah aad prasidh kavi hun, usey taran hi Komal ji da naam vi ohna mahaan kavi sajanna wangu sadaa chamakda rahega. Aap ne eh amuli sewa karke deshwasiyan ton koi yaachna nahin kiti hai. Aap sadharan atey saadgi da jeewan bateet karde sun. Itne gunna de hundiya hoyian vi maan nahi karde sun sagon nimarta ohna de rom rom wich samayee hoi si. Eho kaaran si ke Komal Ji sabhna laee harman pyare sun."
(from 'Komal Kala')
At one time, respected Mahant Guru Narayan Ji of the village Jamsher Khaas (District Jallandhar) at Dera Baba Sri Chand Ji's birth anniversary programme was present along with Sri Nirmal Ji Amritsar, Sant Inder Singh Chakarwarti, Pandit Prakasha Nand Mahan Mandleshwar Banaras and other famous personalities. Sri Nirmal Ji and Sant inder SIngh Chakarwarti weren't only impressed and amazed by Komal Ji's language, prose, geet, sangeet and kavitas and used the following words to say "Komal Ji. Aap da jeewan Komal kala te jindagi de sangam da nirala sangeetmayee jeewan hai. Tusi te kala ik mik hoye hoye disde ho". Saying this both Mahapursh happily blessed Komal Ji.
Komal Ji's student list is extremely long and that is an entirely separate subject but it is still important to list some select and significant names for the benefit of the reader. The shining stars from the Komal line are:
Giani Gurbachan Singh, Beeka
Jathedar Amar Singh, Laksihan
Jathedar Kartar Singh, Laksihan
Giani Gurbachan Singh Hamdard, Laksihan
Giani Chanan Singh 'Nirmaan', Lakhisan
Sri Bhagat Singh Sangra, All India Radio
Bhai Sahib Bhai Dharam Singh 'Zakhmi' Aadampur Doaba
Bhai Shamsher Singh, Aadampur Doaba
Bhai Gursharan Singh Aadampur Doaba
Bhai Sahib Bhai Didar Singh Nangal Khurd, Hazoori Ragi
Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, Sri Anandpur Sahib
Bhai Sahib Bhai Darshan Singh 'Kamal', Hazoori Ragi Gurdwara
Sees Ganj, Delhi
Giani Swaran Singh Panshta, Granthi Yuba City, America
Giani Gurnam Singh, Pasla, Granthi Yuba City, America
Giani Gian Singh Surjit, Gravesend, Kent, UK
Giani Inderjit Singh, Derby, UK
Giani Sital Singh Sitara, London, UK
Giani Tejinder Singh Leicester, UK
Sant Darshan Das, Basi Kalan, Head Granthi, Sri Guru Ravidass
Sabha Southall, UK
Giani Shankar Singh, Southall, UK
Professor Chanan Singh "Majboor", Sanchalak Amar Sangeet Vidiyala,
Hoshiarpur
Ragi Gurbachan Singh Nabha, Nairobi Kenya
Ragi Beant Singh Bijli, Nairobi Kenya
Ragi Ajit Singh Mutlashi, Nairobi Kenya
Giani Raghbir Singh Dallee, Nairobi Kenya
Giani Resham Singh, Nairobi Kenya
Giani Ajit Sing, Pind Lutera
Dr Ajaib Singh, Phagwara
Giani Ajit Singh Aajiz, California America
Giani Naseeb Singh Nazak, Hadiabad
Mistry Rattan Singh, Bada Pind
Kavi Sarwan Singh Amola, Bada Pind
Mistry Tarlok Singh, Dhuleta
Giani Sewa Singh, Goraya
Master Surinder Kumar, Sakrooli Lok Samparak Vibhag Punjab
Ragi Karam Singh Bahowal, Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Delhi
Master Bhagat Singh Bhulla Raee, Sanchalak Saraswati Sangeet
Vidiyala, Phagwara
Giani Ganesha Singh
Giani Gurdev Singh, Head Granthi Mangat Hall (Gurdwara)
Southall, UK
Bhai Mukhtiar Mohammed Kalaant Master (Pakistan)
Khan Sahib Iqbal Mohammed, Dihana
Khan Sahib Baabu Khan Dihana
Khan Sahib Tufail Mohammed, nephew of Ustad Bhai Malang
Wohn wala
Master Noor Mohammed, Hakumat Puri
Master Sardar Mohammed, Laksihan
Bhai Inderjit Singh son of Bhai Mehnga Singh Rababi,
Pind Rurki (Jallandhar)
Bhai Rala
Bibi Gian Kaur, Jandu Singha
Bibi Diljit Kaur, Jandu Singha
Komal Ji's Barsi was initially commemorated in the village of Bahowal and now it is commemorated at Komal Ji's village of birth, Nangal Kalan every year on Sangrand in the month of Asu for three days until 3rd Asu with great fervour and passion. The congregation increases at the Barsi year upon year, Ragi's, Dhadi's, Kavi's from all over attend the Barsi and commemorate Komal Ji and pay their tributes with passion and pride. Only after Komal JI's passing did people realise that 'oh ik alokik mahaan te kalakaari hasti sun.' In memory of Komal Ji, a gate has been constructed in Nangal Kalan on the Paldi village side with Komal Ji's picture adorning it.
Barsi programmes were also arranged in England on 28-5-1979 at Gurdwara Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, Leicester by Sardar Sewa SIngh Paldi. After this, a Barsi programme was held in Trinity Community Centre, Manor Park, E12 London on 1-9-1979. A trust was also formed under the name "Sangeet Professor Darshan Singh Komal Memorial Trust". The following programmes were held:
- 3 October 1981 - Ramgarhia Association (Sikh Temple) Masons Hill, Woolwich, London SE18
- 31 October 1981 - Gurdwara Dasmesh Darbar, Rosebury Avenue, Manor Park, London E12
- 29 November 1981 - Dasmesh Sikh Temple, Smethwick, Birmingham
- 6 March 1982 - Ramgarhia Sabha, Oswald Road, Southall, Middlesex
- 20 March 1982 - Ramgarhia Gurdwara, Foleshill Road, Coventry, Midlands
- 27 March 1982 - Gurdwara Guru Har Rai Sahib, West Bromwich, Birmingham, with the assistance of Sant Harbans Singh Domeli
- 30 May 1982 - Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Havelock Road, Southall Middlesex. 6:30pm to 12am Dhadi Darbar, 12am - 7am Kirtan Darbar
Esteemed Kirtani jatha's from England and India performed beautiful Kirtan at these programmes and amazed the Sangat who in turn donated very generously to the Komal Trust with open hearts. All the members of the Komal Trust expressed their heartfelt thanks to the sangat.
The primary aims and objectives of the Trust are to prepare and educate Gurbani Kirtaniye, to arrange and celebrate Komal Ji's barsi, both in the UK and Nangal Kalan, with Sangeet Darbars, Kirtan Darbars, Kavi Darbars, Dhadi Darbars, Kahaani Darbars (story), helpful seminars, collect and publish Komal Ji's works and compositions, provide assistance to the poor and struggling artists, create university syllabuses for teaching the curriculum, maintain contact with establishments/associations caring for Blind/Disabled individuals and to give awards and recognition to the best Ragi, Dhadi, Kavi, Kirtani and assist them further.
This trust was established with a lot of effort and hard work. It is our wish and hope that Punjabi speaking people will warmly welcome this trust. In due course, Komal Ji's works and compositions will be published and presented.
In the end, I would like to thank Singh Sahib Giani Bhupinder Singh Ji and Dr Jagjit Singh Dosanjh from the depths of my heart who honoured my request and gave their valuable thoughts about this book.
It is also important for me to acknowledge and thank Pandit Bakhshi Ram Kaushal Ji and Pandit Amritsariya Ram 'Chaman' Ji who have permitted us to include their valuable writings in this publication.
Punjabi speaking peoples very own
Sarwan Singh Amolak
159 Kingsley Road
Hounslow, Middlesex
TW3 4AS
UK
- text taken from Komal Rachnawali
written by Giani Bhupinder Singh
pubished in Komal Rachnawali
(Punjabi text translated into English)
In my view
It has been almost two decades since Komal Ji left us, but Komal Ji's Sangeet-Kirtan and poetry is remembered in the hearts of thousands of people. Komal Ji only lived to the age of 44 years and left their body 24 April 1962, but in this short time on Earth, he formed a unique imprint in the world of Sangeet, Kirtan, Raag and poetry that will always be remembered.
Komal Ji was a poet, composer, singer, sangeet artist, geet artist, ghazal artist, lecturer and astrologist teacher. An expert in Sangeet and poetry. A triveni of Gurbani and discourse. Sangeet and poetry was an inseparable part of their life. Komal Ji was a shining star among the best of the best in the world of Sangeet. An institution within himself, a sangeet school. A warrior and expert of rhythm and beat.
Where great Ragi's and singers/musicians have taught their devoted students for many years without getting anywhere, Komal Ji searched for worthy students prepared to learn with proper determination, and taught them Sangeet Vidiya, Kaav Vidiya and Kirtan and didn't hold back or hesitate in impassing the depth of knowledge of Sangeet and Kirtan. He was the custodian of a special skillset and produced a huge universe of students and sangeet students in such a short space of time, where the biggest Sangeet Professors could not do the same in double the time. Because of this gift, in the Panth there are now, Bhai Dharam Singh Zakhmi, Shamsher Singh, Gursharan Singh Adampur, Bhai Sahib Bhai Didar Singh, Bhai Sahib Bhai Darshan Singh, Giani Sarwan Singh, Giani Gurbachan Singh Hamdard, Sri Gian Singh Surjit, Sital Singh Sitara, who are prestigious kirtaniye of the Guru Ghar, who are the stars in the sky and honour of the Panth.
Komal Ji always helped orphaned, helpless or blind people and helped them become independent through Sangeet education, made them artists, musicians and kirtaniye. Because Komal Ji's own journey in music began at Khalsa "Orphanage" Amritsar, therefore, Komal Ji always were open to assisting the helpless orphans and less fortunate so much so that Komal Ji would travel themselves to their students houses to teach them. Komal Ji did not discriminate with their students and taught without any prejudice of caste-creed, social status or religious beliefs and in fact had students from all walks of life, castes and faiths. Among their students, because of this, there were countless Sikh students as well as many Hindus and Muslims.
Komal Ji was soft hearted, sweet spoken, kartav de nirmal and a fearless personality. Komal Ji was the highest star in Raag Sangeet and Poetry, who has been rays of light for countless individuals. Komal Ji dedicated their every breath to Sangeet/Kirtan and the art of poetry and spent their life in this field. Through Punjabi poetry, Komal Ji fearlessly served the Panth, country and society. Komal Ji's heart always struggled for the Punjabi suba. Until their last breath, remained loyal to Panth Rattan Master Tara Singh. There was no greed or fear in their footsteps. No amount of government pressure was able to deter Komal Ji from speaking out. Komal Ji penned many songs with Panthic Jazba and kept singing Panthic Tarana (tunes) during tough and testing times. During the Punjabi suba movement, Komal Ji's Desh Utshah flowed and was apparent in their Panthic Jazbaat geets such as "Punjabi Suba lenn ge hun kurbaniyan karke". When Panthic "leaders" such as Giani Kartar Singh joined the Congress, Komal Ji stated "Bipta wele Panth nu kion ditta dhokha".
Eventhough Komal Ji couldn't travel to the wider country or abroad, their Sangeet Kala, Kaav Kala travelled and resonated through the world through their students.
Komal Ji lived a straightforward, simple and pure life. Never used any impure methods. Komal Ji left a deep impression on their devoted students, which can be determined by the fact that Komal Ji's barsi isn't only celebrated in India, but various countries abroad. Now their students and devoted individuals have started a Trust in tribute to Komal ji.
The jewel of Kirtan came to Komal Ji in childhood, and kept that treasure of Kirtan in the forefront of his life and shared this gift of Raag Sangeet and Kirtan like a great river to others.
Through these compositions, Komal Ji's opinions and Sikhi values are of highest importance and regard. Through these writings, Komal Ji raises awareness for Sikhs and our great heritage and uniqueness.
The message of these compositions for whoever reads them will behave but I can confidently say that this collection of compositions will become an important wave in the great ocean of Sikhi.
8-4-83
Guru Panth da daas
Giani Bhupinder Singh
Sri Guru Singh Sabha
Southall, UK
Former Head Granthi
Sri Harmander Sahib, Amritsar
&
Former Member of Parliament
- text taken from Komal Rachnawali
