2011 Toronto Sikh Retreat

Now you have to come to Toronto Sikh Retreat!

2010-11-17T03:46:00.000-08:00

Sorry your bibi is not allowed :(

What Are This Year's Workshops?

2010-11-16T11:18:00.000-08:00

The 2011 TSR organizers are busy developing three fantastic workshops for this year's retreat.

1) Hukam and Maya

What do we really know? Are we stuck in the Matrix? Breaking through the fabric of Maya.
Do we have Free Will or do we live predetermined lives? An exploration into Hukam.

2) Sikh Canadian Political Platform

This hands on current affairs workshop will challenge and engage you in thinking about what is the Sikh Canadian perspective on major Canadian issues.

3) This I Believe

This fun and interactive workshop will take you on a journey of self discovery. Through a creative process you will be asked to examine what you truly believe and how your beliefs inform the way you live.

2011 Toronto Sikh Retreat Registration Now Open!

2010-11-15T11:16:00.000-08:00

Click here to register now!!

New 2011 Location.....

2010-11-09T11:08:00.000-08:00

So the words out…the Toronto Sikh Retreat has found a new home for 2011! The Circle Square Ranch, complete, that’s right folks…a RANCH, horses and all. A few of us went out to the site for a visit and wanted to give you all a sneak peak at what’s in store for the best weekend of 2011. Get ready to join us on January 6th to 9th, 2011.

Welcome to the new home of the Toronto Sikh Retreat 2011!

Manraj making notes for his super duper open mic skit in the dining hall.

Sleeping accommodations...include a private bathroom with double sinks!

Hartaarn, Birender and Manraj race to swings...Manraj beat them to both ;)

Birender settled for the slide...

More Testimonials...

2010-11-04T09:08:00.000-07:00

“The kirtan is amazing, the workshops are inspiring and thought provoking, I learn something new about myself each year. This retreat brings me back to three things…Seva, Sangat and Simran…this is where I connect with Waheguru, this is my Sangat…”

- MSP

“TSR is not only a weekend to reconnect on a spiritual level but also on a social level, all while having fun. It makes me fall in love with Sikhi again.”

-BKG

“Last year's Toronto Sikh Retreat was my first experience, and to be honest the idea of a religious retreat was intimidating to me as I didn't really know where I stood in terms of Sikhi and my path; in fact I wasn't sure I was on a path or wanted to be on one. I have to say TSR changed my life and was one of the most amazing experiences I have had. I not only got a better idea of what sikhi meant to me, but made some amazing life long friends along the way. In the end I had nothing to lose and everything to gain...”

- Inderpreet Kaur

“TSR 2010 was my first time at this retreat and will def. not be the last! . The workshops were absolutely amazing, so inspiring (especially the Ardas workshop). It was an awesome opportunity to learn some more about Sikhi, meet new people with such great energy and also do some self reflection. Will def. be back for 2011 TSR:). WOOOO!”

- Ishneet Kaur

“an opportunity to do seva by preparing food for the youth and to see the happy, content faces after each meal!!”

- Surinder Jalaf

"Toronto Sikh Retreat is the funnest, most-spiritually uplifting and motivational weekend of the year"

–KSG

“TSR sangat is an amazing group to learn from and share with – a beautiful way to start the year!”

- GK

More Testimonials from 2009 TSR

2009-12-10T17:21:00.000-08:00

Here is more feedback from past attendees about TSR:

Toronto Sikh Retreat was a great opportunity to meet the Canadian sangat. Through conversations, laughter, and keertan, I discovered the role of Sikhi in their lives not only as individuals but as a sangat. It inspired me to reflect and grow as a Sikh. We talked about gurbani, history, music, politics, diversity, and snow-it was great! - Ravneet Kaur, USA

It was truly an enjoyable experience last night sitting in the presence of the Guru with all of you. I cannot begin to emphasize how important this venture is and how the retreat is instrumental in the propagating the wisdom and essence of Guru shabad. I knew the moment my son had sat down after bowing to the Guru that he felt this energy.....he was in a place of comfort....he was in the abode of positivity, love, warmth.....Rehras Sahib, was being recited with such love and "rus".....I commend you all - Onkar Singh, Brantford, ON

2009 Toronto Sikh Retreat was an incredible experience; there was a great amount of mutual respect amongst participants. There was no pressure to take part in the activities however the activities and the workshops were so engaging that I would not have missed them. It was a positive environment for older age groups to come together to explore their spirituality. I have no words to describe the open mic night, which incidentally left me laughing for days! - Jaspreet Kaur, Brampton, ON

Don't miss the 2010 Toronto Sikh Retreat - everyone's experience is personal and rejuvenating. Don't miss out!

2010 Toronto Sikh Retreat Teaser, January 7 - 10, 2010

2009-12-04T12:36:00.000-08:00

Testimonials from past attendees

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Hear first hand what past attendees had to say about TSR:

Within a few short days, TSR provides much needed comfort and food for one's mind, soul and stomach :) - Jagbir Kaur, Mississauga, ON

The TSR is a great annual retreat! I enjoy attending every year with the interesting themes that are planned and delivered very well. I enjoy the company of the sangat, meeting new people and extending our networks through sikhi and sharing the common pyaar. I would recommend this retreat to anyone who is looking to retreat for a weekend, and to also explore their sikhi and open their mind to new thoughts and ideas that are shared and sparked through experiences and perspectives of the variety of individuals that participate every year. - Harman Singh, Etobicoke

Still need convincing as to why you need to be at 2010 Toronto Sikh Retreat? Keep it posted right here and we will show you why!

Registration is NOW OPEN!

2009-11-23T14:35:00.000-08:00

The prices for the 2010 Toronto Sikh Retreat are as follows:

Professionals (Regular: $170 / Early Bird: $140)

Students (Regular: $140 / Early Bird: $110)

Please register today to take advantage of our early bird offerings and secure your place at this wonderful endeavour!

One Panth: November 15th, 2009 in Brampton

2009-11-03T05:27:00.001-08:00

One Panth is an event designed to bring together the entire Sikh community, as one Panth, to remember and reflect on the tragic events of 1984. The event is free and will feature an afternoon of movies on 1984 and performances by local Sikh artists.

The event will be held on Sunday, November 15th from 2pm-6pm at Chandni Convention Centre (5 Gateway Drive, Brampton).

For more information please contact: OnePanth@gmail.com.

2010 TSR registration will start soon!

2009-11-01T17:21:00.000-08:00

Please be aware that 2010 Toronto Sikh Retreat's Registration starts on November 20th.

Obama on Diwali (with Shout-out to Sikhs)

2009-10-15T20:11:00.000-07:00

Check out the 0:56 mark for Obama's reference to Sikhism. "In Sikhism, Diwali is a celebration of Freedom for Guru Hargobind, the religion's Sixth Guru"

A Save-the-Date Notice: January 7 - 10th, 2010

2009-10-13T16:26:00.000-07:00

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Times are busy and calendars do fill up quickly. So make sure you reserve time for self discovery at the next Toronto Sikh Retreat: January 7th to 10th, 2010 at Ecology Retreat Centre in Orangeville, Ontario, Canada.

More details will follow. Stay tuned.

Planning the 2010 Toronto Sikh Retreat

2009-08-01T11:20:00.000-07:00

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

Its been a while since we've reached out to you from Toronto Sikh Retreats.

Its time to start thinking about the next retreat but also about what else we want TSR to be. There's been lots of discussion around doing events over the course of the year like kirtans, workshops, or conferences. So we need to shape these ideas into concrete plans and then make them happen.

This is where we need your help. Organizing a retreat (or any session), requires a whole team of dedicated and motivated individuals. We'll have many of last year's organizers stay on and they'll provide great experience and continuity, but also really need fresh ideas from new faces. So if you're interested in helping out, get in touch with us. No experience or "Sikhi-expertise" is required; even if you haven't even been to a retreat. Lots of energy and a willingness to get involved is what counts.

So let us know if you're up for the challenge. Its always a lot of work, but always a blast.

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

PS. If you attended the January 2009 retreat, you should have gotten a nice friendly reminder from the most important person in your life. Hopefully it served its purpose in not letting you forget about what you had promised to do this year.

Registration Closed.. Get on the Waiting List.

2009-01-04T04:33:00.000-08:00

Thank you to everyone who has registered for the retreat. All of our spots are full right now. But if history has taught us anything, its that there's always some last minute cancellations. So if you're stil interested in attending the retreat, just email us at info@torontosikhretreat.org and we'll put you on our waiting list.

Only 3 Spots Left!

2009-01-01T07:06:00.000-08:00

We only have 3 spots left for this year's retreat. Last chance to sign up!

Artist-In-Residence - Sukhpreet Singh

2008-12-22T15:22:00.000-08:00

We're delighted to announce that the famous Sikh painter, Sukhpreet Singh, will be attending this year's retreat. He'll be painting on location and also displaying some of his latest pieces.

If you're an aspiring painter, Sukhpreet asks that you bring your watercolour supplies so you can paint alongside him and learn from a master.

Visit Sukhpreet's website for more info on the artist and his work.

You can also read about Sukhpreet's work here, here and here.

Only a few spots left!

2008-12-21T05:00:00.001-08:00

If you're thinking of attending the Toronto Sikh Retreat, you better register asap!

We only have a couple of spots left at the student rate, after which everyone will have to pay the professional rate. This is because the student rate is heavily subsidized and off-set by the professinal rate. So we can only allow a certain number of student spots in total.

So register now, guaruantee yourself a spot at the retreat and save a few dollars.

Financial Concerns?

2008-12-08T07:36:00.000-08:00

If you have any problems with paying the registration fees, please do send us an email at info@torontosikhretreat.org.

We will do what we can to make alternative arrangements and, as only one person checks the email account, we promise to handle your request discreetly.

No one should not be attending the retreat because of financial constraints. Register now!

Having Problems Registering?

2008-12-08T07:34:00.000-08:00

While most people have been able to register easily, we have had a few problems.

If you have any problems whatsoever in registering or paying, please email us at info@torontosikhretreat.org and we'll help figure things out.

Spots are filling up very quickly and the earlybird spots are almost gone so register now!

Get Ready For Open Mic Night!

2008-11-30T13:54:00.000-08:00

On Saturday night we'll be doing an open mic night. This is your chance to show off your hidden talents. You can perform anything you want in any language, Sikhi or non-Sikh related. So come prepared with your song, poem, magic trick, joke or story! (No prior talent required)

Register Now!

2008-11-30T13:51:00.000-08:00

Registration for the Toronto Sikh Retreat is up and running.

We have early bird pricing for those that register early. So register now and save!

New Toronto Sikh Retreat Website Is Online!

2008-11-23T05:52:00.000-08:00

After a lot of hard work (Thanks Meera, Hartaarn and Tanveer), the new Toronto Sikh Retreat website is online. We're just finalizing the registration section and that will go live soon. But in the mean time, please do check out the new site.

Pics From 2007 Toronto Sikh Retreat

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Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.

Photos care of Hartaarn Singh.

We've added an extra day!

2008-11-11T10:17:00.001-08:00

We've decided to add an extra day to the retreat this year.

We used to do the retreat on long weekends in the past. While we loved the extra day, we were always competing with lots of activities around town. So we're now doing the retreat on a weekend in January where there's probably nothing else going on. So you don't have the excuse of mid-terms, weddings, vacations to keep you from attending. :)

So even though its not a long weekend we've decided to go from Thursday to Sunday. This will make it easier for those flying into Toronto just for the retreat to justify the expense and trip. Also, it will give us lots more time for discussion and activities. Lastly, it will let finish up early on Sunday and allow for people to get back home at a decent time.

We're excited by the opportunities an extra day allows us. Stay tuned for details on the schedule and programs.

Registration Up Next Week

2008-11-11T10:14:00.000-08:00

We've already had lots of emails asking about when we'll be opening up registration for the 2009 retreat. We're just in the process of finalizing the website and updating the registration and payment engine. We hope to have it all up and running by early next week. Drop us an email and we'll send you a notification we're online.

We'll be doing early-bird pricing so be sure to sign-up early!

New TSR Logo

2008-11-11T10:12:00.001-08:00

Thanks to Meera for putting together a fantastic logo for Toronto Sikh Retreat. You'll be seeing lots more of it as we rollout all the materials for 2009.

2009 TSR Facebook Event Is Online

2008-10-29T06:54:00.000-07:00

We've created an "Event" on Facebook to help get the word out about the retreat.

Welcome Aboard Meera!

2008-10-21T07:58:00.000-07:00

We're delighted to have Meera Sethi help out with TSR this year. Meera is a Toronto-based artist who has done a lot of great work in South Asian and mainstream community. Her latest efforts were on Arts and Homelessness policy report released earlier this month. To the left is a book cover she designed for an anthology of poetry by female South Asian writers.

We'll be working with her to create a fresh look for all of TSR's marketing materials.

Her website is http://www.meerasethi.com. It's definitely worth a look.

Leaders Needed

2008-10-16T07:01:00.000-07:00

Booking the date and place was the easy part. Now comes the hard(er) part as we have only 3 months to organize everything else. Also throw into the mix, a desire to change things up with the agenda / content and perhaps even add an activity day to the retreat.

So here's where we need your help. Please let us know if you're interested in helping to organize this year's retreat.

We don't need a lot of people, but rather a few dedicated and energized individuals. No experience or "Sikhi-expertise" is required; even if you haven't even been to a retreat. But a willingness to work is mandatory. If you're just going to drop by and do some drive-by commentary on themes and workshop topics, please just send us an email with your thoughts. At this point, we're looking for people with passion, energy and the ability to hold themselves accountable for delivering on their responsibilities.

So email kulvirgill at hotmail dot com and let us know if you're up for the challenge. Its always a lot of work, but always a blast.

Jan 8 to 11, 2009 at Ecology Retreat Centre

2008-10-09T12:49:00.001-07:00

Pull out your calendars and mark down the dates:

2009 Toronto Sikh Retreat

Thurs January 8 to Sun January 11, 2009

Ecology Retreat Centre

Orangeville, Ontario (30 min north of Toronto)

Don't say we didn't give you enough warning!

Welcome!

2008-10-09T10:39:00.000-07:00

Fateh,

We've set-up this blog to keep everyone posted as to the details of this year's Toronto Sikh Retreat. Over the next few weeks, we'll be updating the website and marketing the event. But we'll use this blog to keep you apprised of what's happening.

So check back often for updates!