SIDAK 2008

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the Sikh Research Institute host the Sidak program?

Part of the Sikh Research Institute’s mission is to facilitate training and development while inspiring Sikh values.Through the annual summer Sidak program, we work towards that goal by creating ideologically strong leaders for our community. The approach is through an understanding of the academic, historical, and religious traditions of Sikhī.

Where is it held?

Sidak is held in San Antonio, Texas, USA.

What will I learn at the Sidak Program?

The Sidak program is offered in three distinct tracks.

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SIKHĪ 101First-time attendees will receive an introductory overview of Sikh history and theology through the study of thefollowing topics: Gurū Granth Sāhib, Gurū Khālsā Panth, Bhāī Gurdās, Bhāī Nand Lāl, Āsā Kī Vār, Dasam Granth,and Contemporary History.

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SIKHĪ 201

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Continuing students will participate in a more intensive study session that requires 100 pages of reading per day,daily reviews of material, group discussions, and an essay at the end of the two-week Sidak session. The course willinclude all topics from the SIKHĪ 101, as well as: Sikh Rahit Marīādā, Sikh Traditions & Ideology, Interpreters of Sikh Thought, Sikh Homeland & the Sikh Diaspora, Opportunities & Threats, Sikh Political Sovereignty, 1984, andAcademic Debates.

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GURMUKHĪ 101Open to high school students, college students, and interested adults, this curriculum focuses on the tools anindividual requires to study the Gurū Granth Sāhib: Gurmukhī Pronunciation, Vocabulary, Grammatical Patterns,Writing, Comprehension, Language Systems, Inscribed Elegance of Gurbānī, and Secondary Texts (Gurbilās,Janamsakhīs, Prakāsh, etc.). Returning Sidak participants will attend this course.

When is it held?

For the summer of 2008, all three programs commence on 13 July (Sunday) and conclude 26 July (Saturday). To ensurecomplete involvement, participants are expected to arrive at least one day before Sidak begins, 12 July (Saturday).Similarly, participants should not plan to leave until the day after the program finishes, the evening of 26 July (Saturday).

Who can participate?

All those interested aged 16 and up are welcome to participate in any program. Generally, there is a mix of students (highschool, college, and young professionals) hailing from diverse backgrounds.

Who are the facilitators?

To ensure an event of the highest caliber, the Sikh Research Institute has secured several facilitators for the Sidak programwho are regarded as experts within their respective professional fields such as human rights in South Asia, classical Sikhmusicology, Sikh theology and history, Gurbānī linguistics, Leadership, and contemporary issues concerning Sikhs in theHomeland and the Diaspora.

Can I attend the other sessions?

High schools students are encouraged to participate in the SIKHĪ 101 program but may opt to enroll in the LanguageProgram. College students and young adults may participate in any of the three programs.1

What qualifications or criteria are you looking for and how can I apply?

The Institute is looking for Sidak participants who have zeal to learn more about Sikhī and are serious in developing their understanding of the faith. All interested participants should contact the Institute and request an application form.Applicants are notified of their acceptance status within fifteen days of application submission. A complete applicationincludes all necessary forms, waivers, and application fees.

How much does it cost to participate?

The total registration fee for Sidak is $500 (USD) per person. This covers program costs for great speakers, learningmaterials, books, lodging, and meals. Half of the registration fee ($250) must be submitted as a non-refundableapplication fee to confirm registration. Participants must assume responsibility for transportation to San Antonio; note thattransportation costs are not included in the registration fee. Applicants requiring financial assistance should fill out theneed-based registration fee waiver within the registration form.

When is the due date?

The due date for completed applications is June 1, 2008.

How many students are in the program?

Registration is limited to 10 students per program, for a total of 30 students.

What types of accommodations are available during the program?

This year’s Sidak will be held in a gorgeous, wooded retreat center, at the Concept-Therapy Institute, in northwest SanAntonio, complete with on-campus dormitories, a central eating facility, classrooms, and on-site adult chaperones.Students are housed according to gender and age. The campus features a swimming pool, barbeque facilities, a large playing field for team sports, a fitness center, and hiking trails. Everything that is needed for an immersive learningexperience in Sikhi is on campus – plus, students have a wonderful time eating food prepared by the San Antonio sangat,enjoying the sheer beauty of the Texas Hill Country, and bonding with each other through an amazing faith experience.This is the sixth year of the Sidak program, and, because of feedback from previous years, it just gets better and better.Concept-Therapy Institute25550 Boerne Stage RoadSan Antonio, TX 78255 USA

How is transportation arranged?

All participants must make their own way to San Antonio. Transportation will be provided from the airport to the facilityand to all venues during the Sidak program.

If I live outside the United States, what procedures do I need to go through to attend and participate?

If you are a resident or citizen of a country other than the United States, you must apply for the proper documents and paper work required by your host country to travel to the US, as well as those required by the US government. Pleaserefer to the following websites for more information:http://www.foreignborn.com/visas_imm/entering_us/1entering_us.htmhttp://www.travel.state.gov/visa/visa_1750.htmlPlease note that the Sikh Research Institute is not responsible for filing any travel documents on behalf of a participant.

What will the daily schedule be?

All participants are required to attend the daily morning divān at 6:30am, featuring Āsā Kī Vār and Kīrtan. Below is the proposed schedule for the 2008 Sidak program:6:30amDivān7:30amBreakfast8:45amSession I10:15amBreak 10:30amSession II2