KOOKAR

When the habitants of Sri Patna heard of the departure of the child Guru Gobind Rai Ji, they were tearfur. It is said that Jagat Meth and Rahim Bakhsh begged the child Guru not to leave but the Guru replied that he had already made preparations for Sri Anandpur Sahib. The wife of Raja Fateh Chand asked the Guru how she would receive a divine glimpse of the child Guru once He had left Patna Sahib.To her humble request, Guru Gobind Rai Ji blessed her with a sharp double edged sword, sword and garment .Guru Ji told her that whenever she would serve the children of Patna with bolied gram , milk and pooris she would be serving Guru Gobind Rai himself. Guru Gobind Rai Ji explained that the kirpan was a representation of the Lord Almighty and that one would receive a divine glimpse of the child Guru through selfless service and prayer. Guru Gobind Rai Ji blessed Rahim Bakhsh vand uttered that during his daily recitation of Sri Japuji Sahib, the Guru would always be present.Guru Ji promised Pandit Shiv Dutt that he would give him his divine glimpse every morning. Guru Ji blessed Jagat Seth a life of contemplation on God and salvation. The child Guru uttered that the citizens of Patna shall receive a divine glimpse of the Guru in his own home each morning provided that they rose each morning and recited Sri Asa Di vaar prayer

Jagat Meth and Rahim Bakhsh begged the child GUru not to leave but Guru Ji replied that He had made preparations to leave for Sri Anadpur Sahib.The wife of Raja Fateh Chand Maini asked the Guru how she would receive a divine glimpse of the child Guru once He had departed.to her humble request, Guru Gobind Rai Ji blessed her with a sharp double edged sword, sword and garment.He alspo uttered that whenever she would serve the children of Patna boiled gram, milk and pooris she would infact be serving the child guru.

Fateh Chand Maini Gotr was a jagirdar.He was respectfully known as Raja Fateh Chand Maini. He had a large garden, which the the child gUru Gobind Rai Ji often visited with other children. At first, Fateh Chand Maini Gotr's wife would reprimand children passing her palace but she soon became fond of the child Guru's radiant face .She longed for a child like Gobind Rai. One day the child Guru and his accomplices entered her palace and Guru Ji sat in her lap requesting her to serve them with whatever food she had prepared.The Rani asked Guru Ji for any dish which he preferred. Thee child guru requested that bolied gram or chick oeas be served. Ironically, this was the very dish which the rani had prepared. The rani dished out boiled chick peas to the child Guru and his accomplices.From that day onwards, she would serve boiled chickpeas togeether with milk and puri to the child Guru and his accomplices daily. When Mata Gujri asked the child Guru , How is it that you manage tp play in the lap of two mothers? Guru Ji replied, " just as one vision in two eyes, one moon in two rivers". Sometimes the child Guru would visitthe house of Jagat Meth Rea Seth.There was one leper ghuh Mal Khloda and Guru Jee would serve and bless him so that He became ailment free. In the havrli where the child Guru stayed, there was a well where women would fetch water in earthen pitchers.Guru Ji would aim pellets at these pitchers and break them. The child Guru's mata would replace those broken with metal pitchers to reimburse the pitcher women for their damage. Guru Ji pierced the metal pitchers with his bow and arrow. The child Guru's mother fed up with this daily occurrence prayed that the well should dry up.Consequently, the well dried up. Jagat Seth became an ardent of the child Guru. Nawab Bakhsh also became a devotee of the Guru. Hindu, Muslim, King, Citizen, Nawab or Pir saw the divine light of the Almighty God in the child guru. THe news of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Jee's arrival in Anadpur Sahib was cuopled with the request that the child Guru Gobind Rai Ji be brought to the PUnjab. The news of the departure of the child Guru, Gobind Rai Ji was received with tears by the inhabitants of Patna Sahib.

God is a shakti or energy and his limitless potencies or energies can br grouped into two headings; 1)Spiritual energy and (2) material energy or maya. Hence Maya is mot separate or different from the Supreme Being.Infact, Maya is his inherent power which is responsible for tye rising of mirage like phonemenal word of names, forms, time and space.

As is the fiire inside the womb, so is Maya outside. The fire of Maya and that of the womb is similar; the Creator has staged this play. According to his will, a child is born, and the familty is very pleased. Love for the Lord wears off, and the child becomes attached to desires,; the script of maya runs its course.This is Maya by which the Lord is forgotten and emotional attachment and duality well up. Says Nanak, bythe Guru's grace those who enshrine love for god find him, inthe midst of Maya page 921.

Tarna Dal and Buddha Dal After Deevan Darbara Singh Ji left this mortal world, two jathe or battalions in the form of Tarna Dal and Buddha Dal were formed. Tarna Dal was made up of five sections each having a jathedar. Baba Deep Singh Ji was appointed one of the jathedars by the Sikhs..There were 2000 horse mounted Gursikhs in Baba Deep Singh Ji's jatha. When Maaser Rangarh was disrespecting the holy precincts of Sri harimandir Sahib,Jathedar Buddha Singh Ji from Baba Deep Singh Ji's jatha sent Bhai Sukha Singh and Bhai Mehtab Singh Ji to avenge the sacrilege that was occuring in Sri Harimandir Sahib.Masarh Rangarh had converted the Darbar Sahib into a dancing hall for prostitutes .Bhai Sukha Singh Ji and Mehtab Singh Ji decapitated the head of Masarh Rangarh and placed his decapitated head at the feet of Jathedar Budha Singh Ji.Baba Ji heard news of Jahan Khan continuing atrocities against the Sikhs and the sacred sarowar or pool of nectar Sri Harimandir Sahib .Baba Deep Singh Ji reached Taran tarn Sahib and bathed in the holy sarowar along with a jatha of 500 Sikhs, all wearing clothes in the sacred colour of saffron and ready for battle. After making Karah Parshad, an offering made before Guru Ji using butter, sugar,flour, water and gurbani, and making the following ardass, "Until Shri Harimandir Sahib Ji is liberated from the tyrants, I will not become Shaheed". Baba Ji along with their jatha set off for Sri Harimandir Sahib. with blessings of Sant Hari Ji Maharaj and Sant Ranjit Singh Ji ranjitpura, Sri amritsar wale Nirmale Mahapursh

Shaheed Baba Deep Singh Ji Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa;Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh Baba Ji was born in the villsge of Pahuvind district Amritsar in the year 1682.B aba Ji's fathers name was Bhagtu Ji and his mother's name was Mata Jionee Ji. From a young age, Baba ji practised reciting Gurbani, singing kirtan and doing sangat of fellow Gursikhs. morning and night.Baba Ji regularly practised horse riding and training in weapons.Baba Ji had a loving and outstanding personality.The people of his locality gave Baba Ji much respect because of his relgious nature. After the battle of Mukatsar, Guru Gobind Singh Ji reached Sabo ki Talwandi which Guru Ji later renamed as Guru Ki Kanshi or Damdama Sahib or place of resting.Guru Gobind Singh Ji compiled the final version of Damdami Bir of Guru Granth Sahib Ji here.Shaheed Bhai Mani Singh Ji scribed all that Guru Ji uttered from memory. Baba Deep Singh Ji carried out the seva of providing the paper, pens and ink for this great task of preparing the final volume of Sahib Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Baba Deep Singh Ji carried out this seva with utmost love and respect. When Guru Gobind Singh Ji left for Hazoor Sahib, Baba Deep Singh Ji accompanied him. Baba Ji was one of the panj pyares when Guru Ji gave Gurgaddi to Sahib Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji at Nanded Along with Baba Deep Singh Ji, Pyare Dharam Singh Ji, Bhai Har Singh Ji, Bhai Santokh Singh Ji, And Bhai Gurbhaksh Singh Ji Shaheed took part in this great sewa and completed the ardas that conferred Gurgaddi upon Sahib Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and Guru Khalsa Panth. Before Guru Ji's demise, Guru Ji requeted Baba Deep Singh Ji to return to Damdama Sahib and continue the taksaal that taught Gursikhs the correct meanings and pronunciations of Gurbani. All the other Gurdwaras at Damdama Sahib were put under the management of Baba Deep Singh Ji. Here Baba Ji prepared pothis or anthalogies and sent them to numerous Sikh shrines and thus made a massive effect on promoting and spreading the message of the Sikh Gurus.Baba Ji also assisted Baba Banda Singh Ji Bahadhur in all of his battles between 1708 and 1715. Baba Ji was not only a scholar in Gurmukhi but also a scholar of persian and arabic. Baba Ji got prepared saroop of Sahib Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji in Arabic and sent it to the Middle east. This was a great service done by Baba Ji for mankind.eThe gursikhs of the Panth held Baba Deep Singh Ji in great reverence. Baba Ji was a great scholar, philosopher and saint soldier.The title of Nawab given to Bhai Sahib Kapoor Singh Ji by Zakariya Khan, ourt of respect was placed before the feet of the Punj Pyare before being taken up. compiled with blessings of Sant Hari Ji Maharaj Nirmale mahapursh

Guru Har Gobind From SikhiWiki Jump to: navigation, search Guru Har Gobind (1595 to 1644) Full Name : Har Gobind Personal Details Birth : Saturday, 5 July 1595, Guru ki Vadali in Dist. Amritsar Guruship : Wednesday, 11 June 1606 Joti Jot : Tuesday, 19 March 1644 Family Parents : Guru Arjan Dev & Mata Ganga Brother/Sisters : -N.A- Spouse : Mata Nanaki, Mata Mahadevi,Mata Damodari Children : Sons - Baba Gurditta, Baba Suraj Mal, Baba Ani Rai, Baba Atal Rai & Guru Tegh Bahadur Daughter - Bibi Biro Other Details Bani in GGS: {{{Bani in GGS}}} Other Info: Built the Akal Takhat, First Guru to engage in warfare, Main battles fought: Amritsar, Sri Hargobindpur, Guru Sar Marajh and Kartarpur Guru Har Gobind ji (Gurmukhi: ਗੁਰੂ ਹਰਿ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ) (Saturday, 5 July 1595 - Tuesday, 19 March 1644) was the sixth of the Ten Gurus of Sikhism. He became Guru on 11 June 1606 following in the footsteps of his father Guru Arjan Dev ji. While the ceremonial rites were being performed by Baba Buddha ji, Guru Hargobind ji asked Baba Buddha to adorn him with a sword rather than the Seli of Nanak which had been used previously by the earlier Gurus. Guru Hargobind then put on not one but two swords; one on his left side and the other on his right. He declared that the two swords signified "Miri" and "Piri", "Temporal Power" and "Spiritual Power", one which would smite the oppressor and the other which would protect the innocent. He told his followers: "In the guru's house spiritual and mundane powers shall be combined". "My rosary shall be the sword-belt and on my turban I shall wear a Kalgi" (an ornament for the turban, which was then worn by Mughal and Hindu rulers). Guru Hargobind carried the same light of Guru Nanak; but he added to it the lustre of the sword. Guru Hargobind sahib ji was also the inventor of the Taus. Guru ji watched a peacock singing one day, and wished to make a instrument to mimic the same sound as the peacock, thus came the Taus. [/url] Arming and martial training During his captivity, when the Saintly and peaceful Guru Arjan was under the severest torture, he concentrated and relied on God for guidance to save the nascent Sikh Sangat from annihilation. The only solution revealed to him was to guard it through the use of arms. He pondered over the problem again and again and finally concluded that the militarisation of Sikhism had become a necessity. Hence he sent a Sikh disciple to his young son, the eleven year old Har Gobind, nominating him as the Guru of the Sikhs (his devotees), giving him Guru Arjan's last injunction; "Let him sit fully armed on his throne and maintain an army to the best of his capacity". Guru Hargobind ji excelled in matters of state and his Darbar (Court) was noted for its splendour. The arming and training of some of his devoted followers began, the Guru came to possess seven hundred horses and his Risaldari (Army) grew to three hundred horsemen and sixty gunners in the due course of time. Additionaly five hundred men from the 'Majha area of Punjab' were recruited as infantry. Guru Har Gobind built a fortess at Amritsar called 'Lohgarh' (Fortess of steel). He had his own flag and war-drum which was beaten twice a day. Those who had worked to have Guru Arjan destroyed now turned their attention and efforts to convincing Jahangir that the fort, the Akal Takhat and the growing Risaldari were all intended to allow Guru Hargobind ji to one day take revenge for his father's unjust death. Akal Takht Guru Hargobind constructed the Akal Takht (God's throne) in front of Harmandir in 1606. There he sat on a raised platform of twelve feet, attired in princely clothes. The Harmandir Sahib was the seat of his spiritual authority and the Akal Takht was the seat of his temporal (worldly) authority. This marked the beginning of Sikh militarisation. To the symbols of sainthood were added marks of sovereignty, including the umbrella and the Kalgi. Guru Har Gobind administered justice like a King and awarded honours and meted punishment, as well. The Akal Takht was the first Takht in the history of the Sikhs. According to Cunningham: "The genial disposition of the martial apostle led him to rejoice in the companionship of a camp, in the dangers of war, and in the excitements of the chase". State within a state The Sikhs had formed a separate and independent identity that had nothing to do with the government agencies of the day. Thus the Sikh entity came to occupy a sort of separate state within the Mughal Empire. Congregational prayers Guru Har Gobind ji established Congregational prayers adding to religious fervour among his Sikhs, but also strengthened their unity and brotherhood. Mohsin Fani, author of 'Dabistan', states that when a Sikh wished for a favour or gift from God, he would come to assembly of Sikhs and request them to pray for him; even the Guru asked the Sikh congregation to pray for him. People hostile towards young Guru Contents [hide] 1 Arming and martial training 2 Akal Takht 2.1 State within a state 2.2 Congregational prayers [*]3 People hostile towards young Guru[*]4 Religious activities[*]5 A summary[*]6 Detailed Account[*]7 Historical accounts[*]8 Four questions of Jahangir[*]9 See also[*]10 External Links if (window.showTocToggle) { // tocShowText = "show"; // tocHideText = "hide"; showTocToggle(); } There were many people who were hostile to Guru Hargobind when he assumed leadership of Sikhs. His uncle, Priti Mal, who was brother of Guru Arjan continued his intrigues against Guru Har Gobind. Prithi Mal had un-successfuly tried to kill Guru Har Gobind, when the guru was a child, by unleasing a deadly snake upon him. Prithi Mal continued to complain against him to Emperor Jehangir. Chandu Shah who had been foremost in complaining to Jehangir against Guru Arjan Dev ji transferred his hostilities toward Guru Har Gobind. Shaikh Ahmad Sirhandi too was hostile towards the Sikh Gurus and would have incited the Emperor. Jehangir was fearful that Guru Har Gobind might seek revenge for his father's arrest, torture and death. Religious activities Guru Har Gobind did not neglect the work of preaching and spreading the Sikh religion. He sent his Sikhs to far of places such as Bengal and Bihar to preach Sikhism. Guru Har Gobind allowed Udasis to preach Sikhism but did not admit them to Sikhism. Bhai Gurdas mentions in his // 2 the names of Nawal and Nihala, two sabharwal khatris, who established their bussiness in Bihar. A lot of local people adopted Sikhism under their influence. In his private life Guru Har Gobind never abandoned the true character of Guru Nanak, whose successor he was and whose teachings he had to spread in this world. A summary The following is a summary of the main highlights of Guru Ji's life: Introduced martial arts and weapons training and created a standing Military force for the defence of the masses following his father's martyrdom. Carried 2 swords of Miri and Piri. Built the Akal Takhat in 1608 - which is now one of five Takhats (Seats of Power) of the Sikh Religion. Founded the city of Kiratpur in District Rupnagar, (old name Ropar), Punjab Was held in the fort of Gwalior for one year, obstensibly to pray for the recovery of the ill Emperor Jahangir (the Guru had willingly gone to the fort). When Jahangir ordered his release, he refused to leave unless 52 imprisoned Hindu Rajas were freed as well. Cleverly he earned their freedom by turning the Emperor's own words against him. To mark this occasion the Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chorr Divas to celebrate his release and Deepa wali to celebrate his return to Amritsar. First Guru to engage in warfare, fighting and winning 4 defensive battles with Mughal forces. Detailed Account The sixth guru, Guru Hargobind Ji occupies a special place in Sikh history because, after Guru Arjan Dev Ji's martyrdom, he gave a new direction to the course of events. Along with his spiritual authority, he exercised temporal authority too by expounding the concept of Miri and Piri (the temporal and the spiritual). In Indian history the advent of Sikhism and the establishing of Mughal Empire took place at the same time. Guru Nanak was not against Islam, infact Guru Nanak's first words pointed to the needlessness of Hinduism and the Muslim religions being at odds; Their is no Musalman, there is no Hindu. Guru Nanak and the four Gurus that followed expounded peace, equality and freedom for all. It was only after the death of Guru Arjan that it became all to clear that a defensive military stance might be required to bring this about. Injustice, oppression and exploitation were the order of the day. The scourges of caste divisions, religious discrimination and superstitions was making life into a living hell for the ordinary person. The oppressors and the oppressed were both Muslims and Hindus. Guru Hargobind Singh Ji used both the powers of worship and of the sword to fight this oppression. Several efforts were made on the life of young Hargobind even in his infancy. A snake-charmer was bribed to let loose a poisonous snake, but the young Guru to be overpowered the snake.Guru Ji was born on 19 June 1595 to Mata Ganga Ji and Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji in village Wadali of district Amritsar. He was merely eleven years old when Guru Arjan Dev Ji was martyred after being jailed, fined and tortured while under arrest by Jehangir's orders. At the time of his installation as the guru, Guru Ji asked Baba Budha Ji to discard the earlier tradition of donning him with the Seli of Guru Nanak, preferring instead to be adorned with a sword, but contrary to the prevalent Hindu and Muslim traditions, where the new ruler was donned with a sword (as a symbol of his role as the ruler of the state) Guru ji asked to be donned with two swords, explaining that one signified his temporal powers and the other his spiritual power. His purpose was not to mix religion with politics, but to take up the cause of the exploited and defend them against the oppression of the rulers. Thus, Guru Har Gobind clearly separated religion and politics. Religion had always been intermixed with politics in India and as a result the people were subjected to persecution and injustice. Since the tolerant days of Akbar, who had made an effort to fuse the religions of Indias, his son Jahangir had listed to the long neglected Muslim Ulema demanded that Islam control the politics of the Mughal Empire. The religion of the ruling classes oppressed the people, using the shield of religion. That is why the politicians have always entangled religion with politics. According to the chronicles, Guru Arjan Dev Ji and and Mata Ganga Ji did not have a child for a long time, until Mata Ganga Ji sought the blessings of Baba Budha Ji for an offspring. Budha Ji told her that she would give birth - to an extraordinarily chivalrous son. Shortly after that Guru Hargobind Ji was born. After his installation as the sixth guru, Guru Hargobind Ji issued many edicts. He set up an army, acquired arms and horses, hoisted the Sikh flag and ordered the building of n exceptionally large and thundering drum called the nagara, which was used to gather the sangat for his announcements. In 1663 he assigned the task of building the Akal Takhat to two of his most trusted devotees, in front of Harimandir Sahib. On this platform, seated with all the regal adornments of a Mugal or Hindu ruler, he would listen to the woes and complaints of the people and issue edicts. Historical accounts According to historians, Guru Hargobind Ji was married thrice, but there are those who argue that this account is confusing and probably not accurate, as it is also said that the name of his bride before marriage changed after marriage in the husband's house (as was the custom at the time). Historians say that Guruji's first wife was Mata Damodari, the daughter of Narain Das of village Talla. She gave birth to Baba Gurditta, Bibi Veero and Ani Rai Ji. The second time he was married to Bibi Nanki daughter of Hari Chand of village Bakala. She was the mother of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. His third marriage was to Bibi Mahadevi daughter of Daya Ram of village Jandiyali, district Shekhupura, now part of (Pakistan). She gave birth to Suraj Mall Ji and Baba Atal Ji. The hand script of Guru Hargobind in a pothi kept at the Amritsar MuseumAlarmed by the rapid growth of the Sikhs under the guidance of Guru Hargobind Ji, those who wished ill-upon the growing Sikh community, joined hands with the rulers of Lahore and traveled to Delhi to voice their complains against Guru Har Gobind to the power brokers in the Mughalcourt and to Jahangir himself. They told Jehangir that Guru Hargobind Sahib was gathering an army and amassing arms, with the intension of avenging his father's death. They advised him to suppress Guru Ji and the growing Sikh community immediately, but rather than sending an army to attack or arrest him, Jehangir summoned the Guru to Delhi to assess his character and aims, but rather than the hoped for confrontation and arrest of the Guru (that his ill-wishers had hoped for) a surprising thing happened when both the Emperor and his powerful wife were taken by Guru Ji's charm, grace and Godliness. A friendship and mutual respect soon followed, Guru Har Gobind, would even hunt with the Emperor on his grand Shikars (hunting was a life long passion of the Guru). On one remarkable occasion the young Guru saved the life of the Emperor, who he could have easily hated for the death of his father, by jumping beteen a Lion and the Mughal ruler. Seeing their scheme to harm Guru ji going awry and growing fearful of his developing friendship with the Emperor, Chandu Shah used an illness of Jahangir to have the court astrologers predict that only a Holy man praying at a shrine at Gwalior Fort, for a lengthy time, would lead to the Emperor's recovery. Moved equally by his personal jealousy as well as by superstition and the predictions of his court astrologers, Jehangir ordered the Guru to be imprisoned at the Gwalior fort (other versions have the Guru volunteering to undertake the task). Though his Sikhs were worried that he would meet the same fate as his father the Guru himself was never worried over his release. The famous muslim pir Hazrat Mian Mir was amoung those who reminded Jahangir, who had long since gotten over his illness and seemingly forgotten about the Guru's confinement in the Fort, to release the Guru. The Guru's immediate release was ordered, but Guru Ji refused to leave the fort unless the fifty-two Princes who had long languished under confinement, at the fort, were released as well. Jehangir cleverly agreed that the Guru could take as many of the princes to freedom, as could hold onto the Guru's clothing. Guru ji had his darzi (tailor) prepair a coat with 52 ribands or tails and left the fort with the fifty-two rulers trailing behind him, each holding onto a piece of the Guru's coat. That is why Guru Ji is referred to as the Liberator (Bandi-chor) in history. Bandi Chhorh Divas is celebrated in honor of the day. When Guru Ji reached Amritsar his Sikhs lit lamps to welcome him. His arrival also consided with the tradional Indian festival of Diwali. Since then the festival of Diwali (lighting of lamps) is celebrated as Bandi-Chor diwas by Sikhs. From Amritsar he went to Lahore where Kaulan, adopted Hindu daughter of Kazi Rustam Khan and a follower of Saint Mian Mir came into contact with the Guru due to her dire plight. Guruji asked her to move to Amritsar, where she led a pious life. On Guruji's command, Baba Budha Ji had Gurdwara Kaulsar built in Kaulan's memory in 1681 of Bikrami calendar. On the invitation of Sikhs of central India he also travelled there where he had Gurdwara Nanak Matta completed. Later he visited Kashmir and secured many followers there. From Jammu and Kashmir, he returned to Punjab via Gujrat. Four questions of Jahangir In reply to the four questions of Jehangir, disciple of Shah Tola, Guru Ji said: 1.The woman is the honour of a man 2. A son is the mark of a man 3. Money is transient 4. A sage is neither a Hindu nor a Muslim Battles By Guru Har Gobind Battle of Amritsar || Battle Of Hargobindpur || Battle Of Gurusar || Battle Of Kartarpur || Battle Of Kiratpur Guru Hargobind Sahib fought four battles in his lifetime. Emperor Jehangir died in 1684 Bikrami and his son Shah Jahan ascended the throne. The ill-wishers renewed their conspiracies and incited him too against Guru Ji. Otherwise also Shah Jahan was insecure about the increasing influence and power of Sikhs. Sikhs while hunting in a Royal preserve trapped a falcon belonging to Shah Jahan and a conflict with imperial forces soon ensued. On the 22 day of Jeth month in Bikrami 1685, Sikhs won this battle. After that victory, the wedding of Bibi Veero, which had been interrupted by the battle, was completed. In 1687 a battle was fought near village Ruhela where Moslem army and Turk chieftains were defeated. Guru Ji renamed this village as Hargobindpur. The third battle started when Bidhi Chand retrieved Guru Ji's stolen horses from Lahore fort; this battle too was won. The fourth battle took place near Kartarpur with Sa'id Khan in Bikrami 1691. Lahore province was on Sa'id Khan's side. Sa'id Khan and his fellow chieftains were killed and the Guru's army won the battle. In 1701 Bikrami Guru Ji called his followers and passed on the mantle to his grandson Sri Har Rai Ji in their presence. The very same evening he passed away. It was the third day of March in year 1644.

hes 20 years old lives in Birmingham Has BA from Amritsar Khalsa college. Semi skilled to unskilled work will do thanks

Sadhsangat Ji, Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa;Waheeguru Ji Ki Fateh I habve an amritdhari sikh student from amritsar who is having difficulty finding part time work moving onto premanent work. He has a student visa. I would be grateful If ypu could let me know of any available jobs for this student. I will pass these on to him. Any type of work suitable for amrirdhari will be ok Gavinder Singh Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa;Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Banda Singh's March towards Punjab <P align=justify>In Oct. 1708, at Nander, Guru Gobind Singh sent Banda Singh to Punjab and advised him to: 1. Put a stop to the cruelty of Punjab rulers. 2. Punish the guilty and cruel misrulers. 3. To fight for human rights, uplift and strengthen the poor, the low and slave like people who could not even imagine freedom. The Guru blessed him with: 1. Guru's order to Sikh Sangats. 2. Five arrows. 3. A double Edged sword (Khanda). 4. A big leather mounted drum (Nagaara). He sent with him five Sikhs for counseling: 1. Bhai Daya Singh 2. Bhai Binod Singh 3. Bhai Kahan Singh 4. Bhai Bijay Singh 5. Bhai Ran Singh Another 25 Singh's as companions and fighters. In the times of Sikh Gurus, wars were defensive. Generally they fought when war was thrust upon them. Though at two occasions Baba Ajit Singh, the eldest son of Guru Gobind Singh was advised by the Guru to go and help the poor Brahmins who's newly married daughter-in-law was taken away by the local Mugal chieftains that Baba Ajit Singh along with few Sikhs were offensive. The 6th Guru, Guru Har Gobind fought 4 wars with the Mugal Chieftains and won in all. His war strategy was to challenge the Generals and fight with them and avoid bloodshed of masses even then numbers of brave Sikhs and Mugal soldiers were killed because no General wanted to face the Guru alone. The 10 th Guru, Guru Gobind Singh faced about 16 wars in a period of about 25 years. Whole family of Guru Gobind Singh, thousands of sikhs, devoted muslims - the name of Peer Budhu Shah of Sadhoura (a town in Punjab) is worth mentioning, his 2 sons, nephews and many of his followers - sacrificed their lives while fighting the Mugal soldiers. In a later period the Nawab of Sadhoura, Usmaan Khan, the Mugal ruler, killed Peer Budhu Shah and cut his body into pieces and threw them in different parts of Sadhoura, punishing him for having served Guru Gobind Singh. For such reasons it was imperative for Banda Singh Bahadur to be offensive and punish the guilty. The Nawab of Sarhind, Wazir Khan, the murderer of 2 younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh was feeling relieved knowing that Guru Gobind Singh had departed towards South but had constant fear that Sikhs won't let him live. He had prepared and sent two Pathan spies to chase and murder the Guru. At Nander one day they succeeded in stabbing Guru Gobind Singh when he was resting, even though both of them lost their lives. The wounds of the Guru were operated and stitched. After about one and a half month, the injuries became the cause of Guru's passing away. But before this the Guru had already created Khalsa, prepared Banda Singh Bahadur and sent him to Punjab. It was first time in The Sikh history that Sikhs were attackers and offensives but their aim was same as earlier. Banda Singh was on the way to Punjab, when Guru Gobind Singh after giving Guruship to the everlasting Shabad Guru - Guru Granth Sahib, had left this world. After reaching Punjab, Banda Singh sent Guru's message to the Sikhs all over Punjab, Kashmir and Afghanistan. Memories of unlimited sacrifices of Gurus, their families, Sikhs and their sufferings at the hands of oppressors were fresh in the Sikh masses. News of passing away of their dear Guru, Guru Gobind Singh added fuel to the fire for fighting the Mugal rulers and making sacrifices. Listening to the call of Banda Singh at the behest of Guru, Sikhs started joining Banda Singh. In a short period Banda Singh had 4000 horse rider and 7800 artillery Sikhs with him. After some more time the strength of 40,000 warriors was at his command. His army was constituted by four type of people: 1. The true followers all over from Punjab, Kabul, Kandhar, Multan and Kashmir. 2. God fearing Muslims, who had been always with the Guru in most of the fights. 3. Poor, down-trodden and low caste who had always been subjected to torture. 4. Some unknown selfish bad elements with the intention of loots. To meet financial needs, Banda Singh made fervent appeals to big business men of that time. After meeting the basic requirements, in Feb. 1709 he started attacking various towns and conquered various areas of Punjab such as Samaana, Sonepat, Kenthal, Ghurham, Thaskaa, Shahbaad, Kapoori, Sadhoura etc. Usmaan Khan, the murderer of Peer Bhudu Shah was killed by Banda singh's army. At Usmaan Khan's death, even the people of Sadhoura felt relief and were grateful to the Sikh army. Malerkotla was won without any resistance, because it was the Nawab of Malerkotla, who had fervently appealed against the killing of Guru's two younger sons. In the meantime another group of Sikhs from Majha (Central Punjab) attacked Ropar and other nearby areas and joined with the forces of Banda Singh. Now main aim for the Sikhs was Sarhind and its Nawab Wazir Khan. This war took place in May 1710 at the field of "Chhappar Chiri" 15 miles away from Sarhind. Wazir Hkan lost his life. The Mugal army ran away from the field. The Sikhs entered the city of Sarhind. Most of the high officials and administrators were killed. Their buildings were destroyed and looted. Even in war, Banda Bahadur had instructed not to harm any Mosque, Madrassa and Makbras (Graves). Irrespective of their religion, the old, women and children were protected from any harm. Sheikh Ahmed Sirhindi was the main conspirator for the death of Guru Arjan dev ji. Even his grave was not destroyed. All attempts were made to avoid to give any religious colour to these wars. As and when an area was conquered Banda Singh appointed one of his trusted lieutenants to govern these places and who in turn appointed other local people for administration. Keeping continuous the wave of attacks on other areas, in 1710 itself he took over other Northeren Areas in between rivers of Jamuna and Ganga such as Saharan Pur, Shamli, Muzzafar Nagar etc. Banda Singh established his capital at Mukhlis Garh, a place situated in the base of hills and away from the main highway and central areas from security point of view. He repaired the fort of Mukhlis Garh and renamed it as Loh Garh. He even started a mint to make coins and stamps in the name of Guru Nanak and Guru Gobind Singh and established Khalsa Kingdom. Seeing such a rise of Banda Singh, The Mugal Emperor at Delhi, Bahadur Shah became nervous and furious. He could least think of such a situation. To take back his lost areas, he started chasing Banda Singh with all his forces. Viewing the situation, Banda Singh and his forces returned to the fort of Loh Garh in Dec 1710. The Mugal forces surrounded the fort and cut off all supplies. In one of pitch dark nights, Banda Singh and his men forced their way through the Mugal army and moved towards upper hill areas. Punishing various kings of hills who were part of the Mugal forces against Guru Gobind Singh, he moved towards Jammu. Bahadar Shah reached Lahore in Aug.1711. His attempts to kill or capture Banda Singh were on. In Feb 1712 Bahadur Shah died out of illness. For one year there was fight for the Throne of Delhi among his sons. To take gain of the situation Banda Singh collected his forces and again conquered Batala , Kalanaour, Sarhind, Muzaffar Nagar and other areas in 1712 and ruled till 1715. In Delhi, Farukh Seyer son of Azimu-Shaan became king of Hindustan in Feb 1713. It was for the first time that Banda Singh broke the believe of Mugals that they could not be conquered by any one. He established a democratic rule. The poor and down trodden got a sense if living with dignity. Those who tilled the land became its owners. He had power of devils but heart of saints. He protected the poor and low, did not harm those who surrendered. Clear example is the army of Afgan fighters who did not want to fight Banda Singh and accepted his leadership. <P align=justify>Arrest and sacrifices of Banda Singh and his men In April 1715, Farakh Seyer the King of Hindustan, ordered all the governors of North India that Banda Singh either be killed or arrested. He taunted the Governer of Lahore, Abdu-Samad for his inability and sent his own forces for his help. Banda Singh and his forces were at Gurdaas Pur. He occupied a kachhi Garhi (a dilapidated four walled area) of Duni Chand at Gurdas Nangal. The Mugal forces dared not even to attack this Kachhi Garhi and surrounded it for 8 months. Banda Singh had very little army with him and had very limited quantity of weapons and food. The Mugals had cut off all the supplies from outside. Baba Binod Singh wanted to run away from the Garhi as was done in Dec 1710 while leaving the fort of Loh Garh. Banda Singh's strategy was different. He did not want to leave the Garhi. Banda Singh's strategy was different. He did not want to leave the Garhi but said that those who wanted to leave him could go. At an appropriate night Baba Binod Singh and his men left the Garhi. This left Banda Singh and about 800 of his men in the Garhi. Day by day conditions worsened in the Garhi. No food was left, grass, leaves of plants and trees were boiled and eaten. Even balk of trees was eaten. One cannot imagine the misery they faced. Meat of animals and birds was eaten. Not even wood was left for cooking. It is said a few cut the flesh of their own thighs to eat. History was being created, but there was no one to write. They were completely cut off from the outside world. Number of Banda Singh's men fell ill and had bad stomach. After surrounding for 8 months, the Mugal army with swords in their hands charged the fort. Even at this stage the Sikhs offered heavy resistance. It is said Banda Singh alone had killed about 50 to 60 soldiers of the Mugal army before he could be captured. Hazi Karam-war Khan writes in his book 'Tazkiratu-Sulatin Chugtian' that arrest of Banda Singh and his men was not the result of wisdom or bravery of the rulers, but it was the Grace of God that Kafir( Non Muslim) Banda Singh and his men were weakened by hunger. The Nawab was surprised at the wealth- Banda Singh had and the determination with which they were fighting. Hardly rupees 600 and 23 gold coins and a few weapons were found with them. The Mugal soldiers thought that the sikhs had swallowed gold coins, in fact few of the sikhs were killed, their stomachs torn open, but nothing was found. Thus Banda Singh with about 800 sikhs was captured in Dec. 1715. They were taken to Lahore in the form of a procession. Farukh-Seyer, the king at Delhi, wanted them at Delhi. Abdu-Samad, the governor of Lahore, wanted himself to go to Delhi to present this big catch and take all the credit, but Farakh-Seyer ordered him to stay back and send his son Zakria Khan. The Nawab and his son thought that this was too small a 'gift' -Banda Singh, 200 heads on spears and 700 prisoners. So they ordered the local chieftains to behead the sikhs wherever found and present their heads to the Nawab. Thus thousands of sikhs were murdered. Banda Singh was clothed with clothes of a joker with a cap on head, was firmly chained, put in an iron cage. The cage was tied on top of an elephant. On both sides of the cage two Mugfal soldiers were seated with unsheathed swords, lest Banda Singh may still free himself and try to run away. About 760 prisoners were forced to wear coats of goat skins and caps of different colours. They were tied with chains and shackles and were seated on unsaddled camels - two on one with back to back. Thus the procession consisted of: 1. Banda Singh on an elephant in an iron cage in the fore-front. 2. 760 prisoners in chains on camels. 3. About seven hundreds of Mugal soldiers on horses with heads of sikhs on their spears. 4. About 700 hundred carts, loads with severed heads of sikhs. 5. A dead cat on a spear indicating not even a trace of a sikh is left. This procession was brought to Delhi in Feb.1716.Thousands of men and women were on streets to witness this horrible procession. People of all faiths, even Christians were witness to this. Among the captured sikhs not even a single sikh was sad, disappointed or ready to ask for mercy. Accepting it as the Will of God they were happily singing Gurbani. Leaving Banda Singh and a few of his companions for interrogation, others about 700 were beheaded in front of Delhi Gate at Khuni Darwaja. This execution went on for 7 days daily at the rate of 100 executions per day in the open and publically. This slaughtering was carried over in March 1716. Banda Singh and his remaining men were interrogated for 3 months to find out about their war strategies, wealth and ammunition. He had, in fact, never buried any wealth or currency. Whatever he got he used to distribute among his soldiers and needy. His weapons were only swords, spears, bows, arrows, daggers etc. His army was on foot and horses. He had no elephants or cannons or any other sophisticated weapens. At last in June 1716, Banda Singh and his 26 companions were moved in the streets of old Delhi in the form of a procession and then taken to the Makbra (Grave) of Khawaza Kutub-ud-deen Bakhitiyar Kaki near Kutub Minar. 26 sikhs were beheaded in the presence of Banda Singh, hoping that he may still ask for mercy. Now it was the turn of Banda Singh. He was asked to accept Islam or face death. He accepted death. <A name=6> Execution of Banda Singh Bahadar Banda Singh's 4 years old son was seated on his lap. A dagger was given to Banda Singh and ordered to cut his own son. He refused. The executioner pierced the chest of his son, took out the violently vibrating heart and tried to push into the mouth of Banda Singh. Though shackled, Banda Singh refused furiously. After this his flesh was notched out with pliers, hot sharp rods were inserted into his flesh. His eyes were notched out, hands and feet were chopped off. Thus when he became unconscious, his head was chopped off. This black day of the rulers was on 9th June 1716. Whosoever, a Muslim, Hindu or Christian, saw this felt that the souls of those, who sacrificed their lives had miraculous powers that did not allow them to accept defeat. It was a strange incidence in the life of Banda Singh that when at the age of 15 years he saw dying two infants of a deer, which altogether changed his life and now at the age of 46, the beating heart of his own son was being pushed into his own mouth. The English historian Conningham wrote that it was inhumane, unsocial and forest ruled activity of the victorious Mugals for having treated the sikhs in such ill manners. Such dreadful were the scenes, perhaps no body except those who saw could believe. Farakh-Seyer, who tortured and killed Banda Singh and his men in June 1716, met with the same fate just after three years at the hands of his own men. There was a revolt against him. He hid himself in the dark rooms of Red Fort. He was chased, and his eyes similarly notched off. And then killed. Banda Singh Bahadur ruled only for 6 to 7 years, when sikhs were like salt in flour. This broke the yoke of 700 years rule of the invading forces from the Arab countries. Their myth of power was broken by him. The sacrifices of Banda Singh and his men did not discourage the sikhs but prepared them for the worst future fights. Passing through very difficult times for the next 40 years, the sikhs ruled at Lahore under the leadership of Nawab Kapoor Singh and then by Jassa Singh Ahluwalia in 1756. Later on they ruled all over Punjab in the form of 12 Sikh Misels (groups) under different names. This ultimately led to establish Khalsa Raj under Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1799 AD. HOME :::: Back

Banda Singh's March towards Punjab <P align=justify>In Oct. 1708, at Nander, Guru Gobind Singh sent Banda Singh to Punjab and advised him to: 1. Put a stop to the cruelty of Punjab rulers. 2. Punish the guilty and cruel misrulers. 3. To fight for human rights, uplift and strengthen the poor, the low and slave like people who could not even imagine freedom. The Guru blessed him with: 1. Guru's order to Sikh Sangats. 2. Five arrows. 3. A double Edged sword (Khanda). 4. A big leather mounted drum (Nagaara). He sent with him five Sikhs for counseling: 1. Bhai Daya Singh 2. Bhai Binod Singh 3. Bhai Kahan Singh 4. Bhai Bijay Singh 5. Bhai Ran Singh Another 25 Singh's as companions and fighters. In the times of Sikh Gurus, wars were defensive. Generally they fought when war was thrust upon them. Though at two occasions Baba Ajit Singh, the eldest son of Guru Gobind Singh was advised by the Guru to go and help the poor Brahmins who's newly married daughter-in-law was taken away by the local Mugal chieftains that Baba Ajit Singh along with few Sikhs were offensive. The 6th Guru, Guru Har Gobind fought 4 wars with the Mugal Chieftains and won in all. His war strategy was to challenge the Generals and fight with them and avoid bloodshed of masses even then numbers of brave Sikhs and Mugal soldiers were killed because no General wanted to face the Guru alone. The 10 th Guru, Guru Gobind Singh faced about 16 wars in a period of about 25 years. Whole family of Guru Gobind Singh, thousands of sikhs, devoted muslims - the name of Peer Budhu Shah of Sadhoura (a town in Punjab) is worth mentioning, his 2 sons, nephews and many of his followers - sacrificed their lives while fighting the Mugal soldiers. In a later period the Nawab of Sadhoura, Usmaan Khan, the Mugal ruler, killed Peer Budhu Shah and cut his body into pieces and threw them in different parts of Sadhoura, punishing him for having served Guru Gobind Singh. For such reasons it was imperative for Banda Singh Bahadur to be offensive and punish the guilty. The Nawab of Sarhind, Wazir Khan, the murderer of 2 younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh was feeling relieved knowing that Guru Gobind Singh had departed towards South but had constant fear that Sikhs won't let him live. He had prepared and sent two Pathan spies to chase and murder the Guru. At Nander one day they succeeded in stabbing Guru Gobind Singh when he was resting, even though both of them lost their lives. The wounds of the Guru were operated and stitched. After about one and a half month, the injuries became the cause of Guru's passing away. But before this the Guru had already created Khalsa, prepared Banda Singh Bahadur and sent him to Punjab. It was first time in The Sikh history that Sikhs were attackers and offensives but their aim was same as earlier. Banda Singh was on the way to Punjab, when Guru Gobind Singh after giving Guruship to the everlasting Shabad Guru - Guru Granth Sahib, had left this world. After reaching Punjab, Banda Singh sent Guru's message to the Sikhs all over Punjab, Kashmir and Afghanistan. Memories of unlimited sacrifices of Gurus, their families, Sikhs and their sufferings at the hands of oppressors were fresh in the Sikh masses. News of passing away of their dear Guru, Guru Gobind Singh added fuel to the fire for fighting the Mugal rulers and making sacrifices. Listening to the call of Banda Singh at the behest of Guru, Sikhs started joining Banda Singh. In a short period Banda Singh had 4000 horse rider and 7800 artillery Sikhs with him. After some more time the strength of 40,000 warriors was at his command. His army was constituted by four type of people: 1. The true followers all over from Punjab, Kabul, Kandhar, Multan and Kashmir. 2. God fearing Muslims, who had been always with the Guru in most of the fights. 3. Poor, down-trodden and low caste who had always been subjected to torture. 4. Some unknown selfish bad elements with the intention of loots. To meet financial needs, Banda Singh made fervent appeals to big business men of that time. After meeting the basic requirements, in Feb. 1709 he started attacking various towns and conquered various areas of Punjab such as Samaana, Sonepat, Kenthal, Ghurham, Thaskaa, Shahbaad, Kapoori, Sadhoura etc. Usmaan Khan, the murderer of Peer Bhudu Shah was killed by Banda singh's army. At Usmaan Khan's death, even the people of Sadhoura felt relief and were grateful to the Sikh army. Malerkotla was won without any resistance, because it was the Nawab of Malerkotla, who had fervently appealed against the killing of Guru's two younger sons. In the meantime another group of Sikhs from Majha (Central Punjab) attacked Ropar and other nearby areas and joined with the forces of Banda Singh. Now main aim for the Sikhs was Sarhind and its Nawab Wazir Khan. This war took place in May 1710 at the field of "Chhappar Chiri" 15 miles away from Sarhind. Wazir Hkan lost his life. The Mugal army ran away from the field. The Sikhs entered the city of Sarhind. Most of the high officials and administrators were killed. Their buildings were destroyed and looted. Even in war, Banda Bahadur had instructed not to harm any Mosque, Madrassa and Makbras (Graves). Irrespective of their religion, the old, women and children were protected from any harm. Sheikh Ahmed Sirhindi was the main conspirator for the death of Guru Arjan dev ji. Even his grave was not destroyed. All attempts were made to avoid to give any religious colour to these wars. As and when an area was conquered Banda Singh appointed one of his trusted lieutenants to govern these places and who in turn appointed other local people for administration. Keeping continuous the wave of attacks on other areas, in 1710 itself he took over other Northeren Areas in between rivers of Jamuna and Ganga such as Saharan Pur, Shamli, Muzzafar Nagar etc. Banda Singh established his capital at Mukhlis Garh, a place situated in the base of hills and away from the main highway and central areas from security point of view. He repaired the fort of Mukhlis Garh and renamed it as Loh Garh. He even started a mint to make coins and stamps in the name of Guru Nanak and Guru Gobind Singh and established Khalsa Kingdom. Seeing such a rise of Banda Singh, The Mugal Emperor at Delhi, Bahadur Shah became nervous and furious. He could least think of such a situation. To take back his lost areas, he started chasing Banda Singh with all his forces. Viewing the situation, Banda Singh and his forces returned to the fort of Loh Garh in Dec 1710. The Mugal forces surrounded the fort and cut off all supplies. In one of pitch dark nights, Banda Singh and his men forced their way through the Mugal army and moved towards upper hill areas. Punishing various kings of hills who were part of the Mugal forces against Guru Gobind Singh, he moved towards Jammu. Bahadar Shah reached Lahore in Aug.1711. His attempts to kill or capture Banda Singh were on. In Feb 1712 Bahadur Shah died out of illness. For one year there was fight for the Throne of Delhi among his sons. To take gain of the situation Banda Singh collected his forces and again conquered Batala , Kalanaour, Sarhind, Muzaffar Nagar and other areas in 1712 and ruled till 1715. In Delhi, Farukh Seyer son of Azimu-Shaan became king of Hindustan in Feb 1713. It was for the first time that Banda Singh broke the believe of Mugals that they could not be conquered by any one. He established a democratic rule. The poor and down trodden got a sense if living with dignity. Those who tilled the land became its owners. He had power of devils but heart of saints. He protected the poor and low, did not harm those who surrendered. Clear example is the army of Afgan fighters who did not want to fight Banda Singh and accepted his leadership. <P align=justify>Arrest and sacrifices of Banda Singh and his men In April 1715, Farakh Seyer the King of Hindustan, ordered all the governors of North India that Banda Singh either be killed or arrested. He taunted the Governer of Lahore, Abdu-Samad for his inability and sent his own forces for his help. Banda Singh and his forces were at Gurdaas Pur. He occupied a kachhi Garhi (a dilapidated four walled area) of Duni Chand at Gurdas Nangal. The Mugal forces dared not even to attack this Kachhi Garhi and surrounded it for 8 months. Banda Singh had very little army with him and had very limited quantity of weapons and food. The Mugals had cut off all the supplies from outside. Baba Binod Singh wanted to run away from the Garhi as was done in Dec 1710 while leaving the fort of Loh Garh. Banda Singh's strategy was different. He did not want to leave the Garhi. Banda Singh's strategy was different. He did not want to leave the Garhi but said that those who wanted to leave him could go. At an appropriate night Baba Binod Singh and his men left the Garhi. This left Banda Singh and about 800 of his men in the Garhi. Day by day conditions worsened in the Garhi. No food was left, grass, leaves of plants and trees were boiled and eaten. Even balk of trees was eaten. One cannot imagine the misery they faced. Meat of animals and birds was eaten. Not even wood was left for cooking. It is said a few cut the flesh of their own thighs to eat. History was being created, but there was no one to write. They were completely cut off from the outside world. Number of Banda Singh's men fell ill and had bad stomach. After surrounding for 8 months, the Mugal army with swords in their hands charged the fort. Even at this stage the Sikhs offered heavy resistance. It is said Banda Singh alone had killed about 50 to 60 soldiers of the Mugal army before he could be captured. Hazi Karam-war Khan writes in his book 'Tazkiratu-Sulatin Chugtian' that arrest of Banda Singh and his men was not the result of wisdom or bravery of the rulers, but it was the Grace of God that Kafir( Non Muslim) Banda Singh and his men were weakened by hunger. The Nawab was surprised at the wealth- Banda Singh had and the determination with which they were fighting. Hardly rupees 600 and 23 gold coins and a few weapons were found with them. The Mugal soldiers thought that the sikhs had swallowed gold coins, in fact few of the sikhs were killed, their stomachs torn open, but nothing was found. Thus Banda Singh with about 800 sikhs was captured in Dec. 1715. They were taken to Lahore in the form of a procession. Farukh-Seyer, the king at Delhi, wanted them at Delhi. Abdu-Samad, the governor of Lahore, wanted himself to go to Delhi to present this big catch and take all the credit, but Farakh-Seyer ordered him to stay back and send his son Zakria Khan. The Nawab and his son thought that this was too small a 'gift' -Banda Singh, 200 heads on spears and 700 prisoners. So they ordered the local chieftains to behead the sikhs wherever found and present their heads to the Nawab. Thus thousands of sikhs were murdered. Banda Singh was clothed with clothes of a joker with a cap on head, was firmly chained, put in an iron cage. The cage was tied on top of an elephant. On both sides of the cage two Mugfal soldiers were seated with unsheathed swords, lest Banda Singh may still free himself and try to run away. About 760 prisoners were forced to wear coats of goat skins and caps of different colours. They were tied with chains and shackles and were seated on unsaddled camels - two on one with back to back. Thus the procession consisted of: 1. Banda Singh on an elephant in an iron cage in the fore-front. 2. 760 prisoners in chains on camels. 3. About seven hundreds of Mugal soldiers on horses with heads of sikhs on their spears. 4. About 700 hundred carts, loads with severed heads of sikhs. 5. A dead cat on a spear indicating not even a trace of a sikh is left. This procession was brought to Delhi in Feb.1716.Thousands of men and women were on streets to witness this horrible procession. People of all faiths, even Christians were witness to this. Among the captured sikhs not even a single sikh was sad, disappointed or ready to ask for mercy. Accepting it as the Will of God they were happily singing Gurbani. Leaving Banda Singh and a few of his companions for interrogation, others about 700 were beheaded in front of Delhi Gate at Khuni Darwaja. This execution went on for 7 days daily at the rate of 100 executions per day in the open and publically. This slaughtering was carried over in March 1716. Banda Singh and his remaining men were interrogated for 3 months to find out about their war strategies, wealth and ammunition. He had, in fact, never buried any wealth or currency. Whatever he got he used to distribute among his soldiers and needy. His weapons were only swords, spears, bows, arrows, daggers etc. His army was on foot and horses. He had no elephants or cannons or any other sophisticated weapens. At last in June 1716, Banda Singh and his 26 companions were moved in the streets of old Delhi in the form of a procession and then taken to the Makbra (Grave) of Khawaza Kutub-ud-deen Bakhitiyar Kaki near Kutub Minar. 26 sikhs were beheaded in the presence of Banda Singh, hoping that he may still ask for mercy. Now it was the turn of Banda Singh. He was asked to accept Islam or face death. He accepted death. <A name=6> Execution of Banda Singh Bahadar Banda Singh's 4 years old son was seated on his lap. A dagger was given to Banda Singh and ordered to cut his own son. He refused. The executioner pierced the chest of his son, took out the violently vibrating heart and tried to push into the mouth of Banda Singh. Though shackled, Banda Singh refused furiously. After this his flesh was notched out with pliers, hot sharp rods were inserted into his flesh. His eyes were notched out, hands and feet were chopped off. Thus when he became unconscious, his head was chopped off. This black day of the rulers was on 9th June 1716. Whosoever, a Muslim, Hindu or Christian, saw this felt that the souls of those, who sacrificed their lives had miraculous powers that did not allow them to accept defeat. It was a strange incidence in the life of Banda Singh that when at the age of 15 years he saw dying two infants of a deer, which altogether changed his life and now at the age of 46, the beating heart of his own son was being pushed into his own mouth. The English historian Conningham wrote that it was inhumane, unsocial and forest ruled activity of the victorious Mugals for having treated the sikhs in such ill manners. Such dreadful were the scenes, perhaps no body except those who saw could believe. Farakh-Seyer, who tortured and killed Banda Singh and his men in June 1716, met with the same fate just after three years at the hands of his own men. There was a revolt against him. He hid himself in the dark rooms of Red Fort. He was chased, and his eyes similarly notched off. And then killed. Banda Singh Bahadur ruled only for 6 to 7 years, when sikhs were like salt in flour. This broke the yoke of 700 years rule of the invading forces from the Arab countries. Their myth of power was broken by him. The sacrifices of Banda Singh and his men did not discourage the sikhs but prepared them for the worst future fights. Passing through very difficult times for the next 40 years, the sikhs ruled at Lahore under the leadership of Nawab Kapoor Singh and then by Jassa Singh Ahluwalia in 1756. Later on they ruled all over Punjab in the form of 12 Sikh Misels (groups) under different names. This ultimately led to establish Khalsa Raj under Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1799 AD. HOME :::: Back

The Udasi (Udasin) is the one who is indifferent to wordly affairs. Baba Sri Chand was the historical founder of the Udasi sect said to have begun with Muni Sanat Kumar. A son of Guru Nanak Dev and Mata Sulakhani Devi, Sri Chand was born on “Bhadrpada Shukla Navami” at Sultanpur Lodhi (Punjab). The infant had matted hair, three horizontal marks on his forehead, rings in his right ear and holy ash all over his body. His birth chart showed that he would be a man of deep learning, have extraordinary qualities and would remain a celibate. When Sri Chand was about seven years, Guru Nanak Dev went on his first spiritual tour (Udasi). After two years he was invested with the sacred thread (yajnopavita) and formally initiated into the Vedic literature by Pandit Hardayal. At 11 he went to the “gurukul” of Acharya Purushottam Kaul in Srinagar for a comprehensive study of the holy texts and subsequently received initiation from Avinashi Muni. Sri Chand loved the solitude of forests where he meditated for hours without any fear of carnivores. Miracles came naturally to him. At Sankheshvara (near Dvarika, Gujarat) he made a spring flow by just blowing his conch and burying it in the ground. While in Kashmir, he buried a burning piece of wood from his “dhuna” and materialised green leaves on it in the presence of representatives of Yakub Khan who had come to arrest him. The place, known as “Sri Chandra Chinar”, exists to this day and is in the occupation of Udasis. At Chamba, on the banks of the Ravi, he made a large stone move like a boat to provide spiritual light to a boatman who had refused to ferry him across. Sri Chand went as far as Sindh, Baluchistan, Kabul and Kandhar delineating the principles of true dharma and spreading the message of love and peace. He also visited Kailash in Tibet, Mansarovar, Nepal and Bhutan, besides Assam (Kamarupa) and Puri in the east and Somnath in the west. Sri Chand built a humble memorial to his father by salvaging the urn containing his ashes (from the fury of flood at Kartarpur) and burying it at a place which developed into a town known as Dera Baba Nanak. The successors of Guru Nanak Dev held him in deep reverence. Before his death he is said to have nominated Baba Gurditta, the eldest son of sixth Sikh Guru Hargobind as his successor, who, in turn, established four monastic orders (“dhunas”) under Phula Shah, Gonda and Balu Hasna. While the records of Bhattas (bards) say that Sri Chand died at Kiratpur, (January 13, 1629), the Udasis believe that he vanished into the forest of Chamba after giving his last sermon to Brahmaketu, his ardent disciple from Bhutan. Sri Chand’s god was both “saguna” (with attributes) and “nirguna” (without attributes). He synthesised “jnana marg” (way of knowledge) and “bhakti marg”, the idea of one god and of His divine descent on the earth in various forms, and of “dev puja” and “guru puja”. He believed both in the ultimate oneness of everything and in one’s cherished and chosen deity (“ishta devata”). While, on one hand, he tried to bring about a rapprochement between Hindus and Muslims and stemmed the tide of converts to Islam, on the other, he popularised the “panchayatana puja” of the “smarta” brahminical tradition involving the simultaneous worship of the five deities - Ganesha, Surya, Vishnu, Shiva and Shakti - to dilute sectarian differences among the Hindus. Sri Chand believed in the eternal principle of cause and effect (“karma siddhanta”), in the efficacy of the holy name for spiritual realisation, in “varnashrama dharma” and in transmigration. He loved Sanskrit and is said to have evolved a system of Sanskrit grammar (Chandra vyakarna) which is taught in Sanskrit mahavidyalayas of Udasis. Sri Chand remained a celibate throughout his life. Among the works attributed to him are: “Arta” (in Sanskrit arti) Sri Guru Nanak Dev comprising 10 “padas” in honour of his father; “Guru Gayatri” meant for recitation; “Sahasranama” (lit. thousand names) in praise of the supreme being; “Panchadevashatakam” in praise of the five deities and “Matravani” comprising 39 “dvipadas” and is a succinct presentation of the Udasi philosophy. Sri Chand is also said to have written commentaries on the Vedas, the Upanishads and the Vedanta Sutras of Veda Vyasa. A small shrine having the statue of Baba Sri Chand lies at Pakhoke Randhave, near an old “tahli” tree (“sheesham”), mythologically linked to the Udasi preceptor. (Author is Principal of Lyallpur Khalsa College, Jalandhar City.)

Sathiala village is four kilometres northeast of Baba Bakala and has three Gurdwaras dedicated to the first, sixth and ninth Guru resopectively.The first is not mentoned in old sources whilst the other two find a mention in the mahan kosh and are also affiliated to the SGPC. Gurdwara Nanakdar Pahili Paatshahi is claimed to mark the site where Guru Nanak Dev is said to have stayed near a pond during his visit to Sathiala. The pond is no longer there but is represented by a small octagonal tank.This Gurdwara is maintained by the local sangat. Gurdwara Bunga Sahib Cheevin Paatshahi . commemorates Guru Hargobind Ji's visit. Gurdwara Nauvin Paatshahi Dera Sahib is inside the village near an old peepal tree under which Guru Tegh Bahadhur Ji sat and preached.Its present building dates from 1039.This Gurdwara is served by a follower of the Bhindranwale Taaksaal.

Gurdwara Mata Ganga Ji is half a kilometre north of the Darbar Sahib complex and represents the smadh of Guru Hargobind Ji's mother.Mata Ganga Ji had desired before her death on 12th June 1628 that her body be not cremated but immersed in the river Beas. Therefore, her hearse was taken from here in a procession and immersed according to her wishes. But later, it is said, a symbolic cremation also took place and a memorial smadh was built at this spot. The present building was raised in 1952 by Baba Bishan Singh Ji, Head of the Taruna Dal of Nihang Sikhs. The Dal continues to control it althpugh this Gurdwara is also affiliated to the SGPC. The Nihangs also occupy what is called Chaouni Sahib where Guru Hargobind Ji's soldiers camped during his stay here. They have also built a new Gurdwara Paatshahi Chhevin on the site which according to them, was the house of Bhai Mihara with whom Guru Hargobind and Mata Ganga Ji Stayed.

Brahmgiani Baba Sri Chand Ji Maharaj was born unto Sahib Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Mata Sulakhni Ji at Sultanpur Lodhi, district Kapurthala, Punjab. Baba Sri Chand Ji founded the ascetic sect of Udhasis. Baba Ji's headquarters were at Barath, 8km Southwest of Pathankot in Gurdaspur district of the Punjab. The Udhasis functioned as preachers and established missionary centres at different places in the counttry and beyond.Through them Guru Nanak's word was carried to far corners of the land. Baba Sri Chand Ji was a devoted Sikh and a saintly person but an ascetic and renunciate yogi. Baba Sri Chand Ji stayed at Dera Baba Nanak and maintained this important shrine of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He established the Udhasi sect here and they travelled far and wide to spread the word of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Upon Baba Sroi Chand's demise at the age of 135 , the son of Guru Hargobind ji , Baba Gurditta Ji, was appointed the head of the udhasis. They received support and guidance from the Sikhs. The Udhas is protected and maintained the historic Gurdwaras of Sri Anandpur Sahib , Sri Hazoor Sahib, Sri Amritsar for 100plus years after demise of Tenth Guru Ji. This was a time of great persecution for the Sikhs.The Udhasis kept alive the tradition of schools of learning to keep alive the Gurmukhi language and knowledge of Sikh History. The Udhasis preached the teachings of Sahib Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji but they are exempt from the Khalsa initiation. Guru Nanak Dev Ji led a householder lifestyle whereas Baba Sri Chand Ji was an ascetic. However, they both taught devotion to God.

In Commemoration of 400th Anniversary of the Supreme Self Sacrifice of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. S </P>Langar - Guru Ji continued and expanded the service of Langar not only at Goindwaal but also at all the other new centres of Sikhism. Townships and trade. Guru Ji set up various townships, namely Taran Taran Sahib in 1590, Kartarpur Sahib in 1594 and Hargobindpur in 1595. This was after the birth of their only son Hargobind, who later became the sixth Guru of the Sikhs. Guru Arjan Dev Ji encouraged new businesses and bankers to set up in Amritsar where within a few years it is recorded that over 50 trades had set up home here to make it a major trade centre. Hospitals Guru Ji set up hospitals and clinics throughout the flourishing Sikh centres providing free healthcare for the poor. In Taran Taaran, Guru Ji cured lepers and very soon hundreds of sick people started coming to bathe in the waters of the new sarowar there. Sarowars. Guru Ji also constructed Sarowars (water tanks) and Baolis (wells) rejuvenating towns such as Amritsar, Santokhsar and a particularly large one at Taran Taran Sahib. One of the wells was also built in the town of Lahore and is known as the Baoli Sahib in Dabbi Bazar, where at the time, a drought was causing much hardship to the people living there. This was later filled in by Shah Jehan and a mosque built over it. Maharajah Ranjit Singh Ji restored the Baoli in 1820. Another sarowar was built at Chhehrtetta Sahib which also now in Pakistan. One of the Tanks Guru Arjan Dev Ji completed was the Ramdas Sarover in 1586. Later it was here that Guru Ji designed and built Sri Harmandir Sahib in 1589. This holy gurdwara was covered with gold leaf by Maharaja Ranjit Singh Ji in the period 1803 - 1830. Its foundation stone was laid by Mian Mir, a Muslim Saint who was a close companion of Guru Ji. Within Amritsar town, Guru Ji also made BibekSar, RamSar and KaolSar sarowars. At Wadali (where their son Hargobind Ji was born), Guru Ji also dug a well and named it Gang Sar in honour of wife Mata Ganga Ji. Daswand Guru Arjan Dev Ji started the Daswand system of giving one tenth of an individuals earnings towards the upkeep of Gurdwaras and other good causes. This system is still respected by Sikhs all over the world today and accounts for a lot of charitable work around the globe. Writing and Compilation of Gurbani South of Sri Harmandir Sahib, at a quiet and secluded place Guru Ji selected a small area next to pool which was later dug to make a permanent sarover, known as Ramsar. Here with scribe Bhai Gurdas Ji, over a period of three years, Guru Ji collected all the Gurbani of the Gurus and together with writings of Hindu and Muslim Bhagats, compiled the Aadh Granth, the first scripture. It was also at this tranquil place that Guru Ji composed the Sukhmani Sahib, ‘The Psalm of Peace’. In total Guru Arjan Dev Ji composed 2218 Chands in 30 Ragas and further wrote Bawan Akhari, Bara-Maha and six Vars. Guru Ji’s own Gurbani compositions are voluminous and poetical beauty of the highest order. On the 30th of August 1604 Guru Arjan Dev Ji placed the scripture in the new Harmandir Sahib and installed Baba Buddha Ji as the first Granthi. Keertan <FONT"]Guru Ji arranged the Gurbani into a formal musical structure along the lines of Raag, melody and rhythm. Guru Ji was a master musician, did keertan at Goindwal and Harmandir Sahib and even made his own Siranda which is still to be seen at Amritsar. Guru Ji promoted musicians to come and sing Gurbani at Harmandir Sahib. </FONT> Martyrdom There were many factors that led up to the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. In brief these were as follows; Jealousy of Prithi Chand From the very outset, Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s eldest brother Prithi Chand was intensly jealous and wanted the Guruship for himself and then for his son Mehrban. He tried many things to oust Guru Arjan Dev Ji including attempts on the life of the Guru and his son (Guru) Hargobind. He poisoned the minds of Sulhi Khan, Sulbi Khan, Chandu Shah and even the new Emperor Jehangir who all tried to remove Guru Arjan Dev Ji in their own ways. Bitterness of Chandu Shah Chandu was Minister to the Emperor and wielded power in Lahore. He was an ally of Prithi Chand especially after the offer of his daughters hand in marriage to Hargobind Ji was declined by Guru Arjan Dev Ji. He was the driving force behind the Emperors eventual order for Guru Ji’s execution and actually carried out the torture leading to the martyrdom. Opposition of Fanatical Muslims Saikh Ahmad of Sirhind was a leader of the revivalist movement of Islam in India, was a vehement opposer of the Gurus and growing Sikh community. He was instrumental in forming Jehangirs extremist Islamic Nation views and wanted Hindus and Sikhs to be converted en masse to Islam. He especially objected to Guru Jis’ successes with Akbar in socio political affairs to reduce the unjust taxes on non muslim peasants. Guru Ji’s Help to Prince Khushro Emperor Akbar had granted donations to the Sikh causes and even placed 51 gold coins before the Aadh Granth Sahib out of respect. Upon his death, his son Salim took the throne by force, adopted the name of Jehangir and pledged to make India a Muslim state. His half brother, Prince Khushro who was more popular with the people, fled for his life towards Afghanistan. On the way, the 13 year old prince stopped to pay respect to Guru Arjan Dev Ji who in turn blessed him. Jehangir was already increasingly uneasy with Guru Ji’s growing influence amongst the people – even Muslims had started to become followers. He was a fanatical Sunni muslim as opposed to the tolerant ways of his father, Akbar. The never ending queues at Harmandir Sahib for people wishing to show respect to the new Aadh Granth Sahib Ji was just adding to the poison in his thoughts. As Jehangir wrote in his own diary, the feeble excuse that Guru Ji had shown hospitality to the fleeing Khushro, was enough to finally make him decide to end the Sikhs by executing their Guru. Emperor Jahangir writes in his autobiography June 1606: "In Goindwal, which is on the river Biyah (Beas), there was a Hindu named Arjan, in the garments of sainthood and sanctity so much so, that he had captured many of the simple- hearted of the Hindus and even the ignorant and foolish followers of Islam, by his ways and manners, and they had loudly sounded the drum of his holiness. They called him Guru and from all sides stupid people crowded to worship and manifest complete faith in him. For three or four generations (Guru Nanak to Guru Ram Das Ji) they kept this shop (Sikhism) warm. Many times it occurred to me to put a stop to this vain affair or to bring him into the assembly of the people of Islam. At last, when Khusro passed along this road, this insignificant fellow proposed to wait upon him. Khusro happened to halt at the place where he was, and he came out and did homage to him. He behaved to Khusro in certain special ways, and made on his forehead a finger-mark of saffron which the Indians call Qashqa and is considered propitious. When this came to my ears and I fully knew his heresies, I ordered that he should be brought into my presence and having handed over his houses, dwelling places, and children to Murtaza Khan (Sheikh Farid Bukhari) and having confiscated his property I ordered that he should be put to death with tortures." Guru Ji was arrested, taken to Lahore and handed over to Chandu for torture and execution. Four choices were placed before Guru Ji; Change Gurbani in Aadh Granth Sahib Ji in favour of Islam and praise of prophet Muhammed. Accept Islam and be converted, thereby all Sikh followers would also become Muslim. Pay a heavy (200,000Rs) fine to buy way out of death and torture. Painful death by torture. Guru Ji refused to alter Gurbani or conversion to Islam. Even though Sikhs in Lahore got the money together, Guru Ji refused to pay the illegimate ‘fine’saying that the money from devotees should only be used for sewa charitable purposes, not to line the pockets of Chandu or Jehangir. Fines were only imposed on criminals who had broken laws so to pay the fine would be acceptance that Guru Ji was a criminal. The only option left to Guru Ji was accepting death, no matter what the tortures. Thus, Chandu set about with unmatched cruelty making Guru Ji stand outside in the hot summer sun with feet in boiling sand for the first day. The body roasted and blistered by the hot sand being poured over the head. Over five days, Chandu tried everything he could including making Guru Ji sit on a hot plate, sit in boiling water as well as flogging and beating. By chance two Catholic priests were in Lahore at the time and mentioned the severity of cruelty of the torture being meted out to Guru Ji in their letters back to the Vatican. Sain Mian Mir came rushing to Lahore and offered to pay the fines and even ‘raze Lahore to the ground brick by <FONT"]brick’ to stop Guru Ji’s torture. But even in this case, with an eye to the future and the possible consequences of such actions, Guru Ji urged peaceful acceptance of events saying, “ Tera keea meetha lagey....” With tears in his eyes, Mian Mir bowed before Guru Ji. [/font]</FONT> After 5 days, Chandu decided to sew Guru Ji’s burnt blistered body into the dead carcass of a cow with the head showing and parade it through the town as ultimate humility. On that morning, 30th May 1606, Guru Ji asked to be taken to the River Ravi for last ishnaan. Devotees, gently carried Guru Ji to the water. As Guru Ji did ishnaan, a transformation occurred. With every pauri of Japji Sahib being recited, Guru Ji glowed ever more radiant and grew in strength as the blisters disappeared. By the end of the Japji, a heavenly light descended and Guru Ji merged with it, leaving no physical trace behind. All were left in awe as they could still hear the final lines of the Japji Sahib Salok, yet Guru Ji was nowhere to be seen. Like Guru Nanak Dev Ji and later Guru Gobind Singh Ji no physical body was left behind when Guru Ji decided to depart from this Earth. The Gurdwara Dehra Sahib was built at this place. In Sukhmani Sahib Guru Arjan Dev Ji Wrote: Prabh ki agia atam hitavai. Jivan mukat sou kahavai. Taisa harakh taisa us sog. Sada anand tah nahi biog. The one who obeys the will of God, with pleasure in their heart, is called Jivan Mukhat. Joy & grief are alike for them, they are happy because they are never seperated from God. Dhan Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji !

Bhau Dalla remarked that had his men been with Guru Gobind Singh Ji at the battle of Chamkaur, Guru Gobind singh Ji would not have lost his younger sons. Guru Ji wanted to rid Dalla of his ego. A devoted of Guru Ji had presented a gun which Guru Gobind Singh ji put to test. Bhai Dalla Ji asked his men to stand in a line whilst the thought that the exercise would result in the mere waste of precious life.Guru Ji called upon two Singhs ho were rolling their turbans and they argued as to whom would be the first to stand before the gun for its test. Bhai Dalla was surprised at the devotion of Guru Ji's Sikhs,. Guru Ji remarked that he was not dependent on those who feared death. It was at Talwandi Sabo Ki or Damdama Sahib that Guru Gobind Singh ji unarnmed himself and took respite. Guru Ji removed his kamarkasa and hence the name Damdama Sahib or resting place.Guru Gobind Singh Ji had not rested since He had evacuated Sri Anandpur Sahib. The writer of Emperor Aurangzebsays that the Emperor made safe preparations for Guru Gobind Singh to Deccan. Guru Gobind Singh ji reorganised his followers and sent instructions for them to seek his blessings.Sikhs of Guru Ji flocked to Sri Damdama Sahib at once. Here 80, 000 Sikhs were baptised by amrit. The Amrit which remained sprinkled as this Amrit would give birth to many more brave Sikhs. It was at Sabo Ki Talwandi that Guru Gobind Singh Ji prepared the Final version of Sahib Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. This is known as the Damdami Bir.Guru Ji prepared the Final Bir from his intuition because Dhir Mal refused to deliver the original volume to the Guru. Guru Gobind Singh Ji added to Sahib Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji four shabads beginning "So Purakh" and the shabads and salokas of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Ji were aded. THe Sikhs also requested Guru Ji to add his own compositions top the Granth but Guru Ji replied " Shri Guru Granth Sahib JI is the true Granth, My Dasam Granth is my play". Mata Sundari accompanied by Bhai Mani Sinngh Ji had arrived at Damdama .When Mata ji heard of the martyrdom of the four sons of Guru Ji, her eyes filled with tears but Guru Gobind Singh Ji explained that these are moments of joy as "Your sons were brave warriors.They have departed to the heavens". At Damdama Sahib, Bhai Trilok Singh And Ram Singh, the elders of the Phulkian misals told Guru Gobind Singh Ji that they had managed to cremate the bodies of Guru Ji's elder sons despite difficulties. Guru Ji assked them for a wish and that wish would be granted. They requested Guru Ji for some land of their own. Guru Ji prophesised not only will you be landowners , you will be Kings, Guru Ji was at Malwa when he heard of the passing away of Aurangzeb on 3rd March 1707.

Guru Gobind sIngh Ji knew that his stay in village Dina was not without dangers and he chose to move to Kotakpoore . Guru Ji here met a strage personality with the name of Kaapoora. He would talk in the favour of the Guru, however He feared the wrath of the Mughals. He would set aside donations for the Guru's cause. Guru Ji was aware that Kapoora was afraid of confronting the Mughals despite him addressing himself as a Sikh of the Guru.Guru Gobind Singh Ji then travelled to Jaito. Here Guru Ji trained his Sikhs in the art of archery and took stock of his resources.Guru Ji then moved to camp to Chaoutrrha village. Guru Ji told his Sikhs that the Lake at Chaoutrha would be a holy place of pilgrimage and that there would be no point in paying heed to the Ganges anymore. Guru Ji sent orders for his Sikhs to assemble. Sikhs flocked to Kainghrha to receive the Guru's blessings.The writer of Twarikh Khalsa mentions that many brave people of Malva desh volunteered to serve the Guru. The Sikhs from Majha state also visited the Guru at Kaingrrha desh. Amongst them were Sikhs who had escaped the battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib together with Duni Chand.Duni Chand escaped by climbing a wall. Amongst them were Sikhs from Majha state, who were of the opinion that Guru Ji should be prevented from planning anymore battles. Guru Gobind Singh Ji was informed at Suneeear village that the Nawab of Kasoor, Hasan Khan was planning to aatack from the front and that He was accompanied by Wazir Khan. Some Sikhs wrote a disclaimer to the Guru saying that they were no longer his Sikhs.The Silhs had informed the Chaudhry of Lahore that they would let the Guru know about their feelings and if the Guru did not accept their wishes, they would forsake him. Guru ji pocketed the disclaimer just as a spy of Guru Ji reported that an enemy battalion as approaching. Guru Ji established himself on a hillock nearby and could see that the Mughal armies were approaching from both directions.The brave and fearless Sikhs prepared to lay down their lives for the Guru.Bhai Rai Singh drew a line on the ground and asked those that were prepared to lay down their lives for the Guru. Bhai Rai Singh drew a line on the ground and asked those that were prepared to lay down their lives to step forward of the line. Fourty Sikhs prepared to lay down their lives. Bhai Rai Singh ji, brother of Bhai Mani Singh Ji Shaheed, and other beloved Sikhs of Guru Ji occupied a strategic position at the foot of the hillock at village Khidranah. Rest of the Sikhs scattered their breeches and blankets over the trees in an effort to distract the enemy.Guru Ji further fortified their defences. The battle broke out at daybreak just as Guru Gobind Singh ji was completing his prayers. The fourty Sikhsunder the command of Bhai Rai Singh Ji fought against the Mughals bravely. They fought with such bravery that it appeared as if each of the fourty men could take on the Mughal army single handedly. Five other Sikhs were sent to help them. Guru Ji watched all this from a high spot. THe Sikhs managed to gain control of a nearby pond and hence the Mughals were left without any supply of water.Later that afternoon, the Mughals launched a heavy attack upon the Sikhs to be continued [/center]

Sadh Sangat Ji, upcoming amrit sanchaar at Stratford Gurdwara Sahib, Guru Nanak Gurdwara Stratford Road by Damdami Taksaal Waheguru Ji KaKhalsa;Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh

Military spirit After hearing of what had happened in Delhi, Guru Gobind decided to inculcate the martial spirit among his followers. Guru Tegh Bahadur had ordained his son as the next guru, before his departure to Delhi. Gobind Rai was formally installed as the Guru on November 11, 1675, at the age of nine.[2] Guru Gobind Singh engaged 52 poets to translate the heroic Sanskrit epics into contemporary languages. He selected the warlike theme in many of his compositions to infuse martial spirit among his followers. He also wrote several compositions preaching love, equality and the worship of one God, deprecating idolatry and superstition. Guru Gobind Singh's increasing influence and power worried Raja Bhim Chand of Bilaspur (Kahlur), in whose territory Anandpur was located. Meanwhile, the Guru ordered construction of a war drum (nagara) called Ranjit Nagara to enthuse his soldiers. The use of such a war drum was limited to the chieftains, within their territory, and the Raja considered the use of Ranjit Nagara a hostile act. On his Prime Minister's advice, he arranged a meeting with the Guru in Anandpur. He was received with honor in the Guru's court, where his eyes fell at the valuable gifts presented to the Guru by the devotees. Later, Bhim Chand sent a message to the Guru, asking him to lend an elephant called Prasadi (a gift from a devotee) to him. The Guru suspected that Bhim Chand wanted to gain permanent possession of the elephant, and declined his demand. He stated that the devotee who had presented the elephant, did not want it to be given away to anybody else. The Raja was perturbed by the Guru's refusal to give away the elephant, his growing influence, and his interest in military exercises. An atmosphere of confrontation developed between the two on small issues.[3]

waheguru ji ka khalsa;waheguru ji ki fateh Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a true prophet of the Almighty, a poetic and military genius;founder of the Khalsa Panth or the nation of the Pure Ones. Guru Ji was a genius of the sword and pen. Guru Sahib Ji used the pen to praise the almighty Lord and his sword to uproot evil. Guru Gobind Singh Ji's prose today found in Sri Dasam Granth Sahib Ji awakes the human soul from deep slumber. Guru Gobind Singh Ji describes that " I only speak what the Lord God tells me to.I do not fear anyone". Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a great scholar himself and had under himself 52 poets. 52 poets worked in the court of Guru Gobind Singh Ji at Sri Anandpur Sahib. In those times , poets were respected by even Kings. Guru Gobind Singh Ji valued the works of those scholarly poets whose works reflected high moral values and rewarded them with gold coins. Guru Gobind Singh Ji used literary means to awaken the sleeping cowardly Indian Nation. Guru Gobind Singh Ji offered refuge to those who fled the wicked Emperor's court under persecution. Diwan Nand Lal Goya Ji fled the Emperor's court of fear of compulsory conversion to Islam. Sri Anandpur Sahib or the city of Bliss became a centre of millitary excellence as well as being a literary school. The work of the poets were included in a Granth or recension known as Vidiya Sagar which was lost to the River Sirsa on Guru Ji's departure from Sri Anandpur Sahib in December 1704. Later on , the Sikhs gathered as much literarture as they could from what remained angd gave it to Bhai Mani Singh ji who compile the recension "Dasam Paatshah ka Granth" and which later became known as Sri Dasam Granth Sahib Ji. The First recension of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji was scribed by Bhai Gurdass Ji under guidance of Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji Maharaj and was installed at Sri Harimandir Sahib Ji in the year 1604. The Final volume of Sahib Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji known as the Damdami Bir or Final recension was declared to be the Damdami Bir .the Damdami Bir or Final recension was declared to be the living Guru eternal of the Sikhs by Guru Gobind Singh Ji at Sri Hazoor Sahib,Nanded in October 18708 befiore Guru Ji's departure to Sachkhand. Guru Gobind Singh Ji finalisedthe final volume of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji by adding the gurbani of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Ji.Guru Gobind Singh Ji dictated the entire Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji to two scholars BHai Mani Singh Ji and Baba Deep Singh Ji from his intuition because his uncle Dhir Mal refused to handover the original recension to Guru Ji prepared by the Fiffth Guru Sahib in 1604. Guru Gobind Singh Ji's compositions are included in the Sri Dasam granth Sahib Ji.The copositions are 16 in total and include;SRi Jaap Sahib Ji; Sri Akaal Ustat, Sri Bachittar Natak, Chandi Charitar (Ukat Bilas, Chandi Charitar "nd part), Vaar Sri Bagaouti Ji Ki, Gian Parbodh , Chaubis Avatar, Brahmaavtaar, Rudraavtaar, Shabad Hazare, Swaiye 33, Shastar Naam Maala, Charitropakhiyan, Zafarnama. Three of the five banis read during the amrit sanchaar are from the Dasam Granth Sahib and include Jaap Sahib, Sudha sawaiye and Benti Chaupaee. Jaap Sahib advocates worship of the one formless God and expands on the concept mentioned in Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Sudha swaiye dispels false and empty rituals and ego and pride of others. Benti Chaupaee is a humble prayer before the Lord Almighty. Bhul chukk maaf karneee. Hor sumat Baksneee, Sadh Sangat Jeeo. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa;Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh

SIKH GURUS AND BABA SRI CHAND JI MAHARAJ UDHASIBaba Sri Chand Ji and the Sikh Gurus enjoyed a loving mutual relationship.But some misconceptions have arisen regarding Baba Sri Chand Ji Maharaj and the ensuing Sikh Gurus after Shri Guru Nanak dev Ji Maharaj. Some uneducated scholars have suggested that Guru Nanak Dev Ji was the only Sikh Guru to have any relationship with Baba Sri Chand Ji Maharaj.This is a result of the British and Anti-Sikh people to misguide the Sikhs. Sikh History reinforces the idea that Baba Sri Chand Ji Maharaj and the Sikh Gurus enjoyed a deeply loving and intimate relationship. Baba Sri Chand Ji arranged the marriage of his nephew Baba Dharam Chand Ji. Guru Amardass Ji offered his son Bhai Mohan to Baba Sri Chand Ji. Guru Ramdass Ji came to visit Baba Sri Chand Ji and on Baba Ji’s suggestion changed the name of the holy town Ramdaspur or Ramdassar to Sri Amritsar or as known today Sri Harimandir Sahib Ji. The Gur Partap Sooraj Parkash and Guru Twarikh Khalsa also give mention of Baba Sri Chand’s visit to Sri Amritsar.Baba Sri Chand Ji was seated and honoured on a high place.In Twarikh Guru khalsa . Gian Singh Ji writes”Guru Ramdass Ji offered 1 horse and 500 Rupees unto Baba Sri Chand Ji and Baba Ji was very pleased at this offering.Baba Sri Chand Ji asked Guru Ramdass Ji “ Why have thou such a long beard?”.To which Guru Ramdass Ji answered: “ To wipe the feet of holy people like yourself” And Guru Ramdass Ji wiped Baba Sri Chand Ji’s feet with his beard. An annual offering of 500 rupees and a horse was offered to Baba Sri Chand Ji Maharaj everyyear by the household of the Sikh Gurus. Guru Arjan Dev Ji visited Baba Sri Chand Ji at Barath (dist Gurdaspur) and recited his composed 16 Ashtpadis.Baba Sri Chand Ji was very pleased and requested Guru Arjan Dev Ji to utter 24 Ashtpadis to which Guru Ji agreed.Guru Arjan Dev Ji requested Baba Sri Chand Ji to add to the Sukhmani Sahib prayer.Baba Sri Chand Ji uttered the 17th Salok of Sri Sukhmani Sahib following his fathr Guru Nanak Dev Ji ; “Aaad Saach Jugaad Saach Hai Bhi Sach Nanak Hosee Bhi Sach”. Guru Arjan Dev Ji also gathered some pothis from Baba Sri Chand Ji for preparing the AAd Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji or the First Recension of Sahib Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaj. The Sixth Guru of the Sikhs, Sahib Shri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji together with his sons went to pay homage to Baba Sri Chand Ji Maharaj.Baba Sri Chand Ji requested Guru Harobind Sahib Ji to give him his son Baba Gurditta Ji to which Guru Ji agreed. Baba sri Chand Ji remarked that the radiant face of Baba Gurditta Ji was not too dissimilar to that of his father Guru Nanak Dev Ji.Baba Sri Chand ji gave his Udhasi dress to Baba Gurditta Ji and appointed Baba Gurditta JI as his successor and also uttered “Baba Gurditta Din Duniya da Tikka”. If Baba sri Chand Ji had wanted, he could have kept the throne of the Udhasis to his follower , By doing so Baba Sri Chand Ji erased all marks of favouritism and combined the idea of a householder and ascetic in one as per the teachings of Sahib Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj.Baba Sri CHand Ji emphasised also that adopting a householder living was not the sole purpose of Human Birth.The year 1994 marked the 500th Birth Anniversary of Baba Sri Chand Ji and was celebrated with much vigour all over the world.

Sikh Gurus’ wives, Sikh Gurus’ Mothers, Sisters of the Sikh Gurus’,Daughters of Sikh Gurus’. Sikh Gurus’Wives Guru Nanak Dev Ji Mata Sulakhani Ji Guru Angad Dev Ji Mata Khivi Ji Guru Amardas Ji Mata Mansa Devi Ji Guru Ramdas Ji Mata Bhani ji Guru Arjan Dev Ji Mata Ganga Ji Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji Mata Damodhri Ji, Mata Nanaki ji,Mata Mahadevi Ji, Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji Mata Kishan Kaur Ji Guru Harkrishan Sahib Ji Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Mata Gujri Ji Guru Gobind Singh ji Mata Jito Ji, Mata Sundar Kaur Ji, Mata Sahib Kaur Ji Guru ji's Mothers Mata Tripta Ji/ mother of Guru Nanak Dev Ji Mata Ram Kaur Ji Mata Sulakhni Ji Mata Daya Kaur ji Mata Ananti Ji Sikh Gurus’ Sisters Bebe Nanaki Ji Bibi Amro and Bibi Anokhi Bibi Dani Bibi Viro Ji Sikh Warrior Women Mai Bhago Bibi Anoop Kaur Mata Dip Kaur Sardarni Sada Kaur Maharani Chand Kaur Maharani Jind Kaur Rani Sahib Kaur

The marriage party of Guru Ji visited the Holy places of Goindwal, crossed theRiver Beas via Sultanpur Lodhi and reached its final destination of village Dulla. Historians mention that Guru Arjan Dev Ji carried out the marriage of his son, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji in accordance with the principles of Sikhism. Guru Arjan Dev Ji gave a final form to the Sikh Marriage Ceremony. Guru Ji told his Sikhs that the Anand Karaj (Ceremony of Bliss) marked the beginning of a wedded life for the Bride and Groom. Hence Gurbani Kirtan should be sung and four circumbulations of Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji should be observed with paath of Anand Sahib as a concluding prayer.This marriage ceremony was the first of its kind in village Dulla as it was carried out in accordance with the principles of Sikhism. The marriage of Mata Damodhri Ji to Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji was a great help in the spiritual journey of Mata Damodhri Ji. Mata Damodhri Ji witnessed the reverance which the Sikh Gurus had for Gurbani. It was in those days Bhai Banno Ji prepared the bounded volume for the first recension of Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji(the Eternal Guru of the Sikhs).When Bhai Banno returned to Amritsar with the bounded volume of the first recension of Sahib Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the Sangat received Guru Granth Sahib Ji with Great reverance whilst reciting Holy hymns from the Granth. Mata Damodhri witnessed the installation of Aad Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji at Shri Harmandar Sahib,Shri Amritsar in 1604 and saw the appointment of the revered Sikh Baba Buddha Ji as the First Priest.The year 2004 marks the 400th anniversary of the first installation of Sahib Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji at Shri Harimandar Sahib Ji. Guru Arjan Dev Ji emphasised that continuous prayers of the Almighty God would continue at Shri Harimandar Sahib Ji. When Guru Arjan Dev left for his martyrdom, Mata Damodhri was very saddened at the prospect of the tortures Guru Ji would have to face. Mata Ganga Ji consoled her. Guru Arjan Dev Ji installed his son Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji as the Sixth Guru of the Sikhs and ordered that installation ceremony be done by Baba Buddha Ji. Guru Arjan Dev Ji then left for his supreme sacrifice at Lahore. Mata Damodhri would meditate upon the Supreme Lord Day and Night.When Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji was appointed as the Sixth Guru, Mata Damodhri prepared two sword shoulder straps (Gatras) for Guru Ji without Guru Ji requesting her to do so. When Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji was appointed the Sixth Guru, he adorned himself with two swords. Mata Damodhri’s contribution to the advancement of the Saint-Soldier concept of Sikhism was important. Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji had five sons and one daughter.Two sons and one daughter was born to Mata Damodhri Ji.They were Baba Gurditta Ji, Baba Ani Rai and Bibi Veero Ji respectively. Professor Kartar Singh writes in his works ‘Sikh History’, that Baba Gurditta Ji was the eldest son of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. He was born on the 15th of Kattak 1670(1613AD). He was born at village Droli district Ferozpur at his mother’s sister’s house. He learnt the art of weaponry from his father. He was a saint-soldier. He was a fearless soldier and was a chief commander. He excelled on the battlefield in the battles fought by his Guru-Father, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji offered his son to the revered recluse son of Sahib Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj Baba Gurditta Ji educated people about Sikhism.Baba Gurditta Ji got married to Mata Nihal Kaur Ji on 22 Vaisakh 1681.Baba Gurditta Ji had two sons, Dhirmal and Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji. Baba Gurditta Ji left his body on Chet 10 1695 at Kiratpur Sahib Ji. The second son of Mata Damodhri Ji, Bhai Ani Rai Ji was born in the month of Magh 1675 in Shri Amritsar.He was a recluse and spent all day intoxicated with naam and Gurbani.He breathed his last in Kiratpur Sahib Ji. Bibi Veero Ji was born in 1672 at Shri Amritsar. She was married to the son of Sadhoo Dharma. She gave birth to five sons who fought alongside Sahib Shri Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji in the battler of Bhangani. Mata Damodhri remained at village Droli for sometime and left this world on 1688(1631A.D).