On This Day

[AkalPurakhDiFauj]

February 23rd

1881 Sardar Ajit Singh was born at Khatkadh kala, Jallandar.

1921 Gurudwara Luliani Sahib was forcibly taken over and brought under the control of SGPC.

-Ref. "Babbar Akali Movement, A historical Survey," by Dr. Gurcharan Singh, Aman Publications, 1993.

1953 All Sikh religious functions were banned at Darbar Sahib, Amritsar, by the Indian government.

February 24th

1922 through Feb. 26, a diwan is held at Ghurial on the concluding day of 101 Akhand Paths.

1929 An All Party Conference was organized at Sri Akal Takhat, Amritsar for released of Sardar Sewa Singh Thikriwala.

==> Sardar SEWA SINGH THIKRIWALA (1878-1935): Political activities in PEPSU (Patiala and East Punjab States Union) centered around economic and social but certainly not on religious considerations. The problem of antagonistic relations between the landlords and tenants was so enormous that it almost defied a solution. The biggest issue, absentee land-lordism in PEPSU, made the struggle between "Haves" and "Have nots" more bitter and even violent. All important posts were exclusively reserved for a few families that were near and dear to the Maharaja.

After the settlement of disputes over the Gurudwaras, the Akalis from the states began to agitate against the autocratic misuse of power by the maharajas, chiefly Bhupendra Singh of Patiala. Sardar Sewa Singh Thikriwala was the leader of this agitation. Therefore, Maharaja Bhupendra Singh retaliated by having him arrested on a false charge of theft and transferred from Lahore jail to Patiala. Akalis took up the case of Thikriwala and let loose a campaign publicizing Bhupendra Singh's amorous escapades and the sadistic behavior of his police. Though Maharaja was able to win over a section of the Akalis, he could not silence the Punjabi and Urdu press. The pro-Patiala group was led by Giani Sher Singh and Jaswant Singh Jhabal. They condemned the Akali agitation against Bhupendra Singh as a murderous war against a brother.

In 1928, Akalis from the states joined with Hindu nationalists and founded the Praja Mandal (States People's Association). The mandal was later affiliated to the All India States People's Congress, which in turn was associated with the Indian National Congress. Sewa Singh Thikriwala was the moving spirit behind the Association. He was arrested several times and in 1935 succumbed to third degree torture by the Maharaja's Jailers. As a result of the murder of Thikriwala, the anti-Maharaja, anti-British movement gained momentum in all princely states of the Punjab.

-Ref. The Illustrated History of the Sikhs (1947-78), by Gur Rattan Pal Singh.

February 25th

1710 Baba Banda Singh Bahadhur was victorious over Sirhind.

==> BANDA SINGH BAHADHUR: born on KatakSudhi 13 sunmat 1727 to Rajput father Ramdev who was a resident of the Rajori village in Jammu. He was named Lashman Dev by his parents. Since childhood, he exhibited extremely fondness for sanskrit literature and hunting. However, he plunged into deep remorse after killing a pregnant deer. As a result he discarded all his hunting tools and became a disciple of Vaesnav JankiPrasad. He shed all his material wealth, started onto the seekers path for enlightenment, and adopted the new name, Madho Dass.

Wondering in search of enlightenment, when he traveled towards south India and reached the banks of Godawari, he fell in love with this beautiful new place. He established his Ashram and started living here. In sunmat 1765, when Guru Gobind Singh Ji reached Nandaedh, he was extremely impressed and influenced by Guru's preaching. He offered himself as "Satguru Da Banda" (Satguru's person). Guru Gobind Singh Ji introduced him to Amrit and changed his name to Gurbakash Singh. However, he remained popularly known in our Panth as "Banda".

To eradicate the prevalent injustices, Guru Gobind Singh sent Banda accompanied by the following five GurSikhs to Punjab:

Baba Binod Singh

Baba Kanh Singh

Baba Bajh Singh

Baba Bijae Singh

Baba Ram Singh

Banda went to Punjab in sunmat 1765 accompanied with a Hukamnama from Guru Gobind Singh addressed to all the GurSikh. In this Hukamnama, Guru Gobind Singh asked GurSikhs to help Banda in his efforts. Before departure, Banda received three arrows from Guru Gobind Singh and the following instructions:

1. Remain celibate ("Jatt rakhana")

2. Live, operate, and act under the dictates of Khalsa ("Khalsae dae Anusari hokae rahna")

3. Never consider yourself to be Guru ("Aap nu Guru na manenna")

4. Eat only after serving others ("Vartakae Shakana")

5. Help the orphas, poor, unprotected, helpless, destitute, or disolate. ("Anatha di sahiata karni")

Upon reaching Punjab, Gurbakash Singh strictly followed Guru Sahib's instructions and successfully punish all who had previously mistreated the Khalsa Panth. On the 1st Hadh sunmat 1767, after conquering Sirhind, Wajir Khan was punished and eventually killed for the mistreatment of Sahibzadas.

However, Gurbakash Singh became popular among the Khalsa Panth, his self-godliness started awakening. As a result he started adopting and engaging in practices that were against Gurmat. In sunmat 1771, Banda Bahdhur expressed desires to establish his own Gadhi in Sri Harmindar Sahib and sought his self-worhsip. He started a new slogan of "Sachae Sahib ki Fateh" in contrast to the traditional "Vaaheguru Jee Kee Fateh". This resulted in a severe split among Khalsa Panth. Those following the principles as laid by Guru Gobind Singh came to known as "TattKhalsa" while the followers of Gurbakash Singh were known as "BandaiKhalsa". Today there are very few Bandai Sikhs. They do not believe in any other holy scriptures other than Sri Guru Granth Sahib. All their practice are according to Gurmat principles.

Eventually, Banda Bahadhur was cornered by the pursuing enemy forces at "Gurdaspur de Gadhi". It is also popularly known as Bhai Duni Chand di Hawaeli. After months of sustained attacks from AbdalSamadKhan and others with a force of over 20,000, Banda Bahadhur was arrested along with his companions and taken to Delhi. He accepted Shahadat on Chaet Sudhi 1st sunmat 1773.

-Ref. Mahan Kosh.

==> SIRHIND: one of the prominent historical cities of India. Under mughals, Sirhind was a wealthy city. It is at this place where on 13th Poh sunmat 1761, Baba Jorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh, the younger sahibzadas of Guru Gobind Singh, were bricked alive and murdered by Wajir Khan. Subsequently Matta Gujri also passed away near this area.

On 1st of Jaeth sunmat 1767, Bandha Bahadhur captured Sirhind and killed Wajir Khan. In sunmat 1820, KhalsaDal forces captured Sirhind after killing the then ruler Jain Khan, and constructed the historical Gurudwaras. This city is popularly known as "GurMari" among GurSikh Panth.

Historical Gurudwaras in Sirhind include:

1. ShaheedGanj 1: the place marking the cremation of 6,000 Gursikhs, when Bandha Bahadhur captured Sirhind.

2. ShaheedGanj 2: marking the place where Jathaedar Sukha Singh fell while fighting Jain Khan. The Khalsa forces successfully captured Sirhind during this attack.

3. ShaheedGanj 3: marking the place where Jathaedar Malla Singh fell while fighting Jain Khan. The Khalsa forces successfully captured Sirhind during this attack.

4. JottiSaroop: marking the cremation place of younger Sahibzadas of Guru Gobind Singh and Matta Gujri, mother of Guru Gobind Singh.

5. ThadhaSahib: the place where sixth Patshah, Guru Har Gobind Sahib stayed for a short while.

6. FatehGadh: marking the shaheedi place of Sahibzadas. It is about 1.5 miles from the Sirhind railway station where maela celebrations are held annually.

7. Matta Gujri Ji Da Burj: the place where Matta Gujri and the younger Sahibzadas were imprisoned by Wajir Khan. It is also the place of Matta Gujri's Akal Chalana.

8. VimaanGadh: the place where the bodies of younger Sahibzadas and Matta Gujri were brought from FatehGadh and held for the evening. Subsequently the bodies were washed and honorably cremated at JottiSaroop.

-Ref. Mahan Kosh

1921 Gurudwara Hehr Sahib was forcibly taken over and brought under the control of SGPC.

-Ref. "Babbar Akali Movement, A historical Survey," by Dr. Gurcharan Singh, Aman Publications, 1993.

[AkalPurakhDiFauj]

February 26th

1630 Seventh Patshash, Guru Har Rai Ji came to this planet. He was born at Kirtapur in the house of Baba Gurditta, eldest son of Guru Hargobind, and Mata Nihal Kaur. He was the second grandson of Guru hargobind, the first being Baba Dhir Mal. Today is the actual date of birth, although it is observed on a different date by Guru Khalsa Panth (Please NOTE the contention on the actual date. Some have suggested Jan. 16, 1630.).

==> Sri Guru HAR RAI (1630-1661) actual date of Awtar is 26th Feb. 1630 (20 Magh Sunmat 1686) in Baba Gurditaa Ji and Matta Nihal Kaur's home at Kiratpur. On 12 Chaet Sanmat 1701 in City Anup, Jilla Bulandh, UP, Guru Sahib married the daughters of Daya Ram. Two sons, RamRai was born to Mahala Kotkalyani (in sunmat 1703) and Guru Har Krishan Ji were born to Krishan Kaur.

On 8th March 1644 (12 chaet Sanmat 1701) Guru Sahib ascended to the Gur Gaddhi and devoted extensive effort towards preaching the message of Guru Nanak. Upon assuming Guruship, Guru Sahiban extended the tradition of Guru Ka Langar beyond where our Guru's resided. Essentially, Guru asked all followers of Guru Nanak, no matter where they happen to be, to prepare and serve Guru Ka Langar for the needy and the destitute. During sanmat 1703, he traveled to meet with the Malwa Sangat.

Aurangzeb accused Gur Sahib for helping DaraShikoah (Aurangzeb's brother but arch-enemy) and sought his appearance in Delhi. Instead, Gur Sahib sent his eldest son, Ram Rai, to Delhi. Ram Rai was well received by Aurangzeb. He not only satisfactorily responsed to all charges but also impressed Aurangzeb with his cleverness. As a result, Ram Rai was asked to stay on as a state guest for some period. One day, Aurangzeb questioned (under influence from others), why Sri Guru Nanak had criticized Islam in salok "Mitti Musalman Ki"? Ram Rai satisfied the assembled muslims by saying that the actual writing is "Mitti Baimaan Ki" and not "musalman ki".

Though Ram Rai was well-blessed with all powers and strictly instructed only to explain Guru's position, he choose to change Sri Guru Nanak's writings and further performed miracles for Aurangzeb's pleasures. When Sri Guru Har Rai Sahib heard of this incident, he forbid Ram Rai from ever returning home. Guru's word in GurSikhism is absolute divine revelation and not subject to any modificatoions by anyone. Miracles although recognized by Sikh faith, are actively discouraged. Their exposition or display is considered arrogance (competing with Vaaheguru's order). Though Ram Rai managed to please Aurangzeb, Guru Sahib forbid all GurSikhs from ever associating with Ram Rai. As a consequence Ram Rai obtained some jagir from Aurangzeb and settled north of Harduwar in Duun. He died there in sunmat 1788. Because of Ram Rai's Dehra, Duun came to be popularly known as Dehradun. A historical katha suggests that when Ram Rai was engrossed in meditation, the neighboring masands mistook him for dead and cremated his body. For this reason, Matta Punjab Kaur sought punishment of masands from Kalgidhur patshah. Today there is a small following of Ram Rai. However, by Sri Guru Har Rai's hukam, all GurSikhs are forbidden any association with Ram Rai's followers.

On 6th Oct. 1661 (7 Katak Sanmat 1718), after bestowing the Guruship upon Gur Har Krishan, Guru Har Rai left our world in Kiratpur at the age of 31 years, 8 months and 17 days. Guru Har Rai served as the 7th Guru of GurSikhims, for a total period of 17 years, 5 months and 8 days. "Simro Sri Har Rai" (Chandi 3)

-Ref. Mahan Kosh

1822 1822: General Hari Singh Nalwa reached Hajara with his forces.

==> Sardar HARI SINGH NALWA was born to father, Sardar Gurdayal Singh Uppal and mother, Mata Dharam Kaur at Gujrawala in 1781. Besides being a valiant soldier, Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa also served as Governor of Kashmir, Hjara, and Peshawar. He joined Maharaja Ranjit Singh's forces in his early youth and established himself to be one of the most popular Khalsa generals. Among the Sirhadhi Pathans, his name brought immediate fear and respect. He is part of their folklore to this day. He won numerous wars for the Khalsa Panth and died, on Vaisakh 19 sunmat 1894, in the battle near Sirhadhi Jamraud. A place is established within Jamraud fort in remembrance of PanthRattan Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa.

-Ref. Mahan Kosh (pp. 267)

1923 Kishan Singh Gargaj was arrested from Pindori Mahal. He was the chief architect of the Babbar Akali Movement, who had steered the Babbar Akalis clear of the murderous assaults. But after his arrest, the Babbars resorted to indiscriminate murders. Their objective was to expel the British rulers by violent means.

1931 Gandhi visited Sees Ganj Gurdwara to offer his sympathies to the Sikhs at the firing incident of May 6, 1930. Visibly moved at the marration of poilce highhandedness and sacrilege of the Gurdwara, Ghandhi made an important announcement which was later qouted by the Harimandir Sahib defenders (during Operation Bluestar) as an authority to take up arms against the government. He said,

"Truth and non-violence have no room for fraud or falsehood. . In phyiscal warfare even chicanery and fraud have a place but non-violence precludes the use of all other weapons except that of truth and justice."

he went on to add,

"I venture to suggest that the non-violence creed of the Congress is the surest gurantee of its good faith and our Sikh friends have no reason to fear betrayal at its hands. For the moment it did so, the Congress would not only seal its own doom but that of the country too. MOREOVER THE SIKHS ARE A BRAVE PEOPLE, THEY WILL KNOW HOW TO SAFEGUARD THEIR RIGHT BY THE EXERCISE OF ARMS IF IT SHOULD EVER COME TO THAT."

Further that,

"why can you have not faith? If the Congress should play false afterwards YOU CAN WELL SETTLE SURELY WITH IT, for you have the sword. I ask you to accept my word. let God be the bond that binds me and the Congress with you."

-Source "The Sikhs in History," by Sangat Singh, 1995.

1950 Akali conference passed resolution for a Punjabi speaking state (NOTE:- further information sought on this event).

1966 and Feb. 27, an All India Akali Conference (Sarb Hind Akali Conference) was held at Jalandhar, Punjab. At this conference Master Tara Singh taunted the Sikhs with Brahmin-thinking that they are not beggars and cannot live as slaves. He asked the Sikhs, "Are we the Singhs, Sikh Soldiers of Guru Gobind Singh or jackals? We do not trust these [Hindus] ungrateful people. We need to fulfill the goal of "Raj Karega Khalsa. [Khalsa Shall Rule]."

According to the famous line of Guru Granth Sahib, "Bar Praye Baisna Sai(n) mujhe na deh," a resolution was unanimously PASSED in favor of SIKH HOMELAND. Giani Bhupinder Singh, president Sharomani Akali Dal, was authorized to outline the next program.

[AkalPurakhDiFauj]

Sorry, daas wasn't able to post the past few days.

bhul chuk maaf.

February 27th

1926 The following 6 Babbar Akalis were hanged to death in Lahore Central Jail, under the First Babbar Akali Conspiracy case, by the orders of Lord Reading and Malcolm Hailey.

Jathaedar Kishan Singh Gargaj, son of Fateh Singh, Birring village, Jullunder

Babu Santa Singh, son of Suba Singh of Chhoti Herion village, district Ludhiana

Dharam Singh, son of Sobha Singh, Hayatpur village, Hoshiarpur

Nand Singh, son of Ganga Singh of Ghurial village, Jullunder

Dalipa, son of Labh Singh of Dhamian village Hoshiarpur

Karam Singh, son of Bhagwana, Haripur village, Jullunder

Additionally, 13 were sentenced to life imprisonment, 4 transported for 14 years, 17 sentenced to 7 years improsonment, 5 were transported to 5 years imprisonment, 1 to 4 years of impronment, 3 died during the trail, and 40 were acquited. Besides these 91 were implicated in the case but were killed in encounters with the police or died in judicial lock up.

1927 The following 6 Babbar Akalis were sentenced to death and actually hanged in the Babbar Supplementary case II

Banta Singh, Gurusar Satlani village (Amritsar)

Gujjar Singh, Dhapai village (Ludhiana)

Mukand Singh, Jassowal village (Ludhiana)

Nikka Singh, son of Butta Singh, Alowal village (Amritsar)

Nikka Singh, son of Dhonkal Singh, Gill village (Ludhiana)

Sunder Singh, son of Karam Singh, Lohke village (Amritsar)

Addtionally, 14 were sentenced to life imprisonment.

==> BABBAR AKALI MOVEMENT: "Babbar" is an Arabic word which means a lion. Sher and Akali are Punjabi words which mean lion and without death, respectively. In Sikh context Akali is a Sikh who worships the Almighty and who is without death or fear. When combined with word Babbar, word Akali means a Sikh who is without death and is fearless and brave, like a lion. This is how the Babbar Akalis really were. They defied death, fought with great courage, and received martyrdom. They fought the holy war without any selfish motive.

Babbar Akalis had established their rule in the Doaba region of Punjab in the early 20s. Commissioner Towshed of Jalandhar wrote a long letter to the Governor of Punjab,

"The British rule is over in Doaba. No one is ready to cooperate with the government for the fear of the Babbars. There are some people, loyal to the British goverment, who visit my residence in a very secret manner and utter the news, in a low tone, into my ear."

In addition ot the brave men of Doaba, several Sikhs from the Majha and Malwa region also gladly accepted martyrdom. Those include Babu Santa Singh son of Sardar Suba Singh of village Shoti Harion (Tehsil Samrala); Babbar Nikka Singh son of Sardar Buta Singh, village Alowal, Tehsil Tarn Tarn. (Source - Babbar Akalian da Itihas by Dr. Bakhshish Singh Nijjar)

There are some books available on the Babbar Akalis. Two prominent books about this topic are by Dr.' Bakhshish Singh Nijjar (M.A. PhD in history, M.A. Punjabi, M.A.M.L.O. Farsi). He is a Rtd. director of Punjab State Archives and curently living in USA. His books are:

1. Babbar Akalian da Itihas (Punjabi)

2. Babbar Akali Lehar da Itihas

3. History of the Babar Akalis

There is another gentleman, Dr. Gurcharan Singh Aulakh who recently wrote his PhD thesis on the Babbar Akalis. His book is called, "Babbar Akali Movement" and is published by Aman Publications, Punjab.

Two other useful books on the Akalis and Babbar Akalis are:

Babbar Akali Lehar (Punjabi) by Sunder Singh Babbar

Akali Lehar (Punjabi) Partap Singh Giani.

1966 Master Akali Dal demanded the formation of Sikh Homeland.

February 28th

1712 Bahadur Shah died. A cicil war broke out among his sons. Baba Gurbakhash Singh, alias Banda Bahadur, took advantage of the situation and appeared once again in the plains. His first victory was against Islam Khan, the Governor of Lahore. The next to fall was the zone of Sirhind. But this victory was again, short lived.

1921 Gurudwara Rori Sahib was forcibly taken over and brought under the control of SGPC.

-Ref. "Babbar Akali Movement, A historical Survey," by Dr. Gurcharan Singh, Aman Publications, 1993.

1924a 2nd Shahidi Jatha of 500 valiant Akali Satyagrahies, led by Sardar Inder Singh Mirja (Sialkot), started their march for Gangsar, Jaito from Sri Akal Takhat, Amritsar.

1924b All India Congress passed resolution, condeming the killings of Sikhs devotees at Gangsar, Jaito.

==> WHERE IS JAITO? A village under Nabha, which falls on the Bathinda-Ferozpur railway line. It is 96 miles from Lahore and 17 miles from Bathinda. WHAT IS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF JAITO? On this place situated near a fort, is a historical Gurudwara of Guru Gobind Singh Patshah. Maharaja Hira Singh constructed the beautiful buildings of this Gurudwara. The sarowar is popularly known as "Gangsar". About a mile and a half north of Jaito is "Tibhi Sahib" Gurudwara, where Guru Gobind Singh Patshah used to organize and participate in the evening recitation of Rehras. Both Gurudwaras have extensive land sanctioned to it by the Nabha rulers. Additionally, extensive financial resources are made available on an annual basis from the Nabha rulers and the surrounding villages. A maela celebration is held every 7th of Pooh month (Dec.-Jan.) and Katak (Oct.-Nov.) Puranmashi. Jaito's markets are well renowned. People come from far distances to buy and sell their herds.

WHY AKALIS COURTED ARREST? The key issue involved was resoration of Maharaja Ripudaman Singh of Nabha. Maharaja of Nabha, well-known for his pro-Tat Khalsa Proclivities, had a dispute with Maharaja of Patiala, known for this pro-government role. Although Maharaja of Nabha had absolutely no dispute with the government, as a result of mediation, he was forced to abdicate in July 1923. Col. Michin, with the help of troops and armoured cars, took the Maharaja by surprise on July 8, 1923 and taunted him with the query, "Where is that Akali?" The news of deposition by the government raised a strom of protest against the Government's interefernce in Nabha and was decsribed as a challenge to the Akali movement. As a result tensions mounted. The Akalis, in defiance of state orders, continued to hold diwan indefinitely. The Nabha police in order to arrest all the Akalis, including the one reading the holy Granth Sahib, was said to have disrupted the Akhand Path on Sept. 14, 1923. This dispute took such a tragic shape and got so inflames by Feb. 21, 1924 that several people lost their lives. After sixteen shaheedi jathas apart from one from Bengal and another from Canada, the agitation process was completed two years later, on August 6, 1925, after the concurrent bhog of 101 Akand Paaths.

Ref.

- Mahan Kosh

- "The Sikhs in History," by Sangat Singh, 1995

1925 Judgement of Babbar Akali Case, closely related to the Akali movement was passed. 5 Babbar Akalis were sentenced to death.

1926 7 Babbars are sentenced to death in the Babbar conspiracy case, supplementary II.

1975 Sikhs congregation from all corners of IK, gathered at the Sikh Temple, Birmigham, protested against the Anti-Sikhs Policy and passed the following resolution :

Attention of the Indian Government, the Defence Minister in particular, and the Chief of Staff Air/Naval/Army, is drawn to the direct interderence in the Sikh religion, by court martialing and terminating the services of persons working in Armed Forces for not tying their beards. The Sikhs with united beard and leading a sacred and true life according to their Sikh faith, have a great respect in our society. The Sikhs never tolerated such discrimination under the Mughal and British rulers even.

The Indian Government is requested to stop interference in the religious matters of the Sikh people in particular, and meet the Sikh demand that ther services personnel so discharged be re-instated forthwith.

Such likle resolutions were passed at several Sikh congregations, Sensing the widespread Sikh resentment, ultimately Government of India agreed to change its policy to some extent and issed orders directing Sikh recruits to pledge maintaining unshorn hairs.

-Source. History of Sikh Struggles, Vol. 1, By Gurmit Singh, Atlantic Publishers & Distributors, 1989. pp. 62-63

1982 A very strong police force sieged the border village of Daonke, near Pakistan, in order to arrest a young Sikh boy. When the boy could not be found, the sister of the boy was stripped naked and paraded through the streets of the village. The police threatened that the whole village would be dealt with in the same way if the boy was not produced the next day. The next day, before the arrival of the police, all the villagers crossed the border and entered Pakistan in order to escape the fury of the brutal policemen of Gharinda police station of the Punjab. This action was approved by the Punjab Police Chief as well as the Government of the Punjab. The issue was raised in Parliament. The villagers returned one week after the incident.

1983 More Killings: At the end of February, 1983, two young Sikhs, Bhajan Singh and Harpal Singh, were killed by the police in fake encounters.

1993 Baba Gurbachan Singh Manochahal died fighting for Sikh indepedendence. Surrounded by Indian security forces, this legendary hero preferred death to surrender.

==> Baba GURBACHAN SINGH MANOCHAHAL: Born on June 6, 1954 at Manochahal village in Amritsar district, he joined the Indian Army but left it to join the ranks of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. After operation Bluestar he organized an underground Sikh movement for Khalsitan in the villages around Amritsar and Gurdaspur. In 1986, he was made the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takhat and in April 1986 he made a formal anouncement of "Khalistan" from the Darbar Sahib complex.

baba Manochahal was responsible for the formation of the first Panthic Committee which guided the underground movement for many years. In 1987, he formed the "Bhindrawale Tiger Force" with the cooperation of Bhai Wasson Singh Jaffarwal. However the two parted ways later and formed separate groups. He had become a source of terror to the security forces and a refuge to the hopeless rural folks who suffered atrocities at the hand of police and Government agencies. He was very popular among the people of Amritsar district and admired for his humilty and simple living. He lived a stoic life, always on the move, hounded by India's security forces. The Government had placed an award of Rs. 25,00,000 on his head.

He scorned Government's offer of surrender saying, "I would prefer death over surrender." On Feb. 28, 1993, he had his tryst with destiny on the battlefield - the wish of all warriors.

-Source "World Sikh News," Feb. 28-Mar. 5, 1996.

March 1st

1923 Assa Singh of Phakrudi was arrested from Kiratpur Sahib.

1925 15th Shahidi Jatha of 500 valiant Akali Satyagrahies started their march from Sri Akal Takhat, Amritsar, towards Gangsar, Jaito.

==> WHERE IS JAITO? A village under Nabha, which falls on the Bathinda-Ferozpur railway line. It is 96 miles from Lahore and 17 miles from Bathinda.

WHAT IS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF JAITO? On this place situated near a fort, is a historical Gurudwara of Guru Gobind Singh Patshah. Maharaja Hira Singh constructed the beautiful buildings of this Gurudwara. The sarowar is popularly known as "Gangsar". About a mile and a half north of Jaito is "Tibhi Sahib" Gurudwara, where Guru Gobind Singh Patshah used to organize and participate in the evening recitation of Rehras. Both Gurudwaras have extensive land sanctioned to it by the Nabha rulers. Additionally, extensive financial resources are made available on an annual basis from the Nabha rulers and the surrounding villages. A maela celebration is held every 7th of Pooh month (Dec.-Jan.) and Katak (Oct.-Nov.) Puranmashi. Jaito's markets are well renowned. People come from far distances to buy and sell their herds.

WHY AKALIS COURTED ARREST? The key issue involved was resoration of Maharaja Ripudaman Singh of Nabha. Maharaja of Nabha, well-known for his pro-Tat Khalsa Proclivities, had a dispute with Maharaja of Patiala, known for this pro-government role. Although Maharaja of Nabha had absolutely no dispute with the government, as a result of mediation, he was forced to abdicate in July 1923. Col. Michin, with the help of troops and armoured cars, took the Maharaja by surprise on July 8, 1923 and taunted him with the query, "Where is that Akali?" The news of deposition by the government raised a strom of protest against the Government's interefernce in Nabha and was decsribed as a challenge to the Akali movement. As a result tensions mounted. The Akalis, in defiance of state orders, continued to hold diwan indefinitely. The Nabha police in order to arrest all the Akalis, including the one reading the holy Granth Sahib, was said to have disrupted the Akhand Path on Sept. 14, 1923. This dispute took such a tragic shape and got so inflames by Feb. 21, 1924 that several people lost their lives. After sixteen shaheedi jathas apart from one from Bengal and another from Canada, the agitation process was completed two years later, on August 6, 1925, after the concurrent bhog of 101 Akand Paaths.

-Ref. Mahan Kosh "The Sikhs in History," by Sangat Singh, 1995

March 2nd

1909 Sirdar Kapur Singh, the Sikh scholar, statesman and administrator, was born at Mannan Kalan Chakk.

==> Sirdar Kapur Singh (1909-1986), the Sikh scholar, statesman and administrator, was born on 2 March 1909 at Mannan Kalan Chakk. His parents (father: Sardar Didar Singh, and mother: Harman Kaur) were upper middle class peasants at Lyallpur, now known as Faisalabad in the modern-day Pakistan. Young Kapur Singh spent his early childhood at Faisalabad where the environment was saturated with the Sikh rennaissance movement spearheaded by the Singh Sabha ideology.

Sirdar Kapur Singh joined the Lyallpur Khalsa School for his early education. The school was the run under the stewardship of Master Tara Singh, the undisputed leader of the Sikh community during and around the Partition in 1947 when the Sikhs passed through a very crucial phase in the life of community. If the Singh Sabha was working hard around the turn of the century to revive the pristine doctrines of the Sikh faith, the Akali Dal under Master Tara Singh's leadership was responsible for instilling among the Sikhs the feeling of community consciousness. Kapur Singh was fortunate enough to spend his formative years at school under the tutelage of Master Tara Singh.

Having completed his matriculation from the Lyallpur Khalsa School, Kapur Singh shifted to Lahore where he joined the Government College for his graduation. He did his M.A. in Philosophy from Panjab University (1951), securing first position in the University. Thereafter, he sailed down to England to join the Cambridge University from where he got another Master's degree in Philosophy and Moral Science. Bertrand Russell, the well-known and much acclaimed British philosopher, was his tutor at Cambridge.

In 1934, he earned a Tripos from the Cambridge University, and also passed the I.C.S. examination to join the elite bureaucratic class in the British India. He served in that capacity both before and after the independence of India. However, change in political leadership did not matter much for a man of Kapur Singh's mettle who always stood staunchly and fearlessly by his principles.

During his tenure as an I.C.S. officer, Sirdar Kapur Singh performed his duties according to the dictates of his conscience, without ever trying to please his political bosses at the cost of rules and values. He served as Deputy Commissioner for about fifteen years. Some incidents from his commissionaries stand witness to the strong convictions of Sirdar Kapur Singh. We quote here one from the pamphlet issued by the Shiromani Akali Dal at the time of Parliamentary elections of 1962. In 1939 when he was the Deputy Commissioner of Gurjarat, some Nihangs of village Ahla were murdered. Sirdar Kapur Singh, while handling this case, challenged men like Sir Umar Hayat Khan Tiwana. Then, in 1944, he got released about 2200 cows (in Gurgaon) meant to be slaughtered. Next year, twenty Muslim butchers were murdered at Farukh Nagar, a town in the Gurgaon Commissionary under him. The Unionist Government resolved to hand two Hindus for each Muslim dead. Sirdar Kapur Singh faced, singly, the ire of the government and saved all Hindus. In 1942 when he served in the Karnal district, he went on to live with Mahatma Gandhi at Seva Gram. After this brief sojourn he never allowed firing on the Congressmen. Similarly, after independence, he developed close relations with the Sikh leader, Master Tara Singh. In 1942, Mahatma Gandhi was a rebel in the eyes of the British Indian government; and similarly in the 1950's Master Tara Singh was no less than a traitor. Ironically, this kind of love for humanitarian values could pass with the British government in India but not so after independence. So Sirdar Kapur Singh was suspended in April 1949 on "frivolous" charges, and then unceremoniously dismissed from service on 2 September 1953.

After Sardar Kapur Singh became free from his bureaucratic assignment, he joined politics so that he could serve his community and fight for the genuine demands of the Sikhs and the Punjab. He fought the 1952 Parliamentary election and was elected to the Lok Sabha from the Ludhiana constituency. He was elected in 1969 to the Punjab Legislative Assembly. He availed of both these terms to highlight the genuine grievances of his community. He was an ardent supporter of the demand for "an autonomous Sikh Homeland within Indian Union". His aim was two-fold: on the one hand, he wanted the Sikhs "to be able to make their full contribution in the interests of the country and unity of the nation", and, on the other, to let the Sikhs also enjoy, as once Jawaharlal Nehru stated, the glow of freedom. Sirdar Kapur Singh was rather unhappy with the "Sant" leadership of the Sikhs. He also stated that not all Congressmen at the Centre were communal and thus untouchable though a suspicion was taking roots in their minds that the Sikhs aspire for political power only to create a sovereign state like Pakistan. Unfortunately, this suspicion still persists in the minds of most of the Congressmen, and the Sikh leadership has failed miserably to wipe out this ill-conceived suspicion. And, this has been partially responsible for the present human tragedy in Punjab.

Sirdar Kapur Singh was an intellectual of high calibre, with a restless, introspective and thinking soul. He has several publications, both in English and Punjabi, to his credit. Parasharprasna, a thesis on the status and significance of Sikhism, and Sachi Sakhi (Punjabi), political memoirs and analysis of contemporary Sikh history, are two of his more important titles. Pundrik and Saptshring are fine example of Punjabi prose, the former being a collection of cultural essays and the latter biographies of seven great men. He was the first person to render in Punjabi the known Buddhist text Dhammapada. Some of his unpublished works have been published posthumously by Guru Nanak Dev University (1993).

- "Sirdar Kapur Singh: The Unsung Sikh Statesman," by Dr. Dharam Singh, Punjabi University, Patiala

1928 Nehru Committee accepted Sikhs right to bear Kirpan.

March 3rd

1644 Sixth Patshah, Guru Hargobind Ji departed from this planet at Kirtapur. This is the actual date of Joti Jot, although it is observed on a different date by Guru Khalsa Panth.

==> Guru HAR GOBIND PATSHAH (1595-1644) was born on Hadh 21 sunmat 1652 (June 14, 1595) to father Sri Guru Arjan Dev Patshah and mother Matta Ganga Ji, in village Vadhali. He received his religious education from Baba Budha Ji. Guru Sahib married three time:

1. Damodari Ji, daughter of Dalha resident Narayan Das on Bhadho 12 sunmat 1661;

2. Nanaki Ji, daughter of Bakala resident Hari Chand on Vaisakh 8 sunmat 1670;

3. Mahadevi Ji, daughter of Mandiyala resident Daya Ram on Sawan 11 sunmat 1672.

Guru Sahib had five sons (Baba Gurditta Ji, Suraj Mal, Aani Rai, Atal Rai, and Guru Teg Bahadhur Ji) and one daughter (Bhiro). On Jaeth 29 sunmat 1663 (May 25 1606), while ascended to Guru Gadhi, Guru Har Gobind Patshah changed the previous tradition of wearing "Saeli toppi" (cap) and replaced it with wearing "Kalgi". At the same time, he started the tradition of wearing two swords of "Miri Piri". Observing the prevalent conditions of the nation at that time, Guru Sahib started teaching self-protection skills along with the religious preaching.

Guru Sahib,

in sunmat 1665, constructed the Takhat "Akal Bungha", in front of Sri Harmindar Sahib,

in sunmat 1669, established Sri Guru Arjan Dev Sahib's Dehra in Lahore,

from sunmat 1670-71 flourished the forest region of Daroli, etc. by residing there,

in sunmat 1624, helped Mohan and Kalae in establishing Maehraj in Malwa,

in sunmat 1624, constructed the Kolsar sarowar in Amritsar,

in 1685, constructed "Bibaek Sar" for Bibaekae Sikhs.

When the Akbar's policy of assimilation changed to Jahagir's propaganda against the Sikhs, resulting in the martyrdom of Sri Guru Arjan Dev Patshah, Guru Har Gobind Patshah urged his followers to pick up weapons for their self-protection. He preached self-protection along with his religious message. Upon hearing this, Jahagir arrested and jailed Guru Sahib in Gawalior fort. However, instead of losing popularity, as expected by Jahagir, this action immensely increased the popularity and following of Guru Sahib. Many renowned muslims issued a call for Guru Sahib's release. As a result, Jahagir not only released Guru Sahib but actively sought to establish some level of friendship. However, when Shahjahan came to power in sunmat 1685, the government policy went strongly against the Sikhs. As a result, Guru Sahib fought the following four wars with the mughal forces:

1. Amritsar war with General Sukhlis Khan in sunmat 1685.

2. Sri Gobindpur war with the ruler of Jallandar in sunmat 1687.

3. War of Gurusar near Maehraj with General KamarBaeg in sunmat 1688. After this war, Guru Sahib blessed Phul with sovereign rule that subsequently emerged as the Patiala rule.

4. Kartarpur war with Kalae Khan, Pandhae Khan, etc. in 1691. Subsequent to this war, Guru Sahib moved his resident to Kiratpur. However, Guru Sahib continued with his active propagation of Sikh faith. He traveled to Kashmir, PiliBheet, Baar, and Malwa and enlightened thousands on to the correct path. As a result many Muslims came under the fold of Sikhs. He also encouraged Udasis to travel throughout the world to propagate Guru Nanak's message.

Guru Sahib left this materialistic world for heavenly abode on Chaet 7 sunmat 1701 (March 3, 1644) after serving as the sixth Guru of GurSikhism for a total of 37 years, 10 months, and 7 days. Guru Sahib's entire journey through this planet amounted to 48 years, 8 months, and 15 days. Guru Har Rai Patshah ascended to Guru Gadhi after Guru Har Gobind. "Arjan Har Gobind Nu Simaro Sri Har Rai" (Chandhi 3)

-Ref. Mahan Kosh (pp. 265)

1762 Ahmad Shah Abdali, upon reaching Lahore, displays the heads of Sikhs by hanging them on doors and walls.

1921 Speaking at Shaheedi Diwan, Gandhi sought to integrate the Gurudwara reform movement into the national movement against colonialism. He wanted them "to dedicate their martyrdom to Bharat mata and belive that the Khalsa can remain free only in a free India." With this event Ghandhi, in his immitable style took politics into religion which the Central Sikh League, a political organisation, had carefully avoided by leaving the reform movement to the SGPC. Ghandhi was a "Hindu holy man with political cloak" in quest for power. Siks weren't immediately taken in. However, the damage had been done. Gandhi had sown the seeds of division in the Tat Khalsa which sprouted only a few months later.

-Source "The Sikhs in History," by Sangat Singh, 1995

1923 Dacoity at Jamser railway station ius committed by the Babbar Akalis.

1924 3rd Shahidi Jatha of 500 valiant Akali Satyagrahies, led by Sardar Santa Singh of Chuck No. 133, Sargodha, courted arrest at Jaito.

==> WHERE IS JAITO? A village under Nabha, which falls on the Bathinda-Ferozpur railway line. It is 96 miles from Lahore and 17 miles from Bathinda.

WHAT IS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF JAITO? On this place situated near a fort, is a historical Gurudwara of Guru Gobind Singh Patshah. Maharaja Hira Singh constructed the beautiful buildings of this Gurudwara. The sarowar is popularly known as "Gangsar". About a mile and a half north of Jaito is "Tibhi Sahib" Gurudwara, where Guru Gobind Singh Patshah used to organize and participate in the evening recitation of Rehras. Both Gurudwaras have extensive land sanctioned to it by the Nabha rulers. Additionally, extensive financial resources are made available on an annual basis from the Nabha rulers and the surrounding villages. A maela celebration is held every 7th of Pooh month (Dec.-Jan.) and Katak (Oct.-Nov.) Puranmashi. Jaito's markets are well renowned. People come from far distances to buy and sell their herds.

WHY AKALIS COURTED ARREST? The key issue involved was resoration of Maharaja Ripudaman Singh of Nabha. Maharaja of Nabha, well-known for his pro-Tat Khalsa Proclivities, had a dispute with Maharaja of Patiala, known for this pro-government role. Although Maharaja of Nabha had absolutely no dispute with the government, as a result of mediation, he was forced to abdicate in July 1923. Col. Michin, with the help of troops and armoured cars, took the Maharaja by surprise on July 8, 1923 and taunted him with the query, "Where is that Akali?" The news of deposition by the government raised a strom of protest against the Government's interefernce in Nabha and was decsribed as a challenge to the Akali movement. As a result tensions mounted. The Akalis, in defiance of state orders, continued to hold diwan indefinitely. The Nabha police in order to arrest all the Akalis, including the one reading the holy Granth Sahib, was said to have disrupted the Akhand Path on Sept. 14, 1923. This dispute took such a tragic shape and got so inflames by Feb. 21, 1924 that several people lost their lives. After sixteen shaheedi jathas apart from one from Bengal and another from Canada, the agitation process was completed two years later, on August 6, 1925, after the concurrent bhog of 101 Akand Paaths. -Ref. Mahan Kosh "The Sikhs in History," by Sangat Singh, 1995

1947 Muslim League asked to form government in the Punjab. Sikh leaders met in the chamber of Assembly, Lahore. A mammoth crowd raised provocative slogans. At this point, Master Tara Singh came out, unleashed his sword and said "we shall lay down our lives but won't concede Pakistan." With this, it became famous that Master Tara Singh had cut off the Pakistan Flag. In actuality, Master Tara Singh did not tear any flag. However, being a fiery speaker, it was perceieved that he did.

[AkalPurakhDiFauj]

March 4th

1716 Marked the killing of Sikhs in Delhi, under the protection of Sarabrah Khan. 100 Sikhs were killed on the first day.

1947 The Pakistan Holocaust began.

1953 Akali led government of PEPSU province dismissed without any ground.

1988 Jasbir SIngh Rode, a nephew of Jarnail Singh Bhindrawalae, who had been nominated as the Chief Granthi of Sri Akal Takhat, was won over by Rajiv Gandhi, while he was in jail. Under a secret agreement he was released on this day. He tried to confuse the Sikh masses as planned but the Sikh nation rejected him in the same manner as Ragi Darshan Singh. He called a meeting of Sarbat Khalsa at Talwandi Sabo on APril 13, 1988. Even this congregation declated that the Sikh nation would not compromise its freedom.

- Ref. THE SIKHS' STRUGGLE FOR SOVEREIGNTY, An Historical Perspective By Dr. Harjinder Singh Dilgeer and Dr. Awatar Singh Sekhon. Edited By: A.T. Kerr Page 128.

xxxx SIGNIFICANT OBSERVANCE include Maela Dehra Baba Nanak.

==> DEHRA BABA NANAK, in district Gurdaspur, tehsil Batala, on the southern banks of river Ravi, 22 miles from Gurdaspur city, where Guru Nanak shed his earthly body. This place was initially known as Kartarpur. Here a tombstone was erected against Guru Nanak's expressed wishes. However, subsequent flooding of river Ravi, buried the tombstone along with the whole city. The new city, established by LashmiDass Ji (son of DharamChand Ji), was named "Dehra Baba Nanak". Further a new tombstone was erected to mark Guru Nanak's departure from this world. Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Sud Singh and sangat collectively constructed the Gurudwara at this place. There is extensive jagir associated with this Gurudwara. Annual maela celebrations are held here in Vaisakhi, 20th Fagan, and Sradhas. Today, Dehra Baba Nanak is a railway station on the Amritsar Vaerka line, which is 38 miles from Amritsar.

-Ref. Mahan Kosh

[AkalPurakhDiFauj]

March 5th

1716 Marks the begining of systematic execution of 740 Sikh soliders. After their surrender at the fort of Gurdas Nangal, Banda Singh Bahadhur, the valiant Sikh General and his 740 solidiers were taken to Delhi. From Mar. 5 through Mar. 11, these solidiers along with Banda Bahadhur were executed in groups of 100. They were given the option to adopt Islam and escape execution. However, each one of these solidiers refused the offer and instead willingly accepted shahadet with unflinching faith and fortitude.

==> BANDA SINGH BAHADHUR: born on KatakSudhi 13 sunmat 1727 to Rajput father Ramdev who was a resident of the Rajori village in Jammu. He was named Lashman Dev by his parents. Since childhood, he exhibited extremely fondness for sanskrit literature and hunting. However, he plunged into deep remorse after killing a pregnant deer. As a result he discarded all his hunting tools and became a disciple of Vaesnav JankiPrasad. He shed all his material wealth, started onto the seekers path for enlightenment, and adopted the new name, Madho Dass.

Wondering in search of enlightenment, when he traveled towards south India and reached the banks of Godawari, he fell in love with this beautiful new place. He established his Ashram and started living here. In sunmat 1765, when Guru Gobind Singh Ji reached Nandaedh, he was extremely impressed and influenced by Guru's preaching. He offered himself as "Satguru Da Banda" (Satguru's person). Guru Gobind Singh Ji introduced him to Amrit and changed his name to Gurbakash Singh. However, he remained popularly known in our Panth as "Banda".

To eradicate the prevalent injustices, Guru Gobind Singh sent Banda accompanied by the following five GurSikhs to Punjab:

Baba Binod Singh

Baba Kanh Singh

Baba Bajh Singh

Baba Bijae Singh

Baba Ram Singh

Banda went to Punjab in sunmat 1765 accompanied with a Hukamnama from Guru Gobind Singh addressed to all the GurSikh. In this Hukamnama, Guru Gobind Singh asked GurSikhs to help Banda in his efforts. Before departure, Banda received three arrows from Guru Gobind Singh and the following instructions:

1. Remain celibate ("Jatt rakhana")

2. Live, operate, and act under the dictates of Khalsa ("Khalsae dae Anusari hokae rahna")

3. Never consider yourself to be Guru ("Aap nu Guru na manenna")

4. Eat only after serving others ("Vartakae Shakana")

5. Help the orphas, poor, unprotected, helpless, destitute, or disolate. ("Anatha di sahiata karni")

Upon reaching Punjab, Gurbakash Singh strictly followed Guru Sahib's instructions and successfully punish all who had previously mistreated the Khalsa Panth. On the 1st Hadh sunmat 1767, after conquering Sirhind, Wajir Khan was punished and eventually killed for the mistreatment of Sahibzadas.

However, Gurbakash Singh became popular among the Khalsa Panth, his self-godliness started awakening. As a result he started adopting and engaging in practices that were against Gurmat. In sunmat 1771, Banda Bahdhur expressed desires to establish his own Gadhi in Sri Harmindar Sahib and sought his self-worhsip. He started a new slogan of "Sachae Sahib ki Fateh" in contrast to the traditional "Vaaheguru Jee Kee Fateh". This resulted in a severe split among Khalsa Panth. Those following the principles as laid by Guru Gobind Singh came to known as "TattKhalsa" while the followers of Gurbakash Singh were known as "BandaiKhalsa". Today there are very few Bandai Sikhs. They do not believe in any other holy scriptures other than Sri Guru Granth Sahib. All their practice are according to Gurmat principles.

Eventually, Banda Bahadhur was cornered by the pursuing enemy forces at "Gurdaspur de Gadhi". It is also popularly known as Bhai Duni Chand di Hawaeli. After months of sustained attacks from AbdalSamadKhan and others with a force of over 20,000, Banda Bahadhur was arrested along with his companions and taken to Delhi. He accepted Shahadat on Chaet Sudhi 1st sunmat 1773.

-Ref. Mahan Kosh

1748 Khalsa Panth gathered at Anandpur Sahib for Holla Mehla observations and resolved to gather in Amritsar for Vaisakhi celebrations.

1892 The foundation stone for Khalsa College, a Shiromani education institution for Sikhs, was laid in Amritsar by J.B. Loyal. Prof. Gurmukh Singh was instrumental its establishment after more than a decade of tireless efforts. The College Council was controlled by its Vice-President Sit Attar Singh Bhadaur with Jawahar Singh serving as General Secretary.

1921 Gurudwara Sach Khand (Chuharkana) Sahib was forcibly taken over and brought under the control of SGPC.

-Ref. "Babbar Akali Movement, A historical Survey," by Dr. Gurcharan Singh, Aman Publications, 1993.

1948 Khalsa Panth gathered at Anandpur Sahib for Holla Mehla observations and resolved to gather in Amritsar for Vaisakhi celebrations.

1955 Punjabi Suba Conference was held at Patiala.

1971 Elections to Indian Lower House were held. Akali Dal won 1 of the 13 Punjab seats.

[AkalPurakhDiFauj]

March 6th

1752 The cooperation between Sikhs and Mir Mannu snapped as a result of Kaura Mal's death. This was evident from action during Abdali's third invasion. The Sikhs under the patronage of Diwan Kaura Mal, a Khulasa Sikhs, had cooperated with Mir Mannu. henceforth, Mir Mannu as a nominee of Afghans pursued the policy of extirpating Sikhs. If nothing else, their women and children were taken to Nakhas, Lahore, in hundreds, and were subjected to gruesome torture and martyred. In 18 months, he killed about 30,000 Sikhs. The peasentry crushed, because of the Afghan depredations and roving provincial troops in search of the Sikh families, joined the Khalsa fold in large numbers who offered them protection.

1752 Diwan Kodha Mal, also known as Mitha Mal, died while fighting in Lahore.

-Ref. Amritsar Ji Dae Darshan Eshnan Utay 500 <banned word filter activated> Di Ethasak Directory, Satnam Singh Khalsa Advocate, pp 80.

1834 Peshawar occupied by Sikhs. Ranjit Singh sent a force under Hari Singh Nalwa, Ventura and Court under nominal command of Prince Nau Nihal Singh. Pathan chiefs sent their families away as they were aware of the duplicity Of Shah Shujah and Ranjit Singh's intention to occupy Peshawar. They agreed to enhance the tribute but the Sikh army occupied Peshawar on the pretext that the Prince wanted to see the town and the Pathan chiefs left the city. Hari Singh Nalwa was appointed Governor of Peshawar along with the Governorship Of Hazara. British did not appreciate Sikh occupation of Peshawar. Sikh coins struck from Peshawar.

1921 Gurudwara Manak Sahib was forcibly taken over and brought under the control of SGPC.

-Ref. "Babbar Akali Movement, A historical Survey," by Dr. Gurcharan Singh, Aman Publications, 1993.

[AkalPurakhDiFauj]

March 7th

1921 Gurudwara Tham Sahib was forcibly taken over and brought under the control of SGPC.

-Ref. "Babbar Akali Movement, A historical Survey," by Dr. Gurcharan Singh, Aman Publications, 1993.

1959 SGPC at its general meeting accepted the announcement of Sri Damdama Sahib as Guru Khalsa Panth's fifth Takhat.

==> DAMDAMA SAHIB: a tower marking Guru Sahib's residence. The religious places known with this name include:

1. A famous place near village Sabhoki Talwandi, Riyasat Patiala, Njamat Barnala, Tehsil Bathinda, Thana Rama. This place is also known as "Kanshi of Sikhs". Because of Dhalae Sikhs's affection Guru Kalgidhar residing at this location for nine and half month. Mata Sundari Ji and Mata Sahib Kaur, along with Bhai Mani Singh Ji came to visit Guru Sahib at this location. It is this location where Kalgidhar Patshah recited the entire Sri Guru Granth Sahib for final compilation. Tirlok Singh and Ram Singh of Phul family were baptised into the Khalsa order by Guru Sahib on this location. Guru Sahib's blessing of rivers for flourishing the surrounding forest was also granted here. Baba Deep Singh Ji Shaheed was installed as the first Mahant of a newly-estabablished Gurudwara at this location.

Vaisakhi is celebrated annually here. Sant Attar Singh Ji dedicate a major portion of his efforts to the upkeep of this Gurudwara. Damdama Sahib is considered a center for Gurmat scholars and writers.

2. Historical place of Guru Amardas Ji, half a mile from village Kanwan, where Guru Sahib used to collect the ias river water for Guru Angad Patshah's bathing.

3. Sixth Patshah's resident, where Guru Hargobind Ji rested after hunting a pig. This place south of Vadali.

4. The place where, Sri Guru Hargobind Patshah used to organize his diwan.

5. Historical place of Guru Hargobind Patshah, in a garden near Unnae.

6. Place of Guru Har Rai's diwan in Kiratpur.

7. Guru Tegh Bahadhur's Damdama in Dhubadhi Nagar, Assam, which is on the banks of Brahamputar river.

8. Guru Tegh Bahadhur's resting place in Maalmandhi, Amritsar. Guru Sahib rested at this place for sometime before departing Amritsar.

9. Guru Gobind Singh's resting place in Anandpur

10. A historical place of Guru Gobind Singh ji in Delhi.

-Ref. Mahan Kosh pp. 620-1

1966a The formation of Punjabi Suba was declared.

1966b On the occasion of Hola Mohalla festival at Takhat Sri Kesgarh, Sri Anandpur Sahib, Khalsa Panth declared that all Hindi letters from the official boards, signs, and milestones be obliterated throughout the state and the Sikhs removed all those Hindi letters.

-Ref. "Sri Amritsar Ji De Darshan Isnan Ate 500 <banned word filter activated> Di Itihasik Directory," by Satnam Singh Khalsa.

[AkalPurakhDiFauj]

March 8th

1644 Patshahi Seventh, Sri Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji, ascended to Guruship. Guru Hargobind had five sons, three of whom had died during his life time. Of the two who had survived him, SUraj Mal, born in 1617, was a worldly man, with only a moderate interest in religion, and Tegh Bahadhur, born in 1621, was a recluse. So by the command of Guru hargobind, the young Har Rai, grandson of the Guru, who was fourteen years old, was anointed as the seventh Guru of the Sikhs. The ceremony was performed by Baba Bhana, son of Baba Budha. Just before his death, Guru Hargobind put five paisas and a coconut before Har Rai, bowed to him and Baba Bhana put on his forehead the saffron mark and declared him to be the seventh Guru of the Sikhs.

-Ref. "The Sikh Religion and The Sikh People," by Dr. S.S. Kapor, Hemkunt Press, New Delhi, 1992

Today is actual date of Guru Gadhi, though it is observed on a different date by Guru Khalsa Panth.

==> Sri Guru HAR RAI (1630-1661) actual date of Awtar is 26th Feb. 1630 (20 Magh Sunmat 1686) in Baba Gurditaa Ji and Matta Nihal Kaur's home at Kiratpur. On 12 Chaet Sanmat 1701 in City Anup, Jilla Bulandh, UP, Guru Sahib married the daughters of Daya Ram. Two sons, RamRai was born to Mahala Kotkalyani (in sunmat 1703) and Guru Har Krishan Ji were born to Krishan Kaur.

On 8th March 1644 (12 chaet Sanmat 1701) Guru Sahib ascended to the Gur Gaddhi and devoted extensive effort towards preaching the message of Guru Nanak. Upon assuming Guruship, Guru Sahiban extended the tradition of Guru Ka Langar beyond where our Guru's resided. Essentially, Guru asked all followers of Guru Nanak, no matter where they happen to be, to prepare and serve Guru Ka Langar for the needy and the destitute. During sanmat 1703, he traveled to meet with the Malwa Sangat.

Aurangzeb accused Gur Sahib for helping DaraShikoah (Aurangzeb's brother but arch-enemy) and sought his appearance in Delhi. Instead, Gur Sahib sent his eldest son, Ram Rai, to Delhi. Ram Rai was well received by Aurangzeb. He not only satisfactorily responsed to all charges but also impressed Aurangzeb with his cleverness. As a result, Ram Rai was asked to stay on as a state guest for some period. One day, Aurangzeb questioned (under influence from others), why Sri Guru Nanak had criticized Islam in salok "Mitti Musalman Ki"? Ram Rai satisfied the assembled muslims by saying that the actual writing is "Mitti Baimaan Ki" and not "musalman ki". Though Ram Rai was well-blessed with all powers and strictly instructed only to explain Guru's position, he choose to change Sri Guru Nanak's writings and further performed miracles for Aurangzeb's pleasures. When Sri Guru Har Rai Sahib heard of this incident, he forbid Ram Rai from ever returning home. Guru's word in GurSikhism is absolute divine revelation and not subject to any modificatoions by anyone. Miracles although recognized by Sikh faith, are actively discouraged. Their exposition or display is considered arrogance (competing with Vaaheguru's order).

Though Ram Rai managed to please Aurangzeb, Guru Sahib forbid all GurSikhs from ever associating with Ram Rai. As a consequence Ram Rai obtained some jagir from Aurangzeb and settled north of Harduwar in Duun. He died there in sunmat 1788. Because of Ram Rai's Dehra, Duun came to be popularly known as Dehradun. A historical katha suggests that when Ram Rai was engrossed in meditation, the neighboring masands mistook him for dead and cremated his body. For this reason, Matta Punjab Kaur sought punishment of masands from Kalgidhur patshah. Today there is a small following of Ram Rai. However, by Sri Guru Har Rai's hukam, all GurSikhs are forbidden any association with Ram Rai's followers.

On 6th Oct. 1661 (7 Katak Sanmat 1718), after bestowing the Guruship upon Gur Har Krishan, Guru Har Rai left our world in Kiratpur at the age of 31 years, 8 months and 17 days. Guru Har Rai served as the 7th Guru of GurSikhims, for a total period of 17 years, 5 months and 8 days.

"Simro Sri Har Rai" (Chandi 3)

-Ref. Mahan Kosh

1758 Sikhs attacked Lahore. Taemur escaped to Kabul. Adina Begh became the new Governor and initiated atrocities against Sikhs.

-Ref. Amritsar Ji Dae Darshan Eshnan Utay 500 <banned word filter activated> Di Ethasak Directory, Satnam Singh Khalsa Advocate, pp 82.

1783 40,000 strong Sikh forces arrived at Baradhi harbour. Shahijada Mirza Shikoh wanted to engage Sikh forces in a battle, but turned away instead of facing them.

1853 Maharaja Dalip Singh coverted to Christianity. Christian missionaries had spread their network to Lahore, Amritsar and other parts of the Punjab after its annexation. They saw hopeful signs of conversion of the Sikhs and made them a special target.

Maharaja Dalip Singh was formally admitted into the Christian Church with water brought from Ganges nearby at his own private dwelling house. The service was conducted by the Rev. M.W. Jay, with Dr. John S. Login, Mrs. Login, Colonel Alexander and Mr. Guise signing the Baptism register as witnesses. The conversion of Maharaja Dalip Singh and the invitation extended to missionaries by the Sikh Raja of Kapurthala in 1862, the first ever such invitation by an Indian ruler to the missionaries, gave them a promising start. NOTE:- Maharaja Dalip Singh reentered the Sikh faith in 1886. He received Khande Di Pahul (Amrit) on May 26, 1886 at Aden.

==> Maharaja DALIP SINGH, the youngest son of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, who was born in Lahore, on Feb. 1837, to mother Maharani Jind Kaur. His date of birth is disputed by some and alternately suggested as Sept. 4, 1838. Many foreign journalists have wrongly named him as Dhalip Singh and Duleep Singh. However, it should be noted that his correct name is Maharaja Dalip Singh. He assumed the Punjab throne as a child, after Maharaja Sher Singh, on Sept. 18, 1843. During his reign several wars were fought with the British. Unfortunately, he was surrounded by corrupt advisors as illustrated by the following quote.

"Among the Sikh barons who stood around the throne of the young Maharaja Dalip Singh, there was not one, who honestly labored for his country, or who have made the smallest sacrifice to save her."

- The Punjab Chiefs by L.H. Griffin

The agreement of March 9, 1846, after the first Sikh war with the British, included the following conditions:

1. There shall be peace and friendship among Maharaja Dalip Singh and the British government.

2. Lahore darbar would have to relinquish control of the region between Satluj and Bias.

3. War compensation of one and a half crore rupees to be paid by Lahore darbar. Since this amount was beyond the capabilities of Lahore Darbar at that time, Kashmir region was offered for 75 lakhs. However, Maharaja Gulab Singh stepped forward and paid this amount to buy back this region from the British.

4. Maharaja Dalip Singh's forces were restricted to 50 platoons and 12,000 horse-back soldiers.

5. No foreigner from Britain, Europe, or America could be employed in Lahore Darbar without explicit permission of the British government.

6. British government shall refrain from interference in the internal affairs of the Lahore Darbar.

However, towards the end of this year, another set of arrangements were made, under which a council was established to run the Punjab affairs. This council was headed by a British Resident. Further, British forces were brought in to maintain peace in the country. Lahore darbar was charged 22 lakh annually for the maintenance and upkeep of such forces.

However, this arrangement did not last for too long. As in April of 1848, a war erupted among the Sikhs and British. At the end of this war, Sikh kingdom was annexed and Maharaja Dalip Singh was sent out of Punjab to FatehGadh (Uttar Pradesh, dist. Karrukhsbad) under the care of Sir John Spencer Login.

Maharaja Dalip Singh was still a child at the time of the annexation of Punjab and there was no one to dispense any religious education to him. His companions (AudiyaPrasad, Purohit GulabRai, Fakir Jahurudeen) had absolutely no interest or sympathy with GurSikh Dharam. As a result, BhajanLal, a local resident brahmin who had converted to christianity, was given the responsibilities of Dalip Singh's education. Under his influence, Maharaja Dalip Singh adopted christianity on March 8, 1853. A few days prior to adopting christianity, Dalip Singh had presented his hair as a gift to lady Login.

On April 19, 1858, Dalip Singh left for England and started residing at Elveden resident in Norfolk. Dalip Singh married a German lady, Bamba Muller (educated form Cairo missionary school) on June 7, 1864. This marriage resulted in three sons (Victor Dalip Singh, Frederick D.S., and Edward D.S.) and three daughters. Two of his sons were brought up as english gentlemen. The elder, Prince Victor, held a commission in the 1st Royal Dragoons and married a daughter of the Earl of Coventry. He died in 1918 at the age of 58. The younger brother, Prince Frederick was educated at Eton and Magdalene College, Cambridge, where he took history Tripos and later took his M.A. He held a commission in the Suffolk Yeomanry and then transferred to the Norfolk Yeomanry. He resigned his commission in 1909 but rejoined the corps in 1914 and was two years on active service in France. He was awarded the Territorial Decoration. Prince Frederick was deeply interested in archaeology and became a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries and contributed articles to various periodicals on this subject. He died in August 1926, at the age of 58. One of Maharaja's daughters married Dr. Sutherland, lived in Lahore, and was popularly known after her parents as Princess Bamba Sutherland.

Maharani Bamba died in 1890. Later, Maharaja Dalip Singh married an english lady, A.D. Etherill, who lived after Maharaja's death. Maharaja's later years were extremely difficult. He was barred from returning to Punjab, and his pension severed. He died pretty much as an orphan, in Oct. 22, 1893 in Grand Hotel of Paris.

-Ref. Mahan Kosh

The Anglo-Sikh wars resulted in ultimate liquidation of the Sikh power, and on 30th March, 1849, Maharaja Ranjit Singh's short lived kingdom was annexed by the British. Maharaja Dalip Singh was taken away to Fatehgarh in the U.P., and put under the tutelage of Sir John Login of the Bengal Army., with the result that after two years the young Maharaja expressed desire to renounce his faith and embrace Christianity. He was baptised, granted a pension, sent to England and given an estate in Suffolk. The married Bamba Muller, daughter of a European merchant and an Abyssinian mother.

Maharani Bamba spoke and understood only Arabic, and in the beginning the Maharaja had amusing difficulties when attempting to converse with his fiancee. She bore him Prince Victor Dalip Singh, (b. 1866, d. 1918), Prince Fredrick Dalip Singh (b. 1886, d. 1926), Princess Bamba Jindan (b. 1869, d. 1957), Princess Katherine, Prince Albert Edward Dalip Singh (b. 1879, d. 1893), and Princess Sophia Alexandria (b. 1874, d. 1948). The children of Maharaja Dalip Singh died issueless. Dalip Singh came to India twice and was reconverted to his paternal faith. In 1886 he made an attempt to leave England for good and settle down in Punjab, but his attempt failed and he was not allowed to proceed beyond Aden. He did not return to England and died in Paris in 1893.

Princess Bamba Dalip Singh, who later married an English gentleman Dr. Sutherland, continued to keep in her custody the collection of paintings and objects of arts, belonging to her father. She died in Lahore on March 10, 1957, without having any issue, and thus her death ended the line of the Sikh ruling dynasty. She bequeathed the collections to Pir Karim Bakhsh Supra of Lahore who sold it recently to the Government of Pakistan.

The collection consists of 18 oil paintings, 14 water colours, 22 ivory paintings, 17 photographs, 10 metallic objects and 7 miscellaneous articles.

-Ref. "The Princess Bamba Collection" an official publication of Department of Archeology, Pakistan

"Sikh Portraits by European Artists," by F.S. Aijazuddin, a comprehensive source of textual and visual information on the Princess Bamba Collection (Karachi: Oxford Univ. Press)

Maharaja Dalip Singh's life is a tragedy in the true sense of the word. He was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, but died very poor in a hotel in Paris.

Most people do not know that he wanted to reclaim his kingdom by launching a war against the British. Although he had become Chritain at one time, yet he re-entered Khalsa Panth by taking Khade di Pahul (amrit).

Maharaja wrote the following letter to Sardar Sant Singh who was his relative from his mother's side. Here is the text of the letter:

Carlton Club, Pall Mall, S. W.

March 9th, 1886

My Dear Sirdar Ji,

Wah ! Gooroo ji dee Futteh.

I am pleased to receive your letter, but I advise you not to come near me without the permission of Government as you might get into trouble with the authorities.

I intend to leave England with my family on the 31st of this month, but it is possible a little longer delay may occur.

I need not tell you how pleased I shall be (if the Government permits) for you to be present at my receiving Powhl [Amrit] which I trust my cousin Thakur Singh Sindhaanwalla will administer to me.

I am now longing to return to India although Government are afraid to let me reside in the North Western Provinces and desire me to live at Ootakamand, but I put my faith entirely in Sutgooroo who now that I turn to Him for forgivenss I know will forsake me.

Your sincere friend and welwisher

Duleep Singh

Maharaja.

Note: Maharaja Dalip Singh stayed sometime in Aden. During his stay at Aden, the Maharaja Dalip Singh was baptised and re-entered the Sikh faith. He was baptised on May 26, 1886. There is a photograph of Maharaja with full beard (which is tied back) and beutiful uniform and turban. In this picture he looks very handsome and a true Maharaja. This picture must have taken when he was around 35-40. This picture is not the one that most of us have seen where the handsome Maharaja is standing with a sword in his right hand.

-Ref. "History of Freedom Movement in the Punjab - Maharaja Duleep Singh Correspondence, Vol III," published by Punjabi University Patiala.

1967 The Akalis, who had never enjoyed power before, formed their government after the first elections in the new state. This was in fact the first non-Congress government in Punjab. Gurnam Singh's government formed with the support of some willing political partners, fell on November 24, 1967, owing to intra-party intrigue.

1971 The SGPC issued a letter to Bhai Sahib Harbhajan Singh Yogi, authorizing him to establish an ordained Sikhism ministry in the West, to perform marriages, final rites and to adminsiter Amrit according to the Sikh traditions.

[AkalPurakhDiFauj]

March 9th

1783 Sikh forces, under Jassa Singh Ahluwalia and Baghel Singh attacked Delhi and ransacked Houz Khaas after breaking the Mori Gate. Sabzi Mandi, Malkagunj and Pahari Dhiraj areas were plundered. Sikhs set up their headquarters at Majnu Tilla, out-skirts of Delhi. During this attack the Sikh forces captured Delhi. Sardar Baghel Singh returned to Punjab only after getting some major concessions for the Sikhs, raising Kesri Flag on Red Fort and constructing seven historical Gurudwaras connected with Sikh Gurus, including Sis Ganj and Rakab Ganj as memorials to the martydom of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur.

==> BAGHAEL SINGH was a resident of Chubhal, Amritsar. This Sant Sepahi belonged to the "Karohdhi" Misl. In sunmat 1847, working with the Khalsa forces, he attacked and captured Delhi. He received three lakh rupees from the Shah Aalam which he used to build the Delhi Gurudwaras and acquire their surrounding lands. He returned to Punjab after successful completion of all the historical Gurudwara constructions. Baghael Singh led an exemplary life devoted extensively to amrit prachar. Many well known Sikh personalities including Patiala's Raja Sahib Singh Ji, received amrit under Baghael Singh's guidance. He passed away on sunmat 1859 in Amritsar.

-Ref. Mahan Kosh

1846 Treaty of Lahore was signed between the Lahore Darbar and the British:-

All Sikh territories south of Sutlej taken over by the British.

Jaladhur Doab to be occupied by Nritish troops.

An indemnity of one and a half crores imposed on Lahore Darbar.

All rebellious Sikh troops to be disbanded. Only 20,000 infantry and 12,000 cavalry to be maintained by Lahore Darbar.

Dalip Singh recognised as a minor ruler with Rani Jindan as the regent and Lal Singh as the Wazir.

Adequate British troops were retained at Lahore to protect the Raja. Henry Lawrence was appointed as the british Resident.

1921 Master Mota Singh condemns Nanakna Carnage and lashes at the policy of non-violence at Kot Fatuhi.

1946 In view of the revolutionary changes occurring in India and realising the need to protect Sikh identity, SGPC decales that Sikhs are a Nation through a resolution.

==> RESOLUTION OF SIKH STATE of the SHIROMANI GURDWARA PRABANDHAK COMMITTEE

March 9th, 1946, Sri Amritsar, Panjab

Resolution No. 18

RESOLUTION OF SIKH STATE

The general house of the Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee met under the presidency of Jathedar Mohan Singh Nagoke on March 9, 1946 at the S.G.P.C. headquarters, Teja Singh Samundri Hall, Amritsar. This meeting was attended by 80 elected members of the S.G.P.C.

Sardar Basant Singh of village Kukkar proposed the following resolution:

"The present political state of affairs in the country hold out ominous portents for all nations, including the Sikhs. In view of the revolutionary changes which are occurring in the country and realising the need to protect Sikh identity:

A. The Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (S.G.P.C.) declares that the Sikhs are a nation;

B. This general house of the S.G.P.C. considers it imperative to have a Sikh state to preserve the main Sikh shrines, Sikh social practices, Sikh self-respect and pride, Sikh sovereignty and the future prosperity of the Sikh people.

Therefore this house appeals to the Sikh people to endeavour to achieve the goal of a Sikh state."

The aforesaid resolution was seconded by S. Amar Singh Dosanjh. He said that under the present circumstances, the establishment of a Sikh state is necessary for the protection and propagation of the Sikh religion. He further opined that Sikhs are a nation and possess all the attributes of nationhood. He emphatically stated that any attempt to dub the Sikhs as a branch of a Hindu tree is an attempt to denigrate our separate identity and a ploy to assimilate us into the vastness of Hinduism. The Sikh people cannot progress and prosper as slaves of another nation. Our numerical minority cannot be hindrance to the formation of a separate Sikhs state. We are entitled to the same share as that of the majority community.

S.Gurdit Singh of Jhang Maghiana said that the resolution with the approval of the Sikh Sangat should be put forward in the next meeting.

S. Gurdial Singh Rajoana extended his support to the resolution.

S. Sohan Singh Jalal Usram, S. Wazir Singh Montgomery and S. Santa Singh Bhangali said that this important resolution must be put forward only with the approval of the Sikh Sangat.

Speaking in favour of the resolution, Giani Kartar Singh said that soon discussions and deliberations are to take place regarding the new political status of Hindustan and therefore such an important issue must not be postponed. The considered opinion of the S.G.P.C. must be formulated and circulated among the Sikh national leadership. Our idea and conception of the Sikh state is clear and unhindered. Sikhs are a nation, as such the Sikh people and the clean-shaven with shorn hair are the only two nations. It is crucial to have a territory wherein Sikhs can live freely and be masters of their own destiny.

S. Kartar Singh Jhabbar also gave his consent to the resolution.

*The Resolution was put to voice vote and was unanimously passed by show of hands.

(- SIGNED -)

S. Beant Singh, Member Jathedar Mohan Singh Nagoke, President

S. Amar Singh Dosanjh, Member

J. Gurdit Singh Jhang Maghiana, Member

Gurdial Singh Rajoana, Member

S. Sohan Singh Jalal Usram, Member

Wazir Singh Montgomery, Member

S. Santa Singh Bhangali, Member

1966 The formation of Punjabi Suba was declared on the radio, but people like Atal Bihari Bajpayee continued to demonstrate his stupidity by oppossing it. Former Prime Minister of Indian Morarji Desai also opposed the formation of Punjabi Suba.

-Ref. "Sri Amritsar Ji De Darshan Isnan Ate 500 <banned word filter activated> Di Itihasik Directory," by Satnam Singh Khalsa.

1985 The Sikh Homeland was sealed permanently for foreign visiters. Even Amnesty International, the Human Rights Commission and the other Humane organizations were banned in the Sikh zone (Punjab) so that the world may not get the true picture of the atrocities being perpetuated on the Sikhs by the Indian Government. Since then all of Punjab has been like a concentration camp for Sikhs.

[AkalPurakhDiFauj]

March 10th

1644 Bhai Mani Singh Ji, a great martyr and Granthi of Harminder Sahib was born.

1746a Subaegh Singh and Mehtaab Singh Ji were martyred.

1746b All the Sikhs of Lahore were beheaded at Nakas. After the 1745, Sarbat Khalsa resolution, Sikhs attacked Lahore one evening and decamped with a large booty. Yahya Khan who had taken over as Governor asked Diwan Lakhpar Rai to displace the Sikhsfrom the nearby swamp hounts. One of the units led by Jassa Singh Ahluwalia on the way to the hills clashed with his younger brother Jaspat Rai and chopped of his head. Lakhpat Rai now in rage vowed to erase the Sikhs from the pages of history. He got a proclamation for general masscre of the Sikhs. All Sikhs of Lahore were beheaded at Nakhas on amavas, despite a petition by general body of Hindus that the executions should not take place at least on amavas. The Sikh scriptures that fell into his hands were desecrated and destroyed.

1846 British took Koh-i-noor from Lahore.

1923 Buta Singh, Lambardar of Nangal Shammann is murdered.

1946 Shiromani Gurudwara Prabhandak Committee (SGPC) passed resolution for the formation of s Sikh State.

1996 GurSikh women participated in the cleansing of Sri Harimandir Sahib's floor in the Amrit Vela. GurSikh women including Bhai Fauja Singh's Singhni reached Darshani Doeri and joined others waiting for sewa. Everyone was meditating and reciting bani in preparation. Today, even Jathedar of Sri Akal Takhat had joined the group. Suddenly, most of the men, who had been sitting there moved away, and joined a crowd which had been forming in a tight knot near the right-hand nishan sahib. There was a sense of hostility. But everyone was assured because of the Jathedar's presence. Suddenly, the crowd swept over and surrounded the GurSikh women. They were engulfed in angry voices. The mob argued and screamed at the Jethadar. The men pressed against women - trying to push them back. But they held each other and stood our ground. The men were screaming at the top of their lungs and beating their chests. They yelled "Bole So Nihal ." and "Deg Teg Fateh" - as if it were theirs and not everyone's!

The Jethadar moved to the little office to the left of the gate. The crowd moved with him, maintaining its intensity. Everyone feared for him, as he seemed to be standing alone. Then, with a sense of triumph, men from the crowd made their way to the small door in the gate and went to begin seva. Everyone sat and waited, repeating Sukhmani Sahib.

At about 1:20AM, the Jethadar opened the door, and said invited everyone inside. Everyone walked down the long causeway, bowed at that heavenly door, and waited at the side for a sign of what to do. Initially, the men completed ignored everyone else. Most of the seva was already done anyway. Then Jethadar then guided everyone to go outside and do whatever cleaning needed to be done. There were brooms and several very kind GurSikhs helped everyone with cloths to wipe the brass and marble.

Holy Seva at the Golden Temple - by Guru Kirn K. Khalsa. The restoration of women's right to participate in early morning seva at the Siri Harimandir Sahib, the Golden Temple