The Sikh holocaust of 1762 Wadda Ghallughara "the great massacre or holocaust" was the
mass killing of the Sikhs by Afghani Durrani Forces that happened during the years of
Afghan influence in the Punjab region owing to the repeated incursions of Ahmad Shah
Durrani in 1764.
Wadda (major) Ghallughara (|Holocaust) occurred on 8th February 1762 at a place named
Kup Rahira, located approximately 12 Km north of Malerkotla in the Punjab state of
India.
On receiving information from his informer Akal Das of Jandiala Ahmad Shah Durrani
during his sixth invasion of India came to attack and destroy Sikhi down to its roots.
Ahmed shah Durani reached Lahore on 3rd Febrary 1762 with a large army, huge armaments
and artillery. Recognizing the danger, S. Jassa Singh Ahluwalia and S. Charat Singh
Sukarchakiya the sikh chiefs left Lahore and proceeded towards Malwa after crossing the
Satluj. Singhs were 40000 in number at that time including 10000 women, children and
elderly folk. The Singhs wanted to move their women folk to Bikaner for safety. Ahmed
Shah instructed Zain Khan his subedar of Sirhand to keep the Singhs engaged till his
arrival. They intended to kill them altogether the next day .
Sahibzada Ajit Singh (11 February 1687 - 7 December 1705), the eldest of four sons of Guru Gobind Singh, was born to Mata Jito ji (also known as Mata Sundari ji) at Paonta sahib on 11 February 1687. The following year, Guru Gobind Singh returned with the family to Anandpur where Ajit Singh was brought up in the approved Sikh style.
He was taught the religious texts, philosophy and history, and had training in the martial arts such as riding, swordsmanship, gatka and archery. He grew up to be a handsome young man, strong, intelligent and a natural leader of people.
With his three brothers, Sahibzada Ajit Singh carried on a great family tradition: that of attaining the status of one of the most hallowed martyrs in Sikh history. Before him and his brothers, their grandfather, the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur and great-great grandfather, the fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjun Dev had also been executed by the Mughals.
Saka Nankana Sahib forms a very important part of Sikh history which took place in February 1921. In political significance, it comes next only to Jallianwala Bagh massacre of April 1919. The saka constitutes the core of the Gurdwara Reform Movement started by the Sikhs in early twentieth century.
The interesting part of this saka (demonstration or agitation) is the unprecedented discipline, self-control and exemplary patience displayed by the peaceful Sikh protesters even in the face of extreme barbarism. Even the national leaders like Mahatma Gandhi had to acknowledge in no ambiguous terms the glory and the prestige which the peaceful and passive resistance of the Sikhs had brought to the India's Struggle for freedom. .The supreme sacrifices made by these Sikhs Shaheeds have been acknowledged by the grateful nation. From that day onwards, the Sikh nation remembers these brave Sikhs in their daily ardas (prayer). Every year on 21st February at this Shaheedi Asthan, Guru Granth Sahib's Swaroop with Bullet marks is brought to Deewan (assembly) from 2pm to 4pm for darshan of the Sikh Sangat.
Hola Mohalla or Hola Mahalla or simply Hola is a Sikh festival that takes place on the first of the lunar month of Chet which usually falls in March.The word 'Mohalla' is derived from the Arabic root hal (alighting, descending) and is a Punjabi word that implies an organized procession in the form of an army column. But unlike Holi, when people playfully sprinkle colored powder, dry or mixed in water, on each other, the Guru made Hola Mohalla an occasion for the Sikhs to demonstrate their martial skills in simulated battles.
Celebration of New Year (According to Nanakshahi calendar)
The Nanakshahi calendar is a tropical solar calendar that was adopted by the Shiromani Gurdwara Prabhandak Committee to determine the dates for important Sikh events. It was designed by Pal Singh Purewal to replace the Saka calendar and has been in use since 1998. Since 1998, amongst the critics, no-one has come forward with suggestions of specific changes, other than to suggest that the Sikhs should revert to the Vikrami calendar. The epoch of this calendar is the birth of the first Sikh Guru, Nanak Dev in 1469. New Year's Day falls annually on what is March 14 in the Gregorian Western calendar.
Nanakshahi Era 550 commences
The Nanakshahi calendar is a tropical solar calendar that was adopted by the Shiromani Gurdwara Prabhandak Committee to determine the dates for important Sikh events. It was designed by Pal Singh Purewal to replace the Saka calendar and has been in use since 1998. Since 1998, amongst the critics, no-one has come forward with suggestions of specific changes, other than to suggest that the Sikhs should revert to the Vikrami calendar. The epoch of this calendar is the birth of the first Sikh Guru, Nanak Dev in 1469. New Year's Day falls annually on what is March 14 in the Gregorian Western calendar.
Bhai Subeg Singh, Bhai Shahbaz Singh
Bhai Subeg Singh and Shahbaz Singh were eighteenth century martyrs of the Sikh History. Bhai Subeg Singh was son of Rai Bhaga of the village of Jambar in Lahore district of Pakistan. His son’s name was Shahbaz Singh. Bhai subeg Singh learnt Arabic and Persian when he was young. He was close to the Mughal officials as a government contractor.Zakariya Khan, the Governor of Lahore decided to lift the quarantine enforced upon the Sikhs in 1733. Subeg Singh was chosen to negotiate with Sikhs. He met the assembly of the Khalsa at Akal Takhat Amritsar as the Lahore government’s Vakil (advocate). He communicated on behalf of the Mughal governor that the jagir (landed property) and nawabship (lordship) would be offered to the prominent Sikhs. This offer was turned down by the Sikhs. But, Subeg Singh pleaded hard and eventually convinced the Sikhs to accepting the offer. Nawab Zakaria Khan expressed his happiness and gratitude to Bhai Subeg Singh on his return from this successful mission Bhai Subeg Singh had extended his helping hand to Zakaria Khan on some other occasions. Towards the end of Zakariya Khan’s regime, Subeg Singh was appointed kotwal (police inspector) of the city of Lahore. During his tenure as police offices he ensured peace and security to the people. Because of his conduct and human approach, residents of Lahore and Governor Zakaria Khan held him in high esteem.Yahiya Khan, who succeeded his father, Zakariya Khan, as the governor of Lahore, turned hostile to Subeg Singh. He entertained complaints against him. Subeg Singh was finally charged with acts prejudicial to Islam and to the State in1745.His son, Shahbaz Singh, was similarly arraigned.Subeg Singh was offered the choice to embrace Islam to save his life. He refused to renounce his faith. His son, Shahbaz Singh, was tied to the death wheel, but, Subeg Singh did not change his decision. Ultimately, both of them were martyred with death wheal.Sikhs remembers the sacrifice of Bhai Subeg Singh & Bhai Shahbaz Singh in their daily prayer (Ardas) when we say “Charkadiyan Te Chade” (Sikhs who achieved martyrdom with death wheal)
Sahibzada Jujhar Singh Ji
Sahibzada Jujhar Singh (14 March 1691–7 December 1705), the second son of Guru Gobind Singh, was born to Mata Jito ji at Anandpur Sahib.This event is now celebrated on April 9 each year according to the Nanakshahi Calendar.
Like his elder brother Sahibzada Ajit Singh, he started training in martial arts such as the Gatka along with the study of the religious texts. In 1699, when he was eight years old, he received the rites of Khalsa initiation, called the Amrit Sanskar Ceremony. By the time of the siege of Anandpur by a powerful and combined host of Mughals and hillmen in December 1705, Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, nearing the completion of his fifteenth year, was an experienced young warrior, strong and fearless.
He was one of the band that successfully waded through the flooded Sarsa rivulet on horseback and made good their way to Chamkaur by nightfall on 6 December 1705, with the adversary in hot pursuit. With little respite during the night, he participated in the next day's battle warding off assault after assault upon the "garhi", the fortified house in which Guru Gobind Singh ji had, along with his 40 Sikhs and two sons, taken shelter.
Watching his brother Baba Ajit Singh attain Shaheedi, Baba Jujhar Singh desired to fight in the battlefield, as well, even though doing so meant certain death. He asked his father, "Guru Sahib, permit me, dear father, to go where my brother has gone. Don't say that I am too young. I am your son. I am a Singh, a Lion, of yours. I shall prove worthy of you. I shall die fighting, with my face towards the enemy, with the Naam on my lips and the Guru in my heart."
As they ran out of ammunition and arrows, Sikhs inside split themselves into batches of five each who would go out one after the other to engage the besiegers in hand to hand combat. Jujhar Singh led the last sally towards the end of the day (7 December 1705), and laid down his life fighting near the place where he had earlier seen his elder brother fall. He was just 14 years old when he gave his life while his older brother was 18 years old when they gave their lives for their faith. Gurdwara Katalgarh Sahib in Chamkaur Sahib now marks the site.
Guru HarGobind Ji (Saturday, July 5, 1595 - Tuesday, March 19, 1644) was the sixth of the Ten Gurus of Sikhism. He became Guru on the 11 of 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 Guru Nanak Dev Ji which had been used previously by the earlier Gurus.
Guru HarGobind Ji then put on not one, but two swords; one on his left side and the other on his right. He named one "Miri," representing Temporal Power, and the other "Piri," representing Spiritual Power, one to smite the oppressor and the other to 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" (The Kalgi was an ornament for the turban which was worn by the Mughal and Hindu rulers of the era).
Guru HarGobind Ji carried the same light of Guru Nanak, and he added to it the luster of the sword. Guru HarGobind was also the inventor of the Taus. When watching a peacock singing one day, the Guru wished to make an instrument to mimic the sound of the peacock, thus creating the Taus.
Guru HarGobind Ji constructed the Akal Takht (God's throne) in front of Harmandar Sahib in 1606. There, he sat on a raised platform of twelve feet, attired in princely clothes. The Harmandar 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 militarization. To the symbols of sainthood were added marks of sovereignty, including the umbrella and the Kalgi. Guru HarGobind administered justice like a king, awarding honors and meting out punishment. 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.
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 defense of the masses following his father's martyrdom.
Carried two swords named Miri and Piri.
Built the Akal Takht in 1608 - which is now one of five Takhats (Seats of Power) of the Sikh Religion.
Founded the city of Kiratpur in the Rupnagar District , (old name Ropar), Punjab ,
Was willingly held in the fort of Gwalior for one year, ostensibly praying for the recovery of the ill Emperor Jahangir. When Jahangir ordered his release, he refused to leave unless 52 imprisoned Hindu Rajas were set free 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 in honor of his release and Diwali in honor of his return to Amritsar.
First Guru to engage in warfare: fighting and winning 4 defensive battles against Mughal forces.
Khalsa Panth Creation anniversary
The festival bears a great significance for the Sikhs due to the fact that on the Vaisakhi Day in the year 1699, the 10th Guru of the Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh laid down the foundation of the Panth Khalsa, that is the Order of the Pure Ones. This day is also observed as the thanksgiving day by the farmers whereby the farmers pay their tribute, thanking God for the abundant harvest and also praying for the future prosperity. Vaisakhi is one of the important festivals celebrated with fun and fervor by people of other religions too. It is also used as a celebration for those accepting the five Ks.
Guru Angad Dev Ji & Guru Teg Bahadur Ji
Guru Angad Sahib, (Bhai Lahna ji) was born in the village named Sarai Naga (Matte Di Sarai) district Muktsar (Punjab), on Vaisakh Vadi 1st , (5th Vaisakh) Samvat 1561, (March 31, 1504). He was the son of a petty trader named Pheru ji. His mother ‘s name was Mata Ramo ji (also Kwown as Mata Sabhirai, Mansa Devi, Daya kaur). Baba Narayan Das Trehan was his grandfather, whose ancestral house was at Matte-di-Sarai near Mukatsar. Pheru ji shifted back to this place. Under the influence of his mother Bhai Lehna ji began to worship Durga (A Hindu mythological Goddess). He used to lead a batch of worshippers to Jawalamukhi Temple every year. He was married to Mata Khivi ji in Jaunary 1520 and had two sons (Dasu ji and Datu ji) and two daughters (Amro ji and Anokhi ji). The whole family of Pheru ji had to leave their ancestral village because of the ransacking by the Mughal and Baloch militia who had come with Babur. After this the family settelled at village Khadur Sahib beside the Beas river, near Tarn Taran Sahib (A small town about 25 kmt.away from Amritsar City).
Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib was born on Vaisakh Vadi 5, (5 Vaisakh), Bikrami Samvat 1678, (1st April, 1621) in the holy city of Amritsar in a house known as Guru ke Mahal. He had four brothers Baba Gurditta Ji, Baba Suraj Mal Ji, Baba Ani Rai Ji, Baba Atal Rai Ji and one sister Bibi Veero Ji. He was the fifth and the youngest son of Guru Hargobind Sahib and Mata Nanki Ji. His childhood name was Tyag Mal. The Sikhs began to call him Teg Bahadur after the battle of Kartarpur against Painda Khan in which he proved to be great sword-player or gladiator. But he preffered to call himself ‘Degh Bahadur’.
Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib was born on Vaisakh Vadi 5, (5 Vaisakh), Bikrami Samvat 1678, (1st April, 1621) in the holy city of Amritsar in a house known as Guru ke Mahal. He had four brothers Baba Gurditta Ji, Baba Suraj Mal Ji, Baba Ani Rai Ji, Baba Atal Rai Ji and one sister Bibi Veero Ji. He was the fifth and the youngest son of Guru Hargobind Sahib and Mata Nanki Ji. His childhood name was Tyag Mal. The Sikhs began to call him Teg Bahadur after the battle of Kartarpur against Painda Khan in which he proved to be great sword-player or gladiator. But he preffered to call himself ‘Degh Bahadur’.
Guru Arjan Sahib, the youngest son of Guru Ramdas Sahib and Mata Bhani Ji was born at Goindwal Sahib on Vaisakh Vadi 7th, (19th Vaisakh) Samvat 1620 (April 15,1563). He learnt Gurmukhi script and Gurbani from Baba Budha ji. He was also given a suitable education in Persian, Hindi and Sanskrit languages. The child (Guru)Arjan Sahib often talked of God and loved to sing His songs. He had two elder brothers, Prithi Chand ji and Mahadev ji. The former proved to be the most selfish and the later mostly preferred utter silence. But (Guru) Arjan Sahib was sweet, humble and a perfect blend of devotion and sacrifice. He was hardly 18 years old when his father Guru Ramdas Sahib installed him as the Fifth Nanak. Sikhs call Guru Arjan Sahib as “Sacha Patshah”.
Guru Angad Sahib, (Bhai Lahna ji) was born in the village named Sarai Naga (Matte Di Sarai) district Muktsar (Punjab), on Vaisakh Vadi 1st , (5th Vaisakh) Samvat 1561, (March 31, 1504). He was the son of a petty trader named Pheru ji. His mother ‘s name was Mata Ramo ji (also Kwown as Mata Sabhirai, Mansa Devi, Daya kaur). Baba Narayan Das Trehan was his grandfather, whose ancestral house was at Matte-di-Sarai near Mukatsar. Pheru ji shifted back to this place. Under the influence of his mother Bhai Lehna ji began to worship Durga (A Hindu mythological Goddess). He used to lead a batch of worshippers to Jawalamukhi Temple every year. He was married to Mata Khivi ji in Jaunary 1520 and had two sons (Dasu ji and Datu ji) and two daughters (Amro ji and Anokhi ji). The whole family of Pheru ji had to leave their ancestral village because of the ransacking by the Mughal and Baloch militia who had come with Babur. After this the family settelled at village Khadur Sahib beside the Beas river, near Tarn Taran Sahib (A small town about 25 kmt.away from Amritsar City).
The Chhota Ghallughara was a massacre of a significant proportion of the Sikh population especially by the invading Pashtun people of the Durrani Empire during the waning years of the Mughal Empire. Chhota Ghallughara is Punjabi for "Lesser Massacre". As such, it is distinguished from the Vadda Ghallughara "the great massacre of 1762. An estimated 10000 Sikhs died in these attacks.
The ghallughara were not pogroms in the sense of the killing of masses of defenceless people. Since the martyrdom of the fifth Sikh Master, Guru Arjan in 1606, Sikhs have known the use of arms and the need of self-defense. They are called ghallughara because of the wholesale slaughter of the innocent, with the intention of genocide. The first Chhota Ghallughara was a dramatic and bloody massacre during the campaign of Afghanistan's (Durrani Empire) provincial government based at Lahore to wipe out the Sikhs, an offensive that had begun with the Mughals and lasted several decades.
Yahya Khan and Lakhpat Rai had taken a pladge to wipe out the Sikhs. They chased the hiding columns of teh Sikh army in the wood of Kahnuwan and besiged them. Nearly ten thousand Sikhs were liquidated in ten followinb clashes. Retreating regiments of the Sikhs braved anhd onslaught under the command of Nawab Kapur Singh. Even though they were hungry, they did not lose their determination and fought on in the scoarching heat.
Guru Amardas Sahib, the Third Nanak was born at village Basarke Gillan in Amritsar district on Vaisakh Sudi 14th, (8th Jeth), Samvat 1536 (5th May 1479). (Some chronicles mention the month of April 1479). His father Tej Bhan Bhalla and mother Bakht Kaur (also reffered as Sulakhani and Lakhmi Devi) were orhtodox Hindus and used to pay annual visits to the Ganges river at Haridwar. Guru Amardas Sahib was married to Mata Mansa Devi ji and had four childern: two daughters; Bibi Dani ji and Bibi Bhani ji (she was married to Guru Ramdass Sahib), and two sons; Mohan ji and Mohri ji. He strengthened the tradition of ‘Guru ka Langer’ and made it compulsory for the visitor to the Guru saying that ‘Pehle Pangat Phir Sangat’.
Guru HarGobind Ji (19 June 1595 - 3 March 1644) was the sixth of the Ten Gurus of Sikhism. He became Guru on the 11 of June, 1606, following the footsteps of his father, Guru Arjan Dev Ji.Guru Hargobind Ji introduced the process of militarization to Sikhism. While the ceremonial rites were being performed by Baba Buddha Ji, Guru HarGobind Ji asked Baba Buddha Ji to adorn him with a sword rather than the Seli (Silk or loosely woven cap) of Guru Nanak Dev Ji which had been used previously by the earlier Gurus. Guru HarGobind Ji then put on not one, but two swords; one on his left side and the other on his right. He named one "Miri" representing Temporal Power, and the other "Piri" representing Spiritual Power, one to smite the oppressor and the other to protect the innocent. Guru HarGobind Ji carried the same light of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and he added to it the luster of the sword
After the death of Akbar in 1605 both Hindu and Muslim fundamentalists move the new head of state emperor Jahangir against Guru Sahib. Jahangir himself was also jealous about Guru’s propagation of Sikhism. He promptly obliged the enemies of Guru Sahib. Many baseless allegations were leveled against Guru Sahib, one of those was helping the rebellious Khusro. Guru Arjan Sahib was arrested and brought to Lahore where he was charge-sheeted and implicated in the false cases. The Governor of Lahore was assigned the task of the execution. He handed over Guru Sahib over to Chandu, a petty businessman and an orthodox Hindu of Lahore city. He tortured Guru Sahib about three days in a manner unknown in the history of mankind. It is said that Sai Mian Mir (a Muslim Sufi Saint and friend of Guru Sahib) tried to intercede on behalf of Guru Sahib but the later forbade him. During the torturing period, Guru Sahib was made to sit on the hot iron plates and burning sand was poured over his naked body. When his body was blistered, he was chained and thrown into the river Ravi. Thus Guru Sahib embraced martyrdom on Jeth Sudi 4th (1st Harh) Samvat 1663, (May 30, 1606) Jahangir in his autobiography acknowledges that he personally ordered the execution of Guru Arjan Sahib.
Bhagat Kabir Ji was a Devotee and Spiritual Poet lived in Uttar Pardesh, India. He was born in Muslim family He was a strict monotheist and follower, probably founder, of Gurmat. In Guru Granth Sahib, There are 227 Padas in 17 ragas and 237 slokas of Kabir ji. He is revered by Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs. He played the role of a teacher and social reformer by the medium of his writings. Like other Devotees, Kabir ji did not believe in Ritualism, the worshiping of Dieties, Brahmanism, Caste system and illusioned concepts of Hindu and Muslim priests
Baba Banda Singh Ji Bahadur
Banda Singh Bahadur (born Lachman Dev, also known as Banda Bairagi,and Madho Das(27 October 1670 – 9 June 1716, Delhi) was a Sikh military commander.
At age 15 he left home to become an ascetic, and was given the name ‘’Madho Das’’. He established a monastery at Nanded, on the bank of the river Godavari, where in September 1708 he was visited by, and became a disciple of, Guru Gobind Singh ji, who gave him the new name of Banda Singh Bahadur. Armed with the blessing and authority of Gobind Singh, he assembled a fighting force and led the struggle against the Mughal Empire. His first major action was the sack of the Mughal provincial capital, Samana, in November 1709.After establishing his authority in Punjab, Banda Singh Bahadur abolished the zamindari system, and granted property rights to the tillers of the land. He was captured by the Mughals and tortured to death in 1716.
On 7 December 1715 Banda Singh Bahadur was captured from the Gurdas Nangal fort and put in an iron cage. The remaining Sikhs were captured and chained.The Sikhs were brought to Delhi in a procession with the 780 Sikh prisoners, 2,000 Sikh heads hung on spears, and 700 cartloads of heads of slaughtered Sikhs used to terrorize the population.They were put in the Delhi fort and pressured to give up their faith and become Muslims.On their firm refusal all of them were ordered to be executed. Every day, 100 Sikhs were brought out of the fort and murdered in public daily,which went on approximately seven days. The Mughals could hardly contain themselves of joy while the Sikhs showed no sign of dejection or humiliation, instead they sang their sacred hymns; none feared death or gave up their faith.After 3 months of confinement On 9 June 1716 Banda Singh’s eyes were gouged, his limbs were severed, his skin removed, and then he was killed .
Maharaja Ranjit Singh (13 November 1780 – 27 June 1839) popularly known as Sher-e-Punjab or "Lion of Punjab", was the leader of the
Sikh Empire, which ruled the northwest Indian subcontinent in the early half of the 19th century. He survived smallpox in infancy but
lost sight in his left eye. He fought his first battle alongside his father at age 10. After his father died, he fought several wars
to expel the Afghans in his teenage years and was proclaimed as the "Maharaja of Punjab" at age 21.His empire grew in the
Punjab region under his leadership through 1839.Prior to his rise, the Punjab region had numerous warring misls (confederacies), twelve of which were under Sikh rulers and one Muslim. Ranjit Singh successfully absorbed and united the Sikh misls and took over other local kingdoms to create the Sikh Empire. He repeatedly defeated invasions by outside armies, particularly those arriving from Afghanistan, and established friendly relations with the British.Ranjit Singh's reign introduced reforms, modernisation, investment into infrastructure and general prosperity. His Khalsa army and government included Sikhs, Hindus, Muslims and Europeans. His legacy includes a period of Sikh cultural and artistic renaissance,including the rebuilding of the Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar as well as other major gurudwaras, including Takht Sri Patna Sahib, Bihar and Hazur Sahib Nanded, Maharashtra under his sponsorship.Maharaja Ranjit Singh was succeeded by his son Maharaja Kharak Singh
Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib ji
Akal Takhat, The highest temporal seat of Sikhism was founded by the Sixth Sikh master Guru Har Gobind Sahib Ji in the year 1609,
assisted by Baba Budha Ji and Bhai Gurdas. Guru Ji named it Akal Takhat (The throne of Almighty).The Akal Takhat was built a fraction
lower than the Harimandir Sahib, implying the order of importance, that the search for spiritual grace was always to lead. Guru
Hargobind Sahib used to hold his court, listened to the woes of needy. Guru wore two swords of Miri and Piri at this place, the
worldly emperor robe with plume on the turban, ordered the Sikhs to bring weapons, horses as offering and be saint and soldier as
well. The tradition of singing ballads of war heroes with stringed instrument (Sarangi and Dhad) began at this place.
Akal Takhat has its own traditions i.e. the priest will recite the evening prayer (Rehras Sahib) and Ardas, with a naked sword in the
hand. Some rare weapons pertaining to the Sikh Gurus and Sikh warriors are displayed during the day in Golden Palanquin and explained
to the visitors every evening.
It is the most supreme of all the Takhats. There are four other takhats established by the panth (community) during the last century:
Keshgarh Sahib (Anandpur)
Patna Sahib
Hazur Sahib
Damdama Sahib
Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji was born at village Guru Ki Wadali (district Amritsar) on Harh Vadi 7th (21 Harh), Samvat 1652 (19th June,
1595). He was extremely handsome and the only son of Guru Arjan Sahib and Mata Ganga Ji. He had one daughter Bibi Viro Ji and five
sons: Baba Gurditta Ji, Suraj Mal Ji, Ani Rai Ji, Atal Rai Ji and (Guru) Tegh Bahadur Ji. Out of these, four sons passed away during
the life of Guru Sahib and the fifth one, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji become Ninth Nanak in 1664. Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji succeeded
Guru Arjan Sahib in 1606, at the age of eleven years. After the martyrdom of Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the moment was crucial for the
Sikhs. Now for the first time, the Sikhs began to think seriously to counter the high-handedness of the mighty and theist Muslim
Empire. Now a change had taken place in the character of Sikh Nation on the force of circumstances. Dialectically speaking, it was the
need of the hour. Now the Sikh nation adopts both spiritual and political ways simultaneously.Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji wore two
swords, one of Spiritual Power – Piri and the other of Military Power – Miri. Now the Sikh became “Saint-Soldier.” Guru Sahib issued
various letters advising the Sikhs to take part in the military training and martial arts.
Bhai Mani Singh Shaheed (martyr) (1670 - 9 July 1737), a great Sikh personality of the eighteenth century, occupies a very esteemed position in Sikh history, when he assumed control and steered the course of the Sikhs' destiny at a very critical stage. A great scholar, a devoted Sikh, and a courageous leader, Bhai Mani Singh willingly laid down his life to uphold the dignity of the Sikh religion and the Sikh nation. The nature of his martyrdom has become a part of the daily Sikh Ardas (prayer). He compiled Dasam Granth which includes Banis of Guru Gobind Singh.
In his early 20s, Bhai Taru Singh ji chose to have his scalp removed rather than give up his religious traditions. He was born 12 years after the passing of Guru Gobind Singh ji and was initiated in to the tradition of the Ten Gurus, through Bhai Mani Singh ji.
In 1700s, Sikhs were being persecuted by Zakariya Khan, who ruled Punjab under the Mughal Empire. Bhai Taru Singh ji and his family would support and provide food for Sikh rebels who wished to take him down.
During this rebellion, Bhai Taru Singh ji was arrested by Zakriya Khan’s police and was tortured. The executioner used a chisel to remove his scalp, however Bhai Taru Singh ji remained absorbed in meditation.
Bhai Taru Singh ji lived after his torture, and continued to meditate and sing the praises of the Lord. He left his body immediately after the death of Zakariya Khan.
Guru Har Krishan (7 July 1656 – 30 March 1664[1]) was the eighth of the ten Sikh Gurus.Guru Har Krishan Ji was born in Kiratpur (Shivalik Hills) in northwest Indian subcontinent to Krishen Devi (Mata Sulakhni) and Guru Har Rai ji.At the age of 5, he became the youngest Guru in Sikhism on 7 October 1661, succeeding his father, Guru Har Rai Ji.He is also known as Bal Guru (Child Guru),and sometimes spelled in Sikh literature as Hari Krishan Sahib Ji. He is remembered in the Sikh tradition for saying "Baba Bakale" before he died, which Sikhs interpreted to identify his granduncle Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji as the next successor.Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji had the shortest reign as Guru, lasting only 2 years, 5 months and 24 days.
Shaheed Sardar Udham Singh (26 December 1899 – 31 July 1940) is a well-known figure of the Indian independence movement. He is also referred to as Shaheed-i-Azam Sardar Udham Singh (the expression "Shaheed-i-Azam", means "the great martyr"). He was a revolutionary belonging to the Ghadar Party best known for his assassination in London of Michael O'Dwyer, the former lieutenant governor of the Punjab in India, on 13 March 1940 .The assassination was in revenge for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in Amritsar in 1919 for which O'Dwyer was responsible. Singh was subsequently tried and convicted of murder and hanged in July 1940. While in custody, he used the name Ram Mohammad Singh Azad, which represents the three major religions of Punjab and his anti-colonial sentiment.
The first parkash (opening ceremony) was performed in the Golden Temple by Guru Arjan Dev Ji on September 1, 1604. The Guru nominated Bhai Buddha as the custodian of the Granth Sahib. At this time, the Guru bowed before the collection, acknowledging the higher authority of the bani to that personal importance and significance which he possessed as Guru. After this time, he no longer sat at a level above the Granth Sahib, but below it. The Guru also instituted daily public worship at the temple where the Granth was recited all day long to the accompaniment of stringed musical instruments (kirtan).
Guru Amardas Sahib did not consider anyone of his sons fit for Guruship and chose instead his son-in law (Guru) Ramdas Sahib to succeed him. Certainly it was practically a right step not as emotional, because Bibi Bhani ji and Guru Ramdas Sahib had true sprit of service and their keen understanding of the Sikh principles deserved this. This practice shows that Guruship could be transferred to any body fit for the Sikh cause and not to the particular person who belonged to the same family or of other. Guru Amardas Sahib at the ripe age of 95 passed away for heaven on Bhadon Sudi 14th, (1st Assu) Samvat 1631, (September 1, 1574) at Goindwal Sahib near District Amritsar, after giving responsibility of Guruship to the Fourth Nanak, Guru Ramdas Sahib.
The Battle of Saragarhi was fought before the Tirah Campaign on 12 September 1897 between twenty-one Sikhs of the 36th Sikhs (now the 4th Battalion of the Sikh Regiment) of British India, defending an army post, and 10,000 Afghan and Orakzai tribesmen. The battle occurred in the North-West Frontier Province, which formed part of British India. It is now named the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and is part of Pakistan.
The Battle at Saragarhi is one of eight stories of collective bravery published by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization). It has been mentioned as one of the five most significant events of its kind in the world .
The contingent of the twenty-one Sikhs from the 36th Sikhs was led by Havildar Ishar Singh. They all chose to fight to the death although thay had only 40 rounds of ammunitions. It is considered by some military historians as one of history's great last-stands.Sikh military personnel and Sikh civilians commemorate the battle every year on 12 September, as Saragarhi Day as the battle was given the honour of a regimental holiday.
Saragarhi was commemorated by the British Armed Forces in the UK for the first time at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in November 2013.Saragarhi Day was marked on the battle honour day on 12 September 2014 at Sandhurst.
Guru Amardas Ji & Guru Ramdas Ji
Guru Amardas Sahib did not consider anyone of his sons fit for Guruship and chose instead his son-in law (Guru) Ramdas Sahib to succeed him. Certainly it was practically a right step not as emotional, because Bibi Bhani ji and Guru Ramdas Sahib had true sprit of service and their keen understanding of the Sikh principles deserved this. This practice shows that Guruship could be transferred to any body fit for the Sikh cause and not to the particular person who belonged to the same family or of other. Guru Amardas Sahib at the ripe age of 95 passed away for heaven on Bhadon Sudi 14th, (1st Assu) Samvat 1631, (September 1, 1574) at Goindwal Sahib near District Amritsar, after giving responsibility of Guruship to the Fourth Nanak, Guru Ramdas Sahib.
As a social reformer Guru Nanak Sahib upheld the cause of women, downtrodden and the poors. He attacked the citadel of caste system of Hindus and theocracy of Muslim rulers. He was a born poet. He wrote 974 hyms comprising Japji Sahib, Asa-Di-Var, Bara-Mah, Sidh-Gosht, Onkar (Dakhani) and these were included in Guru Granth Sahib by Guru Arjan Sahib. He was also a perfect musician. He with the company of Bhai Mardana compsed such tunes in various Indian classical Ragas that charmed and tawed wild creatures like Babar, subdued saging kings, raved bigots and tyrants, made thugs and robbers saints. He was a reformer as well as a revolutionary. God had endowed him with a contemplative mind and pious disposition. Guru Arjan Sahib called him “the image of God, nay, God Himself”.
Guru Ramdas Sahib (Jetha ji) was born at Chuna Mandi, Lahore (in Pakistan), on Kartik Vadi 2nd, (25th Assu) Samvat 1591 (September 24, 1534). Son of Mata Daya Kaur ji (Anup Kaur ji) and Baba Hari Das ji Sodhi Khatri was very handsome and promising child. His parents were too poor to meet even the daily needs and he had to earn his bread by selling boiled grams. His parents died when he was just 7 year old. His grandmother (mother’s, mother) took him to her native village Basarke. He spent five years at village Basarke earning his bread by selling boiled grams. According to some chronicles, once Guru Amardas Sahib came village Basarke to condole with the grandmother of (Guru) Ramdas Sahib at the death of her son-in-law and developed deep affection for (Guru) Ramdas Sahib. Along with grandmother he left for Goidwal Sahib to settle there. There he resumed his profession of selling boiled grams and also began to take part in the religious congregation held by Guru Amardas Sahib. He also made active participation in the development of Goindwal Sahib.
Baba Buddha ji (1506 -1631), a most venerated and primal figure of early Sikhism. He was born on October 6, 1506 at the village of Katthu Narigal, 18 km northeast of Amritsar, Punjab At this Guru Nanak pronounced the words: "You are not a child; you possess the wisdom of an old man." From that day, Buda, came to be known as Bhai Buddha Ji, buddha in Punjabi meaning an old man, and later, when advanced in years, as Baba Buddha Ji. Guru Arjan dev ji placed his young son, Hargobind Ji, under Bhai Buddha's instruction and training. When the Aadi Granth (Guru Granth Sahib) was installed in the Harimandar Sahib on 16 August 1604, Bhai Buddha Ji was appointed granthi by Guru Arjan sahib ji. He thus became the first high priest of the sacred shrine, now known as the Golden Temple. Following the martyrdom of Guru Arjan sahib ji on 30 May 1606, Guru Hargobind Sahib ji raised opposite the Harimandar sahib a platform called the Akal Takhat, the Timeless Throne or the Throne of the Timeless, the construction of which was entrusted to Baba Buddha Ji and Bhai Gurdas Ji, no third person being allowed to take part in it. On this Takht Bhai Buddha Ji performed, on 24 June 1606, the investiture ceremony at which Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji put on two swords, one on each side, symbolizing miri and piri, sovereignty and spiritual eminence, respectively. Ber Baba Buddha ji
Guru Gobind Singh Ji is the last of the Tenth Gurus of Sikhism. He was born as Gobind Rai Sodhi on Poh 7, 1723 sk/22 December 1666 at Patna, in Bihar. He was nominated as the Guru by the ninth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Tegh Bahadur who was also his father. After Guru Tegh Bahadur's death, Guru Gobind Singh became Guru on November 11, 1675. Before Guru Gobind Ji left his body, he nominated Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji - the Holy book of Sikhs as the next perpetual Guru of the Sikhs.
Guru Gobind Singh is highly regarded by the Sikhs his monumental role in the development of the Sikh faith. He is said to have moulded the Sikh Religion into its present form today with the formation of the Khalsa. Guru Gobind also established the Sikh baptism ceremony, the partaking of amrit.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji infused the spirit of both sainthood and solider in the minds and hearts of his followers to fight oppression in order to restore justice, peace, righteousness (Dharma) and to uplift the down-trodden people in this world. Guru Gobind Singh lost his father, mother, and all four of his sons to a religious war, being waged by the Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb was keen to see Islamization of Hindus an Sikhs.
Apart from being a great warrior, Guru Gobind Singh was a learned man. He compiled a number of books and poetry collections in his life.
The word "Bandi" is translated from Punjabi into English as "Imprisoned" (or "Prisoner"), "Shor" (shodh) as "Release," and "Divas" as "Day," rendering "Bandi Shor (Shodh) Divas" from Punjabi into English as "Prisoners' Release Day."
Bandi Shor(Shodh) Divas celebrates the release from prison of the Sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind Ji, and 52 other princes with him, in October 1619.[1] Following their release, Guru Hargobind Ji arrived in Amritsar in the midst of the Diwali festival, and the day was henceforth associated with his liberation. Bandi Shor (Shodh) Divas is celebrated with a fireworks display. The Golden Temple as well as the whole complex is festooned with thousands of shimmering lights, creating a unique jewelbox effect.
The physical material of the bodies of both Hindus and Muselmans face the same fate and it is a universal truth. The soul leaves the body immediately after the death and it does not remain in the grave waiting for doom’s day. And the earth consumes the body-material in due course of time) It is a rational and scientific view of Sikhism. When Guru Har Rai Sahib was informed about this incident, he immediately excommunicated Ram Rai Ji from the Sikh Panth and never met him, through the later pleaded repeatedly for forgiveness. Thus Guru Sahib established a strict property for the Sikhs against any alteration of original verse in Guru Granth Sahib and the basic conventions set up by Guru Nanak Sahib.
During the clash, one of the Mogul commanders, Jamal Khan, attacked Baba Deep Singh Ji. As they fought, both men swung their weapons with great force, leaving both of their heads separated from their bodies. After seeing this scene, a young Sikh warrior called out to Baba Ji, reminding him of his vow to reach Sri Harimander Sahib. Upon hearing this, Baba Deep Singh Ji immediately stood up, holding his head on his left palm while holding his khanda upright in his right hand. He then continued fighting and moving towards Sri Harimander Sahib. Upon seeing the sight of Baba Deep Singh Ji, most of the men in the Mogul army fled away in terror. Baba Deep Singh Ji was able to continue fighting and reached Sri Harimander Sahib. He bowed his head at the prikarma (rectangular walkway) of Sri Harimander Sahib and lay there as a martyr. Baba Deep Singh Ji's shaheedi incited the Sikhs to continue to fight against Mogul oppression for many years. Even today, his life serves as an example for all Sikhs on how to live and die with dignity.
Guru Nanak Gurpurab also known as Guru Nanak's Prakash Utsav, celebrates the birth of the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak.[1] This is one of the most sacred festivals in Sikhism.[2] Apart from Sikhs, Hindus and other followers of Guru Nanak's philosophy also celebrate this festival.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, was born on April 15, 1469 in Rai-Bhoi-di Talwandi in the present Shekhupura District of Pakistan, now Nankana Sahib.His birth is celebrated on Kartik Poornima, the full moon day in the month of Kartik. In the Gregorian Calendar, the celebration usually falls in the month of November.Guru Nanak Dev ji founded and formalised the three pillars of Sikhism.
Naam Japna ,Kirat Karni and Vand Chakna.
Guru Gobind Singh was formally installed Guru on Maghar Sudi 5th (11 Maghar), 1732 Samvat (11th Nov, 1675). In the midst of his engagement with the concerns of the community, he gave attention to the mastery of physical skills and literary accomplishment. He had grown into a energectic youth. He had a natural genius for poetic composition and his early years were assiduously given to this pursuit.
Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib reached near village Malikpur Ragharan near Ropar, an imperial armed contingent led by Mirza Nur Mohammad Khan, arrested Guru Sahib and some of his prominent followers. He kept them in a prison at Bassi Pathanan and tortured daily. Now it was the turn of Guru Sahib who remained calm & quite. The authorities offered three alternatives viz : (1) To show miracles, or (2) to embrace Islam, or (3) to prepare himself for death. Guru Sahib accepted the last. On seeing Guru Sahib adamant and immoveable, the authorities ordered the executioner (Jallad) to sever the head from the body. The order was implemented. The historians quote this date as November 11, 1675 AD. (Gurdwara Sis Ganj at Chandni Chowk marks the place where the execution was done.) There was a furious storm after this brutal deed. It caused confusion and havoc in and around the city. Under these circumstances Bhai Jaita Ji, took away the holy head of Guru Sahib, placed it in a basket, covered it carefully and set out of Anandpur Sahib. He reached Kiratpur Sahib, near Anandpur Sahib on 15th November. He was received with great honour by young Guru Gobind Rai and honoured as “Rangretta Guru Ka Beta.”
Baba Ajeet Singh jee boldly and valiantly comes out of fort, accompanied with 8 other Singh, which includes one of the original Panj Piaare, Bhai Mohkam Singh jee. Guru jee watches the battle scene from the top of the fort. There is silence on all four sides. As they come into the battleground they roar Jaikaare, which sounds everywhere like a roar of a lion. The news of Baba Ajeet Singh jee attaining Shaheedi (martyrdom) spread. Hearing the news of his brother, Baba Jujhar Singh jee now desired to fight in the battlefield. He asked Guru Sahib, “Permit me, dear father, to go where my brother has gone. Don’t say that I am too young. I am your son; I am a Singh, a Lion, of yours. I shall prove worthy of you. I shall die fighting, with my face towards the enemy, with the Naam on my lips and the Guru in my heart.”
The main historical Gurudwaras at Fatehgarh Sahib are: Gurudwara Thanda Burj where Mata Gujari and her two grandsons were kept under detention, Gurudwara Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh where they were bricked alive, Gurudwara Bibangarh Sahib where their corpses were prepared for the last rites, Gurudwara Joti Sarup where all the three, i.e. grandmother and two grandsons were cremated. Martyrs’ Day is observed as Shaheedi Jor-Mela every year from 25th December to 28th December at Fatehgarh Sahib to commemorate the sacrifices made by the two Sahibzadas.