The Nihang Singhs

Protectors and defenders of the Sikh faith

Nihang - ਨਿਹੰਗ

The Nihangs are protectors and defenders of the Sikh faith. They are also known as Akalis. The terminology Akali is derived from Akaal Purakh, the timeless One Creator. Akali also means the immortal Servants of God. A Nihang is the one who is without desire and ego. The Nihangs have fought all their lives for the maintenance of the Sikh faith against oppression and tyranny on the front line of the Sikh military. Everyone who lives without fear is called a Nihang. The word Nihang derives from persian and means crocodile, among additional meanings. During the invasion of the islamic Mughals, they said about the Nihangs that they fought as fearless and strong as crocodiles.

The Nihangs are known for their excellent Sikh martial arts, Gatka. They are marvellously trained in sword fighting and horsemanship. They have a special spiritual and military expertise. They are characterized by their dark blue clothing known as Bana. Their artistic Dumalla is called Chand Tora Dumalla. "Du" means two and the word "Malla" - cloth, fabric. These especially beautifully wrapped Turbans (Dastar) have been worn by the Nihang Singhs since their creation. They tie the Dumalla, which is about 30 cm high. Some selected Nihangs are awarded with a Farla, which is the highest award for a Nihang and represents the rank of a General of the timeless, immortal army of Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji Maharaj. The traditions of the Nihang Singhs have changed very little during the last 300 years. The origin of the Akaal Sena of the Budha Dal traces back to the time of the fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji. The fifth Sikh Guru has given Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji the order to establish the Akaal Sena in order to build a defensive army to protect the Sikh faith and the common population which was highly suppressed and exploited by the Moguls. The Nihangs always fought to uphold and protect Truth, (Sat) and Righteousness (Dharam). The Nihang Army was founded and deployed by the Tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji Maharaj in its accomplished form to defend the oppressed and defenseless. The Nihangs fought fearlessly to defend the fundamental human rights and values, as well as to protect the Sikh Gurudwaras and the freedom of religion. During that time, large parts of the Sikh population were drastically decimated by the invading Moguls. The concept of the Sant Sipahi, the Saint Warrior, was already manifested by the sixth Nanak, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji Maharaj. The Nihangs live a simple, disciplined, spiritual-religious life in prayer, focused on Guru and God, which is one form manifested in the Holy Granths. These three important Granths are forming the complete entity of the foundation of the Sikh faith and its philosophy of Shant, Prem and Bir Ras (peace, love and the warrior spirit). The Nihangs are following the Nihang Rehat, which is similar to the Khalsa Rehat, but has additional Sikh prayers and instructions. The Nihang Singhs are independent and they look after their livelihood. They are the supporting pillars for the protection and preservation of the Sikh religion. Nihang Singhs are not attached to worldly matter. Nihang Singhs always carry weapons with them, such as the Chakar, throwing disc, different kind of Swords and Kirpan, a Khanda, a special double-edged sword. On the metaphysically level, the Nihang Singhs are representing the weapons of the Tenth King, Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji Maharaj. Although they are regarded as Sant Sipahi, they are a symbol for world peace. The Nihangs use coded words and terminology in their language that they used in the Sikh Misl armies. The Nihangs worship three Granths:
1. Sri Aad Guru Granth Sahib Ji
2. Sri Dasam Granth Sahib Ji
3. Sri Sarbloh Granth Sahib Ji

In the Panth Parkash, Giani Gian Singh Ji states:"See the Aad, Dasam and Sarbloh Granth in One Light."

ਨਿਰਭਉ ਹੋਇਓ ਭਇਆ ਨਿਹੰਗਾ ॥

Being fearless, he becomes a Nihang (a bold and daring person).

(SGGS, Ang 392)

Im Panth Parkash steht geschrieben:

Nihang kahaavai So Purakh, Dukh Sukh Manne Na Ang.

A person who has forsaken the fear of death and is always ready to embrace martyrdom is called a Nihang.

(Panth Parkash)

The Nihang Singhs worship three Holy Granths:

Siri Guru Granth Sahib

In the Siri Guru Granth Sahib the holy spiritual path, the union with Akaal Purakh Waheguru, the timeless one God is described. The Holy Guru Granth Sahib teaches how to overcome and become free of the bonds of the temporary illusionary world of Maya and the five thieves, the Panch Chor (lust, anger, greed, attachment and Ego). Holy Guru Granth Sahib leads to the spiritual freedom of uniting with Akaal Purakh Waheguru, God. Gurbani, the direct word of the formless almighty creator Lord and Waheguru Naam was revealed by Satguru Nanak Dev Ji and the Sikh Gurus. The Eternal Shabad Guru embodies Shant & Prem Ras, the essence of Peace and Love. Siri Guru Granth Sahib is the same Jaagdi Jot - Jot Roop Har Guru Nanak. Satguru Nanak Dev Ji and all the Sikh Gurus are inseparable from Siri Guru Granth Sahib and exist in the Holy Granth in their fullness. That is why Sri Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji Maharaj declares that He permanently abides and dwells in Siri Guru Granth Sahib. Every Hymn of the Holy Guru Granth Sahib is surcharged and pervaded with divine fragrance, glow and eternal presence of our beloved Lord Guru Nanak, the manifested Sargun Roop of Akaal Purakh Waheguru. Siri Guru Granth Sahib is the eternal embodiment of the whole Shakti, divine wisdom, love, peace, humility, holiness and divinity of all the Ten manifestations of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. In the Shabad Guru, the eternal, timeless, divine light of God and Guru's pure knowledge is forever manifested as Jaagdi Jot.

Siri Guru Granth Sahib

Sri Dasam Granth

The Sri Dasam Granth Sahib Ji (ਸ੍ਰੀ ਦਸਮ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ), historically known as Dasven Padshah da Granth (ਦਸਵੇਂ ਪਾਤਸ਼ਾਹ ਦਾ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ), is the Sikh Scripture of the Tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji Maharaj, the Tenth King. The warrior spirit - Bir Ras of righteousness, truthfulness, courage, strength and fearlessness is born and firmly anchored in the Sri Dasam Granth Sahib Ji. The compositions of Sri Dasam Granth present, among other themes, the thoughts and guidelines for the future of the Khalsa Panth. The Jaap Sahib, Tav Prasad Savaiye and the Chaupai Sahib are Banis from the Sri Dasam Granth. They are part of the Panj Bania, the 5 morning prayers recited every morning by the baptized Sikhs. Sri Dasam Granth Sahib contains the background of the creation of the Khalsa Panth, the autobiography Bachitar Natak by Guru Gobind Singh, a description of historical spiritual leaders etc. The Sri Dasam Granth Sahib has 1428 Ang. The story of the Sri Dasam Granth begins with the time when the compositions, Banis and Rehatname were verbally spoken, composed and compiled by Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji Maharaj. Later, after 1708, they were collected and compiled in the form of the single volume by Shaheed Bhai Mani Singh Ji.

CHANDI CHAR JANDI TE UTTAR JANDI HAI

The spirit of war comes and goes.

Sri Dasam Granth

Sri Sarbloh Granth

The Sri Sarbloh Granth is the second Granth written by the Tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji Maharaj. At the end of this scripture, Guru Gobind Singh also calls the Sri Sarbloh Granth - 'Sri Manglacharan Puran'. The Sri Sarbloh Granth begins with the Maya Ustat, it contains very beautiful Banis and tells a great coherent story about the struggle of forces between good and evil. The demons are represented by "Beerajnaad". The divine power is represented by the Avatar of Mahakaal, by "Sarbloh". This analogy describes the spiritual concept of Bibek, the power of discernment and divine wisdom and Abibek, spiritual ignorance and the resulting negative behavior and actions. In this context, this in-depth scripture can not only be looked at the outer battle between Sarbloh and the demons, but it also symbolizes the struggle against one's own inner enemies, which prevent man from realizing the union with God, Akaal Purakh Waheguru. The Sri Sarbloh Granth also contains important information regarding the position of the Khalsa and the Code of Conduct. The Sri Sarbloh Granth was kept under lock and key by the Nihang Singhs of the Budha Dal for many years.

CHANDI SADA CHARI REHENDI HAI

One is always engaged with the spirit of war against ignorance, injustice and oppression.

Sri Sarbloh Granth

Sri Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji Maharaj about His Nihang Singhs

ਜਨੁਕ ਲਹਿਰ ਦਰਯਾਵ ਤੇ ਨਿਕਸਿਯੋ ਬਡੋ ਨਿਹੰਗ । ਧਰਮ ਕੇ ਸੁ ਧੋਲ ਧਾਮ, ਧਰਿਤਾ ਕੇ ਧਰਾਧਰ, ਧਾਰਾ ਧਰ ਮੌਦ ਸ਼ੌ ਵਿਨੋਦ ਬਰਤਸ ਹੈ ।

The Nihangs will be generous, big hearted and adhere to the Dharma. When the sword is swung, sparks will fly like fireworks. To fight with this way on the battlefield is like a crocodile jumping out of the water.

(ਚਰਿਤ੍ਰ 297)

ਬੂਹਾ ਖੋਲ੍ਹ ਦੇ ਨਿਸੰਗ, ਆਏ ਨੀ ਨਿਹੰਗ ॥

Open the door, do not be afraid, a Nihang has come to your house.

The Akalis are revered and respected with great affection by the Sikh Community worldwide because of their important role they played in the military Sikh history. The tasks of the Nihang Singhs in the 21st century include the correct transmission of the Gurmat teachings of the Sikh Gurus, Katha, Gurmat Parchar, Kirtan, the Amrit baptism, training of the Sikh martial art, Gatka, equestrian arts, Seva, the participation and equipment of religious-cultural events and festivals, such as Vaisakhi, Holla Mahalla, Nagar Kirtan etc. Nihangs are so-called part-nomads. They are organized in groups and live either in Camps, also known as cantonments, which they change every three days, others have a fixed abode. Both men and women train in Horsemanship and Gatka. Nihang Singhs are practicing the daily Sikh prayers and recite from the three Holy Granths for several hours every day.
Bhai Kahn Singh describes in Gur Shabad Ratnakar Mahan Kosh the true character of an Akali who dedicates his whole being to Akaal Purakh Waheguru, to the One immortal God:

ਵਾਹਗੁਰੂ ਜੀ ਕਾ ਖ਼ਾਲਸਾ.
ਕਮਲ ਜਯੋਂ ਮਾਯਾ ਜਲ ਵਿੱਚ ਹੈ ਅਲੇਪ ਸਦਾ,
ਸਭ ਦਾ ਸਨੇਜੀ ਚਾਲ ਸਭ ਤੋਂ ਨਿਰਾਲੀ ਹੈਂ,
ਕਰਕੇ ਕਮਾਈ ਖਾਵੇ ਮੰਗਣਾ ਹਰਾਮ ਜਾਣੇ
ਭਾਣੇ ਵਿੱਚ ਵਿਪਦਾ ਨੂੰ ਮੰਨੇ ਖੁਸ਼ਹਾਲੀ ਹੈਂ,
ਸ੍ਵਾਰਥ ਤੋਂ ਬਿਨਾ ਗੁਰੁਦ੍ਵਾਰਿਆਂ ਦਾ ਚੌਕੀਦਾਰ
ਧਰਮ ਦੇ ਜੰਗ ਲਈ ਚੜ੍ਹੇ ਮੁਖ ਲਾਲੀ ਹੈਂ,
ਫੂਜੇ ਨਾ ਅਕਾਲ ਬਿਨਾ ਹੋਰ ਕਈ ਦੇਵੀ ਦੇਵ
ਸਿੱਖ ਦਸ਼ਮੇਸ਼ ਦਾ ਸੋ ਕਹੀਏ ‘ਅਕਾਲੀ’ ਹੈਂ.

The Khalsa belongs to Vaheguru. He who loves all and whose ways are distinct from all, He who eats only that which he earns and considers begging a sin, He who in difficult times has faith in the True Guru and remains happy, He who guards the Sikh Gurudwaras without a desire for material gain, He who is always eager to fight a just and righteous war, He who worships only the Timeless One and not Gods or Goddesses, Know such a Sikh of the Tenth Guru as an Akali.

Besides following the Nihang Rehat, the code of conduct, the Nihang Singhs have a strict Battle code. A Nihang is supposed to follow the Ten Guna, virtues and unite them within himself:

Compassion, Charity, Forgiveness, Cleanliness, Control of the mind, Purity of thought, Worship of the Truth, becoming a spiritually accomplished manifestion of being a Saint Warrior and a faithful and loyal follower of Guru/God. The Nihang Singhs are following only the Teachings of the Sikh Gurus and are the servants of the One omnipresent transcendental Creator Lord.

Budha Dal

The lineage of the Nihang Singhs of Budha Dal goes back to the foundation of the 'Akaal Sena' at the time of Guru Hargobind Sahib. When Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji was released from Gwalior Fort, Baba Budha Ji was there with the Sikh soldiers of Guru Hargobind Sahib to greet the sixth Sikh Guru and celebrate the day of freedom and victory over the darkness, this day became known as Bandi Chhor Diwas. Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji Maharaj blessed Baba Budha Ji with a special blessing (boon). Under the leadership of the Tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Baba Binod Singh Ji became the first leader of the Khalsa Panth and the first Jathedar of the Budha Dal. After him followed Baba Darbara Singh and Nawab Kapur Singh. In 1733, Zakariya Khan Bahadur tried to negotiate peace with the Sikhs by offering them a Jagir, the title 'Nawab', for their leader and by guaranteeing unhindered access to Sri Harmandir Sahib. An assembly of the entire Khalsa Panth was then convened with direct democratic vote. This tradition is known as Sarbat Khalsa. After the talks, Kapur Singh was elected as a leader of the Sikhs. He was accepted by the Panj Pyare, the five beloved ones, as the Pantic leader and he was bestowed with the title of Nawab Kapur Singh. The Tarna Dal and Budha Dal fought together against the oppressors and were known as the Dal Khalsa. Sikh soldiers over 40 years of age became part of the Budha Dal (budha: older) and the Sikh soldiers under 40 years of age became part of the Tarna Dal (tarna: young, youthful).

Nawab Kapur Singh

  • Kapur Singh comes from the Virk family. He was born in 1697 AD.
  • In 1721 Kapur Singh was baptized in the Amrit Sanchar.
  • In 1733 Nawab Kapur Singh takes over the leadership, accepted by the Panj Pyare.
  • Nawab Kapur Singh organized the Budha and Tarna Dal and founded the famous Sikh regiments known as the 'Misls'.
  • In 1746 at the Chota Gallughara, Nawab Kapur Singh fought bravely against the islamic forces to defend the Sikh population.
  • 1748 Nawab Kapur Singh hands over the leadership of the Dal Khalsa to Jassa Singh Ahluwalia.
  • 1753 Nawab Kapur Singh leaves his body in Amritsar and was cremated near Baba Atal. He was one of the most successful, bravest and greatest Sikh leader and Saint Soldiers in the Sikh History.

Jassa Singh Ahluwalia

The purpose of the Budha Dal, the Veterans Group, was to protect the Sikh Gurudwaras and train the Tarna Dal, the young Sikhs, to act as a strong combat force in the defensive wars. However, in 1735 the agreement between Zakariya Khan and Nawab Kapur Singh was broken and the Dal Khalsa retreated to the Sivalik Mountains to regroup. Later, the Dal Khalsa's command was taken over by Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, who was an exceptionally successful Sikh leader. He brought the Indian Red Fort under the flag of the Khalsa. Jassa Singh Ahluwalia strengthened the foundation of the Khalsa for future generations.

Bhai Ratan Singh Bhangu in Pracheen Panth Parkash describes Jassa Singh Ahluwalia with the following beautiful words

ਦੋਹਿਰਾ
ਜੱਸਾ ਸਿੰਘ ਕੋ ਪਾਲਕੋ ਗੁਰਮੁਖ ਸਿੰਘ ਜਿਹ ਨਾਮ। ਤਿਨ ਸਿੰਘ ਜੋ ਆਖਿਓ , ਅਬ ਈਹਾਂ ਖੜਨ ਨਹਿ ਕਾਮ।
ਚੌਪਈ
ਈਹਾਂ ਖੜੇ ਹਮ ਬਚਤੇ ਨਾਹੀਂ। ਤੁਮ ਹਮਰੀ ਇਮ ਜਾਨ ਗਵਾਹੀ। ਤੌ ਸਿੰਘ ਜੀ ਫਿਰ ਇਮ ਫੁਰਮਾਵੇੰ। ਹਮਰੋ ਘੋੜੋ ਅਗੈ ਨਾ ਧਾਵੈ। ਤਬ ਗੁਰਮੁਖ ਸਿੰਘ ਚਾਬਕ ਉਠਾਯਾ। ਚਾਹਤ ਘੋੜੇ ਤਨ ਕੋ ਲਾਯਾ। ਤਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਜੀ ਨਿਜ ਦੇਖ ਹਟਾਯੋ। ਚਹੈਂ ਹਮਕੋ ਤੂੰ ਚਟਕ ਲਗਾਯੋ। ਪੰਥ ਸੁਣੈ ਹਮ ਕੋ ਕਰੈ ਠੱਠਾ। ਘੋੜ ਕੁਟਾਏ ਜੱਸਾ ਸਿੰਘ ਨੱਠਾ। ਕ੍ਯਾ ਮੁਖ ਲੈ ਮੈਂ ਬਹੋਂ ਦੀਵਾਨ। ਕਰੈਂ ਮਸਕਰੀ ਹਮ ਕੋ ਆਨ। ਮੈਂ ਖਾਲਸੈ ਪਾਤਿਸ਼ਾਹੁ ਕਹਾਯੋ। ਤੁਮ ਚਾਹਤ ਹਮ ਗੀਦੀ ਬਨਾਯੋ। ਇਸ ਜੀਵਨ ਤੇ ਮਰਨੋ ਬੇਸ਼। ਰਹੈ ਜਸ ਇਸ ਜੱਗ ਮੈਂ ਲੇਸ਼। ਜੱਸਾ ਸਿੰਘ ਖਾਏ ਬਾਈ ਘਾਇ।ਤੌ ਭੀ ਸਿੰਘ ਜੀ ਲੜਤੋ ਜਾਇ।

ਪ੍ਰਾਚੀਨ ਪੰਥ ਪ੍ਰਕਾਸ਼ - ਭਾਈ ਰਤਨ ਸਿੰਘ ਭੰਗੂ

Jassa Singh Ahluwalia was known and revered as 'Guru ka Kaal - Sultan e Kaum', the King of the Sikh Nation.

  • Jassa Singh Ahluwalia was born in 1718 in the village of Ahlu near Lahore.
  • Jassa Singh Ahluwalia's father died when he was five years old. Jassa Singh Ahluwalia's mother brought him to Delhi in 1723 to have him blessed by Mata Sunder Kaur Ji, the wife of Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji Maharaj, where He stayed for 7 years to receive an excellent education in Persian and Arabic. Jassa Singh Ahluwalia was taught in the Gurmat teaching of the Sikh Gurus and was singing and playing the sacred hymns of Gurbani. Jassa Singh Ahluwalia received an extensive training in weaponary and horsemanship.
  • In 1728 Kapur Singh traveled to Delhi to visit Mata Sunder Kaur Ji. When Kapur Singh saw the young Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, he noticed his extraordinary personality and took Jassa Singh Ahluwalia and his mother with him. Before Jassa Singh Ahluwalia left Delhi, he was blessed with weapons and success by Mata Sunder Kaur Ji. It was said that he will attain fame and royal honor which will accompany him in his life journey. Jassa Singh Ahluwalia was spending several years under the leadership of Nawab Kapur Singh and later lead his own Ahluwalia Misl.
  • In 1748 during the Sarbat Khalsa gathering, Jassa Singh Ahluwalia became the next Sikh leader, who was accepted and blessed by the Panj Pyare.
  • He was the fifth Jathedar of Sri Akaal Takht, the highest seat of temporal Sikh authority.
  • Jassa Singh Ahluwalia organized a total of 60 Misls, successful Sikh regiments.
  • In 1762, the Wadda Ghallughara, the great holocaust took place in which a total of 35,000 Sikhs were killed. The Sikh population of that time was around 80,000. The Sikh Panth survived this attack of Ahmed Shah Abdali.
  • Ahmed Shah Abdali raids the Punjab from 1748-1767. The attacks by the islamic armed forces had a decisive impact on Sikh military history, in which Jassa Singh Ahluwalia emerged as one of the most important and successful Sikh military leaders:
  • 1741 - the liberation of Amritsar from the rule of the opponents.
  • 1761 - the capture of the capital Lahore.
  • 1761 - the liberation of the prisoners.
  • 1764 - the reconstruction of the Sri Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar.
  • 1779 - follows the occupation of Kapurthala.
  • 1783 - the capture of the Red Fort in Delhi. One of the greatest achievments in Sikh military history.
  • In 1783 Jassa Singh Ahluwalia is leaving his body and was cremated at the Holy place of Baba Atal in Amritsar. His Smadh (cenotaph) can be visit there.

Akali Phula Singh

Akali Phula Singh (1761-1823) becomes the successor of Jassa Singh Ahluwalia and the sixth Jathedar of Sri Akaal Takht. Akali Phula Singh was an outstanding leader of the Khalsa Shaheedan Misl, leader of the Budha Dal and a successful General of the Nihang Army in the early 19th century. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was able to assume leadership in the Punjab in 1799 through the efforts and blessings of his mother-in-law Rani Sada Kaur Ji. Maharaja Ranjit Singh founded the famous Sikh Kingdom, the Sikh Raj, which he led until his death in 1839. Jassa Singh Ahluwalia was born in the village of Shinh in 1761. His father Sardar Isher Singh of the Nishanwala Misl fought in the Wadda Ghallughara of 1762, where he was wounded and left his body. Akali Phula Singh belonged since his childhood to the Nihang Panth, the Akalis. Akali Phula Singh remained unmarried. He lovingly cared for the Sikh community and was committed to the preservation and care of the Sikh Gurudwaras. At the request of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Akali Phula Singh supported the army of Maharaja Ranjit Singh with 3000 Nihangs. Akali Phula Singh and his Nihang army fought in numerous battles like Kasur, Multan, Shopian and Naushera. Maharaja Ranjit Singh owed Akali Phula Singh many glorious victories. In 1823, Akali Phula left his body and gained Shaheedi in the battle near Naushera. Akali Phula Singh was one of the most important Nihang Singh leader and Jathedar of the Budha Dal.

Akali Phula Singh - Budha Dal
Hari Singh Nalwa - Commander in Chief of a regiment of Maharaja Ranjit Singh

In the battle of Peshawar, Akali Phula Singh and the famous Hari Singh Nalwa (1791 -1837) fought together against the opponents. Because of Akali Phula Singh, Hari Singh Nalwa and the Khalsa Army the territory of the Afghans, which was owned by the Afghans for more than 500 years, could be brought under the rule of the Sikh Kingdom. Hari Singh Nalwa was Commander-in-chief of the Khalsa Fauj, the Sikh army. He led a regiment of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. He is known for his role in the conquests of Kasur, Sialkot, Attock, Multan, Kashmir, Peshawar and Jamrud. Hari Singh Nalwa was responsible for expanding the frontier of the Sikh Empire to beyond the Indus River right up to the mouth of the Khyber Pass. At the time of his physical departure, the western boundary of the empire was Jamrud. Hari Singh Nalwa served as Governor of Kashmir, Peshawar and Hazara. He established a mint on behalf of the Sikh Empire to facilitate revenue collection in Kashmir and Peshawar. Hari Singh Nalwa was also an asthetique Constructor. At least 56 buildings were attributed to him, which included Gurudwaras, Forts, Ramparts, Towers, Tanks, Samadhis, Temples, Mosques, Towns, Havelis, Sarais and beautiful Gardens. He built the fortified town of Haripur in 1822. This was the first planned town in the region, with a superb water distribution system.

The fort of Harkishengarh, situated in the valley at the foothill of mountains, had four gates. It was surrounded by a wall, four yards thick and 16 yards high. Hari Singh Nalwa's presence brought such a feeling of security to the region that the citizens there felt deeply content and satisfied. A large number of Khatris migrated there and established a flourishing trade. Haripur, Tehsil and district, in Hazara, North-West Frontier Province, are named after Hari Singh Nalwa. He contributed to the prosperity of Gujranwala, which he was given as a Jagir, which he held till 1837. Hari Singh Nalwa built all the main Sikh forts in the trans-Indus region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa - Jehangira and Nowshera on the left and right bank respectively of the river Kabul, Sumergarh, or Bala Hisar Fort in the city of Peshawar for the Sikh Kingdom. In addition to that, he laid the foundation for the Fort of Fatehgarh, at Jamrud and reinforced Akbar's Attock Fort situated on the left bank of the river Indus by building very high Bastions at each of the Gates. Hari Singh Nalwa constructed the Fort of Uri in Kashmir. He was a deeply spiritual Sikh Warrior and built the Gurudwara Panja Sahib in the town of Hassan Abdal, south-west of Haripur and north-west of Rawalpindi, to commemorate Satguru Nanak Dev's journey through that region. Hari Singh Nalwa had donated the gold required to cover the dome of Sri Akaal Takht within the Darbar Sahib complex in Amritsar. After his physical departure, his sons Jawahir Singh Nalwa and Arjan Singh Nalwa fought against the British to protect the Sovereignty of the Kingdom of the Sikhs.
Due to unwise synergies and lost wars of Maharaj Ranjit Singh against the British, the Sikh Kingdom could not continue. The golding of Sri Harmandir Sahib goes back to Maharaja Ranjit Singh. After the fall of the Sikh Kingdom in 1849, the British Empire took over the rule of the Indian subcontinent.

Budha Dal today

The Budha Dal occupies an extraordinarily important historical position in the history of the Sikhs. On August 8, 2008 Jathedar Sant Baba Santa Singh Ji leaves his body at the age of 90 years. Jathedar Sant Baba Surjit Singh Ji is formally initiated 14th Jathedar of the Budha Dal. His formal Dastarbandi ceremony took place on August 18, 2008. Jathedar Baba Surjit Singh Ji was wrongfully imprisoned due to an unsolved case and died in 2014. Jathedar Baba Balbir Singh Ji became the new Jathedar of the Budha Dal. The Budha Dal maintains the Budha Dal public schools in Patiala. He is involved in Seva, charity, education, Gatka and participates in religious-cultural events and equips important Sikh celebrations. Today Jathedar Baba Balbir Singh leads the traditional Budha Dal and is committed to preserving the holiness and respect of the Siri Guru Granth Sahib, Sri Dasam Granth, Sri Sarbloh Granth, the Holy scriptures and the Gurmat teaching of the Sikh Gurus. The Budha Dal is divided into further regiments.
Jathedar of Budha Dal Sant Baba Sant Singh Ji about Chakra Varti: Guru Gobind Singh said
My Khalsa will remain Chakra Varti, roaming free and will be constantly on the move. Chakra Varti is freedom. Its a kingdom presiding the world. Over the whole world.

Jathedar Akali Baba Surjit Singh Ji
Budha Dal

Amrit for baptism is prepared by
the Nihang Singhs

Jathedar Baba Balbir Singh Ji (Punjab)
Budha Dal

ਬੁੱਢਾ ਦਲ ਪੰਜਵਾਂ ਤਖ਼ਤ ਦਾ ਜਥੇਦਾਰ ਕਿਵੇਂ ਬਣਦਾ
Jathedar Sant Baba Sant Singh Ji about Budha Dal & Five Throne

Brief History of Budha Dal
Nihang Giani Sher Singh Ji Ambala

Jathedars Budha Dal in chronological order

  • Baba Binod Singh Ji
  • Baba Darbara Singh Ji
  • Nawab Kapur Singh Ji
  • Sardar Jassa Singh Ahluwalia
  • Baba Naina Singh Ji
  • Akali Phula Singh Ji
  • Baba Hanuman Singh Ji
  • Baba Prahlad Singh Ji
  • Baba Gian Singh Ji
  • Baba Teja Singh Ji
  • Baba Sahib Ji Kaladhari
  • Baba Chet Singh Ji
  • Baba Santa Singh Ji
  • Baba Surjit Singh Ji
  • Baba Balbir Singh Ji

"The Budha Dal carries a rich history to it. The Budha Dal is an institute that traces its roots to the Akaal Sena, the army established* by the 5th Guru, Akali Guru Arjan Dev Ji and was strengthened by the 6th Guru, Akali Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. The Akaal Sena’s headquarters was the Akaal Takht Sahib. Their fight was not against any particular body, but against unrighteousness and to uphold peace and equality over the lands they watched over. The Akaal Sena evolved into the Khalsa Fauj. This Khalsa Fauj was the official army of Sahib Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The Budha Dal and Tarna Dal were 2 battalions within the Khalsa Fauj. The Budha Dal used to be the institute where the Vidhvaans who held a lineage which dated back to the Gurus rested. Also, war veterans and promising soldiers resided at the Budha Dal. The Budha Dal was traditionally respected and recognised as the Panjva Takht, or 5th Takht."

"Budha Dal is the Sovereign Regiment of the Khalsa, which was first developed by Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. After receiving the 6th Guru's Blessings. The Army flourished and was soldified by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The Budha Dal was the 10th Guru's Elite Army and always remained with the Guru."
(Excerpt: www.Budhadal.org - *instructed)

Further information about the Budha Dal can be found here

  • 96 Kror Shiromani Akali Budha Dal Tat Khalsa Misl Nehkalank Hukam Sat (UK)
    www.Budhadal.org
  • Shiromani Panth Akali Budha Dal Panjwan Takhat 96 Crori - Punjab
    (Forwarding to the page takes 5 seconds)
    www.Budhadal.org.in
  • Shiromani Panth Akali Buddha Dal (UK)
    www.Buddhadal.uk

Tarna Dal

The Tarna Dal was divided into five Jathas, five groups, each of them had a contingent of 1300 to 2000 Sikh soldiers and was equipped with a Nagara, the traditional war drum and the Nishan Sahib flag. The first Jatha was led by Baba Deep Singh Ji. After his martyrdom the Jatha called itself 'Shaheedanwala Jatha', the Jatha of the martyrs. The second Jatha was commanded by Bhai Karam Singh and Bhai Dharam Singh of Amritsar, it was known as 'Amritsarian da Jatha'. The third group 'Sahibzadian da Jatha' was led by Bhai Binod Singh and his son Baba Kahn Singh, the 'Jatha of the Sahibzada's' or Guru Ansi Jatha. The fourth Jatha was under the command of Bhai Dasaundha of Kot Buddha. The fifth Jatha was led by Bhai Bir Singh Ranghreta. The territories of the respective Sikh Misls were located between the Hari ke Pattan, where the Sutlej and Beas rivers meet. The Tarna Dal controlled the area east of the Hari ke Pattan, while the Budha Dal controlled the area west of it.

Tarna Dal today

Today the Tarna Dal is led by Jathedar Sant Baba Nihal Singh Ji. Baba Nihal Singh was born in 1942 in Silkari, Hoshiapur district. In 1964 the Sikh Sangat of Paonta Sahib went to the then Jathedar of Tarna Dal to discuss the Anti-Sikh situation in their Gurudwara. The Gurudwara was led by so-called Masands. The Masands system was originally founded as a representative body of the Sikh Gurus. The Masands were responsible to take care of spreading the Sikh teachings and for maintaining the Sikh Gurudwaras. For this purpose they accepted gifts and money which was supposed to use for the Sikh community, the Langar kitchen and for building and maintaining the Sikh Gurudwaras. The Masand system was led by Prithi Chand, the oldest son of Guru Ram Das. Later on, Prithi Chand and his allies used this system for their own purposes and goals. As a result, Prithi Chand was excluded from the Guru family. The Masand system was later dissolved by the Tenth Sikh Guru and the Guru Khalsa Panth. Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji repeatedly warned His Sikhs not to associate with the Masands. In Hymn 33 Savaiye in the Sri Dasam Granth, the Tenth Sikh Guru describes this in detail.
The Jathedar of the Tarna Dal went to the Gurudwara at the request of the Sikh Sangat to restore the Rehat and dignity of Holy Guru Granth Sahib. A total of 13 Gursikhs traveled to the Gurudwara where the Anti-Sikh activities took place. They asked the responsible persons to perform an Akhand Path, a 48-hour nonstop reading of the Holy Guru Granth Sahib. The Masands gave no response to the 13 Gursikhs. The Jathedar of the Nihang Tarna Dal started the Akhand Path the next morning. On the second day the Masands returned with the police. The Tarna Dal's Jathedar, who was outside at the time, was arrested and the other Gursikhs who were carrying out the Akhand Path and Seva in the Gurudwara were shot - 11 died, 2 survived. Baba Nihal Singh Ji was hit with three shots and He collapsed. An eleven year old Gursikh boy who was present also survived. He saw that everyone was dead but that the Nihang Baba Nihal Singh was still breathing. The Sikh boy ran to inform the Sikhs in the village about it, whereupon Baba Nihal Singh Ji received medical care and could survive. Many Gurudwaras have since honored him as Jinda Shaheed, the living Martyr. Every year an Akhand Path is performed at this historical place in memory of this event. Today the Tarna Dal is an important religious educational Nihang Panth, which is in the service of the Sikh community and the Khalsa Panth. The focus is on Gurmat Parchar, the transmission of the Gurmat teachings. Strict adherence to the Khalsa & Nihang Rehat, learning Gatka, performing Amrit baptism, volunteer work, Seva as well as maintaining the holiness and respect for the Siri Guru Granth Sahib, the Sri Dasam Granth Sahib and the Sri Sarbloh Granth. The Nihang Tarna Dal is self-governing. The headquarter is located in Harian Belan, Bajraur, 10 km from Hoshiarpur near Chabbewal (Harian means green and Belan are vines). The Gurudwara Harian Belan is administered by the Nihangs of the Tarna Dal. This historical and Holy place refers to Guru Har Rai, the seventh Sikh Guru, who arrived here from Kiratpur with his wife and a 2200 strong equestrian Sikh army. Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji Maharaj stayed at this place for three days and blessed Baba Prajapati where Guru Sahib was staying. Guru Har Rai gave discourses on Gurbani and about the Sikh faith of Satguru Nanak Dev Ji in front of a large crowd of Sangat. At this serene and beautiful holy place, this enchanting Gurudwara was constructed in loving memory of Guru Har Rai Ji. The Gurudwara is also surrounded by Mango trees.

Baba Ajit Singh, the eldest son of Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji Maharaj arrived here with about 100 Singhs after he freed the wife of Brahmin Paras Ram from the hands of Zabar Khan. In this fight many Singhs gained Shaheedi. The cremation of these Singhs took place here in this Shaheedan Gurudwara.

Reflections of Sant Baba Nihal Singh Ji

Gatka Tarna Dal

Tarna Dal - Information

Hola Mahalla

Hola Mahalla or Hola Mohalla is a famous Sikh festival that takes place every year in the month of Chet (March). Here the Nihang Singhs show their skills in weapons and horsemanship for three days in Sri Anandpur Sahib, the city of Bliss, founded by the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji. The military Sikh martial art Gatka is excellently demonstrated here by the Nihang Singhs. The Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib in Sri Anandpur Sahib is one of the five highest seats of the Sikh religion. During these days many events take place, including the Hindu festival Holi, where everyone throws paint at each other. Visitors from all over the world travel to this celebration annually. In 1701 the Sikh Festival Hola Mahalla was founded by the Tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji Maharaj.

Video-Source: YouTube Channel

Panth Akali Guru Nanak Dal

Jathedar Sant Baba Maan Singh Ji has taken part in many important events in the history of the Sikhs, including the Sarbat Khalsa in 1986 and 2015, and was also involved in the Dharam Yudh Morcha. Jathedar Sant Baba Maan Singh Ji is a contemporary of Sant Kartar Singh Bhindranwale and Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. The Panth Akali Guru Nanak Dal is co-directed by Jathedar Sant Baba Waryam Singh Ji. The Nihang Panth Guru Nanak Dal organizes Kirtan, Gurmat Parchar, Akhand Paths, Amrit Sanchar, the baptism ceremony, Kavishari, gives Gatka classes and Sikhi camps where the youth is inspired and trained. The Akali Panth Guru Nanak Dal upholds the traditions of the Nihangs and the foundations of the Sikh religion in an exemplary manner. This Nihang Panth is committed to Seva and supports actively human and civil rights.

Visit facebook page
Panth Akali Guru Nanak Dal

Panth Akali Guru Nanak Dal - Katha & Kirtan

Baba Bidhi Chand Dal

The Sampardaye Baba Bidhi Chand Dal Panth is over 400 years old. Baba Bidhi Chand Ji was a great Sikh warrior, Brahm Giani and Sikh preacher in the time of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji Maharaj, the sixth Sikh Guru. This Nihang Panth inherits leadership exclusively within the family. Guru Hargobind Sahib blessed Baba Bidhi Chand Ji with the knowledge of God and His creation. The collection of historical weapons of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and of Baba Bidhi Chand Ji, historical documents, rare manuscripts, diaries, Hukamname, paintings are contemporary witnesses of a historical-religious cultural heritage of the Sikhs. The Dal Panth Baba Bidhi Chand is today an important religious educational institution serving the legislature of the Sikh Gurus and the Guru Khalsa Panth. The Baba Bidhi Chand Dal Panth is now lead by Jathedar Baba Avtar Singh Ji.

12. Jathedar Mahanpurakh Baba Avtar Singh Ji

Baba Bidhi Chand followed the development of the historical system of Miri-Piri, which was established by Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji Maharaj. Guru Hargobind Sahib henceforth carried two Swords. The first sword symbolizes Miri, the political-worldly leadership, the second Sword stands for Piri, the spiritual power. The sixth Sikh Guru proclaimed that these two foundations will be inter-connected, supportive and essential for the development and protection of the Sikhs and their religion in the future. Baba Bidhi Chand Ji was appointed as instructor of military exercises to teach the Sikhs the techniques of military and martial arts. Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji has made Baba Bidhi Chand a General and Commander of his army. As General and Saint Soldier, Baba Bidhi Chand Ji was victorious in the battles with Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji against the Mughal rulers. The Swords of Guru Hargobind Sahib and Baba Bidhi Chand can still be seen today. When Guru Tegh Bahadur, the youngest son of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, grew up, the Guru gave his son into the care of Baba Bidhi Chand Ji for the military training. Baba Bidhi Chand taught Guru Tegh Bahadur the Sword fighting. Later on Guru Hargobind Sahib sent Baba Bidhi Chand from Kiratpur to the eastern provinces to teach the people about the Sikh faith of Satguru Nanak Dev. Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji Maharaj praised the services of Bidhi Chand and described him as a rare Jewel.

ਬਧੀ ਚੰਦ ਛੀਨਾ ਗੁਰੂ ਕਾ ਸੀਨਾ।

Bidhi Chand Chhina, Guru Ka Seena
Bidhi Chand Chhina makes Guru’s chest swell with pride.
(You are forever my heart beat)

When Baba Bidhi Chand touched the feet of Satguru Ji, Guru Hargobind Sahib embraced him and expressed all his Love and Pride towards Baba Bidhi Chand. Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji Maharaj defeated Painde Khan with the Sword that can be seen in the Video. Painde Khan was taken in as a child by Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and was highly trained in military art. Painde Khand became one of the strongest fighters who later allied with the Mughals against the Guru House. He became a traitor to Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji Maharaj. Painde Khan competed against Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and lost the fight. He was killed in the battle of Kartapur by the sixth Guru. Before Painde Khan took his last breath, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji asked him for his last wish. Painde Khand asked the Guru for forgiveness. Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji forgave him and covered his face with his shield from the hot sun. The sixth Sikh Guru has won four successful defensive wars against the islamic forces. Baba Bidhi Chand Ji used a narrow Sword in these battles.

Both Swords of Miri Piri de Malik Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji Maharaj and Baba Bidhi Chand Ji are shown worldwide as Tegh Darshan (Sword blessing) for the Sikh Sangat.

Shastras of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji & Baba Bidhi Chand Ji

Pir Sunder Shah, a Muslim man who had spiritual powers, wanted to compete with Baba Bidhi Chand, and they competed with each other, when he saw that he is loosing, he realized that Baba Bidhi Chand is a Sikh of the Guru and he gave up. After this encounter, Pir Sunder Shah wished, when his time comes to leave the world, to do so together with Baba Bidhi Chand. When this period of time arrived, Baba Bidhi Chand Ji went to Deonagar where he met his Muslim friend Pir Sunder Shah. Baba Bidhi Chand Ji fulfilled the heart's desire of the Saint. Both sat together in deep meditation and left their bodies on August 14, 1640. Sunder Shah's followers buried their master according to the Muslim rites. Baba Bidhi Chand Ji was cremated in accordance with Sikh customs. A shrine was built for Baba Bidhi Chand Ji in his honor at the site. Some time later, Baba Bidhi Chand's son Bhai Lal Chand brought earth from Deonagar to Sur Singh to built a monument in the birthplace of his father in Sur Singh.

Bidhi Chand Dal Panth leaders in chronological order

  • Baba Bidhi Chand Ji
  • Baba Lal Chand Ji
    (son of Baba Bidhi Chand)
  • Baba Gurdial Chand Ji
  • Baba Hukam Chand Ji
  • Baba Jeoun Singh Ji
  • Baba Jaspat Singh Ji
  • Baba Bhag Singh Ji
  • Baba Labh Singh Ji
  • Baba Natha Singh Ji
  • Jathedar Baba Sohan Singh Ji
  • Jathedar Baba Daya Singh Ji
  • Jathedar Baba Avtar Singh Ji

Baba Bidhi Chand Ji was a great, brave and very devoted Gursikh, Hero and General in the army of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji Maharaj, Miri Piri de Malik.

In loving memory of Jathedar Mahapurakh Sant Baba Sohan Singh Ji and Jathedar Mahapurakh Sant Baba Daya Singh Ji the following booklet was published. You can read here about the lineage and history of Baba Bidhi Chand Ji, about his Seva, Loyality, Devotion and Love for Guru Sahib.

Click on image (PDF) to read
ਪੀਡੀਐਫ ਨੂੰ ਪੜ੍ਹਨ ਲਈ ਤਸਵੀਰ 'ਤੇ ਕਲਿੱਕ ਕਰੋ

Sri Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji Maharaj, Tegh Darshan - Blessings of His Sword

Historical weapons in
Sri Hazur Sahib, Nanded
Maharashtra, India


Source: YouTube & Sikh Channel

Nihang Gallery