Sunday

Bibi Agya Kaur

Bibi AGYA KAUR,(d. 1918), wife of Bhai Takht Singh and his helpmate in
promoting women's education among Sikhs to Which cause he was passionately
devoted, was the daughter of Sardar Nek Singh of the village of Sultanpur, near
Rahim Yar Khan railway station in the princely state of Bahawalpur.
She had been a resident student at the Sikh girls school, at Firozpur, founded in 1892
and nurtured by Bhal Takht Singh. Agya Kaur had studied at the Mahavidyala up to
the high school level. Bhai lakht Singh's first wife Harnam Kaur who was a co-builder
of the school died in 1906. He approached Agya Kaur's father to ask for her hand to
be his ally in the enterprise he had launched upon. The nuptials took place at
Sultanpur on 17 September 1910. On 17 February 1911, Bibi (lady) Agya Kaur left
with her husband on a tour of some South Asian countries to raise funds for the
school. At Sikh gatherings and at divans at the gurdwaras, she recited holy hymns,
kirtan, and made fervent appeals for donations, for their nascent school.
Returning to Punjab on 3 March 1912, she resumed her duties at the Mahavidyala as a
teacher and as a matron of the hostel. She was taken ill with influenza during the
epidemic of 1918, aggravated in her case by an attack of pneumonia. She died on 27
October 1918. She left behind four children, one of her daughters rising to the
position of Director of Public Instruction in Punjab.

Bibi Amro

Bibi Amro was the daughter of Guru Angad Dev ji, the Second Guru. She was born in
1532 in the village of Khadur Sahib, District Amritsar. She received her early
education and training directly from her parents Guru Angad Dev ji and Mata Khivi.
Guru Angad spent a lot of time with his children. He taught them the Gurmukhi script
that he had revised and simplified which is used in Guru Granth Sahib. When she
came of age she was married to Bhai Jasoo son of Manak Chand of Basarke village.
As was the custom of the day she was sent to live with her husband's family. Her
father encouraged her to continue doing kirtan and to preach Sikhism to all that she
came in contact with. Amar Das who was her husband's uncle was quite taken by her
sweet melodious voice when he heard her singing shabads (holy hymns). It was she
who first introduced him to the teachings of Sikhism. As his interest grew it was she
who sent him to her father to learn more about these teachings. Amar Das was so
deeply influenced by Guru Angad Dev ji that he became a devout Sikhs, so much that
Guru Angad Dev ji announced him as his Successors. Thus Guru Amar Das ji, the
third Guru got to his destiny of becoming a Guru through Bibi Amro ji.
Years laters when Guru Amar Das ji gave structure to the Sikh Nation and organised
his preachers into 22 teaching districts he put Bibi Amro ji in-charge of one of these
districts that he callcd Manji. What Manji meant was that a person who was leading a
Kirtan to be sit on the Manji while whole sangat in front of him.
The person occupying Manji was the Sikh preacher appointed by Guru Amardas. This
appointmcet can best be compared to the position of Bishop in thc Christian Church
today. It was an administrative position, with full responsibility for the equality and
content of the preaching. She also would have the responsibility of collecting
revenues and making decisions for the welfare of her diocese. Her manji or diocese
included Basarke, her husband's village, where they made their home. It is the direct
result of the efforts of Bibi Amro and other Sikh preaches that Amritsar today is
synonomous with Sikhism. Today, close to the village of Basarke, there is a tank
(man made pond) bearing the name Bibi Amro da Talab (Tank of Bibi Amro) in her
memory.

Bibi Balbir Kaur

The Akali movement had rejuvenated a new life among GurSikhs. Since the Sikh Raj
period, this was the first time GurSikhs had asserted their religious independence and
initiated non-violent efforts to seek control of their Gurdwaras. The bloody incident of
Nankana Sahib and Guru-Kae-Bagh added fuel to the fire and served to strengthen the
movement. As a result, the Sikhs raised slogans of India's freedom along with slogans
for the independence of their Gurdwaras. Unfortunately, the level of commitment and
self-sacrifice of Sikhs deeply disturbed the British. They sensed a potential threat to
their control from this small community of lions. Expectedly, the British directed their
terror machinery against the Sikhs. Along with Akalis, their sympathizers also
troubled the British Psyche. As a result, the British forces arrested and confined all
Akali sympathizers in the jails.
The Maharaja of Nabha, Ripudaman Singh, was an independent minded ruler. He
never considered himself disjoint from his community. When Guru Khalsa Panth
observed the eve of Nankana Sahib martyrdom, he too conducted Akhand Path of Sri
Guru Granth Sahib in Nabha and wore black turban to participate in this Panthic
observance. Subsequently, he visited Harimandir Sahib at Amritsar and consulted
with Akali leaders who were outside the jails. Maharaja's activities deeply troubled
the British. They could not tolerate such activities as they smelled some sort of a
rebellion through such participation. The British action was swift. They initiated legal
steps to seize control of Nabha rule and expelled Maharaja Ripudaman Singh.
The news of Maharaja Ripudaman Singh's expulsion spread through Guru Khalsa
Panth like a lightening rod. It shook the very core of Sikh psyche. Such excesses by
the British became unbearable for the Sikhs and the whole Sikh nation galvanized to
fight against this injustice. The Shiromani Gurdwara Prabhandhak Committee
(SGPC), working in collaboration with the Shiromani Akali Dal, conducted Akhand
Paths at various places to openly express their outrage at this injustice and demanded
the reinstatement of Maharaja. Sikhs initiated a Akhand Paath of Sri Guru Granth
Sahib at the Jaito Gurdwara as well to express their outrage against this injustice.
Unfortunately, it was not allowed to be completed. The agents of British empire,
operating under British instructions, dragged and arrested the Granth Sahib who was
reciting the Paath. As a result, the Akhand Paath was forcibly interrupted.
This incident was equivalent of pouring salt over open Sikh wounds. The expulsion of
Maharaja was a political affair that the Panth was still struggling to grapple with. It
hadn't yet resolved on how to best deal with this issue when the forced interruption of
Akhand Paath served a deep blow from the rulers to the Sikhs religious sentiments.
This was an open challenge to Guru Khalsa Panth's freedom and honor. Akali leaders
decided to accept this challenge. They immediately announced a non- violent morcha
for the resumption and completion of the interrupted Akhand Paath. Thousands of
GurSikh Singh, Singhnia, children, and elders started flocking in Amritsar ready to
shed their lives for this religious battle. They were all eager to reach Jaito. However,
the Akali committee decided to send a Jatha of 500 GurSikhs. The remaining
GurSikhs were asked to await the schedule for the next Jatha. Everyone was eager to
proceed to Jaito, yet they had to accept their Jathedar's decision.
Under the echoes of Jaekara, "Jo Bolay So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal," this Jatha left
Amritsar after having sought the Hukam from Sri Akal Takhat and pledged to remain
non- violent. Thousands of supporters were present on this occasion. Singhnias were
not allowed to proceed on this Jatha. But how could they remain behind and not
participate in such a holy endeavor? They successfully sought permission to
accompany the Jatha for organizing langar along the way.
The non-violent march of this Jatha was a unique event for the whole world.
Organized in rows of four, these Saint-Soldiers proceeded bare-foot from Amritsar
while reciting "Satnaam VaahGuru." Soon they reached their first rest-stop. The
dedication and volunteer sewa of the local Sikhs testified to the whole world that the
Sikh nation not only understood non-violence and how to die but how to honor its
martyrs.
It become evident from the first rest-stop that the services of Singhnia, who had
accompanied the Jatha for organizing langar, were not needed. Jathedar asked with
them to return. Many did. However, several wanted to continue with their brave
brothers and they did not return. Our Balbir Kaur was among this group. When
Jathedar asked her to return, her eyes were filled with tears. She said, "Veer! Do not
stop me from serving the living martyrs of Guru Gobind Singh. Sewa is the only
essence of this life. Beside we never know when death will come upon us. I plead for
permission to continue for Guru's sake. Let me proceed." Jathedar could not break her
heart. He reluctant gave permission, especially when faced with the utter display of
self-sacrifice.
Balbir Kaur was 22 years old, full of youth and utterly beautiful. Guru's faith and
feelings of selfless service for humanity had generated such a glow on her face that
she seemed like a goddess of purity or an angel. She was not alone. She was
accompanied by an year old beautiful son. The playful happy face of this child was
not only Balbir Kaur's joy but the source of amusement for the whole Jatha. He
played with everyone in the Jatha along the way.
The journey was nearing completion. Jatha prepared to depart from its final rest-stop.
Jathedar stood on a high spot and pleaded for the return of the accompanying
congregation. British forces had dug-in with machine gun. This information had
previously reached the Jatha. Jathedar did not hide this information from anyone. He
said, "With Guru's blessing, a martyr's maela is being organized. However, only those
GurSikhs, who have Sri Akal Takhat's Hukam, should proceed further. Others should
return and await their turn."
The congregation stopped and let the Jatha proceed. However, not everyone obeyed
the Jathedar's instructions. Several GurSikhs, eager to seek the martyrdom, found
hidden routes parallel to the Jatha's established route. They advance in hiding, with
the view that when the whole program of martyrdom is unveiled they too will
participate to seek martyrdom. However, Bibi Balbir Kaur did not seek any hidden
routes. She continued marching with her brothers while her son enjoyed the sight,
simply watching people on either side.
When Jathedar learned of Balbir Kaur's continued march with the Jatha, he left his
leading position and caught up with her. "Bibi, there is potential of firing ahead. You
should not continue any further." Jathedar pleaded. "My Veer! Do not stop me. My
quest for sewa has not been quenched yet. Allow me to enjoy this sewa. You tell me
of the dangers from the potential firing ahead? Five hundred Veers are with me. Since
they are continuing for sure death why shouldn't they be accompanied by a Bahan
(sister). I too have partaken Gurus Amrit. I shall consider myself blessed if I too could
accept martyrdom along with my brothers and reach Guru Gobind Singh's court. Here
my quest has not been quenched by serving my Veers." Balbir Kaur again pleaded
with tears in her eyes.
"But .." Jathedar was about to say something when he was interrupted by Balbir Kaur
saying, "My child, this is what you wanted to point out. He too is Guru's blessing. If
he too serve the Panth, what greater deeds could be beyond this." Saying this, Balbir
Kaur again hugged her child who burst out laughing.
Jathedar pressured Balbir Kaur to return. Others pressured her too, but she did not
budge from her decision to continue her march to death with her brothers. She insisted
that the "non-inclusion of a Bahan along with 500 Veers in the pending martyrdom is
an insult to the brave daughters of Tenth Guru. How could the Guru, whose amrit
turned women into Singhnia, who bestowed equality to women, tolerate that not even
a single daughter participate in his holy war? This is sacrilegious that Balbir Kaur
simply could not allow."
The power of her persuasive arguments forced her brothers to accept her position.
Even the Jathedar had to bow against her spirit of sacrifice and courage. Who so ever
talked with her was perplexed and could not raise a convincing counter argument.
Jathedar having been forced to accept her decision, returned to his lead position in the
march. Guru Khalsa's Kesri flag was freely fluttering in the winds. The Jatha
exhibited a unique presence while the accompanying band's performance portrayed
innocence. Under the guidance of their deeply held faith in Sri Guru Granth Sahib and
the command of their Jathedar, the brave force of Sant-Sipahis marched toward the
Jaito Gurdwara. They were chanting "Satnaam VaahGuru." Every GurSikh in the
Jatha was projecting calmness.
Hindu, Muslims, and Sikhs welcomed the Jatha all along of the way from Amritsar to
Jaito, because of their participation in this religious task. They were served with
abundant amounts milk, kheer (milk and rice pudding) and other things. Flowers were
showered upon these living martyrs along the way. Thousands of rupees were
donated.
Now it was turn for people serving the British to extend their welcome. They too
welcomed these braves GurSikhs with rifle and gun fire. They showered them with
rain of bullets. Gurus non-violent force was prepared for such a welcome. They
accepted this welcome with "Satnaam Sri VaahGuru's" Hukam and continued the
sweet walk towards their goal without any interruptions. Witnessing the scene it
appeared that the Jatha was playing holli (festival of colors). After all martyr's holli is
a holli of blood. If someone's face was colored with blood, someone else's head, chest,
or thigh were colored. Blessed were the GurSikhs, for no one's back was visibly
colored. Many Veers fell to the ground but would rise immediately to continue their
march. The bullets would hit their chest only to fall again. With courage they would
either rise again or accept death to reach the Kalgidhar father's lap.
Martyrdom was being openly served by now. It was the same serving that Balbir Kaur
had insisted to reached and accept. Let us focus our attention on her condition. She
continued her march while hugging to her child. She loved the rain of bullets that she
had eagerly awaited. By now her face was glowing with some unique brightness.
Suddenly, She was hit by a bullet in her forehead. A blood spring burst open. Her
whole face was covered with blood, eyes were covered with blood. However, this did
not affect her march. She continued with the chanting of "Satnaam VaahGuru" while
her child played with the flowing blood on her face. It was all a game for the child.
Suddenly another bullet hit Balbir Kaur's child. The bullet pierced the child through
his ear and then hit Balbir Kaur's chest. The child died immediately and proceeded to
the Guru's court. Balbir Kaur kissed his forehead and place his body on a nearby
platform saying "VaahGuru look after your amanat (temporarily entrusted to me for
safe custody)." However, she did not stop. Her face had turned yellow from the loss
of blood. She had no strength left to continue. Her walk was wobbly by now, yet her
heart's quest had not been quenched. Chanting the tune of "Satnaam VaahGuru," she
kept her pace with others. On the other hand, the bullets had not stopped raining. They
continued showering as if their thirst for blood had not yet mellowed.
Surprisingly, another bullet came hissing her way. It hit straight in Balbir Kaur's
chest, pierced her body and left from the other side. This bullet was the message of
death, the one Balbir Kaur had been eagerly awaiting. With this bullet, her beautiful
body fell to the ground. But not her soul. Her soul left to join her child in Kalgidhar
Father's protection. Her deepest quest was finally fulfilled. Her blood filled face still
exhibited peace and dancing valor.

Bibi Bhani ji

Bibi Bhani was daughter of Guru Amar Das, consort of Guru Ram Das and mother of
Guru Arjan Dev, was born to Mata Mansa Devi on 21 Magh 1591 Bk/19January 1535
at Basarke Gillan, a village near Amritsar. She was married on 18 February 1554 to
Bhai Jetha (later Guru Ram Das), a Sodhi Khatri belonging to Lahore, then in
Goindval rendering voluntary service in the construction of the Baoli Sahib. After
marriage, the couple remained in Goindval serving the Guru. From Goindval Bhai
Jetha was deputed by the Guru to go and establish a habitation (present-day Amritsar)
on a piece of land gifted, according to one version, by Emperor Akbar to Bibi Bhani
at the time of his visit to Guru Amar Das.
Three sons, Prith Chand (1558), Mahadev (1560) and (Guru) Arjan Dev (1563) were
born to her. A popular anecdote mentioned in old chronicles describes how devotedly
Bibi Bhani served her father. One morning, it is said, as Guru Amar Das was absorbed
in meditation, Bibi Bhani noticed that one of the legs of the low wooden seat on
which the Guru sat was about to give way. she at once put forward her hand to
support the stool. As the Guru ended his devotions, he discovered how her hand was
bleeding from the injury it had sustained. He blessed her saying that her progeny
would inherit the guruship. Bibi Bhani died at Goindval on 9 April 1598.
Bibi Bhani was mother of Guru Arjan Dev, the Fifth Guru. Undoubtly Guru Arjan
Dev was brought up as model GurSikh. Guru Arjan Dev was the first Sikh Martyr.
Guru Arjan Dev compiled Adi Granth by collecting all the writings of gurus before
him and installed it at Golden Temple, which is now The Guru Granth. Guru Arjan
Dev completed the construction of Golden Temple.

Bibi Bhagbhari Ji

Bibi Bhagbhari ji was a disciple of Guru Amar Das ji. She was also one of the first
Sikh preachers. Little could be found on the early life of Bhagbhari, sometimes also
known as Bibi Bhago. She was very young when she became a disciple of Guru Amar
Das. After learning all that she could, the Guru gave her the manji of Kashmir. That
meant that she was appointed by Guru Amardas ji to preach Sikhism in the area of
Kashmir valley, around Srinagar.
She went out as a missionary, worked hard with considerable success, but never
returned to Punjab. She made her home in Srinagar. When she got older and was
unable to carry out her duties, her son Sewa Das continued the work of the Guru,
preaching and teaching Sikhism to all who would listen.
Bibi Bhagbhari dreamt of seeing her Guru one last time. She made a beautiful robe
and prayed to be able to see him wear it. By this time, it was Guru Hargobind ji was
on the Gaddi of Nanak as the sixth Guru of the Sikhs. The Guru on hearing of her
devotion procceded to Kashmir to meet her. He put on her robe and she blessed her
lucky stars that she had been so honoured. The Guru stayed for some time preaching
to the Sikhs in the area. While the Guru was in Srinagar, Bhagbhari who was quite
elderly at this time, died a happy woman. An important shrine dedicated to this visit
of the Guru still stands in Srinagar today.

Bibi Dalair Kaur

Bibi Dalair Kaur - Martyr -17th Century Women
ALLAH HO AKBAR!!!!!" screamed the Moghul soldiers, with their heads down, one
hand on the horse-reigns, one hand weilding a mighty sword, they charged up the hill
determined to smash the fortress gates this time. A thousand arrows and bullets rained
down from the over the high fortress walls. It was useless, they couldn't penetrate
AnandPur, the Khalsa fort.
"RETREAT! RETREAT!" screamed a desparate General as he saw hundreds of his
imperial forces drop to the ground. Back at base camp, an emergency meeting of
General's was called. The jungle nights were cold, and hundreds of camp fires where
seen all around the base of the hill. Anandpur Fort stood on top, inpenetrable and
untouched.
"9 MONTHS! 9 Long months in this wretched, mosquito infested jungle. When are
those Fortress rats going to give up?" said Wajir Khan.
"Be patient General, even rats die one day" replied Jabardast Khan. "Patient! How
much more patient can we be? We have over 1 million soldiers out there. One Million
soldiers to kill that infidel Gobind Singh. Yet his Khalsa army has killed tens of
thousands of our soldiers and we have barely scratched the fortress walls" thundered a
raging Wajir Khan.
"Sit down Generals. As leader of the royal forces of his excellency Emperor
Aurangzeb, I will make the decisions." Said Aurangzeb's General. He continued, "Let
us review our tactics. We have 22 local Hindu Kings with us, we have the victorious
armies of Wajir Khan and Jabardast Khan with us, and we have the miltary might of
the Moghul Empire. One million soldiers, countless cannons, and an unlimited supply
of arms. Fellow generals we have underestimated these Khalsa rats. Even though
there can be no more than 10,000 soldiers in the fort, we have not been able to beat
them through sheer force. They have the superior position on the hill top. Think of
another plan Generals. We need a new strategy."
"Patience is the best strategy. It has been several months since we imposed the seige. I
believe our seige is working fellow Generals. We have cut off all supplies of food and
water to the fort, those rats must be almost starved by now. If we just wait another
few months, victory will be ours." Said Jabardast Khan.
"It's already December, there's a cold and miserable winter infront of us. Our camp
hospitals are bursting at the seams with sick soldiers, those wretched floods last
month brought so many mystery illnesses, that hundreds of soldiers are dying every
day. There is low moral amongst the troops and thousands of soldiers are deserting us
every week, because they think we will never be able to capture the Fort. Do any of us
went to spend the rest of winter like this? NO. I suggest we lure out the Khalsa rats
and finish them with our swords!" raged Wajir Khan.
The room full of Generals stood up and cheered.
"Beloved Son and Guru, listen to your mother," said Mata Gujree. She continued,
"You are beautiful and you have your father's blessing upon your head. Whatever you
say is law, but I urge you to reconsider the offer of safe passage from the Royal
forces. Aurangzeb himself has given his word, promising on the Koran that no harm
will come to us."
"Mata Jee, it's nothing but a trick. Why would they offer us safe passage after they've
been trying to kill us for 9 months?" said Guru Gobind Singh jee.
"Guru jee, you are our Father, we live for you and we will die for you," said Bhai
Mani Singh, "but Guru jee we started off with 10,000 Khalsa warriors and now we
have less than a thousand. Guru Jee, you are the King of this world and the King of
the next world. It makes no difference to us if we live at your feet in this world or the
next, but Guru jee this world needs you. You must survive, if you stay here you will
die with the rest of us."
"O Beloved Khalsa jee, I would rather die fighting than walk away from this battle.
But Khalsa jee, you are my Guru and you have ordered that we accept the offer of
safe passage and leave the fort. So we will leave tommorow. But, I don't intend to
leave the fort unguarded. Bibi Dalair Kaur Jee, you are my trusted Sikh. I want you
and the rest of my daughters to stay here along with 10 Khalsa men." Said Guru
Gobind Singh Jee.
"Pita Jee, your words are true, bless us so we may do this duty and bring honour to the
Khalsa," replied Bibi Dalair Kaur jee.
Guru Gobind Singh jee tapped her shoulder with the tip of his arrow.
As soon as Guru Gobind Singh jee left the fort, the combined forces of Moghal troops
and Hill Rajas quickly abandoned their sacred oaths. They charged after Guru Gobind
Singh jee and his 500 Khalsa soldiers. A bloody battle took place on the banks of the
Sirsa river. Many Khalsa soldiers were killed and Guru jee's family was scattered. His
younger sons and mother escaped with Gangu to his village. Later on he turned them
in to the authorities for a reward. This lead to their martyrdom.
Bhai Mani Singh and Guru jee's wife escaped and rode to Delhi. Guru Gobind Singh
jee, his two older sons and the remaining 40 Khalsa soldiers escaped to the place
called Chamkaur were another battle was fought. The Khalsa fought against the odds.
All 40 Khalsa, along with the older sons fought to the death. Guru Gobind Singh Jee
was ordered by the Khalsa to survive and escaped to Mashiwadha.
While some of the Combined Moghul forces pursued the Khalsa, the rest rode to the
fort to claim victory. Bibi Dalair Kaur saw that her beloved Guru and Khalsa had been
betrayed and she prepared the Guru's daughters for battle. The Moghul soldiers broke
their ranks and rode to the fort, burning and looting everything in their way. Bibi
Dalair Kaur stood up infront of her sister's and spoke with passion, "Sisters, we have
given our heads to our Guru-Father at the amrit ceremony. We have lived for Truth,
now the time has come to die for it. Sisters, remember that we are all trained warriors
and we will die fighting rather than be taken as slaves. Sisters, pick up you guns and
get in position_it's a good day to die_BOLAY SO NIHAL_SAT SRI AKAL."
The enemy soldiers thought that the fort was empty and were taken aback by the
sudden rain of bullets. Within a few minutes, hundreds of dead soldiers lay outside the
fort. Seeing this, the remaining soldiers left their positions and ran for their lives.
Wajir Khan was furious at not having captured the fort, he started screaming at his
men "FIRE THE CANNONS! FIRE THE CANNONS." Intense cannon fire
succeeded in breaking through a wall of the fort. No-one could be seen inside so the
ground troops charged towards the fort. Suddenly, they were showered with bullets
and line after line of soldiers dropped dead to the ground.
Wajir Khan was ruthless and kept sending more and more troops, eventually the
Khalsa women ran out of bullets. Wajir Khan smiled as capture was imminent.
Bibi Dalair Kaur jee gathered her sister's together and spoke with her Guru-Father's
blessing, "Sisters, we have fought well, now we our time has come to die. It is up to
us to die with honour. Remember the brave women from RajPut. When their
husbands had died in battle and their fort was about to be captured, they would all all
jump into a fire and burn to death rather than let the enemy dishonour them. This was
how their religion taught them to preserve their honour. Our Guru-Father is always
with his Sikhs and protects his sons and daughter's honour. Sisters, our Guru-Father
has trained us as warriors and we will die fighting alongside our husbands and
brothers. Remember we are lionesses."
The enemy was advancing so rapidly that there was no time for further speeches. Bibi
Dalair Kaur jee gave the signal and all Khalsa women drew their swords and
positioned themselves behind the damaged wall. This was the only way for the enemy
to enter.
Mighty soldiers began climbing in over the piles of rubble. When they saw 100
Khalsa women and 10 Khalsa men ready for battle they stopped in their tracks. They
were expecting to find hundreds of Khalsa men, they never knew women could be
warriors.
Witnessing the events from a distance, Wajir Khan yelled, "Cowards, are you afraid
of women? They are gifts for you, capture them and do what you want with the
rewards of your hunt." Bibi Dalair Kaur yelled back, "We are the hunters, not the
hunted. Come forward and find out for yourself!"
Wajir Khan took up the challenge and rode into the fort with his men. Khalsa
Lionesses attacked them from every corner and he dropped dead to the ground. Not
knowing how many other Khalsa warriors were in the fort the Moghuls retreated yet
again.
Jabardast Khan started yelling at his men "FIRE THE CANNONS! FIRE THE
CANNONS." Intense cannon fire destroyed the already weakened wall. The fort's
inner compound was clearly visible and no Khalsa warriors could be seen. Jabardast
Khan was was convinced that no one was left alive and this time he took thousands of
troops with him into the fort. They searched every inch of the fort but did not find
anyone. Jabardast Khan was furious. Where did the Khalsa lionesses disappear too?
He screamed at his men to find them. The soldiers searched cautiously, expecting a
surprise attack from any direction. Finally they concluded that the remaining Khalsa
warriors must have escaped through some secret passage.
Orders were given to abandon the search and initiate looting. The very soldiers who
were afraid for their lives started searching for wealth inside the fort. When they
removed the piles of rubble from the fallen wall they found no wealth, they only
found the bodies of our martyrs. The faces of Guru Gobind Singh jee's daughters were
still radiant yet peaceful.
They and their Khalsa brothers and husbands had stood by their leader, Bibi Dalair
Kaur. They died fighting to the death and received an eternal place at our Guru-
Father's Lotus Feet.
Dayh Shiva bar mohe ehai, subh karman tay kabhoon na taro. Na daro ar so jab jaa-e
laro, nischai kar apanee jeet karo. Ar sikh ho aapnay hee man hau, eh lalach hao gun
tao ucharo. Jab aav kee a-odh nidhaan banai, at hee ran mai tab joojh maro. 231.
(Guru Gobind Singh)
Give me this boon Lord, that I never refrain from righteous deeds. That I have no fear
when fighting the enemy, That I attain victory with faith and fortitude, That I keep
your teachings close to my mind. Lord, my desire is that I sing your praises and when
the end of this life draws near, may I die fighting, with limitless courage in the
battlefield.

Bibi Deep Kaur

A contingent of Turkish soldiers is on active patrol. The area rulers have specifically
assigned this contingent to keep a watch over the Sikh jatha that had gathered in
Majha and would surely proceed to Anandpur Sahib for participating Dashmesh
father's (Guru Gobind Singh) Dharam Yudh. Additional responsibilities assigned to
this contingent included, instilling fear among people who either express sympathy
with the Sikh jatha or welcome it or serve it any way. For this reason, the Turkish
contingent always moved ahead of the Sikh Jatha.
Three miles from the road leading to Anandpur Sahib in Hoshiarpur District, is a
village, named Talban. Bibi Deep Kaur, the subject of our story, was resident of this
village. There was only one Sikh house in this village -- Bibi Deep Kaur's residence.
Today her husband wasn't home. He had already left for participating in Dashmesh
father's Dharam Yudh. When Bibi heard of Jatha's arrival. She was filled with
emotions of self-service. She explained her emotions and desire to other women in her
neighborhood. But the Turkish soldiers had successfully frightened the residence of
this village. Thus no one was willing to accompany her.
"Let them not proceed, if someone doesn't want to" Deep Kaur told herself. For how
could one stay behind if they have even the slightest love for the Guru in their heart.
Holding onto the quest of love and a glimpse of the Sikh Jatha, Deep Kaur proceeded
alone and awaited the arrival of Sant-Sipahis.
Suddenly dust arose from afar. Her face brightened with joy. Her quest for Jatha's
sight grew stronger. Now she started walking on the road toward the rising dust storm.
Soon she realized that this was not the Jatha of Sant- Sipahis. Rather it was the
contingent of evil Turkish soldiers. Surprised, she quickly moved off the road and
tried to hide herself by sitting next to a tree.
As the Turkish contingent got closer, it's commander caught sight of Deep Kaur.
Seeing the youthful beauty, he lost all self-control.
He commandingly asked. "Who are you?"
"Whoever I am. How does it matter to you?" She answered fearlessly.
Commander's attraction grew stronger with her challenge.
He remarked softly, "By Shehansha's (ruler's) orders, I have been deputed to keep a
watch on Sikhs in this area. Since the Sikh Jatha is heading this way, I need to
ascertain whether you are a Sikh."
"If I were to be a Sikh, then?"
"Then we will have to arrest and sent you to Lahore." Deep Kaur heard his response.
But, being a Sikh how could she lie. Fearlessly, she announced, "I am Sikh."
The Turk Commander was astonished by her fearlessness. But as captive of her
beauty, by now, he was aroused beyond any self-control. He spoke softly and said,
"Beautiful, I am responsible for capturing Sikhs. You are a Sikh. I should arrest you,
but I cannot do that. I cannot fulfil my responsibilities. For I have a heart that
worships beauty and it is your's now. I am your captive."
Deep Kaur's face reddened with anger. She lashed out saying, "You should be
ashamed of yourself talking to me like this."
"What is there to be ashamed of where hearts have met? I am your. Accept me and I
shall keep you as my Begum (wife)." He said.
"I am a Sikh and married. If you ever uttered anything like this again I will snatch
your tongue." Deep Kaur responded. By now she was shaking with anger.
"What kind of a beauty it would be that doesn't exhibit enticing or alluring behavior. I
am impressed by your behavior. Now don't delay anymore and let's go. What are you
going to get from these wild Sikhs." Saying this the commander dismounted from his
horse and moved towards Deep Kaur while his contingent waited on the opposite side
of the road.
As he dismounted, Deep Kaur stood up. Seeing him approach her, she challengingly
said "Beware, if you touch my body I will not spare you."
Insane under arousal, the commander ignored her warning and instead proceeded to
hug her. Deep Kaur pulled back with lightening speed. By now she had the small
kirpan in her hand. As the commander approached, struck him in his stomach with the
kirpan. A blood spring burst opened. With painful cries, he simply dropped to the
ground.
By now Deshmesh's daughter had jumped into the war. As the wounded Commander
sat on the ground, she viciously attacked him once again, sending his evil soul to burn
in hell. Before, the Turkish soldiers could advance, she moved swiftly to take control
of the commander's sword and was well-prepared for self-defense. Seeing their dying
commander, the soldiers advanced shaking in anger and simultaneously attacked her.
However, the Deshmesh's daughter wasn't scared being out-numbered. Like a lioness,
she stood fast for the challenge. She used the sword like a man and soon two soldiers
fell to the ground while several others were severely wounded. Deep Kaur too
sustained deep wounds on her face and neck. Although her wounds were profusely
bleeding, she kept her courage and continued fighting like a man. Today, Turkish
soldiers were challenged by a woman.
Far on the road, the sound of horses could be heard once again. This time the Sant-
Sipahi's Jatha was approaching. As the Turkish soldiers saw the Sikh Jatha, they got
scared, immediately mounted their horses and ran for their lives. The bodies of the
Commander and five of his associates were left behind, lying cold on the ground.
The sight of approaching Sikh brothers filled Deep Kaur filled with joy. She quickly
tried to move towards the road but couldn't. She had lost too much blood and thus was
unable to walk. She simply fell unconscious to the ground. Sikh Jatha saw
unconscious Deep Kaur and 6 dead bodies of Turkish soldier, upon reaching the
location. It did not take them long to comprehend the situation.
Immediately, they spread a bed for Dashmesh's daughter, dressed her wounds and
awaken her with medication. Then carrying her along, the Jatha proceeded to
Anandpur Sahib for participating in the Dashmesh father's Dharam Yudh.
Fully aware of the situation, our Dashmesh father Guru Gobind Singh Ji was strolling
outside his court awaiting the arrival of this Jatha. Seeing them arrive, he joyfully
advanced to receive them and asked "Where is my daughter?"
Jatha members were confused. They did not understand the meaning of this question,
since there were many Sikh women among the Jatha. Who did Guru Sahib honor with
daughter's address? They could not understand.
In the meantime, Guru Sahib quickly moved towards the palki (palanquin) carrying
the wounded Deep Kaur. Raising the palki curtain, he hugged and kissed her
forehead, saying "This is my daughter Deep Kaur. Because of such daughter my
Panth shall remain in Chardi Kala."

Sardarni Dharam Kaur

Rulers have to engage in various deceitful activities to strengthen their power base. To
avoid embarrassment, such activities are commonly referred to as politics. Politics is
simply a convenient acronym for deceitful activities. When Maharaja Ranjit Singh
took control of the city of Lahore, he too used such tactics to bring all neighboring
rulers, big and small, under his control. He used every conceivable means to
successfully accomplish his vision. The Bhangi and Ramgariha Sardars (Rulers) were
his strongest opposition. Ranjit Singh wanted to badly crush them and soon. The
opposition leader, Sahib Singh Bhangi, was ruling Gujarat at the time.
Sardar Dal Singh was the ruler of Akalgadh. Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s father, Sardar
Maha Singh, had conquered Akalgadh and established Sardar Dal Singh as its ruler.
However, now Sardar Dal Singh was making overtures of self-independence. He even
participated in opposition against Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The validity and correctness
of his stance can not be justified, but it served as a reason enough for Maharaja Ranjit
Singh’s decision to establish control over the region.
However, Maharaja Ranjit Singh could not pick up enough courage to attack Sardar
Dal Singh. He was afraid that Sardar Dal Singh would seek assistance from the
opposition leaders, thus making his task even more difficult. Therefore, he sought the
diplomatic route and initiated a web of deceit and deception. Sardar Dal Singh was
sent an invitation, stating, "Dear friend, please come to Lahore. I need to discuss some
important issues with you." Sardar Dal Singh reached Lahore based on this invitation,
but Maharaja Ranjit Singh had something else in mind for him. Sardar Dal Singh was
detained in Lahore fort while Maharaja himself left with a heavy force to conquer
Akalgadh.
With Sardar Dal Singh neutralized, Maharaja Ranjit Singh was now sure that no one
will oppose him and that he will be able to move into the city with open doors. He
was very happy with his deceitful tactic and confident of his success. When Maharaja
Ranjit Singh left Lahore for Akalgadh, he thought that the citizens of Akalgadh would
come out in large numbers to welcome him. Indeed, he was welcomed but not with
flowers and garlands but with cannon fire. This welcome spoiled his whole scheme
and caused him serious anguish.
When Sardar Dal Singh’s young spouse, Sardarni Dharam Kaur, learned of Maharaja
Ranjit Singh’s deceitful tactics resulting in imprisonment of her husband and his
moves to capture the city, she was filled with anger. She immediately decided to
protect her independence and honor at any cost. As the attacking forces edged closer
to town, she closed the doors of Akalgadh fort and started pounding them with cannon
fire. Maharaja sent a demanding message, saying, "empty the fort, else your
husband’s life will not be spared."
Sardarni Dharam Kaur responded "You are deceitful. Why should I listen to you, my
husband listened to you and you imprisoned him! I will avenge my husband’s
dishonor even if this means both of us die."
Maharaja was quite shaken by this response. What could he do? He put the Akalgadh
fort under seize. Several months passed by, but the fort couldn’t be captured. Sardarni
Dharam Kaur was fighting bravely. From time to time, she would come out of the fort
with a few brave soldiers for surprise attacks. Causing serious casualties among the
royal forces they would disappear back into the fort with lightening speed. Her
surprise attacks were causing havoc among the royal forces.
It was nighfall and Maharaja was reviewing the battle status with his Generals
(Sardars) : Sardar Hari Singh Naluya, Sardar Nihal Singh Attariwalla and a few
others. They had attacked Akalgadh expecting no resistance and instead it had turned
into a long seize. Sardarni Dharam Kaur’s frequent surprise attacks were forcing him
to abandon the seize. They desperately wanted to abandon the seize but now the seize
did not want to abandon them. Additionally, they would lose the respect of Lahore if
they returned empty handed.
Suddenly, there was there was the sound of fighting outside. Sardarni Dharam Kaur
had thrown another surprise attack. She was heading towards the Maharaja’s tent and
was killing many soldiers along the way. The Maharaja and the Sardars quickly drew
their weapons and raced outside. Sardarni Dharam Kaur looked down at them from
horseback, with a blood-red sword raised in her hand she looked straight into the
Maharajas eyes - "It’s time to talk Ranjit Singh!"
"Ranjit Singh, you deceitfully arrested my husband, thinking no one else would
challenge you. You made a grave mistake. I have been blessed with same ‘khandabatta-
da-amrit’ of Guru Gobind Singh Jee that you have. Each Khalsa values
independence and honor. So you have no right to steal it from us. Abandon the seize
and leave by tomorrow, otherwise you will find yourself in a major war."
The Sardars stepped forward and attempted to arrest her but pulling their horses
around Sardarni Dharam Kaur and her soldiers easily escaped through the Maharaja’s
royal forces as a knife cuts through butter. The Maharaja slowly uttered these words
to his Sardars : "there is no hope of capturing this fort when it is protected by such a
brave woman."
Early next morning, one of the Maharaja’s Sardars came rushing into the royal tent.
He reported,’ Sardarni Dharam Kaur’s troops have begun intense fighting. We also
have news that Sahib Singh Bhangi and Jodh Singh Vajiraba are heading towards us
with large armies.’
Maharaja had never dreamt that a woman could do all this. Now, Sardarni Dharam
Kaur’s threat of last night had some significant weight attached. Maharaja gave orders
for immediate abandonment of the seize and quickly left for Lahore. He immediately
released Sardar Dal Singh saying, "My dear friend, no worldly power can subjugate a
man whose wife is so brave, intelligent, and diplomatic."
Sardarni Dharam Kaur’s bravery, courage, intelligence and political manoevures
remain exemplary in Sikh history. It boldly announces to the world that the brave
daughters of Guru Gobind Singh Jee are capable leaders.

Bibi Harnam Kaur(1862-1902)

Bibi Harnam Kaur ji were a pioneer in the field of women's education, was born on 10
April 1882 in a Siddhu Jatt family of Chand Purana, a village in Firozpur district of
the Punjab. Here original name was Jiuni Bhagvan Das. Her father's name was
Bhagvan Das and mother's Ram Dei. Bhagvan Das was a religious minded person,
had become a disciple of an Udasi sadhu, Ram Das, of Firozpur, after whose death he
became the head of his dera or seminary. Here Jiuni and her mother joined him when
the former was only an infant. She was a precocious child and had read Panj Granths,
Dasam Granth and Hanuman Natak before she was six years of age. She then joined
the local Arya Pathshala and learnt Hindi, but left off after six months because tlae
Pathshala had no facilities to teach Gurmukhi. Later she was sent to the village of
Daudhar, now in Faridkot district, where she studied for several years under Bhai
Dula Singh. Meanwhile, Bhal Takht Singh, who had started a Gurmukhi school at
Firozpur under the auspices of the local Singh Sabha, offered to open a school
exclusively for girls. The Singh Sabha welcomed the proposal but was reluctant to let
it be run by a bachelor. To overcome the difficulty, Jiuni's parents promised Takht
Singh the hand of their daughter- The Kanya Pathshala, lit girls' school, was opened
in Firozpur on 5 November l902, and Jiuni joined it both to learn and to teach as an
employee of the Singh Sabha. Her betrothal to Takht Singh took place on 11 October
1893 and they were married on 8 May 1894. She received the new name of Harnam
Kaur when she was administred on 15 July 1901 pahul or the rites of the Khalsa.
The couple threw themselves and their heart and soul into their work . Harnam Kaur's
monthly salary was Rs 6 and her husband's Rs 8. On 1 September 1900, tired of
internal dissensions in the managemaent of the Singh Sabha, they quit service, but
continued to teach privately. Early in 1903, Bibi Harnam Kaur persuaded her husband
to open a boarding school for girls at Firozpur. A number of parents offered to send
their daughter's to the boarding school which was named Sikh Kanya Maha Vidyala
and which started functioning from March 1905. Harnam Kaur worked hard to make
the Vidyala success. In addition to helping her husband at teaching, she looked after
catering and lodging arrangements for their wards . She had also set up Istri Satsang, a
women's religious society, which held meetings in the afternoon of every Wednesday,
and a parcharak jatha or missionary group. But she did not live long to serve the cause
to which she had dedicated herself, and died on 1 October 1906.

Shaheed Bibi Harsarn Kaur

Sikh women are always known to have responded to the call of their duty. They have
not allowed hardships and dangers to stand in the way of the performance of their
moral obligations. Bibi Harsarn Kaur was one of these women who faced the odds to
fulfill her obligations.
Guru Gobind Singh's two elder sons together with many other Sikhs, were martyred
while fighting the foes at the battle of Chamkaur Sahib. Under pressure of
supplications of the Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh was obliged to leave the place under
cover of darkness. The enemy too, taking advantage of the lull and darkness, rested in
the surrounding area where they had besieged the Sikhs.
After leaving Chamkaur Sahib, Guru Ji reached the village where Bibi Harsarn Kaur
lived. When he met her, she at once recognised the Guru. She bowed to Guru Ji and
asked about the Sahib Jadey. She had been a nursing sister to them. Guru Ji told her
about their martydom. She hurried to Chamkaur Sahib and stole on cat's paw to the
battle scene and recognised the martyred Sikhs.
She collected all the wood she could and piled them high. She placed the bodies of the
Sahib Jadey and the Sikhs on the pile and set it afire. The big conflagration woke the
enemy with consternation. All their expectations of getting prizes and honours were
dashed to the ground. Now there was nothing left to show their identities of their
victims.
In the light of the fire, they were amazed to espy a female figure with a javelin in
hand near the pile. They approached her and demanded to know who she was and
whence she came. But nothing could make her speak. They became furious and threw
Bibi Harsarn, javelin and all in the fire. Thus she too obtained martyrdom on 23rd
Dec 1704.

Bibi Khem Kaur(1862-1902)

Khem Kaur Dhillon, Daughter of Jodh Singh Kalalvala and grand daughter of Sahib
Singh Dhillon aka Bhangi of Gujrat, was married in 1816 to Prince Kharak Singh,
eldest son of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. She survived her husband and helped Anti-
British forces in the second Anglo-Sikh war (1849) for which reasn her Jagirs were
considerably reduced
Bibi Prem Kaur
The green Thaeri Hills were soaked in blood. The powerful Pathan Army defended
the hill top against a small troop of fearless Akalee soldiers. The Pathan Army heavily
outnumbered the bravest battalion of the Khalsa Army, but these warrior lions of
Guru Gobind Singh did not lose faith. United, like the waves in the ocean, by their
deep blue battle-dress and turbans, they fought against all the odds and faced the rain
of enemy bullets, stones, and arrows. Hacking their way through treachorous terrain,
they hammered their way up the hill.
Time was running out for the Akalees, Maharaja Ranjit Singh hadn't arrived with
reinforcements wereas the Pathans had won the support of thousands of local muslims
by distributing pamphlets that declared this battle as a war against Islam - Jihad. The
Akalees belonged to Akal, the Immortal God, and with Akal on their side who should
they be afraid of? Being outnumbered didn't scare them, Guu Gobind Singh Jee had
transformed them with his `khanda-batta da amrit' - the initiation amrit-nectar
prepared in the indestructable iron batta-bowl and stirred by the most awesome of
weapons - the double-edged Khanda sword. The words of their Guru father rang in
their ears `I will make one fight against 125,000, then and only then can I be called
Gobind Singh!'. The Akalees belonged to Akal, they fought for their Guru's honour
and their only hope in life was to die fighting courageously on the battle-field.
The future of the Sikh Empire, the Khalsa Raaj, depended on this battle. The Akalees
marched forward led by the courageous warrior Akalee Phoola Singh , the sun
reflected like bolts of lightning from the sharp bladed discus-like chakr-weapons
going around his mountain peaked turban. Raising his sword his thundering voice
gave power to the battle cry jaekara - `JO BAWLEH SO NIHAL..', (Whoever speaks
it Will be Joyous..). Every single Akalee Lion roared the response `SAT SREE
AKAL' (Akal Is True!). The Akalee's spirits rose, new life was injected into them
with each jaekara. They faced the Pathans with rejuvenated spirits, just seeing the fire
in the Akalee's eyes was enough to send the Pathans running in all directions.
Advancing into an almost deserted battlefield the Akalees had captured the hill top
against all the odds.
But then, from out of nowhere, bullets and arrows started raining down on the
Akalees, the Pathans had hidden in hill-caves and now charged out. Surrounding the
Akalees they bombarded them with bullets and arrows. Akalee Phoola Singh took a
bullet in the chest and the mighty lion fell. The great warrior Karnail Singh Bania also
fell wounded by another bullet. The Akalees wanted to die fighting, but seeing their
leader's serious condition they decided it was wiser to retreat. The Pathans chased
them down to the foothills.
The wounded were carried for about a mile, they marched passed their ammunition
depot and reached the camp hospital. A few young Khalsa women busily nursed the
wounded lions. Looking towards the hill they saw the enemy forces charging down
like an avalanche. The Khalsa nurses along with the remaining Akalee Warriors,
gathered their wounded and once again retreated to a safer location.
The Pathans were exhilerated by the fact that victory was almost in their ruthless
hands. They marched triumphantly towards the deserted Akalee Camp with the
Islamic battle cry `Allah Hu Akbar' (God is Great). Reaching the undefendend depot
they desperately needed to find a mountain load of ammunition. Most of their army
didn't have rifles and without them they knew they stood no chance against the Khalsa
Army re-inforcements that were rapidly riding to the battle-scene. On finding
thousands of rifles, their joy had no bounds and the skies reverberated with their war
cries - `Allah Hu Akbar'.
Each soldier eagerly seized a weapon, but their hearts sunk down to the lowest depths
of hell when they realised there were no bullets. Searching frantically they ripped
apart every storage tent and overturned every stack of crates, like thirsty men in the
desert they ran in all directions looking for even a tiny clue as to where the metal
messengers of death could be, finally Allah was truly merciful and they located crate
after crate full to the brim with the finest bullets stuffed full of gunpowder. Once
again their joy had no bounds and the valleys echoed with `Allah Hu Akbar'.
Surrounded by a sea of ammunition the Pathan Army danced like drunken men
waving their new found guns in the air. Without warning, an incredible explosion
suddenly shocked the sky and shook the mountains. Flames shot up hundreds of feet
into the sky, like an errupting volcano spewing out it's insides with all the force and
fury of ten thousand angry gods. Bodies went flying in all directions like fragile rag
dolls. Within a blink of an eye, the Pathans dancing heaven had turned them into
black logs of charcoal feeding the flames of hell on earth.
By now, the `Lion Of Punjab -Shere Punjab', Maharaja Ranjit Singh, had crossed the
Attock river and appeared on the horizon like the the light of the rising sun after a
dark and stormy night, the rays of hope reached out in all directions in the form of
Khalsa Warrior after Khalsa Warrior. Whether riding on horseback or marching on
foot, each battalion was headed by the the flag bearers waving the Khalsa flags high
in the sky. They whispered `Waheguru, Waheguru' with each breath, their secret
power given to them when they were blessed with `khanda-batta-da-amrit'. General
Hari Singh Naluwa commanded them and they rode like the wind, attacking the
remaining Pathans with so much power that they ran for their lives like headless
chickens. The Khalsa Army claimed complete control of the battlefield. The skies
echoed with the battle cry jaekara `JO BAWLEH SO NIHAL..', (Whoever speaks it
Will be Joyous..). Every single Khalsa Lion roared the response `SAT SREE AKAL'
(Akal Is True!).
Maharaja Ranjit Singh and General Hari Singh Naluwa looked around at the site of
death and destruction, smoke was still emating from burning crates and bodies. Tha
Akalee's told Maharaja Ranjit Singh that by some miracle Guru Gobind Singh jee
himself had caused the explosion. They all knew that they would have suffered a total
wipeout against a fanatical Pathan Army on a religious Jihad armed to the teeth with
guns and bullets.
As they wandered around what used to be the camp, Maharaja Ranjit Singh noticed
something, quickly dashing to the outskirts he kneeled down. The others followed him
and they congregated around the dead body of a fair, innocent, young khalsa woman.
She was lying face down on the ground less than 50 feet from the depot and away
from the bodis of the Pathans. In her hand she was still tightly clutching a fire-torch!
It was the head nurse, Bibi Prem Kaur. This brave lioness daughter of Guru Gobind
Singh Jee had given up her life to save the Khalsa Army from a humiliating defeat.
While the other nurses retreated with the wounded Akalees, she had secretly gone to
the depot and hidden near the bullet storage. Lighting the ammunition, the blast had
blown her body away from the dead Pathans, as if to protect her innocence and honor
her sacrifice.
This scene deeply moved Maharaja Ranjit Singh and his eyes were flooding with
tears. Addressing her as his daughter, he gently raised her head onto his lap and
tenderly wiped her face with his damp handkerchief.
The Khalsa warriors witnessed these scenes with tears rolling down their cheeks, Bibi
Prem Kaur had sacrificed her own life so that her brothers would be saved. At her
funeral the Khalsa Army band played on and the cannons fired in continuous salute as
Maharaja Ranjit Singh and other Officers carried her coffin in a royal procession.
Every Khalsa Warrior felt Bibi Prem Kaur's eternal love for Guru Gobind Singh Jee
wash over them, with their heads bowed low, they said great, truly great is our father
Guru Gobind Singh Jee.
The `khanda-batta-da-amrit' that Guru Gobind Singh jee used to transform the
sparrows into hawks, jackals into lions, cowards into Khalsa, had now enabled Bibi
Prem Kaur to make the ultimate selfess sacrifice. She was now a martyr that the
Khalsa would never forget. By the Guru's infinite and unparralled grace and kindness
she had single-handedly overturned a sure defeat for the Khalsa into an overwhelming
victory.

Bibi Ranjit Kaur

The wild animals were howling in the nearby jungle, the wind was biting Ranjeet
Kaur's face, she wrapped her midnight-blue shawl around a little tighter. Nothing to
be afraid of, she quietly carried on repeating `Vaahi-guroo, Vaahi-guroo' in time to
her steps and Guru Gobind Singh jee's glove of spiritual love completely protected
her. She looked through the trees at the magnificent setting sun, for a moment she
forgot all about the war and was lost in the magic and mystery of the Creative Being -
Karta Purakh. She felt as beautiful as a blossoming flower radiating love and life in all
directions.
-`Vaahi-Guroo Jee Ka Khalsa, Vaahi-Guroo Jee Kee Fateh! Ranjeet Kaur Bhain Jee
(sister)',
Ranjit Kaur quickly turned around and saw a young Khalsa warrior dressed in bluebattle
dress, wearing a long curved sword down his left side, chain-mail armour
across his chest and a three metal discus's around his blue pointed turban.
-`Vaahi-Guroo Jee Ka Khalsa, Vaahi-Guroo Jee Kee Fateh! GurMukh Singh Jee.
Why are you out so late?',
-`Well I was about to ask you the same thing Bhain jee (sister), you know how
dangerous it is for a woman to be out her alone while there are Turkish Soldiers
patrolling the area. So Bhain Jee you better have a damn good excuse, otherwise
you're going back with me.'
- "Veer jee (brother), our Jathedar (leader) has asked me to fetch some important news
from the SarPanch (village chief) and anyway you're only 11 so you better run back to
the Khalsa camp."
-"Bhain jee, I can't believe he sent you alone. You know the War for our
Independence is at it's peak and there's trouble around every corner. Look, I've got an
idea - it's safer for you to go back to the lake and rejoin the Khalsa Army and I will go
in your place."
-"Why do you think it's any safer for you to go, GurMukh Singh?"
-"Bhain jee, it will be dark soon and I don't think it's right for a woman to go
anywhere alone. I am a Khalsa Warrior, I carry 5 weapons and I am prepared to die
fighting. I want people to tell stories about me and how brave Bhai GurMukh Singh
was."
Just then a bat came flying out of the dark trees directly towards Bhai GurMukh
Singh, he didn't know what was attacking him and screaming loudly he covered his
face with his hands!
Ranjit Kaur burst out laughing and said "Veer jee, I too have been blessed with Guru's
immortal `khanda-batta-da-amrit' nectar. I too carry a long sword over my blue battledress
and wear a warrior's turban. Guru Gobind Singh Jee is always with me. But you
my younger brother have much to learn about ego and you are probably at more risk
than me! Besides, the SarPanch (village headman) will not give anyone except me the
strategic papers. Furthermore, the Jathedar stressed that I go. So my dear little brother,
you better ran all the way home otherwise I'm going to grab you by the ear, drag you
home and after the Khalsa has finshed their evening prayers, I'm going to tell them the
story of the great Bhai GurMukh Singh and the black bat!"
"Okay, you win , but be careful." Saying this Gurmukh Singh ran down the path
towards the lake while Ranjit Kaur went on with her journey towards the village.
Gurmukh Singh's fears were not unfounded. Small bands of Turkish soldiers were
wandering around the lake seeking information on Sikhs. Every Sikh was aware of
this. However, it did not deter Ranjit Kaur. She fearlessly went on her way to the
village. She had absolute faith in the strength of her Guru's amrit and blessed sword.
Ranjit Kaur reached the SarPanch's house. The women came out and hugged her, they
hadn't seen her for some time. It was getting late and the women insisted that she
spent the night with them. Remembering what GurMukh Singh had said she agreed, it
would be safer to travel during the day and Jathedar had given her permission to
spend the night. The SarPanch took her to a private room and handed over the
Strategic Papers, what she read spelled disaster for the Khalsa. She got up at once and
covering herself with her shawl she headed back to the Kahnuwaan lake, the women
tried to make her stay saying save your self. But Ranjit Kaur's life was not worth
anything without her Khalsa family.
A large number of Ahmed Shah Abdalee's troops were on their way from Lahore to
seize Kahnuwaan and these strategic papers contained orders to SarPanch to help the
troops. Thousands of Khalsa lives were at stake and getting the information back to
her Jathedar was foremost on her mind.
By now it was midnight. The skies were clear and the moonlight lit up the earth. In
this calm and still atmosphere, Ranjit Kaur reached the outskirts of the quiet village
and walked as fast as possible towards the lake. She had about 3 miles to cover, she
increased her pace and marched with determination through the sounds of howling
animals. She quietly carried on repeating `Vaahi-guroo, Vaahi-guroo' in time to her
footsteps as she always did and felt Guru Gobind Singh jee's spiritual glove encase
her.
Two Turkish soldiers with swords in their waist-bands, rode past her left side. She
fearlessly looked at the soldiers and underneath her shawl she grabbed the handle of
her sword, just in case. The heavenly moonlight glowed from Ranjit Kaur's angelic
face and intensified her beauty. The soldiers suddenly pulled their horses across her
path and quickly dismounting they tried to grab her hands. She darted away with
lightening speed and threateningly said "They'll be trouble if you touch me!", she
continued aggressively, `Who are you and what do you want?"
-"We are commanders of the royal forces" said the first soldier.
-"Then what business do you have with me?" said Ranjit Kaur.
Without answering, the second soldier loudly demanded "Who are you? And where
are you wandering to at this time of night?"
-"Who ever I may be, you have no right to question me." Saying this Ranjit Kaur tried
to walk past them at a fast pace.
The first soldier quickly moved to block her way once again and said, "we have
orders to find out where the Sikhs are hiding. You look like a Sikh so until you
explain what you are doing we aren't going to let you go anywhere."
-"That's right, I am a Sikh, what are you going to do about it?"
"Then consider yourself under arrest," said the first soldier, then he looked at the other
one and said , "Khan Sahib, I think you better grab her and put her on your horse,
because I dont know what I'll do if I get to close to her."
Both looked at Ranjit Kaur's face and then looked at each other and started laughing.
Such overtures angered Ranjit Kaur. She started looking at them like a hunter at its'
prey. Her eyes were red with anger.
There was a brief silence before Khan Sahib calmly said, "Beautiful lady, we have
been sent to find the whereabouts of Sikhs. However, we are not animals. We are
human. We too have pumping hearts in our chest. What kind of heart would it be that
does not worship a beautiful angel like you."
Both men were intoxicated with Ranjit Kaur's beauty. A mere glimpse of her face had
injected lustful insanity into them. Ranjit Kaur stared at their faces but remained
silent. Upon completion of his sentence, the other soldier continued, "Beloved, what
are you going to get from the wild Sikhs. Come with us. In Allah's oath we shall make
you our Begum (wife). You can wear silk and eat whatever you like. You can even
choose which one of us you want to marry!"
Ranjit Kaur still continued to silently stare at the soldiers. She had made her decision
to continue or to die fighting. But her silence and non-responsiveness was
misinterpreted by the men. Khan Sahib tried to grab her wrist, saying, "Come, sit on
my horse. It is getting late my love."
Ranjit Kaur moved swiftly, taking two steps backward she drew her sword from under
her shawl and reflecting the moonlight it flashed like lightening . She shouted " If you
come any closer I wont be responsible for what happens!"
The soldiers burst out laughing. Khan Sahib said, "Angel drawing a sword! That's a
first!"
The other soldier spoke "Isn't she beautiful when she's angry?"
This was the first time Khan Sahib had seen a woman protect her honor like a lioness,
but she was still only a weak woman so he tried to grab her with his outstretched
arms. A flashing sword dazzled him and he screamed in agony as his left hand
dropped to the ground.
Having been bitten by the lioness the soldiers drew their swords and charged towards
her. Ranjit Kaur wasn't sitting idle wearing bangles, she lunged forward at Khan
Sahib again and cut off his sword hand. He retreated squirming in pain.
The other soldier was a skilled swordsman. His continuous attacks inflicted several
wounds to Ranjit Kaur. Blood covered her whole face. Exhaustion was setting in by
now. Suddenly, the strength of Guru's amrit injected so much courage into her, that
she forgot all about her wounds and pains. Yelling the battle cry jaekara, "JO BOLAY
SO NIHAL, SAT SREE AKAL," her sword moved with such force that the soldier's
head dropped to the ground and bounced like a ball. His body fell in a heap next to it.
Ranjit Kaur quickly looked around for Khan Sahib, but he had escaped without trace.
Totally exhausted she still managed to search the heaped body and found several
papers in the dead soldier's pockets. Seizing them, she mounted his horse and rode to
the Kahnuwaan lake. As she approached the camp she mustered up every last ounce
of energy and yelled `JATHEDAR JEE! JATHEDAR JEE!'. The Jathedar, several
Khalsa Warriors and little GurMukh Singh came running out to meet her, seeing her
blood red face and exhausted condition they carried her inside while little GurMukh
Singh started crying. Her sisters wiped her face and cleaned her wounds while she
searched around her clothing and handed the papers over to the Jathedar. He was
amazed to find full details of the Turk's battle-plans. Ranjit Kaur was honoured
greatly by the Khalsa, Guru Gobind Singh Jee's infinite and unparralled grace had
given her the courage to fight her attackers and save her Khalsa family from a bloody
massacre.
News of Ranjit Kaur's courage spread through out the Khalsa Panth. She is known as
the "Brave Daughter of the Guru". Even her name means the Princess (Kaur) who is
Victorious (Jit) on the battlefield (Ran) - like her parents knew she'd be destined for
great things.
"By Harjit Singh Lakhan (hslakhan@yahoo.com)
fictionalised version of a true story by Karam Singh in the punjabi book 'Ardashak
Singhnian' "

Bibi Rajindar Kaur

BIBI RAJINDAR KAUR, (1739-1791) or Rajindan, Patiala princess known for her
valorous qualities, was the granddaughter of Baba Ala Singh. The only child of her
father, Bhumla Singh, who had died when she was barely tour, she was brought up by
her grandfather, and, in 1751, married to Chaudhari Tilok Chand, of Phagwara. Har
husband died at a young age and the charge of the family estate, consistsing of over
two hundred villages, fell to her. When Baba Ala Singh was arrested in 1765 by
Ahmad Shah Durrani for having fallen into arrears with the tribute and was being
taken to lahore, Rajindar Kaur went to her grandfather and offered to pay the money
to secure his release. But the latter declined the offer saying that it was not proper to
accept money from a daughter of the family. In 1778, Raja Amar Singh of Patiala,
who was Rajindar Kaur's first cousin, was defeated by Hari Singh of Sialba. Rajindar
Kaur came to his rescue smith three thousand soldiers marching through the territories
of the chiefs who had fought on the side of Harl Singh. During the reign of the minor
Raja Sahib Singh, Rajindar Kaur was again in Patiala to defend the town against
Maratha onslaughts. At the head of a strong force she marched as far as Mathura
where peace parleys were opened with the Marathas.
Bibi Rajindar Kaur died in 1791 at Patiala after a short illness. She was cremated in
the royal cemetery known as Shahi Samadhan.

Bibi Rajni Ji

In the era of Guru Ram Das, one cannot leave out Rajni, youngest daughter of Rai
Duni Chand, revenue collector (kardar) of Patti. (The story has all the myth, magic
and miracles of a genuine Sakhi, but is nevertheless a charming story). Rajni was a
Sikh, a disciple of the Guru. One day she was sitting with her sisters admiring some
new clothing they all had received from their father. The girls were ecstatic and
exclaiming how good their father was to them. Rajni observed that all gifts are
ultimately from God. Their father was merely an instrument of His greatness.
Unfortunately for her, he overheard her comment and became very angry.
It was not the First time that she incurred his wrath because of her extreme piety. The
infuriated father, believing her to be an ungrateful wretch, married her to a leper with
a taunt that he would see how her God would help her lead a normal life. The leper
was severely disfigured and a foul smell came from his body. The poor girl had
accepted her fate ungrudgingly and worked hard to maintain herself and her crippled
husband. She kept repeating the name of God, and was certain that he was testing her
with this turn of events. She was forced to beg for a living. Still she bathed and fed
her leper husband, never losing faith. One day, she reached the site of a pool on her
way to a neighbouring village. Placing the basket containing her husband by the side
of the pool, she had gone otf on an errand, most probably to look for food. In the
meantime, her crippled husband had seen a black crow dip into the water of the pool
and come out white. Amazed at this miracle, the man crawled up to the edge of the
pool and managed a dip. He found himself completely cured. When his wife returned,
she was amazed to find her husband in good health. He was handsome and whole. At
first, she was alarmed and suspected that he might be a different person. He had,
however, kept one finger with leprosy marks un-dipped. He showed her the diseased
finger as proof of his identity. The couple thanked God, and went to the Guru to seek
his blessings.
The pool was the future site of the Golden Temple. The medicinal properties of the
water were said to have come trom Basil (Tulsi), which grew in abundance on its
banks. Guru Amar Das used to pick the herb there to make poultices for an infected
toe that plagued Guru Angad. The legendary importance of the site highlights the
medicinal properties of the waters of the pool, Rajni's leper husband was cured in.
Sakhi relates that if you keep faith in God then one day all rewards are paid. Bibi
Rajni had always kept the faith in Guru and God, being happy with whatever she had
and thus was rewarded at the end.
Article taken from these book.
"Champion of Women" by Alice Basarke.
Bibi Sahib Kaur
Bibi Sahib Kaur (1771-1801) was a warrior and leader of men who played a
prominent part in the history of the Sutlej states from 1793 to 1801, was the elder
sister of Raja Sahib Singh of Patiala. Born in 1771, Sahib Kaur was married at an
early age to Jaimal Singh of the Kanhaiya clan, who resided at Fatehgarh and was
master of a greater part of the Bari Doab above Dina Nagar in present-day Gurdaspur
district of the Punjab. In 1793, Raja Sahib Singh, in view of mounting dissensions
within his state, recalled his sister Blbl Sahib Kaur to Patiala and entrusted to her the
of fice of prime minister. She had not been long in Patiala when she had to return to
Fatehgarh at the head of a large Patiala army to rescue her husband who had been
captured by Fateh Singh, a rival chief. Back in Patiala she faced a large Maratha force
marching towards the town in 1794 under the command of Anta Rao and Lachhman
Rao.
Raja Bhag Singh of Jind,Jodh Singh of Kalsia and Bhanga Singh of Thanesar joined
hands n with her while Tara Singh Ghaiba sent a detachment of troops. The joint
force, numbering about 7,000 men, met the enemy at Mardanpur near Ambala where
a fierce engagement took place. The Sikhs were severely outnumbered and would
have retreated had not Sahib Kaur, alighting from her rath, i.e. chariots made a brave
call with a drawn sword in hand for them to stay firm in their ranks. The next morning
they made a sudden charge on the Marathas who, taken by surprise, retired towards
Karnal in utter confusion.
Bedi Sahib Singh of Una charged the Pathan chief of Malerkotla with cow-killing and
attacked him. He was saved by the timely succour given him hy Sahib Kaur. In 1796,
in response to the request of the Raja of Nahan who had sought help from Raja Sahib
Singh of Patiala to quell a revolt in his state, Sahib Kaur proceeded to the hills with a
strong force and soon reduced the insurgents to submission. The Raja was reinstalled
on the gaddi and, at the time of Sahib Kaur's departure, he presented her with many
rich and valuable gifts in token of his gratitude. In the summer of l799, George
Thomas, an English adventurer, who had become very powerful and who ruled the
country in the neighborhood of Hansi and Hissar, turned his attention to the Sikh
territories on his northern frontier and reached upon Jind. Sahib Kaur led out a strong
contingent to relieve the besieged town and, assisted by the troops of other Sikh
chiefs, she forced George Thomas to withdraw.
Owing to differences with her brother, Blbi Sahib Kaur had to leave Patiala to take up
residence in Bherlan, near Sunam, which fell within her jagir and where she had built
a fort changing the name of the village to Ubheval. She died there in 1801 in the
prime of her life.
After the death of the Maharaja Alla Singh, the founder of Patiala rule, his grandson
Maharaja Amar Singh became the ruler of Patiala. He too, like his grandfather, turned
out to intelligent and brave. He clobbered his opponents and extended his rule
stretching up to the river Jamuna. His subjects trusted him and were willing to give
their lives for his cause. And likewise the Maharaja was extremely considerate of his
subjects. Because of this trust and closeness among the ruler and his subjects, this rule
made increasing progress. It seemed certain that Maharaja Amar Singh’s tactics and
braveness would further extend the boundaries of his rule.
Unfortunately, we humans plan something while our Creator has something in store
for us. At the moment when Patiala rule was at its peek, the young newly wed
Maharaja passed away suddenly. All happiness were replaced by sadness, expectation
by hopelessness, positiveness by negative attitudes. The future of Patiala seems to
hang among major difficulties and facing numerous dangers.
Maharaja Amar Singh’s death came unexpected in his youth. He left behind two
prince and a princess. This princess is the heroin of our story, Rani Sahib Kaur. She
was the eldest among her brothers. At the time of Maharaja’s death, she was 15 years
old. Younger than her was Maharaja Sahib Singh of 7 years and the youngest, Kanwar
Budh Singh. The rule was passed on to Maharaja Sahib Singh. However, he was the
ruler in name only. The real control was in the hands of Diwan Nanu Mal who was
the most trusted advisor during Maharaja Amar Singh’s period. Unfortunately, after
the master’s death, his trust quickly evaporated and was replaced by selfishness. He
aligned with the Marhatas and initiated efforts for Patiala rule’s destructions from its
roots. Diwan’s attitude also influence the other servants of the empire. They too
initiated pursuits for their selfish gains. As a result, corruption, looting, and injustice
reigned in the empire. Justice and peace simply fled away like a bird. The empire was
in immediate danger now. On one hand the inner situation was fast deteriorating while
on the other hand, the external enemies were eager for its destruction. Child Maharaja
Sahib Singh was terrified of the emerging situation.
By now Bibi Sahib Kaur had been married and was happily living with her in-law. No
women is willing to leave her home, yet Sahib Kaur took immediate action upon
learning of the situation in her brother’s empire. Her love for the younger brother
drove her to set aside her own happily married life and immediately proceed to protect
the Patiala rule.
A working machinery isn’t difficult to operate. However, only a knowledgeable
mechanic can operate a machine whose essential parts have seriously deteriorated.
That was the situation of Patiala. However, the daughter of Khalsa was undeterred.
She cleverly fix the broken machinery and attempted to operate it.
Slowly the situation started improving. The situation though improved significantly,
hadn’t completely recovered when a mob of Marhatas soldiers advanced to conquer
Patiala. The famous Lakshami Rao was the commander of the Marhata forces. He was
commanding a force of 100,000 men. The news of the impending attacked also
reached Rani Sahib Kaur. The rulers of Jind and Kaethal had already accepted the
conditions of Marhatas and paid large sum for their safety. This made the situation
even more grave for Patiala.
Marhatas were fast advancing towards Patiala. Their success with Jind and Kaethal
had given a huge boost to their confidence. On the other hand. Patiala’s inner situation
wasn’t completely recovered. In everyone’s estimations, Patiala forces were incapable
of defending themselves against the Marhatas. Bahadhur Sahib Kaur was well aware
of this assessment. But she neither twitched nor loss her confidence. In such situation,
even the bravest men could loose their courage. Yet this brave daughter of the Khalsa
remained undeterred. Her composure was unchanged, as if she didn’t know the
concepts of failure. She wasn’t discouraged. She had partaken Guru’s amrit which can
give lease of new life even to the dead. It can instills courageous spirit in birds to
defeat hawks. Then why should she be afraid? Fear couldn’t even approach her. She
ordered the sounding of the battle drums, Nagara, while preparing to face the invading
forces. During the darkness of the night, she summoned and gathered Bhai Bangha
Singh Thanaesar, Jodh Singh Kalsia, Deep Singh and Bir Singh Bhadodhiae, Tara
Singh Ghaeba and other Chiefs of the neighboring rules and made all necessary
preparations. Even before sunrise, the skies echoed with sounds of Khalsa’s Jaikara
"Jo Bohlae So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal" while the Sikhs advanced to welcome the invading
forces with the tips of their swords. Before reaching Kuch, she addressing a small
group of select associates. She said in sweet yet firm voice
"Brothers, the enemy thinking of you as few and weak, is advancing to snatch your
freedom. Our freedom is a blessed reward of our Guru Sahibans. Our Tenth Pathshah
addressed this rule as `your home is same as my home.’ This is Guru’s rule and that of
his GurSikhs. This is your freedom as well as your honor. Could you tolerate Marhata
feet reaching here to crush your freedom and honor? ..."
Every soldier collectively responded "Never, Never!"
Continuing with her speech, she said, "My brothers, this is what I expected from you.
You are Sikhs of the Guru and I am confident that you will not allow the enemy to
advance any further. The remaining issue is that of numbers. But remember, our
Tenth Guru engaged 150,000 against each Sikh. You are Sikhs of the same Guru.
Thus don’t worry about the huge numbers of the enemy force. We are within our
rights and following the truth. We are rasing our swords in defense of our freedom.
Guru is with us. Recognize your duty and responsibilities. the victory is yours. Take
oath with me that we shall die but not allow the enemy to advance even a foot."
The whole force collective took their oath. Subsequently, Bibi Sahib Kaur did her
ardas following which the skies echoed with the sounds of Jaikaras, "Jo Bohlae So
nihal, Sat Sri Akal," and the battle drums. Now the brave soldiers of Patiala advanced
in defence of their honor.
While these few brave soldiers of Patiala left their capital, Ghanta Rao and Lakshami
Rao left Ambala with their forces towards Patiala. Both sides clashed in the open
fields of Mardaan Pur. Upon facing each other, it became evident that not only the
Marhata force was large in numbers they had heavy artillery and cannons. In
comparison Sikhs were few in numbers and did not possess any cannons. There was
no match among both sides. It was clearly evident that Sikhs would simply disappear
facing the Marhatas as salt when mixed with flour.
The Marhata Sardars sent their envoy to convey a message, "why are you bent upon
getting your men killed for nothing, give up and surrender."
Bibi Sahib Kaur’s face reddened with anger upon hearing this message. "Surrender,"
she repeated. Then addressing the Marhata envoy, she said, "Surrender! Guru’s Sikhs
know no surrender. Go tell your sardars that if they have any desire to live, they
should return immediately. If not, Khalsa’s sword awaits them. They may approach
with their coffins."
Confident of their strength, the Marhata Sardars got aggravated hearing this response.
Winning over a few Patiala soldiers was no challenge for them. They signaled the
Marhata cannons to initiate shelling.
Competition between Swords and Cannons? This was a unique event in the history of
battles. However, such competition was clearly visible in the fields of Mardaan Pur.
On one side the cannons of Marhatas were blindly firing shells. While on other side,
Guru’s brave soldiers were advancing with their swords. Bibi Sahib Kaur, dressed in
male attire and riding on horse back, was directing her soldiers with an unsheathed
sword.
The Sikh soldiers fearlessly advanced into the enemy’s fortified positions. Now the
soldiers were directly facing each other and the cannons became useless. The battle of
swords ensued. Sikhs were renowned for their skills in using swords. For once the
Marhatas got scared. Witnessing the weakness of their soldiers, Lakshami Rao
advanced with fresh horsemen and attacked the Sikhs. At this moment, the Sikhs too
were in need of some fresh reinforcements. But where could they get it? All their
resources were tied in the battle with none to spare.
Intense battle pursued all day. Sometimes the Sikhs had the upper hand while other
times the Marhatas seemed to have the upper hand. The battle field was filled with
dead bodies with flowing rivers of blood. The Sun God couldn’t witness this bloody
battle and hide behind a hill.
At this moment, the Sikh’s position was grave. They were surrounded in the enemy’s
siege with no visible way to escape. Even at this moment, Sahib Kaur courage came
handy. Seeing a weak segment in the enemy’s siege, she shouted the Jaikara, Jo
Bohlae So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal, and forcefully attacked this segment. Her courage and
the Jaikara instilled new courage among the Sikh soldiers. Using their swords, the
Sikh soldiers successfully broke through the enemy’s siege. Ghanta Rao and
Lakshami Rao were astonished as their well planned scheme simply evaporated in
front of their eyes.
By now it was nightfall, the soldiers couldn’t see each other and thus both forces
returned to their camps for rest. Celebration in Marhata camps and mourning in Sikh
camps was evident. The reason being that the Sikhs took heavy casualties in today’s
battle. The Sikh Sardars and soldiers were discouraged. Despair and disappointment
was prevalent among them. However, Bibi Sahib Kaur was neither disappointed nor
in any despair. She appeared to be peaceful yet serious, as if engrossed in some deep
thoughts.
Select few Sikh Sardars gathered in Bibi Sahib Kaur’s tent to assess the day’s battle.
It was assesses that more than half of the Sikh force had been wiped out.
Sardar Jodh Singh said, "Bibi Ji! Tell us what to do now?
"You tell me what to do brother?" Bibi ji answered in slow and soft voice, as if trying
to probe the inner thoughts of the Sardars. After all the Sardars had collectively come
to her with some apparent consensus. Jodh Singh did not respond. But Dalip Singh
Bhadodhiae said, "Bibi Ji! The status of the battle is clear. There is no hope for any
type of victory. The time to give our lives is upon us. Although, Guru’s Sikhs aren’t
afraid of this but ..."
He couldn’t complete his sentence when he was interrupted by Bibi Ji’s question,
"But what?"
Silence prevailed. For a long time no one responded. Seeing no answer, she repeated
her question "Brothers! Tell me what we should do now?"
"Bibi Ji! What can we do. We will fight bravely. We shall fight in the face of sure
death. We shall happily accept our death. It is true that we have no hope of victory.
But a Sikh’s duty is to fight. We shall fight, for we can not witness any encroachment
of Patiala’s freedom or honor while living. However, we have a serious request of
you, that you should return to Patiala. The battle field isn’t in our control and we can
not sustain your capture by the enemy forces," Bhai Bangha Singh Thanaesar
hesitatingly uttered this response.
Hearing this Bibi’s face got reddened with anger as if her honor had been challenged.
However, this quickly disappeared and was replaced with peace and seriousness. She
said, "Your courage is commendable that you can not witness any encroachment of
Patiala’s freedom or honor. Prior to such encroachment you would like to give up
your lives. But how could you assume that Maharaja Amar Singh’s daughter could
tolerate and witness the encroachment of Patiala’s freedom and honor. How could you
assume that her personal life is more important to her than these things. Brothers! No
one can live for ever in this world. One day we all have to die for sure. And if this live
is expended preserving freedom and honor what better honor can there be than this.
Sahib Kaur is prepared for this. Granted, I am a women and for sure weak. But
brothers! I too have partaken the amrit of same Guru that you have partaken. Then
why would I hesitate facing death? Don’t even think about it. If I leave here I shall
leave in victory or I shall not leave at all." Saying this, tears dropped her cheeks.
Apparently, the mere suggestion for her return to Patiala, inflicted some deep pain in
her.
Sahib Kaur’s words created silence in the meeting while everyone got deeply
engrossed in thoughts. After a while Sahib Kaur continued "You say we have no hope
of victory. I cannot accept this. We are fighting the battle of truth and righteousness.
VaahGuru is with us. I am confident of our victory. Don’t get discouraged."
Saying this, she stood up and started pacing around the tent as if she was about to take
a major decision. Soon her face lightened up with happiness as if she got convinced of
her victory. Addressing her Sardars she said, "Guru Sahib has shown me the way to
our victory. What we need now is your courage."
Everyone’s attention was now focused on Bibi’s face. They replied in unison, "we are
prepared to follow your orders."
Bibi said, "Look! Strength itself isn’t enough for For winning a battle. In fact the
understanding and deployment of strategy is more beneficial. We too can defeat the
Marhata forces with strategy."
"Tell us what to do" everyone responded collectively.
"At this moment the enemy forces are celebrating their victory. As such they are
careless in their egoistic happiness. If we were to suddenly attack them now, our
victory is assured and the freedom and honor of Patiala can be preserved."
All Sardars were astonished. They didn’t know that Sahib Kaur was equally sharp in
battle strategy. This decision was taken around 10:30pm. Until midnight all battle
preparations were carried out quietly. This decision invigorated new courage among
the Sikh forces. Soldiers started coming out of their tents after preparing themselves
for the battle. Bibi Sahib Kaur now dressed in male attire, riding horseback with
unsheathed sword, face her soldiers and gave a short speech, "Brothers! Time has
come for either victory or death in this battle for preserving the freedom and honor of
Patiala. Advance keeping faith in Guru. Victory shall be yours. Your swords shall be
the death message for the egoistic Marhatas. Prove the strength of our Tenth Guru’s
Amrit."
Subsequently, the sky echoed with the sounds of Jaikaras, "Jo Bohlae So Nihal, Sat
Sri Akal." The Sikh forces advanced and gave a surprise attack to the enemy forces.
Even before the enemy became aware of what happened their soldiers were killed by
the Sikh swords. In minutes the field was filled with dead bodies. The suddenness of
the attack as well as the darkness made it difficult to distinguish among their own and
Sikh soldiers. As a result, many enemy soldiers died fighting among themselves. Bibi
Sahib Kaur was moving around encouraging her soldiers with Jaikaras. Her sword too
killed many enemy soldiers.
This surprise attack by the Sikhs completely changes the status of the battle. Their
defeat turned into a victory while Marhata’s victory changed into a defeat. When
Ghanta Rao and Lakshami Rao saw the shining sword of Bibi Sahib Kaur upon them,
they found escape as the best way out. They quickly collected their remaining
companions and ran towards Hisar. Now the battle field was in total control of the
Khalsa.
The true status of the battle became evident with sunrise. Uncountable enemy soldiers
lay dead. Apart from the dead bodies, the enemy cannons, ammunition, ration, and
treasury were left behind.
Bibi Sahib Kaur awarded all this wealth and distributed it among the Sikh soldiers.
She capture the cannons and the ammunition and took them to Patiala. Upon reaching
Patiala, she was welcomed with huge celebration. celebrations unparalleled in Patiala
history. Why not? After all her courage and battle strategy had not only saved the
freedom and honor of Patiala but instilled such terror among the Marhatas that they
never thought of advancing towards Punjab again.
Bibi Sahib Kaur’s name is engraved in the fine pages of Sikh history. What are the
daughter’s of Khalsa capable of can be assessed from the above accounts. Who can
say that GurSikh women are weak compared to their male counterparts. Sahib Kaur’s
sword became an object of terror for the Marhatas.
Daughters of the Khalsa
translated by Baldev Singh from "Adarshak Singhnia" by Karam Singh

Bibi Sachan Sach ji

When any one wanted an audience with Guru Amar das, they had to comply with
some simple instructions. First, they had to eat from the Guru's kitchen with all his
other guests regardless of status or gender. Women were asked to remove their veils.
The Raja of Haripur was no exception. He came with his entourage of wives, and all
were asked to have a meal first. The youngest wife was very shy and refused to
remove her veil. The Guru asked her what the problem was. In those days, women
never ate with men and were certainly not used to he spoken to by men. The poor girl
was totally confused and embarrassed. She ran out to hide herself. The Raja wanting
to please the Guru, feigned disgust with her behaviour and abandoned her altogether.
Thus, when he returned home, she was left behind, alone and frightened. This was
500 years ago, when women were not able to work and support themselves
independently. This poor girl was far away from family and friends. She hid in the
forest, and people said she went totally insane.
The Guru had many disciples and they all did their chores together and listened to the
Guru's teaching. There was one such man who came from a place near Shaikhupura
which is now in Pakistan. He left his home and joined the Guru's camp at Goindwal.
He took upon himself the responsibility of bringing firewood daily for the kitchen.
One day, while he was in the forest, he had a terrible clash with an insane woman. She
was filthy, her clothes were torn, and her hair was matted. He startled her when he
accidently tripped over her. She reacted by screaming and biting and clawing. He
managed to subdue her with kind words and a strong arm. Covering her with his
shawl, he brought her to the Guru. After taking a bath and eating well in the kitchen,
the lady was invited to join the congregation and listen to the prayers and the
teachings.
A great peace entered her soul and she was able to slowly regain her strength and selfesteem.
She was once thc Rani of Haripur, but no one knew her real name. As she
grew stronger and joined the others in chores as well as prayers, she was often heard
muttering "sachan sach" meaning "truth is truth". This soon became her nickname. As
time passed, she became totally cured, and showed hatclliger1cc and goo(l
iudgclllellt. The Guru was immpressed with her commitment and devotion. She
eventually married the gentleman who had rescued her against her will from the
forest. Mata Sachan Sach was made a masand and sent with her hushand to his home
in west-Punjab to preach the word of God.

Bibi Viro

Bibi Viro ji was daughter of Guru Hargobind ( 1595-1644) and Mata Oamodan, was
born at Amritsar on llJuly 1615. She was married to Bhai Sadhu, son of Bhai Dharma,
a Khosla Khatri of the village of Malla. She was deeply religious and as well as a
warrior in the mould of her Brother like Tyag Mall (Guru Tegh Bahadur).
The nuptials were performed on 94 May 1699 at Jhabal, 15 km southwest of Amritsar.
She was the mother of five sons, Sango Shah, Jit Mall, Gulab Chand, Mahri Chand
and Galiga Ram. She raised them very well and with deep Sikh values. All the five
sons took part in a battle fought on 18 September 1688, between Guru Gobind Singh
and Raja Fateh Shah of Srinagar ( Garhval) at Bhangani, 11 km from Paonta, in the
present Sirmur district of Himachal Pradesh, Sango Shah and Jit Mall dying in action

Mai Bhago

Mai Bhago was was a descendant of Pero Shah, the younger brother of Bhai Launga a
Dhillon Jatt who had converted a Sikh during the time of Guru Arjan. Born at her
ancestral village of Jhabal in present-day Amritsar district of the Punjab, she was
married to Nidhan Singh Varaich of Patti. A staunch Sikh by birth and upbringing.
Mughals and hilly chiefs had surrounded Anandpur and were demanding it be
evacuated. They called that any Sikh who says that "he/she is not anymore a Sikh of
Guru Gobind" will be left untouched. A group of 40 Sikhs, led by Mahan Singh Brar
told Guru Gobind Singh that they are not his Sikhs anymore. Guru told them that they
have to write it in a document that "they are not his Sikhs anymore" and sign it. All
forty Sikhs signed this document Bedava and left Guru Gobind Singh. Mai Bhago was
distressed to hear that some of the Sikhs of her neighborhood who had gone to
Anandpur to fight for Guru Gobind Singh had deserted him under adverse conditions.
Hearing her taunts, these Sikhs were ashamed at their deed. She rallied the deserters
persuading Guru, then traveling across the Malva region.
Meanwhile, Guru Gobind Singh had to evacuate the fort of Anandpur, his children
were lost in the confusion. Two youngest one's Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, went
along with their grandmother (mother of Guru Gobind Singh). While elder one's Ajit
Singh and Jhujhar Singh were with their father. Then at battle of Chamkaur Guru's
elder sons attained martyrdom, Guru was saved by five Sikhs and he evacuated
Chamkaur and was traveling in Malva region, being pursued by Mughal forces of
Aurungzeb. Traveling day and night in the Jungles of Malva region, imperial Mughal
forces were in constant pursuit of Guru. Guru Gobind Singh reached village of
Khidrana, when Mai Bhago and the men, she was leading stopped near the dhab or
pool of Khidrana where an imperial army in pursuit of Guru Gobind Singh had almost
overtaken him. They challenged the pursuing host and fought furiously forcing it to
retreat. All forty Sikhs attained martyrdom in this pitched battle, in which Guru
himself was supporting them with a shower of arrows from a nearby high ground,
found all the men except one Mahan Singh, killed when he visited the battlefield. Mai
Bhago and Guru Gobind Singh ji were the sole survivors of this fiercely fought battle.
Mahan Singh, who had been seriously wounded, also died as the Guru took him into
his lap. Guru Gobind Singh blessed those forty dead as the Forty Liberated Ones. He
took into his care Mai Bhago who had also suffered injury in the battle. She there
after stayed on with Guru Gobind Singh as one of his bodyguard, in male attire. After
the death of Guru Gobind Singh at Nanded in 1708, she retired further south. She
settled down at Jinvara, 11 km from Bidar in Karnataka where, immersed in
meditation, she lived to attain a ripe old age. Her hut in Jinvara has now been
converted into Gurdwara Tap Asthan Mai Bhago. At Nanded, too, a hall within the
compound of Takht Sachkhand. Sri Hazur Sahib marking the site of her residence is
known as Bunga Mai Bhago.