Sikh History This Week

(Sept 28-Oct 04) Post: 2640.

ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਾਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧
(Stories of our forefathers make children great)

Events in Brief

1. September 28, 1907: Bhagat Singh is born this day at Banga in District Nawanshehr of Punjab. Bhagat Singh, (1907-1931) was an Indian anti-British revolutionary, was born this day hanged to death on March 23, 1931. In December 1928, he killed a junior British police officer in retaliation for the death of a freedom fighter. He later participated in a symbolic bombing of the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi and embarked on a hunger strike in jail. His actions gained him fame in the Punjab region due to sympathetic coverage in Indian newspapers. After his execution at 23, he became a revered martyr and symbol of resistance in Northern India. Inspired by Bolshevism and anarchism, he ignited a wave of militancy in India during the 1930s, prompting introspection within the Indian National Congress’s non-violent campaign.

2. September29, 1981: Bhai Gajinder Singh and four of Dal Khalsa hijack Indian Airlines domestic passenger flight to Lahore. They demanded immediate release of Sant Bhinderanwallae. Flight took off from Delhi Palam Airport to Amritsar, which had five members of separatist group of Sikh militants on it. 111 passengers and crew were captives at Lahore Airport, Pakistan. Leader Gajender Singh, engaged in negotiations with India’s ambassador Natwar Singh, agreed to surrender and was later sentenced to life imprisonment. Gajender Singh and members stayed on in Pakistan.

3. September 30, 1987: Shaheed Bhai Sukhdev Singh Padhri, Militant Singh fights to death in a gun fight with CRPF, killing several. In a daring attack, several militant Sikhs assaulted a police post near Tolenangal, Ajnala, Punjab, killing three cops and escaping with their weapons. As they fled, one of their motorcycles broke down in Kohali, trapping them. Bhai Sukhdev Singh Padhri ordered them to escape, continuing to return fire until his death, killing several CRPF cops. Bhai Sahib’s courageous stand immortalized him in Sikh struggle. (Read more narratives in Tribute1984.com.)

4. September 30, 2012: Four British Sikhs attack controversial Ex-Lt.General Kuldeep Brar, in London. On September 30, 2023, while walking with his wife in central London, Lt Gen Brar (retd) was subjected to an attempted assassination. This attack was not fatal. In June 1984, Lt Gen Brar was actively commanding the military operation ‘Operation Blue Star’ at the Harimandir Sahib complex in Amritsar. The group clearly targeted General Brar for the atrocities committed during the operation, which was in retaliation for his actions. Four of the attackers were subsequently jailed- sentences ranging from 10 to 14 years.

5. October 1, 1778: Sikh Chief Raja Baghel Singh capture Delhi & Suburbs, build Historical Gurdwaras.S. Baghel Singh, captured Delhi for second time in 1778. He demolished the mosques raised on Raja Jai Singh’s Haveli and raised beautiful Gurdwara Complex called Bangla Sahib. S.Baghel Singh also built Gurdwara Rakab Ganj, where mosques had come up on Lakhi Shah’s Haveli in Raisina Village. Local Muslim residents were prevailed who ultimately agreed to remove the Mosque. Sikhs raised the Gurdwaras in marble with golden Domes.

6. October 1,1873: Beginning of Gurdwara Reform Movement-Singh Sabha Leher established. Sardar Thaker Singh Sandhawalia set up Guru Singh Sabha in Amritsar. After Annexation of Punjab, British started encouraging Anti-Sikh activities through Brahmanical Mahants and Christian priests throughout Punjab. Sikhs got together and established a body to promote reforms and revivalism. Chief among them being Sardar Thaker Singh Sandhawalia (1832-1887), Giani Gian Singh (1824-1884), S.Amar Singh and Dharam Singh Majitha Bunga. (Read more elsewhere)

7. October 1,2014: An Expensive Palanquin (Palki) in Gold presented to Harimandar Sahib. A Kanpur based Sikh family, Mohinder Singh Kathuria and his wife Prabhjit Kaur. Presented the Palki to Durbar Sahib (Golden Temple) worth 1 Crore of Rupees. It is carved and embellished from 3-kg gold was given in offering to the Harmandir Sahib by a Kanpur-based Sikh family here on Wednesday.

8. October 2, 1926: First full Meeting of SGPC (Shromani Gurdwara Prabandak Committee) after a great struggle. Sikhs had to strive long to establish a hold over their own shrines. Hindu Mahants were controlling the shrines under direct patronage of the British rule. After the liberation of Nanakana Sahib and Guru ka Bagh Amritsar, through great sacrifices, Sikhs kept up the pressure resulting in Punjab assembly passing the bill in Simla on the 9th of July 1925.

9. October 2, 1987: A Sikh activist attacks Rajiv Gandhi, Indian PM at Gandhi Samadhi in revenge to Sikh Genocide of Nov1984. Lying in wait amongst the trees Karamjit Singh Sunam shot at Rajiv Gandhi three times, but missed the target on each of his attempt. An Engineering student in Delhi, attacked, the Prime Minister at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial park at Raj Ghat Delhi. This was in retribution to Nov’84 Genocide of Sikhs in Delhi & other places, when Indira Gandhi was shot on October 31st 1984. Arrested on the spot, he spent the next 14 years in jail and released in 2000.

10. October 3,1710. Sikhs defeat Mughals, Capture Strategic fort of Rahon near Jalandhar. Emboldened by Baba Banda Singh Bahadur’s victories in Malwa and the Trans-Jamuna region, the Sikh chiefs of Majha wrote to Mughal Faujdar Jalandhar, asking to vacate fort of Rahon. Initially, Jalandhar held on to the fort for a while but eventually conceded and retreated to the adjacent town of Sultanpur Lodhi to safeguard it rather than face encirclement at Rahon. This unexpected turn of events allowed the Sikhs to gain control of the fort without engaging in a prolonged battle.

11. October 4, 1930, Shahid Bhagat Singh, a Sikh revolutionary, wrote to his father not to file any mercy petition. Bhagat Singh, born on September 27, 1907, was a prominent Indian anti-colonial revolutionary. He was hanged in Lahore Jail on March 23, 1931, at the tender age of 23. In a poignant letter to his father, Singh firmly advised against seeking help from the British colonists. He emphasized that any attempt to save his life would contradict their intended purpose of sacrifice. This unwavering resolve underscores his commitment to his cause. Singh had been convicted of the heinous murder of John Saunders, a British police officer.
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(Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰਮ)
Compiled & Edited: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura.

5Q Quiz for Self- Assessment. Please participate !

1. Shahid Bhagat Singh was martyred along with Shahids Sukhdev and RajGuru. They left a legacy of using Armed struggle to get independence. Do you Agree?
2. Singh Sabha Movement of 1873 led to liberation of Gurdwaras and formation of SGPC in 1925. Who initiated the reform movement in 1873?
3. Name the Sikh who attempted assassination of Rajiv Gandhi for his role in fanning Nov 1984 Sikh Genocide, by hiding amongst bushes at Raj Ghat October 2, 1987?
4. Name the family of Kanpur who presented Rupees One Crore Planquin(shoulder carrying) to Harimandir Sahib(The Golden Temple) Amritsar in 2014?
5. Who built Gurdwara Bangla Sahib and Gurdwara Rakab Ganj after capturing Delhi for Second time in 1778?

Sikh History This Week

(Sept 21-27) Post 2639

ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਾਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧)
(Stories of our forefathers make children great)

Events in Brief.

1. September 21,1960: Punjabi Suba Agitation: A Sikh Child is murdered by Haryana Police. Innocent boy from Moga gone to meet his uncle Kaka Inderjit was playing and pranking with his friends raised slogan for Punjabi Subba is thrown into the well by atrocious and biased Haryanvi Karnal Police. What a outrageous conduct. Huge protests follow. Police impunity to accountability makes it easy for Cops a let offs.

2. September 22,1539:( 1Asu, 16 Sept.SGPC):Jyoti-Jot, Guru Nanak Dev Ji departed this world for the heavenly abode at the age of 70. After a long journey, he finally settled down at his Dera (farm) with his family in Kartarpur, located in the Narowal District of present-day Pakistan. The First Guru dedicated a significant portion of his life to extensive travels, spreading the message of the One universal Lord. He engaged in dialogues with others to learn and correct their beliefs. Child Nanak was born at Rai-Boe-Di-Talwandi, which is now known as Nanakana Sahib in District Shekhupura. (For Guru Sahib’s life and teachings, refer to books and his Udasis/odysseys).

3. September 23, 1637, Bhai Gurdas ji, the esteemed Sikh Scholar and Poet, passed away. He played a crucial role in the composition of the Ad Granth ji. Revered as a Sikh figure, Bhai Gurdas holds a special place in the hearts of Sikhs. He was the maternal uncle of the fifth Guru. His Vars, considered essential to the Guru Granth Sahib by Guru Arjun Dev Ji, were instrumental in its creation. His writings, Kavits, and poetry are integral to every Kirtan (Hymn Singing), much like those of Bhai Nand Lal ji. Notably, Bhai Gurdas ji requested Guru Hargobind Ji to refrain from honoring him with any edifice.

4. September 23, 1965: End of Indo-Pak War. Punjab makes Huge contribution to war in men & materials. India is prepared to grant favorable consideration to the Punjabi Suba Demands. On the day of the Indo-Pak War’s conclusion, Shri Gulzari Lal Nanda, the Home Minister, recognized Sikhs’ contributions in defeating Pakistan at all fronts and announced in Parliament that India would accept the demand of Sikhs for a Punjabi Suba, a linguistic Punjabi state. However, India’s ungratefulness was evident in the subsequent delays..

5. September 24, 1898: Sikh Scholar & reforms Activist Prof. Gurmukh Singh of Singh Sabha movement pass away. He embarked on a mission to refute Khem Singh Bedi’s claim of being a descendant of the Holy Lineage. As a professor at the Oriental College of Lahore, he held the position of Secretary of the Lahore Singh Sabha, which was established in 1879. In 1873, when Sri Guru Singh Sabha was founded in Amritsar, he abandoned his studies without completing his degree to champion reforms. He played a pivotal role in incorporating Punjabi into the curriculum of Oriental College in 1877 and launched several newspapers.

6. September 24, 2014: A US based Sikh activist named Ganga Singh Dhillon, a prominent figure in the Khalistan movement, pass away. Born on July 5, 1928, in a village near Nanakana Sahib (now in Pakistan), Dhillon became a US citizen in 1958 and settled in Virginia. Through his close friendship with Pakistan Minister Zuhur Ilahi, he played a significant role in establishing the Nanakana Sahib Foundation. Another notable contribution was the establishment of the Pakistan Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (PSGPC). In 1991, Dhillon India labeled him a separatist and was refused entry at Delhi Airport, forcing him to return to US on the next flight.

7. September 25, 1984: End of Indian Army control on Sri Harminder Sahib complex. SGPC Takes over, after a four-month siege, Durbar Sahib (the Golden Temple) and other buildings on its premises were handed over to the Five High Priests and representatives of the Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee. This occurred nearly four months after the Army’s attack, resulting in countless atrocities against civilians and defenders. Following the complete withdrawal of the Army, Kar Seva Babas and Sangat commenced the sacred Sarovar (pool) cleaning and restoration work.

8. September 26, 1978: Sikhs in Kanpur, UP, face another Anti-Sikh violence from Nirankaris. Sikhs peacefully protested against the Nirankari Samagam (convention) due to the wrongful teachings and mocking of Sikh faith. As they approached Nirankari Bhawan, the Nirankaris retaliated with a violent attack, hurling bricks. A volunteer even attacked Jathedar Kishan Singh with a spear, piercing his stomach. The police shootout resulted in thirteen more Sikhs killed and seventy-four injured. This incident shocked Sikhs worldwide, marking a second major violence by Nirankaris after the Amritsar massacre of April 13, 1978.

9. September 26, 1984: President of India Giani Zail Singh was exonerated from wrongs committed by the Indian Army in June 1984. The 5-member Sikh Clergy, known as the Panj Piaras, had declared him liable to religious punishment after the Army’s action on Durbar Sahib Complex. After the Army relinquished control of the complex, Singh sought atonement before the Panj Piaras. He explained that he had no active role in ordering the Indian Army into the Golden Temple premises, and his explanation was accepted, leading to his exoneration.

10. September 27, 1914: KamaGata Maru Ship/Nanak Nam Jahaz returns from Canada to Kolkata. Police opens fire killing 19. After a harrowing journey, mostly Sikh immigrants to Canada were sent back due to the Canadian government’s refusal to dock at Vancouver harbor. Upon arrival, the British Indian Police arrested arriving passengers, leading to violent clashes that killed 19, 203 were arrested, and 32, including Baba Gurdit Singh, the immigrants’ leader, absconded. The ship, carrying 376 Indian passengers (340 Sikhs, 24 Muslims, and 12 Hindus), arrived in British Columbia on May 22.

11. September 27, 2019: Sandeep Singh Dhaliwal, Deputy Harris County Sheriff is Shot. Post office named after him. Deputy Dhaliwal, a Harris County Sheriff’s Office officer since 2009, was shot by a racist driver during a traffic stop. In 2015, he was allowed to wear his turban and beard in accordance with his Sikh faith, inspiring others. In 2017, he assisted United Sikhs of America in Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. Teammates describe him as vibrant and energetic. He is the 45th Harris County Sheriffs to die in the line of duty.
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(Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰਮ)
Compiled & Edited: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura.

5Q Quiz for self Assessment & learning:

1. Guru Nanak Dev ji left for his heavenly abode at 70, where did he lived last ?
2. Name Baba Nanak’s sister who cherished and understood his spiritual mindset in early years?.
3. Bhai Gurdas ji was maternal uncle of Guru Arjun, what seva or service he did to his nephew?
4. What prompted India to consider linguistic demand of Punjabi Suba in 1965, despite the agitation having gone on for 15years?.
5. Sandeep Singh Dhaliwal, Deputy Harris County Sheriff was shot dead in Texas in 2019. What was the memorial/edifice given to cherish his memory?

Sikh History This Week

(Sept 14-20) Post 2638)

ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਾਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧)
(Stories of our Forefathers make Children great)

Events in Brief.

1. September 14, 1848: Second Anglo-Sikh War erupts. Raja Sher Singh Attariwala Revolts against British occupation of Punjab. A young Sikh chief of 27 years old led the Sikhs to a decisive victory against the British at the battles of Chellianwalla and Ramnagar (now in Pakistan). Sikhs suffered a setback in the third battle at Gujerat, that ultimately led to the annexation of Punjab. Rani Jindan, the Sikh Queen, was arrested and imprisoned in Chunar Fort at Banaras, India. She later escaped to Nepal and sought royal asylum. Her son, the exiled crown prince Duleep Singh took her to England in 1862.

***2. September 15, 2001: Balbir Singh Sodhi, a 49-year-old Sikh businessman, was shot dead in a hate crime in Mesa, Arizona, in USA.***This incident occurred four days after the September 11 attacks. Later that year, on November 18, 2001, three teenagers burned down a Gurdwara Gobind Sadan in Palermo, New York, mistaking it for a mosque named after Osama bin Laden. This series of hate crimes, which targeted Muslims at large, was repeated in various US cities.

3. September 15, 1988: Anti-Sikh riots at Bidar city in Karnataka, Hindu Shiv Sena,went on rampage. It was a gruesome murder of Six and injuring more than a hundred, including students of Engineering college and 1 of Pharmacy. Shops and Property were gutted. Congress government and Police remain a mute force. Sikhs are in minority with 11 homes and 9 businesses. Bidar has a heritage Gurdwara ‘Nanak Jhira’ where Baba Nanak blessed and spouted a well.

4. September 16,1574: Jyoti-Jot, passing away of Guru Amardas Ji, 3rd Guru at Goindwal Sahib.. Born in 1479 in the village of Baserke, near Amritsar, Guru Ji’s tenure began at the age of 73 in 1552. Although he had already met with the second Guru, Angad Dev, who was 37 years old when they met in Khadur Sahib,Punjab, while he was 62. He later moved to Goindwal Sahib and established his Dera (home) on the banks of the River Beas. Before departing, he had nominated Guruship to his son-in-law, who later became Guru Ram Das, the fourth Guru. (An annual Jor-Mela (congregation) is held at Goindwal Sahib to commemorate Guru’s life and teachings.)

5. September 16, 1574: (SGPC) Gurgaddi/Guruship of Guru Ram Das ji, Fourth Guru. Founder of Amritsar City, home to Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), was born named Jetha on September 24, 1534, in Lahore. As a child, he moved to Goindwal and devoted himself to serving the third Guru, Amar Das ji. Bhai Jetha, pleased Guru Amar Das so much that he married his daughter, Bibi Bhani to him. Later, Guru ignoring his own sons nominated Jethaji to the Gurgaddi in 1574. On Guru Amar Das ji’s demise, Jetha ji became the fourth Guru, Guru Ram Das, and moved to Amritsar with his family.

6. September 16,1842, Ladakh accepts defeat, sign treaty of border boundary with Sikh Empire. Lama Guru Lasa, the ruler of the Kingdom of Ladakh, accepted suzerainty and defeat at the hands of the combined forces of the Khalsa and Dogras, led by General Zorawar Singh. Subsequently, a treaty of borders demarcation was signed between Maharaja Sher Singh of the Kingdom of Ladakh and Lama Guru Lasa. This treaty established a significant boundary line between India, Ladakh, and Tibet. General Zorawar Singh’s unwavering campaign and Sikh Kingdom of Lahore played a crucial role in defining the border line that exists today. (Sikh History by Khushwant Singh.)

7. September 16, 2017: Sikh Air Chief Marshall Arjan Singh passed away, leaving behind a legacy of honor and distinction. Born on April 15, 1919, he served as the third Chief of the Indian Air Force from 1964 to 1969. His leadership during the 1965 Indo-Pak war led to a decisive victory, earning him the prestigious ‘Padma Vibhushan’ and elevating his rank to Air Chief Marshal. After retiring, he served as an Ambassador to Switzerland, High Commissioner to Kenya, and Lt. Governor of Delhi. He passed away,in New Delhi leaving a lasting impact. His passing was marked by a State Funeral, full military honors, including a flypast and a half-past-flag ceremony, reflecting his unwavering dedication to the country.

8. September 17, 1922: Liberation of Guru-Ka-Bagh by protest, CWC probes British atrocities on peaceful Sikhs. The Indian National Congress’s working committee formed an inquiry committee to investigate the brutal treatment of Sikh ‘Akali protest by the British at the Guru-Ka-Bagh Agitation. This incident gave widespread attention in national and international media, including a documentary produced in the United States. Father C.F.Andrews, the Head of the Christian Mission in India, condemned the actions of the British.

9. September 18, 1688, Guru Gobind Singh ji defeat the Hindu Rajas at Bhangani, near Paonta (now in Nahan District, Himachal Pradesh). Coerced by the Mughals, the Rajas, led by Raja Bhim Chand Kaluria, united against the 10th Guru, who was only 20 at the time. Despite their combined forces, the Rajas were defeated in a nine-hour battle. Pir Buddu Shah’s Sufi followers participated, while the Mughals remained mute.

10. September 19, 1687, Guru Gobind Singh ji punished the Mahants of Dera Baba Ram Rai Dehradun. This was for cremating Baba Ram Rai during meditation. On September 4, 1687, Baba Ram Rai’s surviving wife, Mata Punjab Kaur, who inherited the Dera, complained that the Mahants had declared Baba Ram Rai dead and cremated him during meditation. She also alleged mistreatment towards herself. In response, Guru punished the Mahants by burning them in the same manner as they had cremated Baba Ram Rai, and he recovered the entire property from them.

11. September 20,1979: Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwalle offers for arrest at his Dera HQ, Chowk Mehta. Police violence on Sikh followers resulted in 12 shootings. Jarnail Singh ji addressed a public gathering and appealed for peace before his arrest at Chowk Mehta. Police, including Border Security Force members, surrounded the Dera. Rioters stoned and burned police tents and vehicles due to police provocation. Several Sikhs were injured, and 12 were shot.
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(Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰਮ)
Compiled & Edited: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura.

5Q Quiz for Self Assessment. Please answer it…

1. Raja Sher Singh Attari, gave a stunning defeat to the British at two battles in 1848, name the two battles ?
2. Had Raja Sher Singh Attari continued his winning to Battle of Gujerat in Punjab, what would be the fate of the British East India Company. ?
3. What happened to Balbir Singh Sodhi in Arizona, US.
4. Why did Hindu Rajas fight with the Tenth Guru at Paonta Sahib and lost?
5. Why was Gurdwara Guru-Ka-Bagh liberated ?

Sikh History This Week

(Sept 7-13) post 2637

ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਾਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧)
(Stories of our forefathers make children great)

Events in Brief:

1. September 7, 1950: Master Tara Singh Arrested for Second time seeking special status for Sikhs promised by Congress leaders. This special status was disregarded by the new government due to a new constitution and strong opposition from Hindu leaders in Punjab. Consequently, a unique situation arose for the protection of its language, Gurmukhi, which was within the realm of an identifiable and constitutionally recognized linguistic state. However, even this seems unacceptable, and it took 15 years to achieve this demand.

2.September 8,1922:Liberation of Gurdwara Guru-Ka-Bagh (mocha) 836 Sikh protesters are grievously Beaten. During British rule, the Guru Ka Bagh Morcha (1922) was a non-violent movement to reclaim Sikh gurdwaras from Hindu/Udasi Mahants who exploited devotees’ offerings. Guru Arjan Dev Ji and Guru Tegh Bahadar Ji stayed at this heritage shrine near Amritsar. The events faced international condemnation. US cinematographer A.L. Verges documented the incidents, while Christian missionary Father C.F Andrews witnessed the Sikhs’ passive resistance.

3. September 9, 1961: Sikhs petition UNO against Government of India’s discriminatory attitude towards Punjabi language Suba. Sikhs in London raised this issue of their demand for creation of a linguistic state based on Punjabi language primacy vis-e-vis to Hindi language which Central Government was trying to enforce. This discriminatory language policy was against the constitution provisions.

4. September 9, 1981: Hind Samachar newspaper publisher Lala Jagat Narain is shot dead by militants near Ludhiana. He was considered to be an Anti-Punjabi Suba in earlier years, and in later years an Anti-Sikh in reporting in his newspapers. He was a defense witness in Sikh-Nirankari clash of April 13th 1978 where a Dozen Sikh peaceful protestors were shot in Amritsar. Some Militant Sikhs were arrested and one jailed but let off after some months due to lack of creditable evidence.

***5. September 10,1930: Eminent Sikh Historian Karam Singh is no more: He wrote well researched books about Banda Singh Bahadur and Maharaja Ala Singh of Patiala.***He questioned the authenticity of Bhai Bala’s Janam Sikhi narratives. Also recorded in pen the live interviews of people living in Maharaja Ranjit’s regime of those who witnessed those times & events.

6. September 11, 1991:Sikh Militants of Dashmesh Regiment fight to last in a battle lasting 48 hours with Punjab Police. All 5 militants died (Shahid) and Police lost heavily. On a tip-off 12000 CRPF and Punjab Police cops raided village Bullowal, heavy armament were freely used yet lost several cops. The militants did not surrender and all laid down their lives for the cause. They were Sital Singh Mattewal, Tarsem Singh, Gurdial Singh, Gurmukh Singh and Gurnam Singh.

7. September 11, 1995, a writ petition filed against DGP, KPS Gill, on the arrest of Jaswant Singh Khalra. The petition was based on a Human Rights Watch report, Gill’s methods often violated legal and constitutional provisions, that lead to the deaths and disappearances of innocents and Human rights activists like Shahid Jaswant Singh Khalra. KPS Gill’s legacy left Punjab Police dehumanized. Gill, passed away in New Delhi at 82 due to kidney and heart ailments. While India lauded his role but his harsh and inhuman methods designated him ‘Butcher of Punjab.’

8. September 12. 1897: Saka Saragarhi 1897, 21 Sikh Soldiers of 36th Sikh Regiment die defending Saragarhi Fortress facing Afghanistan. A saga of Unique Battle fought during British Rule. Afghans of Afridi tribe numbering ten thousand attacked the Saragarhi post on their way to Fort Lockhart. Havaldar Ishar Singh was holding the Post with 21 soldiers. Saragarhi battle is one of the greatest last stands in military history. Several Gurdwaras and memorials are built including one in Wolverhampton UK on 9/12/21 with huge Statue.

9. September 12, 2012: Fake Baba Ram Rahim, Head of cult Sucha-Sauda Escapes death attempt, 5 to 10 year Jail for 15 Sikhs. Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, a self-proclaimed guru, was accused of blasphemy by Sikh authorities. In 2007, he wore the attire of Guru Gobind Singh, which offended and disrespected Sikhs. In response, an attempt to blow up his motorcade occurred near Nilokheri, Karnal, in February 2008. Despite no witnesses, a Karnal court imposed lengthy jail terms on Ram Rahim. Prominent figures like Bhai Bakshish Singh, Swaran Singh, and Mohinder Singh attended the hearing. He was later sentenced to 20 years for rape and murder.

10. September 13, 1915: Lahore Conspiracy Case concludes. Kartar Singh Sarabha and 5 Prominent Gaddars are hanged. It’s a Jail term of Life and Shorter terms for others, total of 82 arrested. Interesting to know that Gaddar National Party movement was a India’s freedom movement (though now forgotten), Britain used its notorious influence on US as an Allied member against Germany in first war 1914-19 and calling it Hindu rebellion, San Francisco trials ended in lighter terms.

11***. September 13, 1989: Notorious police Chief (DIG) Gobind Ram’s son is shot in retribution by Sikh Militants.*** As SSP Gurdaspur (1988-89) Gobind Ram committed untold brutalities, including urinating on body parts of Sikh women captives. He was boastful of his name. Sikh militants a year later targeted him and bombed to kill him in his high security office in Police complex (PAP) in Jalandhar, Punjab.
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(Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰਮ)
Compiled & Edited: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura.

5Q quiz for self Assessment for learning

1. Punjabi Hindus acted against Punjabi Suba formation, while Indian states promoted their linguistic languages. Why?
2. Why was Guru-Ka-Bagh Morcha (protest) near Amritsar launched? Which Christian Father saw the British Atrocities and sought global intervention ?
3. What you see the use of brutal force and torture in India’s today in Delhi 2026, was already in practice in Punjab. Name the DGP of Punjab who was Brutal in Execution?.
4. What made Shahid Jaswant Singh Khalra take up data collection from cremation grounds ? What happened to him ?
5. What is the significance of Saka (Battle) Saragarhi of 1897?

Sikh History This Week
(August 31-Sept 6)-Post: 2636

ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਾਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧)
(Stories of our forefathers make children great)

Events in Brief.

1. August 31, 1991: Militant Sikh Bhai Gurjant Singh Rajasthani martyred this day. Bhai Sahib, a militant leader, died in a brief encounter with the police in Mohali. He was staying in a rented house owned by Inderjit Kaur, a former secretary of Bimal Kaur Khalsa. A local police party was conducting routine checks to identify participants in the Anandpur Sahib conclave. Bhai Sahib retaliated in error, and with additional police force, he engaged in a firefight. Injured & unwilling to surrender, took a cyanide pill.

2. August 31, 1995: Remembering Shahid Bhai Dilawar Singh, suicide bomber who killed Congress CM Beant Singh. CM Beant Singh, while leaving his high-security office in Chandigarh, was blown up. Several Sikh educated youth turned militants planned this move, and one of them, Bhai Dilawar, accepted to be blown up. Under Beant Singh’s leadership, many innocent youth, their families, and other young men were framed, targeted, and eliminated. On August 31, 2012, Bhai Dilawar Singh was declared a Quomi Shahid by Akal Takhat and his portrait was displayed.

3. September 1, 1604:(Aug24/SGPC) Parkash Dihara. First Parkash of Sri Aad Granth/Pothi Sahib is installed at Harimandar Sahib Amritsar. Baba Budda Ji is the first Mukh Granthi (Head priest). The fifth Guru Arjan Dev ji (1564-1606) along with Bhai Gurdas, compiled, completed and installed the holy scripture in the presence of a large congregation. Later in 1708, The Adi Granth finally became Guru Granth Sahib, the Eternal Guru of Sikhs, declared by Guru Gobind Singh Ji at Nanded, Maharashtra before his passing away, (Read more about Guru Granth Sahib & its composition)

4. September 1, 2004: France makes a law banning Turban & Hijab. Large demonstration by European Sikhs in France. France felt the need to curb immigration and to protect its culture, it enforced a law made on 4th march 2004 that bans religious symbols in schools and workplaces. Despite a large demonstration in France, lack of support by PM Manmohan Singh in India, it did not make any headway.

5. September 2. 1991: Bibi Bimal Kaur Khalsa MP, wife of Shahid Beant Singh dies in mysterious circumstances. Shahid Inspector Beant Singh, one of Indira Gandhi’s assassins, was shot dead after killing her on October 31, 1984. His wife, Bimal Kaur Khalsa, survived and was elected to the 9th Lok Sabha in 1989. She actively participated in Punjab’s civil rights movement. She died mysteriously, allegedly electrocuted while using a washing machine. Despite a post-mortem request, the police ignored the cause of her death, raising doubts.

6. September 3, 1708: Banda Singh Bahadur adopts Sikh faith, follows Guru’s order to march towards Punjab. Guru Gobind Singh ji baptized Madho Das Bairagi at Nanded (Maharashtra State) and named him Gurbakhash Singh. A day later, he ordered him to march to Punjab to punish the Mughal Nawab Wazir Khan of Sirhind for committing atrocities on Guru’s two young Sahibzadas (princes), who were nine and seven years old, and had been bricked alive. (Read more about the life and times of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur)

7. September 3, 1668: Bhai Dharam Singh, Second of Tenth Guru’s Panj Pyara, is Born at Hastinapur near Delhi. Bhai Dharam Singh, one of the five initiated into the Khalsa Order, answered Guru Gobind Singhji’s call on Baisakhi in 1699. Son of Jat Chaudhary Sant Ram and Mai Sabho of Hastinapur(Delhi) he reunited with the Guru after the Battle of Chamkaur and accompanied him to Nanded. He also carried Guru’s Zafarnama to Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb along with Bhai Daya Singh.

8. September 4, 1965: Subedar Ajit Singh gets gallantry Award Mahavir Chakra (posthumously) at Battle of Burkee, in Indo-Pak War 1965.. Mahavir Chhaker was awarded to the Subedar for 4 Sikh LI’s march onto east bank of Ichhogil Canal facing Lahore. The battalion was assigned the task of capturing the Burki village in Pakistan. Subedar’s gallant act destroyed the enemy position. Subedar Ajit Singh later succumbed to his injuries and was martyred and awarded the nation’s Second highest gallantry award.

9. September 4,1991: Shahidi /Martyrdom of Bhai Balwinder Singh Jattana-a key figure in closing SYL Canal construction. Sikh militant Jatana Singh rose against the exploitation of Punjab River waters. On July 23, 1990, he and his companions attacked the SYL Canal headquarters in Mohali, killing engineers and halting the project. In retaliation, fake Nihang Ajit Poohla police Cat killed Jatana’s family. To honor him, the SGPC installed his portrait at the Central Sikh Museum in the Golden Temple complex.

10. September 6,1901: Giani Ditt Singh, a Sikh scholar and leader of the Gurdwara reform movement, passed away, in Lahore. Born on April 21, 1850, in Kalanaur, Punjab, Ditt Singh studied Gurmukhi, Urdu, Persian, and Vedanta at age 8. He became a prominent Singh Sabha reformer, writing frequently for ‘Khalsa Akhbar’ and authoring over 70 books on Sikhism, including ‘Dayanand Naal Mera Samvaad.’

11. September 6 1965: Indo-Pak Full scale War breaks out. Sikhs capture Pakistan territory, intense fighting at Khem-Karan Border. India emerged victorious in the war within 22 days, leading to a ceasefire and a treaty. Pakistan’s Operation Gibraltar provoked insurgency in Indian-administered Kashmir, sparking the conflict. Key battles included the Battle of Asal Uttar, and intense aerial combat ensued. Despite claims of victory, the war ended in a stalemate with a UN-mandated ceasefire on September 23. (Read history of the Indo-Pak Conflict.)

12. September 6,1992: Sikh Human Rights Activist Shahid Jaswant Singh Khalra goes missing. He meticulously compiled a list of 25,000 missing youths from Punjab’s Amritsar district, asserting illegally cremated and declared missing by the Punjab police. Shaheed Jaswant Singh Khalra (1952–1995) exposed the abuses in Punjab during the 1980s and 1990s, bringing international attention to the horrific atrocities and civil rights violations. On September 6, 1995, the Punjab police abducted him, tortured him, and disappeared him.
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(Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰਮ)
Compiled & Edited: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura.

5Q Quiz for self Assessment. Please Try, It helps !

1. Which Guru took initiative to compile the first Granth of the Sikh Religion in 1604, which is now the eternal spiritual Guru of Sikhs?
2. 2 Name maternal uncle who helped scribe the Ad Granth sitting endless hours?. (Hint: he wrote bani/sloks but not included in Ad Granth.)
3. Name the two Panj Payaras (Consulate Generals) who stayed with Tenth Guru till the end 1708, at Nanded (Maharashtra)?
4. Militant Singh Balwinder Singh jattana’s legacy is he stopped the flow of Satluj River water from Punjab to Haryana. Name the incomplete canal ?
5. Shahid Jaswant Singh Khalra, listed all those illegally cremated by Punjab Police in only 3 districts as ‘Missing’. Who was the butcher DGP who covered up atrocities?

Sikh History This Week

(Aug 24-Aug 30)-2635

ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਾਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧)
(Stories of our forefathers make children great)

Events in Brief.

1. August 24, 1809: Sikh forces defeat Gurkhas and Occupy formidable Kangara Fort in Himalayan mountains. It was believed to be invincible due to its unfavorable terrain and pathways. It took three months to flush out the Gurkhas fighting under Amar Singh Thapa. Raja Sansar Chand of Kangra appealed to Maharaja Ranjit Singh for help. Despite heavy losses, the Sikhs valiantly took the fort.

2. August 24, 1820: Sikh forces Capture Kashmir under Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa, Appointed Nazim (Governor). One of the most valiant generals of Sikh Kingdom S. Hari Singh Nalwa (1791-1837) captured Kashmir defeating the Afghan forces led by Jabbar Khan in the decisive Battle of Shopian, and appointed Nazim. An earlier attempt in 1814, partially failed due to challenging conditions. He remained in this position for less than two years to be re-assigned to capture Hazara and Peshawar from Afghans.

3.August 24, 1984: Seven Sikh youth hijack Indian Airlines plane to focus world attention on atrocities committed by Indian Army in June 1984, hijacked Indian Airlines Boeing 737 was bound for Srinagar from Chandigarh Airport. They first took to Karachi and landed at Dubai, and surrendered without struggle. It is believed that India's domestic airline up to 1993, was hijacked 16 times from 1971 to 1999 (Ref: National Geographic documentary ‘Air Hijack’)

4. August 25, 1636: Bhai Gurdas Ji, pass away on this day. He assisted Guru Arjan Dev ji write Ad Granth/Pothi Sahib. He composed his own unique Kabits (poetry) that guided Sikhs in performing their daily duties. He was a brother of Bibi Bhani Ji, who was married to Guru Ram Das Ji, a maternal uncle of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. Bhai Gurdas traveled and established Snagats. The very first copy of Ad Granth (later Sri Guru Granth Sahib), was hand-scribed by Bhai Gurdas while Guru Arjan dictated. (Year of death: 1637 by H.R. Gupta)

***5. August 26,1669AD: Bhai Daya Singh(1669-1708AD) first among Panj Pyaras is born. His original name was Daya Ram.***He stayed with Guru Gobind Singh till the end. Born to Mai Dayali and Bhai Sudha Khatri at Lahore. In 1699 he was the first to offer his head to the tenth Guru on his call and got Baptized with 4 others. In 1708 he died at Nanded on the banks of River Godavari after serving the Guru till

6. August 27,1923. Start of jaito Morcha/Protest against Maharaja Nabha’s dethroning by the British at Gurdwara Gungsar Jaito, Akhand Path was started on August 25,1923. Its a continuous reading of scripture of Guru Granth Sahib in 48 hours for invoking God’s blessing for success of the Morcha/agitation in Jaito township of Nabha princely State, Police intervened and stopped the Akhand Path turning peaceful Morcha into a British enforced repression. Hundreds arrested and killed. It became a national issue.

7. August 28, 1977: The General House of Akali Dal pass the landmark 1973 Anandpur Sahib resolution. It stated besides the lengthy resolution of several pages that’The Sikhs have been invested with the eternal spirit of ascendancy (Khalsa Ji Ke Bol Balae) which is the birth right of the Khalsa and the Shiromani Akali Dal stands committed to achieve this objective. It was not a separatist agenda as was mistakenly understood & politicalized (Read its objectives/Demand).

8. August 29, 1700: Sahibzada Ajit Singh won his first Battle by defeating Hill Raja of Kahlur State while still in his Teens. Sahibzada assisted by Khalsa Sikh generals Uday Singh, Ishar Singh & Kalyan Singh defeated the Hindu chief/ Kehlur Raja’s forces who left the battlefield in disarray. Last two Sikh warriors named with other Khalsa Sikhs lay Martyred/Shahid driving-out the enemy.

9. August 30, 1845: Prince Peshaura Singh is assassinated in a continued conspiracy to eliminate Royal lineage to Sikh Kingdom. On knowing the conspiracy, the Khalsa Army Panchayat killed Jawahar Singh (brother of Rani Jindan) in retribution and punishment for killing a royal prince. Jawahar Singh was holding Prince Duleep Singh as a shield of mercy, but the Khalsa Army Panchayat (elders) snatched the prince away and killed Jawahar Singh.

10. August 30, 1861: Birth Anniversary of Bhai Kahn Singh Nabha-a Sikh scholar of Eminence. We remember the illustrious Panjabi and Sikh scholar who made significant contributions to Panjabi literature. His magnum opus, the ‘Mahan Kosh’ encyclopedia, encompassing 70,000 terms, continues to serve as the cornerstone of major encyclopedias and dictionaries. He passed away on November 24, 1938. In recognition of his achievements, the British government bestowed upon him the title of ‘Sardar Bahadur’ in 1933.

11. August 31, 1991: Militant Sikh Bhai Gurjant Singh Rajasthani martyred this day. Bhai Sahib, a militant leader, laid down his life in a brief encounter with the police. He was staying in a house rented by Inderjit Kaur, a former secretary of Bimal Kaur Khalsa, in Mohali. A local police party was conducting routine checks of houses to identify anyone who might participate in the Anandpur Sahib conclave. However, Bhai Sahib, in a moment of error, retaliated. With additional police force called in, Bhai Sahib engaged in a firefight-injured and not ready to surrender, he took a cyanide pill.

12. August 31, 1995: Remembering Shahid Bhai Dilawar Singh, suicide bomber who killed Congress CM Beant Singh. CM Beant Singh while coming out of his office in Chandigarh in high security Secretariat was blown up. Several Sikh educated youth turned militants planned this move and one of them Bhai Dilawar had accepted to be blown up. Under Beant Singh’s Chief Ministership lot of innocent youth, their families were framed, targeted and eliminated. 8 Other young men involved were also rounded up. On August 31, 2012: Bhai Dilawar Singh was declared a Quomi Shahid by Akal Takhat and his portrait displayed.
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(Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰਮ)
Compiled & Edited: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura.

5Q Quiz for Self Assessment. Must Try ! It helps !

1. Name the formidable Fort Sikhs captured from Gurkhas of Nepal Kingdom in 1809 ?
2. Gurkhas later joined Khalsa Army under their commander Balbhadra Kunwar. Name the Sikh Maharaja who patronized valiant Gurkhas?
3. Kashmir was captured in 1820 after 800 years of Muslim rule. Name the Sikh commander who did it ?
4. Bhai Kahn Singh Nabha wrote a huge Sikh encyclopedia in Punjabi, what name he gave to encyclopedia ?
5. Bhai Dilawar Singh Shahid is declared a ‘Quomi Shahid’, which atrocious Chief minister of Punjab he blew up as suicide bomber.?

Sikh History This Week

(Aug 17-23) Post 2634

ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਾਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧)
(Stories of our forefathers make children great)

Events in Brief.

1. August 17,1955: First Sikh Shahid (Martyr) of Goa liberation movement against Portuguese: A Sikh Shahid Karnail Singh Issru dies in Goa protest while overtaking leadership in front of Goa women’s contingent of peaceful protestors. He was the one was shot first by Portuguese Military to disperse others.

2. August 17,1936: Punjabi Freedom fighter Madan Lal Dhingra is hanged in London. He shot a British formerADC to lord Curzon, for atrocities committed by him in India. While studying in England he was greatly influenced by Gaddar party’s freedom Movement to get rid of the British rule. A commemorative postage stamp is issued by India Post.

3. August 17, 1994: Sikh prominent writer Principal Satbir Singh pass away in Patiala. He was in his Sixties. A renowned scholar of Sikhism, born in Jhelum (now in Pakistan), wrote 70 books, including biographies of each Guru in easy and lucid Punjabi Gurmukhi style. He was a Principal of Khalsa College, Yamunanagar, in Haryana. He wrote these books on vacations. He later became the Director of Gurmat College, Patiala.

4. August 18, 1708, Two Pathan brothers, Gul Khan and Atta-Ulla assassinated the Tenth Guru at Nanded, Maharashtra. This conspiracy was orchestrated by Wazir Khan, Suba Sirhind, and the Sayyids of the Royal Court in Agra. Guru Gobind Singh was resting in his tent when Gul Khan struck him in the upper back, causing a nearly fatal wound. In a swift response, Guru swung his Kirpan (sword), killing the assassin in a single stroke. Subsequently, the Sikh Guards killed Atta-Ulla at the gate. Guru Ji was instantly treated for his deep wound by a Royal English surgeon at the behest of Emperor Bahadur Shah, who was stationed close to Guru’s camp.

5. August 18, 1945: Neta ji Subhash Chandler Bose dies in Aircrash. He took over INA from Gen. Mohan Singh (Capt)with Sikhs soldiers few months back. He was heading to Japan for a strategic conference. An ICS officer but left to become a strong nationalist, taking overall command of Indian National Army (INA) from Capt and later General Mohan Singh. Both waged war against the British colonial regime with Indian and Sikh POW’s drawn from Japanese custody.

6. August 19,1590: Guru Arjan Dev ji laid beautiful City of TarnTaran, near Amritsar (Now a District in Punjab). Guruji was so enchanted by its surroundings and natural beauty of the Sarovar (the Pond) that proverbially meant ‘A boat to ferry across life’s Ocean’. A Gateway, giving an overnight stay to reach Amritsar early next morning. It has Punjab’s largest arovar. Sardars of Bhangi Sikh Misl (militia), ruled the City from 1716 to 1810AD.

7. August 20, 1982: Indian Airlines 737 Boeing Airplane Bombay to Delhi flight is Hijacked. A Sikh Bhai Manjit Singh (Aka Museebat Singh) boarded at Udaipur and hijacked it single handedly. He tried to take it to Lahore but on refusal by Pakistan authorities landed at Amritsar Airport. All passengers were free to go and he surrendered, yet shot dead by DSP Bachan Singh of Punjab police for a reward.

8. August 20,1982: Shahidi of Bhai Gurmit Singh Dhurkot. Sikh youth turned militant from village Dhurkot of Ludhiana district. Stated to be abducted and tortured by Banga police in Nawanshehr district of Punjab. Bullet wounds, body cuts, burn marks and missing finger nails proved torture, while handing over body to family for cremation. Ensaaf, US based Civil Rights lawyers have documented many of these crimes by India’s security forces.(read their Report)

9. August 21, 1604: Sixth Guru Hargobind ji Weds Mata Damodari Of village Talla. Three Children from this wedlock-Baba Gurditta, Bibi Veero and Baba Ani Rai ji were born. Marriage took place just few days after installation of Ad Granth ji at Harimandir Sahib, Amritsar, by Guru’s martyred father Guru Arjan Devji. Guru Hargobind ji had three wives, Matas: Damodari, Nanaki, and Marvahi. Six children from three wives. Two of his eldest sons from the first wife died during his lifetime. Guru Tegh Bahadur, his son from Mata Nanaki, became the Ninth Guru.(read more from Guru’s biography)

10. August 22.1986: Very popular Sikh Painter S. Sobha Singh, pass away. He was great Painter known for painting portraits of Sikh Gurus that adore most Sikh homes, is considered One of the great Indian painter of realism. Born on Nov 29th, 1901 at Sri Hargobindpur (Gurdaspur), Punjab. Besides portraits, he painted folk art and landscapes. Government of India awarded the Padma Shri, and released a postal Stamp in 2001.

11. August 23,1991: Shahidi of Sikh Militant Bhai Barjinder Singh Panjwar. A pharmacy doctor by profession played a significant role in the Sikh Freedom Movement alongside stalwarts like Bhai Amrik Singh, General Subeg Singh, and Dr. Gurnam Singh Bhuttar. Later he and Bhai Tarlochan Singh were shot on tip-off while resting at home unarmed. Despite the police claiming great success, the incident remains a heroic chapter in Sikh history. For more details, refer to the report available on Tribute1984.com.
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(Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰਮ)
Compiled & Edited: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura.

5Q Quiz for Self Assessment: Try it !

1. Name the First Sikh Martyr of Goa Liberation Movement ?
2. Tarn Taran Has the biggest Sarovar(Holy pond) in Punjab, and city called ‘Gateway to Amritsar’. Which Guru laid out the City? When ?
3. Guru Gobind Singh ji was stabbed by two Pathan Brothers while resting for afternoon nap. Which Mughal Emperor sent his English Surgeon to stitch the wound ?
4. Mata Damodri married which Guru ?
5. When was Sardar Sobha Singh, the great painter of realism awarded Padam Shri by the President of India ?

Sikh History This Week

(Aug 10-16) Post 2633

ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਾਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧)
(Stories of our forefathers make children great)

Events in Brief.

1. August 10, 1986, General Arun Vaidya (retired) was shot dead by Sikh militants in Pune. Two Sikh militants, Harjinder Singh Jinda and Sukhdev Singh Sukha, targeted General Vaidya while he was driving home after shopping. In June 1984, as the army chief, General Vaidya led the Indian Army’s attack on Durbar Sahib, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of civilians. On this day, the assailants fired shots from a motorbike, instantly killing General Vaidya. Sukha was arrested in Pune in September 1986, while Jinda was arrested in Delhi in August 1987. They claimed that their actions were a form of punishment for General Vaidya’s actions. Both martyrs’ death anniversaries are celebrated by Sikhs worldwide.

2. August 11, 1635: Sufi Saint Sain Mian Mir, who had laid the foundation stone of Harimandir Sahib in 1588CE, passed away in Lahore, Pakistan. The Sikh Gurus have always held Sufism in high regard. Sufi Baba Farid, with over 130 Shloks inclusion holds a significant place in the Sikh holy scriptures. Baba Sain Mian Mir (1550-1635) resided in Lahore, Pakistan. He was a direct descendant of Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab and belonged to the Qadiri order of Sufism.

3***. August 11, 1740: Bhai Mehtab Singh & Bhai Sukha Singh cut-off head of Massa Rangher for sacrilege of Harimander Sahib Amritsar.*** Bhai Mehtab Singh Mirakotia and Bhai Sukha Singh Mari Kamboh beheaded Mughal Faujdar Massa Rangher for sacrilege of Harimander Sahib Amritsar. In April 1740, Chaudhry of Mandiala Mir-Masal-ud-din (Aka: Massa Rangher) occupied Harimandar Sahib with smoking hookah and dancers. Both Sikhs went in as numberdars/tax collectors. While showing their bags full of fake coins, they cut Massa Rangher’s head and took to their Sikh camp in Bikaner, Rajasthan.

4. August 12, 1917: Gaddri Baba Banta Singh Sanghwal and Baba Boota Singh Hanged in Lahore jail: It may be mentioned that from 1913-1915, lot of Sikhs from US, Canada, and British territories got involved in Gaddar movement. Though the Gaddar movement was meant to be spearheaded in 1920-21 all over India but with the start of Great War in 1914 the Gaddar party preposed to take advantage of Britains situation and many activists started early arrivals.

5. August 12, 2005: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh apologizes in indian Parliament for November 1984 Sikh massacre: it a ‘Gimmick/a whitewash’. None of the Sonia Gandhi’s Congress party high-command came forward to apologize. Rather some involved in the carnage were given party tickets to contest elections. Sikhs call it Genocide.

6. August 13, 1986: Sirdar Kapur Singh, (1909-1986) Ex-ICS, an MP and a National professor of Sikhism, pass away. He was a highly respected ICS officer who was removed from office during the Nehru regime. He was also a Sikh activist, a federal MP, and a state MLA in the Assembly. Furthermore, he was a Sikh philosopher, theologian, politician-parliamentarian, and a prolific writer of the twentieth century.

7. August 14, 2013: Sikh Activist’s Prof. Bhullar’s death sentence is commuted to life imprisonment. Prof. Bhullar, a Sikh activist currently incarcerated in Amritsar prison, was a Professor of chemical engineering. He was wrongfully convicted under the TADA act for attempting to detonate a car belonging to the notorious Indian youth congress leader Maninderjit Bitta in New Delhi. On August 12, 2013, in an appeal filed to the President, his death sentence was commuted to life imprisonment.

8. August 15, 1947: Indian Independence is declared. Sikhs lose heavily in migrating from west to East Punjab. It is considered worlds’s largest migration ever took place in history. About 12-15 million people fled between India and Pakistan. Huge numbers of lives lost. Religious shrines abandoned and most lie in ruins till date. Sikhs do not think it was a freedom. 87% of Sikhs gave their lives for India’s freedom. (Read more from history of partition 1947)

9. August 16, 1831: King George IV of Britain extends friendship & gifts to Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The monarch of the Sikh Empire was recognized as a political force bordering British colonial India. Mr. Burns, Special British Envoy, read a special message of friendship from the King in the presence of the Maharaja, and a common Ardas was performed at Darbar Sahib and Gifts were exchanged. The Sikh Empire caught the world’s attention, with envoys and gifts from the Nizam of Hyderabad, Sultans of Herat, French, Italians, Czar of Russia, and others.

10. August 16, 1977: Sant Kartar Singh Ji Bhinderanwale meets with fatal accident near Ludhiana. He was father of Bhai Amrik Singh, one of the three prominent Shahids (martyrs) of Army brutal assault of June 1984. Sant Jarnail Singh Bhinderanwalle succeeded him as head of Dam Dami Taksal. Sant Kartar Singh was very steadfast in giving Guru Granth Sahib topmost respect while conducting religious ceremonies & political gatherings.
___________________________________________________
(Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰਮ)
Compiled & Edited: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura.

5Q Quiz for self Assessment. Try ! Try !

1. Sufi Baba Sain Mian Mir laid the ‘First Brick’ of Harimandir Sahib (now Golden Temple) Amritsar in 1588CE. Which Sikh Guru asked him to grace the occasion ?.
2. Name Another Sufi Saint whose 130 Saloks are included in Guru Granth Sahib?
3. Gadder freedom movement of 1914 pioneered later nationalist freedom movements in India. Where did the Gadder movement start? Hint: (City in California, US)
4. Sikhs started to participate in Indian Freedom movement under Congress party with a promise of a Quazi-Free Sikh State in 1929. Did they ever get it?
5. For what reason Sant Kartar Singh, Bhinderwalla popular among Sikhs, what did he preached to stand for?

Sikh HistoryThis Week

(August 3-9) Post 2632

ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧)
(Stories of our forefathers make children great)

Events in Brief.

1.. August 3, 1817: Maharaja Ranjit, in a friendly tone, cautioned Akali Phoola Singh to follow statecraft and goodwill. Jathedar Akali Phoola Singh, a fiery Nihang Chief, secured victories for the Sikh Empire but occasionally drew Maharaja’s attention. His reaction to the Tazia procession of Shia Muslim soldiers from the British contingent provoked the Nihangs, resulting in several deaths and injuries to soldiers. Another incident involved an attack on a British Surveyor Lt. White’s team conducting surveys of Malwa villages. Maharaja Ranjit summoned Jathedar and advised him to adopt a diplomatic approach, which Jathedar readily accepted.

2. August 4, 1982, Indian Airlines Flight 191 was hijacked for bringing world attention to Sikhs’ struggle for Rights. Gurbaksh Singh, also known as Gurmukh Singh, aimed to draw attention to the plight of Sikh political prisoners in India. This act of protest was in response to the denial of political and religious rights to Sikhs. The hijacked plane, a Delhi-Srinagar flight, landed safely in Amritsar after being denied permission to land in Lahore, Pakistan. Singh claimed to have a bomb on board, but it turned out to be a hoax, a mere ball of cloth. He served a two-year prison sentence and passed away at the age of 78 in Bathinda Hospital in 2013.

3. August 5,1992. Bhagat Puran Singh, a remarkable 88-year-old Seva-Saint from Pingalwara, Amritsar, passed away in Chandigarh. Born Ramji Das in Rajewal, Ludhiana, he dedicated his life to serving the disabled. In 1924, he rescued a polio-stricken child near Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore. During the Partition of 1947, he founded Pingalwara in Amritsar to care for the sick and disabled, which later expanded. In 1981, he returned the Padma-Shri Award in protest against the Indian Army’s assault on Harmandir Sahib in 1984. In 1992, the government and NGOs nominated him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

4. August 5, 2012: Gurdwara in Oak Creek, Wisconsin state of US, faces the deadliest attacks in U.S. history. In Village Oak Creek, Wisconsin, a white supremacist gunman with Neo-Nazi ties attacked the ‘Sikh Temple of Wisconsin’, killing seven worshippers and injuring others, Namely: Paramjit Kaur Saini, Sita Singh, Ranjit Singh, Prakash Singh, Suveg Singh Khattra, and Satwant Singh Kaleka. Baba Punjab Singh, died in 2020 from injuries. Those who healed, include Bhai Santokh Singh and Lt. Brian Murphy, the hero of police force. The Sikh Coalition, advocated congressional funding of Gurdwaras through a Nonprofit Security Grant Program.(Abstracts from Sikh Coalitions’ newsfeed). 

5. August 6, 1923: The newly formed SGPC join the Agitation at Jaito, Faridkot, to restore Nabha Maharaja Ripudaman Singh. He was forced to abdicate in July 1923. On July 8, 1923, Col. Michin, accompanied by troops and armored cars, surprised the Maharaja. By September 14, 1923, the ‘Akhand Path’ for the Maharaja’s restoration had been disrupted. SGPC’s jathas were beaten and dispersed in remote areas. On February 21, 1924, another Jatha of 500 from Akal Takhat was fired upon, resulting in 300 casualties. The struggle continued until July 21, 1925, when restrictions on the Akhand Path were lifted.

6. August 6, 1947, Sikhs at Gurdwara Manji Sahib, Amritsar demanded Vatican City-like status for Amritsar City to ensure respect for holy sites. This idea gained momentum after Operation Blue Star in June 1984 and again in 2024 when the ‘Lok-Raj’ Punjab movement made it an election issue. The Sikh Nation Organization rallied global Sikh support and submitted petitions to top Indian officials. They also reached out to MPs from various parties. President Manjit Singh Randhawa emphasized that such status would guarantee unhindered access of Sikh followers worldwide.

7. August 7, 1765 : Founder of Patiala Kingdom Baba Ala Singh pass away. Baba Ala Singh, born in Phull to Baba Ram Singh and Saabhi, took Amrit in Theekriwal Village. In 1810, he laid the foundation stone of a temporary Patiala fort structure, with the permanent one built later. He also founded cities like Patiala, Barnala, Longowal, Sunaam, and Bathinda, and laid roads connecting them. His legacy continued through his sons and grandsons, who became the Royal lineage of Captain Amarinder Singh, the former Chief Minister of Punjab.

8. August 7,1925: Punjab Assembly unanimously pass Gurdwara Act, 1925 with Gazetted notification. Negotiations for a permanent solution to Gurdwara management had been ongoing. On July 7, 1925, Bhai Jodh Singh, MA, and his colleagues in the Punjab Assembly passed the Gurdwara Act, which came into effect in November. This act vested all historical Gurdwaras in the elected Board, the SGPC. It ended a long struggle. Historian Dr. Ganda Singh estimates that during the Gurdwara Reform Movement, about fifty thousand Sikhs were imprisoned, fined fifteen lakh rupees, and lost about five hundred lives.

9. August 8, 1922: Sikhs began a non-violent protest to liberate the Guru-Ka-Bagh Gurdwara from Mahants, 12 miles from Amritsar. After taking over Darbar Sahib’s management, Sikhs forced the Mahant to hand over the shrine, but British interference led to arrests..Historian Dr. Ganda Singh noted that government arrested SGPC leaders and used lathi charges. Daily, 100 Sikhs were beaten or arrested, stirring global conscience. Rev. C.F. Andrews highlighted their heroism. By November 16, 1922, 2,000 Sikhs were beaten and 5,605 arrested. Sir Ganga Ram leased the disputed land, ending the conflict.

10. August 9,1992: Jathedar Sukhdev Singh Babbar, Militant Khalsa is Shahid in a staged encounter. Bhai Sukhdev Khalsa, born on August 9, 1955, led the Babbar Khalsa, a Sikh militant group seeking a free Khalistan State. Influenced by Jathedar Bhai Fauja Singh, who was martyred in 1978, he was active from 1978 to 1992. In 1992, police arrested him in his Patiala house and killed him on his birthday, August 9, in an encounter. Ironically, his birthday and Shaheedi Day coincide.

11. August 9, 1928: Babu Teja Singh is ex-communicated from Panth. Akal Takhat issues a Hukamnama. Babu Teja Singh of Panch Khalsa Diwan is removed from the Sikh Panth with a Hukam-Nama of Akal Takhat. He was charged on various counts including tempering with Sikh Rehat Maryada and objectionable comments & reviews. (Ref. history).
___________________________________________________________
(Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰਮ)
Compiled & Edited: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura.
5Q Quiz for

Sikh History This Week

(July 27-August2) Post2631

ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਾਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧)
(Stories of our Forefathers Make Children Great)

Events in Brief.

1. July 27, 1739: Bhai Bota Singh Garja Singh, Shaheed, declared Khalsa Raj at a Mughal check post, and fought to death. Sikhs declared the establishment of Khalsa Raj and collected tolls as officers on the Grand Trunk Road near Nurudin-Di-Sarai, Amritsar. Despite Mughal Governor Zakaria Khan’s boast of annihilating the Sikhs in Punjab, they defied him by collecting tolls. Earlier, they sent a letter to him declaring Khalsa State and seeking his endorsement. A contingent was sent resulting in both Sikhs’ deaths in battle. They are highly respected in Sikh history for standing firm against oppression.

2. July 28,1925: Gurdwara Act 1925 is signed into law for Sikhs to manage their Gurdwaras, SGPC is born. Lt Governor, Punjab gave his assent to the Act that caused great Jubilation for Sikhs. Henceforth Sikh Sangat can elect/select representatives to manage their shrines as per their Religious Code without government interference.

3. July 28, 2012: After Hoondh-Chiller Massacre of 32 Sikhs, village Haily is also destroyed in Haryana. This too in district Rewari of Haryana on Nov 2, 1984, This Sikh village of Sikh farmers found destroyed by same Congress party hooligans during the same time. The site was located by Engineer Manvinder Singh during his posting and was never reported by government or NGOs. These farming families migrated from Pakistan. Justice T.P Garg commission’s recommendations have been ‘Damp Squib’ not been accepted by Sikh bodies.

4. July 29,1923: British dethrone Nabha Maharaja Ripudaman Singh, cause huge Sikh protest at ‘Jaito-Da-Morcha’. British considered him an Akali and opposed colonial policies. He supported the Gurdwara reform movement and protested against the Nanakana Sahib massacre and Guru Ka Bagh violence. Jaito Morcha became a national movement, with Mahatma Gandhi, Nehru, and Pt. Madan Mohan Malaviya also imprisoned.

5. July 29,1984: Prominent Sikh Jounalist Sardar Sadhu Singh Hamdard is no more. He was owner-Editor of Ajit-Daily newspaper published from Jalandhar, dies of a heart attack.He served as the Syndic and Senator of Guru Nanak Dev University. A Good scholar of both Punjabi and Urdu and wrote several books.He was deeply disturbed by the Indian Army’s attack on Sri Durbar Sahib, Amritsar. In protest, he had returned his Padam-Shri Award to the Indian government.

5. July 29,1992: Popular Militant Shahid Bhai Gurjant Singh Budhsinghwala of KLF, fights the police to death. Police and CRPF surrounded S. Kaur Singh’s house in Model Town Extension, Ludhiana. After several hours of exchange of fire, KLF chief faced death with honor. He was wanted for hundreds of strikes against the police and black cats, with a Rs 40 lakh reward on his head. In response, Punjab was shut down for two days, August 3rd and 4th, 1992.

6. July 30,1873: Sikhs initiate Singh Sabha Movement to face attacks from Hindus & Christians. British colonized Punjab after the fall of the Sikh Kingdom in 1847-48. To weaken Sikhs, they encouraged Arya Samaj, Hindu Mahasabha, and Christian Padrees. To counter this, Baba Khem Singh Bedi, Sardar Thaker Singh Sandhawalia, and Kunwar Bikram Singh of Kapurthala met on this day, leading to the Sikh reformist movement called Shri Guru Singh Sabha. On October 1, 1873, a large number of Sikh activists participated in conferences and discourses. Gaini Ditt Singh, Bhai Vir Singh, Baba Kharak, and Kahan Singh Nabha were all products of the Singh Sabha Leher.

7. July 30, 2014: S.Narayan Singh Chaura A Sikh Human Rights Activist framed & Jailed. An Author & Activist by profession, is held for conspiracy to blow up Burail Jail in Chandigarh and shown to possess illegal arms. It’s a frame up to harass & discourage legal luminaries/lawyers to not let them take up cases of extra-judicial killings of Punjabi Sikh youth by police and Para military force in the state.

8. July 31, 1940: Shahidi/martyrdom of Sardar Udham Singh, hanged to death in London Jail.
A Sikh revolutionary born Sher Singh on December 26, 1899, sought revenge for the Jallianwala massacre in Amritsar on April 13, 1919, where hundreds of peaceful protesters were killed. Witnessing the tragedy as a child, Singh vowed to avenge it. He spent years planning and shot Sir Michael O’Dwyer at a public meeting in London on March 13, 1940. He surrendered and was hanged to death. In 1974, his remains were returned to his native Sunam city and cremated according to Sikh rites. A Gurdwara, College, and neighborhoods commemorate his sacrifice.

9. July 31, 1985: Lalik Makin, a prominent Indira Congress MP is shot dead by Sikh militants in retribution. He was a Perpetrator of the Sikh Genocide of November 1984. A Member of Parliament, political leader of the Indian National Congress, and labor union leader, Makin was the son-in-law of late President Shankar Dayal Sharma. He was attacked in revenge at his Kirti Nagar residence for his role in burning and killing Sikhs in Delhi. Other prominent Indira Congressmen, including HKL Bhagat, Jagdish Tytler, Sajjan Kumar, Arjan Das, Dharam Das Shastri, and many others, were also on the hit list of the Sikh Militants.

10. August 1, 1863: Death of Maharani Jind Kaur, 45, queen and mother of Maharaja Dalip Singh, in England. Her body was brought to India by Maharaja Duleep Singh and cremated on the Panchvati side of River Godavari in Nasik near Bombay. A small memorial was erected by him, and no one cared to know till recently. Jind Kaur passed away on August 1,1863, two years after she came to England at her son’s mansion in 1861. With her death came to sunset her daring life of a Maharani who never gave up her sovereignty of Sikh Kingdom.

11. August 2, 1763: Baba Ala Singh founder of Patiala kingdom takes full Control of Sirhind. After Sultan Ahmad Shah Abdali bestows a title of Raja, Baba Ala ventured out to consolidate Sarhind and built the cities of Patiala, Barnala, Longowal, Sunaam & beautifying Bathinda etc. Baba Ala Singh died soon on 22nd Aug 1765 in Patiala, followed by his sons and grandsons in succession. Now Capt. Amrinder Singh, Ex-Chief Minister is from his lineage.
_________________________________________________
(Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰਮ)
Compiled & Edited: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura.

5Q Quiz for self Assessment. Must Try it ???

1. Shahid Bhai Bota Singh & Garja Singh in 1739, started collected toll tax on GT Road during Mughal regime. Why?
2. After a Gurdwara reform movement succeeded in winning & establishing SGPC, who lost control of Gurdwaras ?
3. Shahid Udham Singh was influenced to shoot Sir Michael O’Dwyer after 20 years of which happening in 1919?
4. Why was Lalit Makin shot in Delhi by Sikh Militants in 1985?
5. Who was Baba Ala Singh, what princely state he st up in 1763.? (Hint: All answers could be found above)

Sikh History This Week

(July 20-26)Post 2630

ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਾਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧)
(Stories of our Forefathers Make Children Great)

Events in Brief.

1. July 20, 1266 CE: Death of Bābā Farīd (1188–1266), the early Punjabi Sufi mystic- a bridge between Muslim and Sikh traditions. Baba Farīd, a key figure in the Chishti Order, was born in Kothewal, near Multan. He studied in Multan, where he met his mentor, Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki. After studying in Delhi and Hansi, Farīd succeeded Kaki in 1235 and settled in Pakpattan, where his shrine stands. He is known as the first prominent Punjabi poet, composing in the Multani dialect and elevating Punjabi to a literary language. His hymns, numbering 123 or 134, were included in Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s Adi Granth, securing his place in Sikh scripture. Farīd had many disciples, including Nizamuddin Auliya. His legacy is celebrated through annual Urs festivals in Pakpattan and places named after him, such as Faridkot.

2. July 21, 2022: Miri-Piri Divas, day of Militarization of Sikhs to defend their faith. Guru Hargobind Ji, the Sixth Guru, adopted two swords, in response to his father’s martyrdom and to safeguard the Sikh religion from future armed attacks. This symbolized the dual concept of Mīrī (temporal power) and Pīrī (spiritual authority). To further consolidate his position, Akal Takhat (the throne of the timeless one) was constructed in front of Harimandar Sahib (The Golden Temple) in Amritsar. It serves as the highest seat of the Khalsa, the collective body that has pass Gurmata/Hukam (Edith) during Mughal, British, and continues to this day.

3. July 21,1987: Shahid Bhai Jaswinder Singh Rahon, Bhai Subeg Singh and 3 Jhujaru Singhs die in fake encounter by BSF. Shaheed Bhai Subeg Singh Funiar, a member of the Khalistan Liberation Force (Funiar Regiment), had earlier joined Sant Bhindranwale’s Seva group. After the June 1984 attack, Bhai Sahib re-established contact with General Labh Singh and formed a small group called KLF(Funier/equivalent of Cobra) with arms taken from the CRPF. On July 20, 1987, Bhai Sahib’s location was tipped, and all Jujharu Singhs were apprehended. The next day, late Satnam Bajwa MLA’s son, a BSF officer, tortured and shot Bhai Sahib and all the Singhs.

4. July 22, 1685: Guru Gobind Singh, the Tenth Guru, lays Foundation of Paonta Sahib township & Fort. It is said that Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his horse stopped at this place, and Guru decided to stay there. Guru Sahib resided here for four and a half years, during which time he composed Dasam Bani and wrote numerous books while also patronizing 52 poets. Before moving back to Anandpur, he established this place as a township. More so as it was the birthplace of Sahibzada Ajit Singh ji, the eldest of Guru’s four sons.

5. July 22, 1906: First Gurdwara is established in Vancouver, Canada, and contributed to a great history in Gaddar Movement. First on rent and later moved to their own building on Jan 19, 1908. Sardar Balwant Singh pioneered this task after having just moved from Village Khurdpur in Jalandhar in 1905.The Gurdwara stayed on this premises for 62 years and moved to new building & location on Ross Street Vancouver in 1970 and still attracting large Sangat.

6.July 22, 1988: Shahidi/death of Bhai Avtar Singh Brahma, Chief of KLF, a popular militant Sikh. A hero in Mand operational Area. Brahma was one of the most famous and effective Khalsa militant Chiefs to have taken part in the Khalistan Liberation Movement.He was born in 1951 in village Brahmpura, of Tarn Taran district of Punjab. Born of parents Sardar Sohan Singh and Mata Chanan Kaur, Finally, Bhai Avtar Singh was corned by huge Para-military force at the Rajasthan Border where he died fighting.(read more on his life)

7. July 23, 2022: Child Guru Harkishan ji is born (Gurpurub/ Parkash ) at Kiratpur Sahib, near Ropar. At the tender age of five, he ascended to the esteemed position of the youngest Guru, on the 7th of October, 1661. The magnificent Gurdwara Bangla Sahib stands as a testament to this historical event, situated where the majestic ‘Haveli’ (mansion) of Raja Jai Singh once stood. This sacred place served as his residence during his time in Delhi. Notably, it is situated in close proximity to India’s Parliament House. Tragically, Guru Breathed his last in Delhi, serving the Sangat afflicted with the devastating smallpox epidemic, just a few years short of his eighth birthday.

8. July 24, 1985: Controversial Rajiv-Longowal Accord is signed at Delhi, Sikh parties call it a great betrayal. On January 25, 1986, Chandigarh was to be transferred to Punjab in exchange for Hindi speaking villages of Fazilka and Abohar districts to Haryana, etc.It didn’t happen. Accord had loose-ends and ended without making any headway. Disgruntled with the outcome, militants later shot dead Sant Longowal at village Sherpur near Patiala on Aug 20,1985 (read more on terms & its critique from history source)

9. July 25, 1710: Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah orders Banda Singh Bahadur to be arrested for destroying Sirhind. Emperor Bahadur Shah, the new Mughal Emperor, betrayed the friendship and help of the Tenth Guru, after ascending to the throne. Guru Sahib had expected a punishment for Wazir Khan, the Mughal Governor, for having his minor-Sahibzadas, bricked alive. However, Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, unconcerned by the royal decree had continued his tirade of retribution and destroyed the city of Sirhind, killed Wazir Khan, the Mughal Governor, and his courtiers.

10. July 27,1739: Two young Sikhs-Bhai Bota Singh Garja Singh are Shahids/martyred today in defiance of Mughal authority. To assert their rule as an independent Khalsa state, they began collecting tolls for the Khalsa Raj at a checkpoint on the Grand Trunk Road near Nurudin-Di-Sarai, Amritsar. This act of defiance angered the Mughals, who promptly dispatched an armed contingent to apprehend them. Despite the overwhelming numerical superiority of the Mughal forces, the two valiantly fought until until their end.
__________________________________________
(Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰਮ)
Compiled & Edited: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura.

5Q self assessment: Try it ?

1. Which two places are associated with the life & times of Baba Farid ji ?
2. Why is Baba Farid ji revered by Sikhs?
3. Why is Township Paonta Sahib in District Nahan in Himachal Pradesh is known for?
4. Who was the Eighth Guru of the Sikhs ? Which Gurdwara in New Delhi is known to be the last abode of the Child Guru ?
5. Where was First Sahibzada of Guru Gobind Singhji, Ajit Singh Born at?

\# Sikh History This Week

\*\*\*(July 20-26)Post 2630\*\*\*

\# ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਾਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧)
(Stories of our Forefathers Make Children Great)

\# Events in Brief.

\*\*\*1. July 20, 1266 CE: Death of Bābā Farīd (1188–1266), the early Punjabi Sufi mystic- a bridge between Muslim and Sikh traditions.\*\*\* Baba Farīd, a key figure in the Chishti Order, was born in Kothewal, near Multan. He studied in Multan, where he met his mentor, Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki. After studying in Delhi and Hansi, Farīd succeeded Kaki in 1235 and settled in Pakpattan, where his shrine stands. He is known as the first prominent Punjabi poet, composing in the Multani dialect and elevating Punjabi to a literary language. His hymns, numbering 123 or 134, were included in Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s Adi Granth, securing his place in Sikh scripture. Farīd had many disciples, including Nizamuddin Auliya. His legacy is celebrated through annual Urs festivals in Pakpattan and places named after him, such as Faridkot.

\*\*\*2. July 21, 2022: Miri-Piri Divas, day of Militarization of Sikhs to defend their faith. Guru Hargobind Ji, the Sixth Guru, adopted two swords,\*\*\* in response to his father’s martyrdom and to safeguard the Sikh religion from future armed attacks. This symbolized the dual concept of Mīrī (temporal power) and Pīrī (spiritual authority). To further consolidate his position, Akal Takhat (the throne of the timeless one) was constructed in front of Harimandar Sahib (The Golden Temple) in Amritsar. It serves as the highest seat of the Khalsa, the collective body that has pass Gurmata/Hukam (Edith) during Mughal, British, and continues to this day.

\*\*\*3. July 21,1987: Shahid Bhai Jaswinder Singh Rahon, Bhai Subeg Singh and 3 Jhujaru Singhs die in fake encounter by BSF.\*\*\* Shaheeds Bhai Subeg Singh Funiar, a member of the Khalistan Liberation Force (Funiar Regiment), had earlier joined Sant Bhindranwale’s Seva group. After the June 1984 attack, Bhai Sahib re-established contact with General Labh Singh and formed a small group called KLF(Funier/equivalent of Cobra) with arms taken from the CRPF. On July 20, 1987, Bhai Sahib’s location was tipped, and all Jujharu Singhs were apprehended. The next day, late Satnam Bajwa MLA’s son, a BSF officer, tortured and shot Bhai Sahib and all the Singhs.

\*\*\*4. July 22, 1685: Guru Gobind Singh, the Tenth Guru, lays Foundation of Paonta Sahib township & Fort.\*\*\* It is said that Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his horse stopped at this place, and Guru decided to stay there. Guru Sahib resided here for four and a half years, during which time he composed Dasam Bani and wrote numerous books while also patronizing 52 poets. Before moving back to Anandpur, he established this place as a township. More so as it was the birthplace of Sahibzada Ajit Singh ji, the eldest of Guru’s four sons.

\*\*\*5. July 22, 1906: First Gurdwara is established in Vancouver, Canada, and contributed to a great history in Gaddar Movement.\*\*\* First on rent and later moved to their own building on Jan 19, 1908. Sardar Balwant Singh pioneered this task after having just moved from Village Khurdpur in Jalandhar in 1905.The Gurdwara stayed on this premises for 62 years and moved to new building & location on Ross Street Vancouver in 1970 and still attracting large Sangat.

\*\*\*6.July 22, 1988: Shahidi/death of Bhai Avtar Singh Brahma, Chief of KLF, a popular militant Sikh. A hero in Mand operational Area.\*\*\* Brahma was one of the most famous and effective Khalsa militant Chiefs to have taken part in the Khalistan Liberation Movement.He was born in 1951 in village Brahmpura, of Tarn Taran district of Punjab. Born of parents Sardar Sohan Singh and Mata Chanan Kaur, Finally, Bhai Avtar Singh was corned by huge Para-military force at the Rajasthan Border where he died fighting.(read more on his life)

\*\*\*7. July 23, 2022: Child Guru Harkishan ji is born (Gurpurub/ Parkash ) at Kiratpur Sahib, near Ropar. At the tender age of five, he ascended to the esteemed position of the youngest Guru,\*\*\* on the 7th of October, 1661. The magnificent Gurdwara Bangla Sahib stands as a testament to this historical event, situated where the majestic ‘Haveli’ (mansion) of Raja Jai Singh once stood. This sacred place served as his residence during his time in Delhi. Notably, it is situated in close proximity to India’s Parliament House. Tragically, Guru Breathed his last in Delhi, serving the Sangat afflicted with the devastating smallpox epidemic, just a few years short of his eighth birthday.

\*\*\*8. July 24, 1985: Controversial Rajiv-Longowal Accord is signed at Delhi, Sikh parties call it a great betrayal.\*\*\* On January 25, 1986, Chandigarh was to be transferred to Punjab in exchange for Hindi speaking villages of Fazilka and Abohar districts to Haryana, etc.It didn’t happen. Accord had loose-ends and ended without making any headway. Disgruntled with the outcome, militants later shot dead Sant Longowal at village Sherpur near Patiala on Aug 20,1985 (read more on terms & its critique from history source)

\*\*\*9. July 25, 1710: Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah orders Banda Singh Bahadur to be arrested for destroying Sirhind.\*\*\* Emperor Bahadur Shah, the new Mughal Emperor, betrayed the friendship and help of the Tenth Guru, after ascending to the throne. Guru Sahib had expected a punishment for Wazir Khan, the Mughal Governor, for having his minor-Sahibzadas, bricked alive. However, Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, unconcerned by the royal decree had continued his tirade of retribution and destroyed the city of Sirhind, killed Wazir Khan, the Mughal Governor, and his courtiers.

\*\*\*10. July 27,1739: Two young Sikhs-Bhai Bota Singh Garja Singh are Shahids/martyred today in defiance of Mughal authority.\*\*\* To assert their rule as an independent Khalsa state, they began collecting tolls for the Khalsa Raj at a checkpoint on the Grand Trunk Road near Nurudin-Di-Sarai, Amritsar. This act of defiance angered the Mughals, who promptly dispatched an armed contingent to apprehend them. Despite the overwhelming numerical superiority of the Mughal forces, the two valiantly fought until
(Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰਮ)
Compiled & Edited: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura.

\# 5Q Quiz for Self Assessment ! Try it !!!

1. Which two places are associated with the life & times of Baba Farid ji ?
2. Why is Baba Farid ji revered by Sikhs?
3. Why is Township Paonta Sahib in District Nahan in Himachal Pradesh is known for?
4. Who was the Eighth Guru of the Sikhs ? Which Gurdwara in New Delhi is known to be the last abode of the Child Guru ?
5. Where was First Sahibzada of Guru Gobind Singhji, Ajit Singh Born at?

# Sikh History This Week

***(July 20-26)Post 2630***

# ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਾਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧)
(Stories of our Forefathers Make Children Great)

# Events in Brief.

***1. July 20, 1266 CE: Death of Bābā Farīd (1188–1266), the early Punjabi Sufi mystic- a bridge between Muslim and Sikh traditions.*** Baba Farīd, a key figure in the Chishti Order, was born in Kothewal, near Multan. He studied in Multan, where he met his mentor, Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki. After studying in Delhi and Hansi, Farīd succeeded Kaki in 1235 and settled in Pakpattan, where his shrine stands. He is known as the first prominent Punjabi poet, composing in the Multani dialect and elevating Punjabi to a literary language. His hymns, numbering 123 or 134, were included in Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s Adi Granth, securing his place in Sikh scripture. Farīd had many disciples, including Nizamuddin Auliya. His legacy is celebrated through annual Urs festivals in Pakpattan and places named after him, such as Faridkot.

***2. July 21, 2022: Miri-Piri Divas, day of Militarization of Sikhs to defend their faith. Guru Hargobind Ji, the Sixth Guru, adopted two swords,*** in response to his father’s martyrdom and to safeguard the Sikh religion from future armed attacks. This symbolized the dual concept of Mīrī (temporal power) and Pīrī (spiritual authority). To further consolidate his position, Akal Takhat (the throne of the timeless one) was constructed in front of Harimandar Sahib (The Golden Temple) in Amritsar. It serves as the highest seat of the Khalsa, the collective body that has pass Gurmata/Hukam (Edith) during Mughal, British, and continues to this day.

***3. July 21,1987: Shahid Bhai Jaswinder Singh Rahon, Bhai Subeg Singh and 3 Jhujaru Singhs die in fake encounter by BSF.*** Shaheeds Bhai Subeg Singh Funiar, a member of the Khalistan Liberation Force (Funiar Regiment), had earlier joined Sant Bhindranwale’s Seva group. After the June 1984 attack, Bhai Sahib re-established contact with General Labh Singh and formed a small group called KLF(Funier/equivalent of Cobra) with arms taken from the CRPF. On July 20, 1987, Bhai Sahib’s location was tipped, and all Jujharu Singhs were apprehended. The next day, late Satnam Bajwa MLA’s son, a BSF officer, tortured and shot Bhai Sahib and all the Singhs.

***4. July 22, 1685: Guru Gobind Singh, the Tenth Guru, lays Foundation of Paonta Sahib township & Fort.*** It is said that Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his horse stopped at this place, and Guru decided to stay there. Guru Sahib resided here for four and a half years, during which time he composed Dasam Bani and wrote numerous books while also patronizing 52 poets. Before moving back to Anandpur, he established this place as a township. More so as it was the birthplace of Sahibzada Ajit Singh ji, the eldest of Guru’s four sons.

***5. July 22, 1906: First Gurdwara is established in Vancouver, Canada, and contributed to a great history in Gaddar Movement.*** First on rent and later moved to their own building on Jan 19, 1908. Sardar Balwant Singh pioneered this task after having just moved from Village Khurdpur in Jalandhar in 1905.The Gurdwara stayed on this premises for 62 years and moved to new building & location on Ross Street Vancouver in 1970 and still attracting large Sangat.

***6.July 22, 1988: Shahidi/death of Bhai Avtar Singh Brahma, Chief of KLF, a popular militant Sikh. A hero in Mand operational Area.*** Brahma was one of the most famous and effective Khalsa militant Chiefs to have taken part in the Khalistan Liberation Movement.He was born in 1951 in village Brahmpura, of Tarn Taran district of Punjab. Born of parents Sardar Sohan Singh and Mata Chanan Kaur, Finally, Bhai Avtar Singh was corned by huge Para-military force at the Rajasthan Border where he died fighting.(read more on his life)

***7. July 23, 2022: Child Guru Harkishan ji is born (Gurpurub/ Parkash ) at Kiratpur Sahib, near Ropar. At the tender age of five, he ascended to the esteemed position of the youngest Guru,*** on the 7th of October, 1661. The magnificent Gurdwara Bangla Sahib stands as a testament to this historical event, situated where the majestic ‘Haveli’ (mansion) of Raja Jai Singh once stood. This sacred place served as his residence during his time in Delhi. Notably, it is situated in close proximity to India’s Parliament House. Tragically, Guru Breathed his last in Delhi, serving the Sangat afflicted with the devastating smallpox epidemic, just a few years short of his eighth birthday.

***8. July 24, 1985: Controversial Rajiv-Longowal Accord is signed at Delhi, Sikh parties call it a great betrayal.*** On January 25, 1986, Chandigarh was to be transferred to Punjab in exchange for Hindi speaking villages of Fazilka and Abohar districts to Haryana, etc.It didn’t happen. Accord had loose-ends and ended without making any headway. Disgruntled with the outcome, militants later shot dead Sant Longowal at village Sherpur near Patiala on Aug 20,1985 (read more on terms & its critique from history source)

***9. July 25, 1710: Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah orders Banda Singh Bahadur to be arrested for destroying Sirhind.*** Emperor Bahadur Shah, the new Mughal Emperor, betrayed the friendship and help of the Tenth Guru, after ascending to the throne. Guru Sahib had expected a punishment for Wazir Khan, the Mughal Governor, for having his minor-Sahibzadas, bricked alive. However, Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, unconcerned by the royal decree had continued his tirade of retribution and destroyed the city of Sirhind, killed Wazir Khan, the Mughal Governor, and his courtiers.

***10. July 27,1739: Two young Sikhs-Bhai Bota Singh Garja Singh are Shahids/martyred today in defiance of Mughal authority.*** To assert their rule as an independent Khalsa state, they began collecting tolls for the Khalsa Raj at a checkpoint on the Grand Trunk Road near Nurudin-Di-Sarai, Amritsar. This act of defiance angered the Mughals, who promptly dispatched an armed contingent to apprehend them. Despite the overwhelming numerical superiority of the Mughal forces, the two valiantly fought until their deaths.
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
(Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰਮ)
Compiled & Edited: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura.

# 5Q Quiz for Self Assessment ! Try it !!!

1. Which two places are associated with the life & times of Baba Farid ji ?
2. Why is Baba Farid ji revered by Sikhs?
3. Why is Township Paonta Sahib in District Nahan in Himachal Pradesh is known for?
4. Who was the Eighth Guru of the Sikhs ? Which Gurdwara in New Delhi is known to be the last abode of the Child Guru ?
5. Where was First Sahibzada of Guru Gobind Singhji, Ajit Singh Born at?

# Sikh History This Week

***(July 20-26)Post 2630***

# ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਾਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧)
(Stories of our Forefathers Make Children Great)

# Events in Brief.

***1. July 20, 1266 CE: Death of Bābā Farīd (1188–1266), the early Punjabi Sufi mystic- a bridge between Muslim and Sikh traditions.*** Baba Farīd, a key figure in the Chishti Order, was born in Kothewal, near Multan. He studied in Multan, where he met his mentor, Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki. After studying in Delhi and Hansi, Farīd succeeded Kaki in 1235 and settled in Pakpattan, where his shrine stands. He is known as the first prominent Punjabi poet, composing in the Multani dialect and elevating Punjabi to a literary language. His hymns, numbering 123 or 134, were included in Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s Adi Granth, securing his place in Sikh scripture. Farīd had many disciples, including Nizamuddin Auliya. His legacy is celebrated through annual Urs festivals in Pakpattan and places named after him, such as Faridkot.

***2. July 21, 2022: Miri-Piri Divas, day of Militarization of Sikhs to defend their faith. Guru Hargobind Ji, the Sixth Guru, adopted two swords,*** in response to his father’s martyrdom and to safeguard the Sikh religion from future armed attacks. This symbolized the dual concept of Mīrī (temporal power) and Pīrī (spiritual authority). To further consolidate his position, Akal Takhat (the throne of the timeless one) was constructed in front of Harimandar Sahib (The Golden Temple) in Amritsar. It serves as the highest seat of the Khalsa, the collective body that has pass Gurmata/Hukam (Edith) during Mughal, British, and continues to this day.

***3. July 21,1987: Shahid Bhai Jaswinder Singh Rahon, Bhai Subeg Singh and 3 Jhujaru Singhs die in fake encounter by BSF.*** Shaheeds Bhai Subeg Singh Funiar, a member of the Khalistan Liberation Force (Funiar Regiment), had earlier joined Sant Bhindranwale’s Seva group. After the June 1984 attack, Bhai Sahib re-established contact with General Labh Singh and formed a small group called KLF(Funier/equivalent of Cobra) with arms taken from the CRPF. On July 20, 1987, Bhai Sahib’s location was tipped, and all Jujharu Singhs were apprehended. The next day, late Satnam Bajwa MLA’s son, a BSF officer, tortured and shot Bhai Sahib and all the Singhs.

***4. July 22, 1685: Guru Gobind Singh, the Tenth Guru, lays Foundation of Paonta Sahib township & Fort.*** It is said that Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his horse stopped at this place, and Guru decided to stay there. Guru Sahib resided here for four and a half years, during which time he composed Dasam Bani and wrote numerous books while also patronizing 52 poets. Before moving back to Anandpur, he established this place as a township. More so as it was the birthplace of Sahibzada Ajit Singh ji, the eldest of Guru’s four sons.

***5. July 22, 1906: First Gurdwara is established in Vancouver, Canada, and contributed to a great history in Gaddar Movement.*** First on rent and later moved to their own building on Jan 19, 1908. Sardar Balwant Singh pioneered this task after having just moved from Village Khurdpur in Jalandhar in 1905.The Gurdwara stayed on this premises for 62 years and moved to new building & location on Ross Street Vancouver in 1970 and still attracting large Sangat.

***6.July 22, 1988: Shahidi/death of Bhai Avtar Singh Brahma, Chief of KLF, a popular militant Sikh. A hero in Mand operational Area.*** Brahma was one of the most famous and effective Khalsa militant Chiefs to have taken part in the Khalistan Liberation Movement.He was born in 1951 in village Brahmpura, of Tarn Taran district of Punjab. Born of parents Sardar Sohan Singh and Mata Chanan Kaur, Finally, Bhai Avtar Singh was corned by huge Para-military force at the Rajasthan Border where he died fighting.(read more on his life)

***7. July 23, 2022: Child Guru Harkishan ji is born (Gurpurub/ Parkash ) at Kiratpur Sahib, near Ropar. At the tender age of five, he ascended to the esteemed position of the youngest Guru,*** on the 7th of October, 1661. The magnificent Gurdwara Bangla Sahib stands as a testament to this historical event, situated where the majestic ‘Haveli’ (mansion) of Raja Jai Singh once stood. This sacred place served as his residence during his time in Delhi. Notably, it is situated in close proximity to India’s Parliament House. Tragically, Guru Breathed his last in Delhi, serving the Sangat afflicted with the devastating smallpox epidemic, just a few years short of his eighth birthday.

***8. July 24, 1985: Controversial Rajiv-Longowal Accord is signed at Delhi, Sikh parties call it a great betrayal.*** On January 25, 1986, Chandigarh was to be transferred to Punjab in exchange for Hindi speaking villages of Fazilka and Abohar districts to Haryana, etc.It didn’t happen. Accord had loose-ends and ended without making any headway. Disgruntled with the outcome, militants later shot dead Sant Longowal at village Sherpur near Patiala on Aug 20,1985 (read more on terms & its critique from history source)

***9. July 25, 1710: Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah orders Banda Singh Bahadur to be arrested for destroying Sirhind.*** Emperor Bahadur Shah, the new Mughal Emperor, betrayed the friendship and help of the Tenth Guru, after ascending to the throne. Guru Sahib had expected a punishment for Wazir Khan, the Mughal Governor, for having his minor-Sahibzadas, bricked alive. However, Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, unconcerned by the royal decree had continued his tirade of retribution and destroyed the city of Sirhind, killed Wazir Khan, the Mughal Governor, and his courtiers.

***10. July 27,1739: Two young Sikhs-Bhai Bota Singh Garja Singh are Shahids/martyred today in defiance of Mughal authority.*** To assert their rule as an independent Khalsa state, they began collecting tolls for the Khalsa Raj at a checkpoint on the Grand Trunk Road near Nurudin-Di-Sarai, Amritsar. This act of defiance angered the Mughals, who promptly dispatched an armed contingent to apprehend them. Despite the overwhelming numerical superiority of the Mughal forces, the two valiantly fought until their deaths.
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
(Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰਮ)
Compiled & Edited: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura.

# 5Q Quiz for Self Assessment ! Try it !!!

1. Which two places are associated with the life & times of Baba Farid ji ?
2. Why is Baba Farid ji revered by Sikhs?
3. Why is Township Paonta Sahib in District Nahan in Himachal Pradesh is known for?
4. Who was the Eighth Guru of the Sikhs ? Which Gurdwara in New Delhi is known to be the last abode of the Child Guru ?
5. Where was First Sahibzada of Guru Gobind Singhji, Ajit Singh Born at?

Sikh History This Week

(July 20-26)Post 2630

ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਾਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧)
(Stories of our Forefathers Make Children Great)

Events in Brief.

1. July 20, 1266 CE: Death of Bābā Farīd (1188–1266), the early Punjabi Sufi mystic- a bridge between Muslim and Sikh traditions. Baba Farīd, a key figure in the Chishti Order, was born in Kothewal, near Multan. He studied in Multan, where he met his mentor, Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki. After studying in Delhi and Hansi, Farīd succeeded Kaki in 1235 and settled in Pakpattan, where his shrine stands. He is known as the first prominent Punjabi poet, composing in the Multani dialect and elevating Punjabi to a literary language. His hymns, numbering 123 or 134, were included in Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s Adi Granth, securing his place in Sikh scripture. Farīd had many disciples, including Nizamuddin Auliya. His legacy is celebrated through annual Urs festivals in Pakpattan and places named after him, such as Faridkot.

2. July 21, 2022: Miri-Piri Divas, day of Militarization of Sikhs to defend their faith. Guru Hargobind Ji, the Sixth Guru, adopted two swords, in response to his father’s martyrdom and to safeguard the Sikh religion from future armed attacks. This symbolized the dual concept of Mīrī (temporal power) and Pīrī (spiritual authority). To further consolidate his position, Akal Takhat (the throne of the timeless one) was constructed in front of Harimandar Sahib (The Golden Temple) in Amritsar. It serves as the highest seat of the Khalsa, the collective body that has pass Gurmata/Hukam (Edith) during Mughal, British, and continues to this day.

3. July 21,1987: Shahid Bhai Jaswinder Singh Rahon, Bhai Subeg Singh and 3 Jhujaru Singhs die in fake encounter by BSF. Shaheeds Bhai Subeg Singh Funiar, a member of the Khalistan Liberation Force (Funiar Regiment), had earlier joined Sant Bhindranwale’s Seva group. After the June 1984 attack, Bhai Sahib re-established contact with General Labh Singh and formed a small group called KLF(Funier/equivalent of Cobra) with arms taken from the CRPF. On July 20, 1987, Bhai Sahib’s location was tipped, and all Jujharu Singhs were apprehended. The next day, late Satnam Bajwa MLA’s son, a BSF officer, tortured and shot Bhai Sahib and all the Singhs.

4. July 22, 1685: Guru Gobind Singh, the Tenth Guru, lays Foundation of Paonta Sahib township & Fort. It is said that Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his horse stopped at this place, and Guru decided to stay there. Guru Sahib resided here for four and a half years, during which time he composed Dasam Bani and wrote numerous books while also patronizing 52 poets. Before moving back to Anandpur, he established this place as a township. More so as it was the birthplace of Sahibzada Ajit Singh ji, the eldest of Guru’s four sons.

5. July 22, 1906: First Gurdwara is established in Vancouver, Canada, and contributed to a great history in Gaddar Movement. First on rent and later moved to their own building on Jan 19, 1908. Sardar Balwant Singh pioneered this task after having just moved from Village Khurdpur in Jalandhar in 1905.The Gurdwara stayed on this premises for 62 years and moved to new building & location on Ross Street Vancouver in 1970 and still attracting large Sangat.

6.July 22, 1988: Shahidi/death of Bhai Avtar Singh Brahma, Chief of KLF, a popular militant Sikh. A hero in Mand operational Area. Brahma was one of the most famous and effective Khalsa militant Chiefs to have taken part in the Khalistan Liberation Movement.He was born in 1951 in village Brahmpura, of Tarn Taran district of Punjab. Born of parents Sardar Sohan Singh and Mata Chanan Kaur, Finally, Bhai Avtar Singh was corned by huge Para-military force at the Rajasthan Border where he died fighting.(read more on his life)

7. July 23, 2022: Child Guru Harkishan ji is born (Gurpurub/ Parkash ) at Kiratpur Sahib, near Ropar. At the tender age of five, he ascended to the esteemed position of the youngest Guru, on the 7th of October, 1661. The magnificent Gurdwara Bangla Sahib stands as a testament to this historical event, situated where the majestic ‘Haveli’ (mansion) of Raja Jai Singh once stood. This sacred place served as his residence during his time in Delhi. Notably, it is situated in close proximity to India’s Parliament House. Tragically, Guru Breathed his last in Delhi, serving the Sangat afflicted with the devastating smallpox epidemic, just a few years short of his eighth birthday.

8. July 24, 1985: Controversial Rajiv-Longowal Accord is signed at Delhi, Sikh parties call it a great betrayal. On January 25, 1986, Chandigarh was to be transferred to Punjab in exchange for Hindi speaking villages of Fazilka and Abohar districts to Haryana, etc.It didn’t happen. Accord had loose-ends and ended without making any headway. Disgruntled with the outcome, militants later shot dead Sant Longowal at village Sherpur near Patiala on Aug 20,1985 (read more on terms & its critique from history source)

9. July 25, 1710: Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah orders Banda Singh Bahadur to be arrested for destroying Sirhind. Emperor Bahadur Shah, the new Mughal Emperor, betrayed the friendship and help of the Tenth Guru, after ascending to the throne. Guru Sahib had expected a punishment for Wazir Khan, the Mughal Governor, for having his minor-Sahibzadas, bricked alive. However, Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, unconcerned by the royal decree had continued his tirade of retribution and destroyed the city of Sirhind, killed Wazir Khan, the Mughal Governor, and his courtiers.

10. July 27,1739: Two young Sikhs-Bhai Bota Singh Garja Singh are Shahids/martyred today in defiance of Mughal authority. To assert their rule as an independent Khalsa state, they began collecting tolls for the Khalsa Raj at a checkpoint on the Grand Trunk Road near Nurudin-Di-Sarai, Amritsar. This act of defiance angered the Mughals, who promptly dispatched an armed contingent to apprehend them. Despite the overwhelming numerical superiority of the Mughal forces, the two valiantly fought until their deaths.
___________________________________________________
(Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰਮ)
Compiled & Edited: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura.

5Q Quiz for Self Assessment ! Try it !!!

1. Which two places are associated with the life & times of Baba Farid ji ?
2. Why is Baba Farid ji revered by Sikhs?
3. Why is Township Paonta Sahib in District Nahan in Himachal Pradesh is known for?
4. Who was the Eighth Guru of the Sikhs ? Which Gurdwara in New Delhi is known to be the last abode of the Child Guru ?
5. Where was First Sahibzada of Guru Gobind Singhji, Ajit Singh Born at?

# Sikh History This Week

(July 13-19) Post 2629

# ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਾਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧)
(Stories of our Forefathers Make Children Great)

# Events in Brief.

***1. July 13, 1813: Maharaja Ranjit’s Sikhs forces Capture Attock, a great victory in 800 years of Afghan/Mughal rule on it.***It Had a very Stretegic location to control Kashmir from the west and an alternate route of the Afghan intruders. Winning Attock later helped Sikhs to capture Peshawar and Jamrud. Fort that sealed the Khyber pass. This battle is also known by the name of Hydru or Chuch.

***2. July 14, 1836: Maharaja Ranjit renovates Tarn Taran Gurdwara with boundary wall, embellishes dome with Gold-plating.*** Guru Arjan Dev ji laid the foundation for Tarn Taran after purchasing the land of villages and a pond. Chaudhri Amrik Dhillon, a devout Sikh from Thathi Khara Village, offered Guru Sahib his house to stay during the construction of the sarovar. It became the largest sarovar/lake in the entire Punjab. Several Sikh chiefs contributed to its construction, but the present Golden domes and massive boundary wall with gates are attributed to Maharaja Ranjit.

***3. July 14, 1920: The British yields to Gurdwara Reform Movement, for Sikhs to manage their Gurdwaras. Sarbrah (British nominated custodian) Arur Singh resigned and sought pardon from Sangat.*** This paved the way for Sikhs to elect their representatives to manage their Sikh historical shrines through a legislative act passed on July 7, 1925, and implemented by November of the same year. (Read more about the Sikh Gurdwara Act of 1925: Its history and passage.)

***4. July 15, 1775: Sikh Chiefs & Jathas Continue to attack Delhi to weaken Mughals chiefs. Sikh Sardar Jai Singh established complete control over Pahad Ganj*** and Jai Singh Pura, its suburbs. This was followed by more attacks under Dal Khalsa, including Sardar Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, Sardar Baghel Singh of Karnal, and Sardar Jassa Singh Ramgarhia. These attacks deprived the Mughals of their rich estates and paved the way for Sikh sovereignty.

***5. July 16, 1745: Shahidi/Martyrdom of Bhai Taru Singh at Lahore, charged for helping Sikhs driven away to Jungles.*** A devout Sikh, Bhai Taru sacrificed his life by having his head scalped instead of cutting his hair and converting to Islam. The Mughal governor Zakaria Khan, cursed by Bhai Taru, was struck in pain each time he felt the urge to urinate. As a result, he sent an apology to Bhai Taru and the Khalsa Panth for his persecution of Sikhs.Bhai Taru died after 21days of Zakaria’s death.

***6. July 16, 1974: Sikhs protest Indira Gandhi’s Emergency for 19 months.*** After her election was invalidated by the Allahabad High Court, Indira Gandhi, the Prime Minister, declared a state of emergency. While the leaders of all national opposition parties were imprisoned, and others went into hiding, the only party that successfully launched protests was the Shromani Akali Dal, led by Sant Harchand Singh Longowal.

***7. July 17, 1926. Sardar Teja Singh Samundri, a prominent activist for Gurdwara reforms, passed away in jail.*** His prolonged detention took a toll on his health. He was one of the key Panthic leaders who spearheaded the Gurdwara Sudhar Leher (Reform movement). His relentless efforts led to the passage of the Sikh Gurdwara Act, 1925. In recognition of his significant contribution, the SGPC named the main office of the Durbar Sahib complex as ‘Teja Singh Samundri Hall’.

***8. July 18, 1814: Maharaja Ranjit Singh captures Kashmir in a fierce battle with Afghans at Shopian***. Confidence gained after winning Attock from Afghans, broke the 800 years of Muslim rule in Kashmir from the time Afghan Sultan Mehmud Gazni invaded India in 1002AD. He had defeated the last Hindu King Jaipal. Since 1814, it is a part of an Indian territory. Maharaja completed its annexation in 1819.

***9. July 19, 1982, the Akali political party launched a massive protest called ‘Dharam Yudh Morcha’ in Punjab, demanding Sikh civil rights.*** The state responded with arrests and violence. The Punjab Police impounded vehicle of Dum-Dami Taksal Dera of Chowk Mehta, near Amritsar. Bhai Amrik Singh and Baba Thara Singh, who had gone to court to seek the release of the vehicle, were also arrested. Sant Bhindranwalae protested. A group called Dal Khalsa hijacked an Indian Airlines to Lahore. This led to deployment of Indian Army in June 1984.

***10. July 19, 1914: KamaGata Maru Ship with 360 immigrants,mostly Sikhs on board refused docking at Vancouver harbor, BC Canada.*** Passengers faced hardships and were told to return. On July 20th, Vancouver Sangat and citizens fought back in support, providing food to stay put. As a result, the ship refused to berth in Vancouver and returned to Calcutta. A century later, Canada’s Trudeau Government apologized and commemorated the event by releasing a postal stamp. (Read more on the episode)

***11. July 19, 1982, Militant Shahid Bhai Amarjit Singh Daheru passed away in police custody and was declared an encounter near Kapurthala.*** His body was cremated without informing his family. Born in 1935 in the village of Daheru, Bhai Amarjit Singh Dahru was deeply influenced by the Nirankari cult’s massacre of 13 Sikhs in Amritsar in 1978. He joined the Babbar Khalsa Group. During the infamous Daheru Encounter, the Babbars killed Inspector Pritam Bajwa and his accomplice cop Surat Singh when they attacked his house with armed force. Bhai Amarjit Singh Dahru and other prominent militants managed to escape, but were later arrested and executed.
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(Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) (1004 words)
ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰm (Compiled & Edited By: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura
5Q Quiz for Self Assessment: (please answer at your convenience)

1. Capture of Attock by Maharaja Ranjit was a historical landmark in Indian History, so was the capture of Kashmir. Why?
2. Maharaja Ranjit embellishes Gurdwara Tarn Taran with Boundary wall & gold plating. What significance does this Gurdwara has for Sikhs?
3. What lead to Gurdwara Reform Movement ? What was the outcome?
4. Why Ship KamaGata Maru(Nanak Nama Jahaz) was refused to dock in Vancouver, BC, Canada in 1914. What happened?
5. Why Police encounters in Punjab are called fake or stage managed?

Sikh History This Week

(July 13-19) Post 2629

ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਾਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧)
(Stories of our Forefathers Make Children Great)

Events in Brief.

***1. July 13, 1813: Maharaja Ranjit’s Sikhs forces Capture Attock, a great victory in 800 years of Afghan/Mughal rule on it.***It Had a very Stretegic location to control Kashmir from the west and an alternate route of the Afghan intruders. Winning Attock later helped Sikhs to capture Peshawar and Jamrud. Fort that sealed the Khyber pass. This battle is also known by the name of Hydru or Chuch.

2. July 14, 1836: Maharaja Ranjit renovates Tarn Taran Gurdwara with boundary wall, embellishes dome with Gold-plating. Guru Arjan Dev ji laid the foundation for Tarn Taran after purchasing the land of villages and a pond. Chaudhri Amrik Dhillon, a devout Sikh from Thathi Khara Village, offered Guru Sahib his house to stay during the construction of the sarovar. It became the largest sarovar/lake in the entire Punjab. Several Sikh chiefs contributed to its construction, but the present Golden domes and massive boundary wall with gates are attributed to Maharaja Ranjit.

3. July 14, 1920: The British yields to Gurdwara Reform Movement, for Sikhs to manage their Gurdwaras. Sarbrah (British nominated custodian) Arur Singh resigned and sought pardon from Sangat. This paved the way for Sikhs to elect their representatives to manage their Sikh historical shrines through a legislative act passed on July 7, 1925, and implemented by November of the same year. (Read more about the Sikh Gurdwara Act of 1925: Its history and passage.)

4. July 15, 1775: Sikh Chiefs & Jathas Continue to attack Delhi to weaken Mughals chiefs. Sikh Sardar Jai Singh established complete control over Pahad Ganj and Jai Singh Pura, its suburbs. This was followed by more attacks under Dal Khalsa, including Sardar Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, Sardar Baghel Singh of Karnal, and Sardar Jassa Singh Ramgarhia. These attacks deprived the Mughals of their rich estates and paved the way for Sikh sovereignty.

5. July 16, 1745: Shahidi/Martyrdom of Bhai Taru Singh at Lahore, charged for helping Sikhs driven away to Jungles. A devout Sikh, Bhai Taru sacrificed his life by having his head scalped instead of cutting his hair and converting to Islam. The Mughal governor Zakaria Khan, cursed by Bhai Taru, was struck in pain each time he felt the urge to urinate. As a result, he sent an apology to Bhai Taru and the Khalsa Panth for his persecution of Sikhs.Bhai Taru died after 21days of Zakaria’s death.

6. July 16, 1974: Sikhs protest Indira Gandhi’s Emergency for 19 months. After her election was invalidated by the Allahabad High Court, Indira Gandhi, the Prime Minister, declared a state of emergency. While the leaders of all national opposition parties were imprisoned, and others went into hiding, the only party that successfully launched protests was the Shromani Akali Dal, led by Sant Harchand Singh Longowal.

7. July 17, 1926. Sardar Teja Singh Samundri, a prominent activist for Gurdwara reforms, passed away in jail. His prolonged detention took a toll on his health. He was one of the key Panthic leaders who spearheaded the Gurdwara Sudhar Leher (Reform movement). His relentless efforts led to the passage of the Sikh Gurdwara Act, 1925. In recognition of his significant contribution, the SGPC named the main office of the Durbar Sahib complex as ‘Teja Singh Samundri Hall’.

8. July 18, 1814: Maharaja Ranjit Singh captures Kashmir in a fierce battle with Afghans at Shopian. Confidence gained after winning Attock from Afghans, broke the 800 years of Muslim rule in Kashmir from the time Afghan Sultan Mehmud Gazni invaded India in 1002AD. He had defeated the last Hindu King Jaipal. Since 1814, it is a part of an Indian territory. Maharaja completed its annexation in 1819.

9. July 19, 1982, the Akali political party launched a massive protest called ‘Dharam Yudh Morcha’ in Punjab, demanding Sikh civil rights. The state responded with arrests and violence. The Punjab Police impounded vehicle of Dum-Dami Taksal Dera of Chowk Mehta, near Amritsar. Bhai Amrik Singh and Baba Thara Singh, who had gone to court to seek the release of the vehicle, were also arrested. Sant Bhindranwalae protested. A group called Dal Khalsa hijacked an Indian Airlines to Lahore. This led to deployment of Indian Army in June 1984.

10. July 19, 1914: KamaGata Maru Ship with 360 immigrants,mostly Sikhs on board refused docking at Vancouver harbor, BC Canada. Passengers faced hardships and were told to return. On July 20th, Vancouver Sangat and citizens fought back in support, providing food to stay put. As a result, the ship refused to berth in Vancouver and returned to Calcutta. A century later, Canada’s Trudeau Government apologized and commemorated the event by releasing a postal stamp. (Read more on the episode)

11. July 19, 1982, Militant Shahid Bhai Amarjit Singh Daheru passed away in police custody and was declared an encounter near Kapurthala. His body was cremated without informing his family. Born in 1935 in the village of Daheru, Bhai Amarjit Singh Dahru was deeply influenced by the Nirankari cult’s massacre of 13 Sikhs in Amritsar in 1978. He joined the Babbar Khalsa Group. During the infamous Daheru Encounter, the Babbars killed Inspector Pritam Bajwa and his accomplice cop Surat Singh when they attacked his house with armed force. Bhai Amarjit Singh Dahru and other prominent militants managed to escape, but were later arrested and executed. (Reference: Tribute1984)
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(Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) (1004 words)
ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰm (Compiled & Edited By: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura
5Q Quiz for Self Assessment: (please answer at your convenience)

1. Capture of Attock by Maharaja Ranjit was a historical landmark in Indian History, so was the capture of Kashmir. Why?
2. Maharaja Ranjit embellishes Gurdwara Tarn Taran with Boundary wall & gold plating. What significance does this Gurdwara has for Sikhs?
3. What lead to Gurdwara Reform Movement ? What was the outcome?
4. Why Ship KamaGata Maru(Nanak Nama Jahaz) was refused to dock in Vancouver, BC, Canada in 1914. What happened?
5. Why Police encounters in Punjab are called fake or stage managed?

Sikh History This Week

(July6-12) Post 2628

ਸਿੱਖ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ ਇਸ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ

ਬਾਬਾਣੀਆ ਕਹਾਣੀਆ ਪੁਤ ਸਪੁਤ ਕਰੇਨਿ” (ਰਾਮਕਲੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੩, ੯੫੧)
(Stories of our Forefathers Make Children Great)

Events in brief

1. July 6, 1799: Capture of Lahore, Sardarni Sada Kaur, a valiant Women joins her son-in-law Ranjit Singh, who later became Maharaja of Punjab,after capturing Lahore\*\*\*.Today she joins Ranjit Singh to capture Lahore. She took her 5000 strong soldiers to East entrance and made inroads to the Lahore Fort, while Ranjit stormed the main entrance. In 1819, Sada Kaur again fought rebellious Muslim tribe of Hazara with six thousand Sikh soldiers giving crushing defeat. She died in 1832.

2. July 6, 1946: Nehru promises to give Sikhs their area of freedom/He meant Quasi independent State. He resolved that he has no objection to a well deserved community to enjoy their freedom within India at the CWC meeting of Congress Calcutta. He reiterated with full sentiments that ‘The brave Sikhs of Punjab are entitled to special consideration. I see nothing wrong in an area and a set up in North, wherein the Sikhs can also experience the glow of freedom’. Later he backed out after independence.

3.July 7, 1856: Sikh Veteran of Anglo-Sikh Wars Bhai Maharaj Singh, Dies in Singapore jail..\*\*\*He led the Sikh revolt after the British annexed Punjab. Hindu Dogra courtiers sowed discord among Sikh Chiefs, causing a bloody conflict that weakened the resistance. Bhai Maharaj Singh, known as the ‘One Man Army,’ meticulously planned an escape for Child Maharaja Duleep Singh to rejuvenate the morale of Sikh veterans. But, was constantly under surveillance. Apprehended near Adampur Jalandhar, and deported to Singapore where died a few years later. A beautiful Gurdwara in Singapore commemorates his life and struggles.

4. July 8, 1923: Freedom loving Maharaja Ripduman Singh of Nabha State is forced to abdicate.\*\*\* British Col. Michin, with armored cars, intruded into Maharaja’s Nabha Palace and arrested him, calling him an Akali. Sikhs protested, launching the Jaito Morcha to reinstate him. It evolved into a freedom movement, with leaders like Nehru and Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya courting arrest and imprisonment in Nabha. Maharaja supported the Gurdwara reform movement and wore a black turban during protests.

5. July 9, 1738: Shahidi/Martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh, Jathedar of Akal Takhat, a scholar par excellence faced death at Lahore.\*\*\* Bhai Mani Singh was an 18th-century Sikh scholar and a Jathedar of Akal Takhat. His entire family was in Seva of the Guru & Panth, including his son Bhai Bachhitar Singh, who single handedly drove away the Elephant meant to gate crash Guru’s Anandpur Fort. Bhai Mani Singh on Guru’s orders took charge of Harimandir Sahib as Akal Takhat Jathedar, which was without a custodian since 1696. In 1738, he fell out with Mughal regime and tortured to death, limb-by-limb.(read more about his life & times)

***6. July 9.1925: Sikh Gurdwara Act is passed unanimously, A historical achievement.***The British were not keen to make a legislation\*\*\* that gave total control of all the Historic Sikh Shrines to one governing body. Surprisingly it was passed by the Punjab assembly without any opposition and the Lt.Governor approving it. The body to manage came to be called Shromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee-SGPC with head quarters in Durbar Sahib, Adjoining Bhai Teja Singh Samundri Hall.

7. July 10, 1783: Sikh Chiefs Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, Raja Baghel Singh, and Jassa Singh Ramgarhia capture Delhi.\*\*\* Sikhs have been plundering the outskirts of Delhi since the 1770s. With the Dal Khalsa, they defeated the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam and established their headquarters near Majnu-Ka-Tilla, now known as ‘Tees Hazari,’ (now Delhi’s courthouse). Sikh Chief Raja Baghel Singh camped here with Thirty Thousand Sikh soldiers. Shah Alam offered fiscal concessions to build seven historical gurdwaras, including Sis Ganj, Rakab Ganj, and Bangla Sahib, on Mughal estates and acquired more from Mughal families near Jama-Masjid and Raisina village.

8. July 11. 1675: Guru Tegh Bahadur ji left Anandpur Sahib for Delhi to meet Emperor Aurangzeb to appeal/persuade him to stop conversion of Kashmiri Pandits.\*\*\*
Guru Sahib reached Delhi in November 1675, along with three very dear -Sikh disciples Bhai Mati Das, Bhai Sati Das and Bhai Dyala ji. Aurangzeb, the Mughal fanatic Emperor did not budge to compromise his policy of Islamization of India and ordered Guru and his followers to convert or be executed. Eventually Guru Sahib and his three Sikhs sacrificed their lives on November 11, 1675 in Delhi.(Read more on Guru’s life & times)

9. July 11. 1710: Baba Banda Singh Bahadur kills Faujdar & Other Moghul Chiefs of Trans-Jamuna Delhi. Distributes Lands to tillers.\*\*\* Saharanpur served as the divisional headquarters of the Mughal Empire. Jalal Khan, the Faujdar of the region, along with the Sayyids of Nanaut, were arrogant enough to challenge Banda Singh Bahadur. Banda Singh Bahadur proceeded to ransack Nanaut township and executed Jalal Khan and Pirkhan. Despite his brother’s arrival with additional forces, they were unable to resist and fled. Sikhs amassed a substantial amount of cash and materials.

10. On July 12, 1988, General Labh Singh (Sukhdev Singh), a prominent Sikh militant, was killed in a police encounter.\*\*\* General Labh Singh, known for avenging atrocities against Sikh families by police and Congress leaders in Delhi, also made daring attack though failed on DGP Robeiro at his Jalandhar headquarters. He masterminded operations against abusive police and corrupt Congress leaders, including planning the killing of retired Army Chief Arun Vaidya at Pune, who had earlier undertook Army attack at Durbar Sahib in June 1984. His successful hits inspired Punjab Youth to retaliate against India’s paramilitary’s atrocities on Sikh civilians.

11. July 12, 2004: Punjab Government under Capt. Amrinder Singh terminates all water accords to Save water for Punjab.\*\*\* Punjab government made a bold move in 2004 by passing the ‘Punjab Termination of Agreements Act’. This Act had the intention of nullifying all inter-state agreements for sharing the waters of the Ravi and Beas rivers. In effect, it terminated the 1981 agreement and other water-sharing pacts. However, in November 2016, the Supreme Court of India declared this Act unconstitutional after a Presidential reference.
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Source ref: History of the Sikhs by HR Gupta, Dates & chronological order from Book by S. Ajaib Singh Dhillon and Sikh Chronicles) ਸਰੋਤ/ ਹਵਾਲੇ: ਐਚ.ਆਰ ਗੁਪਤਾ: ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸ, ਸ. ਅਜਾਇਬ ਸਿੰਘ ਢਿੱਲੋਂ ਦੀ ਕਿਤਾਬ ਤੋਂ ਤਾਰੀਖਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਾਲਕ੍ਰਮਿਕ ਕ੍ਰਮ)
Compiled & Edited: Karamjeet Singh Bhatnura.

5Q Quiz for Self Assessment: Please attempt !

1. Name mother-in-law who helped young Ranjit to become Maharaja of Punjab.?
2. Why is the neighborhood of Delhi ‘Tis Hazari’ so called where now it houses Delhi High Courts.?
3. Gurdwaras were liberated from private ownership of Hindu Mahants, what happened next?
4. Guru Tegh Bahadur ji was father of Guru___?