5-36 Daroli

Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib ji sent a mounted messenger ahead to inform the people of Daroli that he was arriving soon.  The messenger came to Daroli, quickly, and informed the family that Guru ji was coming.  This news made the whole family happy.  Bhai Sai Das ji took some people and servants to go and welcome Guru ji.  Coming out of the village, he was eager to see Guru ji soon.  He headed towards the direction from which Guru ji was coming.  He had prepared a new bed in his house for Guru ji to sit on.  Expensive cloths were laid out which had silk tassels hanging from the sides.  The home was prepared.  Sandalwood and rose essences were sprayed everywhere.  The home was swept of dust and dirt.  Fresh flower petals were picked and ready to be showered on to Guru ji.  Water was put in new pots for Guru ji to drink.  Shora was mixed into the water to make the water cold.  Bibi Ramo ji watched over all of the preparations.  Bhai Sai Das ji had instructed everyone on what to do before he left.  He had taken Prashaad and sweets along to welcome Guru ji.  He was filled with great eagerness to meet Guru ji.  Mata Ganga ji’s servants went with Bhai Sai Das ji as well.  Everyone was happy.  Nobody wore shoes.  They saw dust flying from a distance.  It was from the galloping of the horses.  They were all happy to see this.  It was as though the moon was coming up from the east.  They were looking towards the flying dust like Chakors looking at the moon.  They were anxious and wanted to fly to meet Guru ji.  They were blooming like lotus flowers seeing the sun.  They walked ahead to meet Guru ji.  Bhai Sai Das ji’s throat swelled with emotion.  He couldn’t speak.  There was great love in his heart.  Tears began to shed from his eyes.  Satguru ji sensed the emotion of Bhai Sai Das ji.  He made his horse ride faster.  He wanted to come faster.  He wanted to see his Sikh faster. 

Guru ji came right up to Bhai Sai Das ji and stopped his horse.  The other soldiers came too.  Bhai Sai Das ji came to Guru ji and touched Guru ji’s foot.  He put his head on Guru ji’s foot and washed them with his tears.  The other servants bowed to Guru ji’s other foot.  Guru ji put his hand on Bhai Sai Das ji’s head.  Guru ji said: “how are you?”  Bhai Sai Das ji responded: “I am in bliss with your blessing.  We are all waiting for you.  Mata ji and her daughters-in-law were waiting for you.  One day would pass like one year.  I have finally met you.”  Guru ji travelled slowly towards the village and spoke to Bhai Sai Das ji: “Sai Das, you live in my heart.  Your love pulled me constantly.  I was thinking about you for a very long time.  I had some things to do.  As soon as the tasks were completed, I didn’t wait.  I came here quickly.  On the way, a lot of Sikh Sangat came to meet me and wanted me to stay.  I had to fulfill their wishes as well.  It was a long way to come here so it took some time.  I am here to fulfill your wishes now.”  Guru ji spoke to Bhai Sai Das ji and told him of what happened on his travels. 

Guru ji entered Daroli and met the villagers.  He met everyone and spoke to them about how they were.  Guru ji tied his horse near Bhai Sai Das ji’s home and got off.  He went to meet Mata Ganga ji first, who was eagerly awaiting her son.  When Mata Ganga ji heard her son come, she ran to the front door.  The servants came to tell her: “Mata ji!  The Satguru has come!”  Guru Hargobind ji came into the house and met his mother.  He bowed to his mother and hugged her.  Mata ji’s eyes began to shed tears of joy.  She kissed her son’s head and dusted his clothes from dust with here scarf.  She put here hand on his face and relieved the pain of separation.  She said to him: “tell me son, are all your tasks complete?  You travelled a long distance.  Was everything fine?  Did the love in the Sikhs’ heart increase?”  Guru ji told Mata ji the whole story of Nanak Matta.  Guru ji sat for a while and then wanted to go into solitude.  Guru ji got up.  Bhai Sai Das ji folded his hands and said: “the new beautiful home that you gave us, I had taken an oath to have you stay there first before I live there.  Please come into the new house and complete our wish.  Please rest there.”  After saying this, Bhai Sai Das ji took Guru ji to the new house.

There was a new beautiful bed laid out for Guru ji to rest.  Guru ji met a lot of others on the way and spoke to them.  Bibi Ramo ji had prepared the bed.  Flowers were thrown everywhere.  Guru ji came inside the new house.  Bibi Ramo ji ran to Guru ji’s feet and grabbed them.  She said: “this time is the most fortunate.  The master of the universe has come to my home.  You showed us your feet.  You saw us are your bhagats.”  Guru ji said to her: “tell me Ramo ji, are you well?  Your husband has love and Bhagti in his heart.  He pulled me with the rope of love.  That is the reason why I am here.”  After saying this, Guru ji came inside and sat on the bed.  Doing the Simran of Guru Hargobind Sahib ji makes the sins run away.  Bibi Ramo ji went and brought Mata Damodri ji and Mata Nanaki ji.  They both came and folded their hands while bowing to their husband’s feet.  Guru ji asked them how they were and gave them hope.  Food was prepared for Guru ji.  Salty, sweet, spicy and sour foods were made.  Bibi Ramo ji had prepared many types of foods for Guru ji.  She prepared food on a plate for Guru ji with her own hands.  She brought the food for Guru ji and went to get more food.  She wanted to make her life a success.  Bhai Sai Das ji brought cold water for Guru ji.  He gave the water to Guru ji.  He couldn’t get enough of looking at Guru ji.  He held a small fan in his hand and waived it slowly.  Bibi Ramo ji had cleaned the plate with a cloth before pouring the food.  Both husband and wife gave food to Guru ji.  They were pouring the food and would ask Guru ji: “please take this, it must be delicious!”  Guru ji responded positively.  He was tasting the love.  He was very happy.  The couple did not think that Guru ji was their relative.  They saw him as the master of the universe who had come to bless them.  He was the friend of the weak and weakened by love.  He was the master of the three loks.  He was the beloved of the Sikhs.  Guru ji saw the love in the couples’ hearts.  He knew that they saw him as the Parmeshwar.  Guru ji noticed that they had no other desires in their minds.  Guru ji ate food to his satiation and drank the cold water.  Guru ji washed his hands and wiped them with a cloth given to him by the couple.  When Guru ji saw the love in their hearts, he spoke the words which Rishis and Munis long to hear: “you will not be born again into this world.  You made me very happy.  For this reason, I give you the blessing of Mukti.  You will be Mukat now.”  The couple felt the effect right away.  Bhai Sai Das ji looked into his heart and noticed that he no longer had any doubts or pain.  The doubt was gone, the Gyaan illuminated.  The couple saw the Aatma inside them.  Brahmgyaan came.  Love, hatred, emotion, ego; it was all destroyed.  They knew the Satguru’s greatness.  Their vices were all dead.  Their mind was calm and cool.  They were in complete bliss.  This Gyaan was only given to the most fortunate.  They had been Bhagats for many lives.  The bonds of the world had been broken at once.

5-37 The Birth of Sri Baba Gurditta ji

Guru ji stayed in Daroli with his whole family.  Mata Damodri ji was about to give birth to the eldest child.  She was eagerly awaiting her child’s birth.  Mata Nanaki ji would do Seva of Guru ji and Mata Damodri ji.  She had a deep love for her husband.  Mata Ganga ji was really happy looking at her son.  She saw the whole world come and bow to her son.  Her heart was filled with deep joy and bliss, seeing her son’s radiance grow in the whole world.  She wanted to see her grandchild.  She kept her daughter-in-law close to her and protected her from any trouble.  She made sure she was healthy in every way and did what was needed. 

Satguru ji would hold Divaans everyday.  The Sangat would hear about them and come from every direction.  The people of nearby villages would come and sing the praises of Guru ji.  The new people that would come, would see the glory of Guru ji and become his Sikhs.  They would become his servants and have their wishes fulfilled.  They would bring many gifts for Guru ji.  People came everyday to see Guru ji.  They would continually look towards Guru ji.  They did Seva, Simran of Satnam and earned Sikhi.  The fortunate ones came and did Simran in Sangat.  Many people of Malva were blessed.  Guru ji’s radiance spread everywhere.  In this way, Guru ji spent his time there.

Mata Damodri ji was ready to give birth.  Mata Ganga ji was on alert all the time.  She would stay close to her daughter-in-law.  The season of Sarad (winter) came.  It was the Pooranmaashi of Kathak.  The constellations and stars were in good positions.  It was midnight, full moon, when the child was born.  The child was born with a beautiful body.  Mata Ganga ji was filled with bliss.  The servants and maids were busy getting everything ready.  They were getting ready for celebrations.  They would meet each other with joy.  They were happy with the birth of the Guru’s son.  The whole family was really happy.  A maid ran to Guru ji and gave him the news of the birth of his son.  Guru ji gave her a gift.  There was happiness everywhere.  The day came and the Naubats and Shehnais started to play.  The beggars came to ask for money.  Guru ji said to Bhai Jetha ji: “take the money and give it to the beggars and whoever comes.  Give it to the artists that come as well.”  Bhai Jetha ji took money and stood at one place to give everyone money who came to ask for it.  The Hijras came and danced in front of the house.  They were given money.  They played dholkis and danced to the beat.  They wore bells in their heels and celebrated in their way.  Flower garlands were hung everywhere.  Guru ji’s eldest son was born.  The women of the village got together and sang songs of joy.  The women came and gave their congratulations to Mata Ganga ji.  The family traditions were carried out.  The women were given sweets and pataasay.  Bhai Sai Das ji was happy that the son of the Guru was born in his home.  He was giving sweets out as well.  Bibi Ramo ji celebrated as well.  The couple gave their congratulations to Mata Ganga ji and Guru ji.  There was a great celebration.  Money was given to the beggars.  The artists would go to other villages and tell their fellow artists about it. They would come as well.  They would say: “Guru Ramdas ji’s family is huge.  The jewel of the Sodhis is Guru Hargobind Sahib ji, the son of Guru Arjan Dev ji.  They are not touched by Maya.  The warrior Guru is the master of the universe.  Our subsistence is provided by Guru ji.  We eat what the Guru gives.  The Guru is greater than Inder.  He gives a lot of blessings and wealth.  He is the saviour of Sikhs and saints.  He cuts the bonds of birth and death.”  Guru ji heard the praises and gave everyone money.  There was a great celebration in the Guru’s home.  Everyone was given money. 

They began taking care of the new born baby.  Mata Ganga ji was happy to see her grandson.  The Khasti tradition was fulfilled (rice puffs showered over the baby on the 6^th day).  Karah Prashaad was prepared and distributed everywhere.  After 13 days, the family traditions were performed.  Seeing this, everyone was happy.  After 40 days, Guru ji wanted to name the baby.  Guru ji named him Baba Gurditta ji.  The child was brought to Guru Hargobind Sahib ji while the servants and Maids were all present.  Guru ji saw his son and took him in his lap.  He kissed the baby’s head and placed his hand on it.  Guru ji said: “the Guru has given him to us.  That is why I have named him: Gurditta.” 

Kavi Santokh Singh ji says: “some people said that Baba Gurditta ji was the Avatar of Guru Nanak Dev ji.  This is not correct.  This should not be said.  Guru Nanak Dev ji was Parmeshwar.  A child’s virtues cannot be so evident.  I will tell you why people said this: one day Guru Hargobind Sahib ji was sitting in the Divaan when Baba Sri Chand ji came.  Baba Sri Chand ji bowed and stood up.  He said to Guru ji: “how many sons do you have?  You are the Guru.”  The great Guru folded his hands and said: “I have 5 sons with your blessings.”  Baba Sri Chand ji said: “will you give a son to the Baba’s home?  Will you keep all or give one to the house of Guru Nanak Dev ji?”  Guru ji spoke in humility: “as you wish, I will do.  I would like to give you everything, by which your tasks are completed.  You are Guru Nanak Dev ji’s son and your radiance is illuminated everywhere.”  The son of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji smiled and said: “are you saying this out of respect or will you actually give me a son?  Will you follow through?”  Guru ji said: “yes I will.” 

Guru ji went home and brought his eldest son to Baba Sri Chand ji.  Baba Gurditta ji was wearing royal clothes, jewellery and weapons.  Guru ji said to Baba Sri Chand ji: “this is my eldest son.  I give him to you.  He is yours.  The other sons of mine are your servants as well.  I can give you the other 4 as well.  This is all yours.  I have always thought this way.”  Baba Sri Chand ji was happy and said: “you are Dhan!  This is why you are so great.  I am very happy with you.  I have figured out that you are deserving of the praises.  Ask me for anything.  Take a boon from me.  There is nothing that you can’t have.”  Guru ji heard this and said: “whatever you think is the best.  If you are gracious, please give me what is the best thing to give.  There is no one more gracious than you.”  Baba Sri Chand ji thought and said: “you are already so great.  You have all the greatness of Guru Nanak Dev ji’s home.  I only have this Toppi on my head.  You have everything else.  You have the kingdom of the word and the other world.  This Toppi is full of powers.  I will give this to your son.  This will be known in the world that Baba Gurditta ji will be the disciple of mine.  This is the supreme Fakir-ness.  There is nothing greater than this.  People of every direction will worship this.  Millions will become Udaasis.  Some will become Nangaas (saints without possession and clothes) and be great.  This Panth will grow and become great.  The radiance of my Tapasya is big.  This will spread in the world.  Whatever thing is in my home, will now be your son’s.  I am more than 100 years old.  The powers and greatness of my father is now in the home of the Sodhis.  Whatever power I had, will now come to your home.”  Baba Sri Chand ji gave the Toppi from his head to Baba Gurditta ji.  He placed the Toppi on his head and said: “now you belong to the Guru Baba.  Your other brothers will belong to your father but you are the Guru Baba’s.”  From that day onwards, he was known as “Baba” Gurditta ji.  Because of this, people thought that he was Guru Nanak Dev ji’s Avatar.  Guru Nanak Dev ji was also known as the “Baba.”  That is where the confusion arose from.  Baba Gurditta ji was made the leader of the Udaasis.  The Guru lineage was the Avatar of Guru Nanak Dev ji.  No one else.   Know this, Baba Gurditta ji was not the Avatar of Guru Nanak Dev ji.  All the Sodhis were known as Babas as well.  Only the people who haven’t heard the Guru’s history speak like this.  They didn’t think about the facts and spoke false.  If they were correct, then whose Avatars were the 9 Gurus?  The 9 Gurus were the true Avatars of Guru Nanak Dev ji.  If Baba Gurditta ji was the Avatar of Guru Nanak Dev ji, then the 9 Gurus wouldn’t be the Avatars of Guru Nanak Dev ji.  This is obviously not correct.  Somebody said this and others accepted it.  It was incorrect.  Nobody thought about this.  Listen Sikhs, don’t speak about this.  This is not correct.  Baba Gurditta ji was called Baba because he was Baba Sri Chand ji’s disciple.

The son of the Guru was born.  Everyone was happy.  Mata Ganga ji loved her grandson and took care of him day and night.  In the village of Daroli, Sri Satguru ji spread happiness.

5-38 Baba Bhudda ji starts a Chownki

After the birth of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib ji’s son, for many months Guru ji stayed in Daroli with joy.  Bibi Ramo ji was Guru ji’s sister-in-law but she did not think about that.  She and her husband saw Guru ji as the master of the universe.  The couple would bow their heads to Guru ji everyday.  They prepared food and did Seva for Guru ji with love and devotion.  They had received many powers by doing Satguru ji’s Seva.  The light of Brahmgyaan illuminated in their hearts and they realised that they had unlimited powers.  They could see everything in the 14 dimensions.  They knew what was happening everywhere.  As their powers grew, they became even more humble.  Their pride and ego did not grow.  They were living a life of bliss and unlimited abilities.  Satguru ji was living in the house of such great and powerful Sikhs.  Bibi Ramo ji would play with Baba Gurditta ji and give him love.  She would take care of him.  He was her nephew.  She would take the child to Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.  Guru ji would play with his son.  Bhai Sai Das ji would play with Baba Gurditta ji as well.  The baby was very beautiful.  It was like the moon without the craters.  Mata Damodri ji would be really happy seeing her son.  She would take care of him with love.  Everyone loved the baby.  It was the first baby in the house. 

It was soon Vaisakhi and Sangat from every direction came.  The Sikhs heard that Guru ji was in Daroli.  They came with expensive gifts for Guru ji.  They came to make Guru ji happy.  They brought money and gifts.  On the day of Vaisakhi, there was a big Divaan that took place.  The rugs and tarps were laid out.  Guru ji’s seat was made of muslin with Zarri work on it.  2 big pillows were placed on the throne.  The warriors were standing in the Divaan.  The golden maces were held by the Chobdhaars.  2 guards stood on either side of Guru ji with the golden maces.  The Suraj Mukhis were raised behind Guru ji and shinning like the sun.  These were signs of royalty.  Guru ji came out of the home and came into the Divaan area.  The Naqeebs announced the arrival of Guru ji: “attention, Guru Hargobind Sahib ji is entering the Divaan.”  Bhai Sai Das ji and Bibi Ramo ji would serve Guru ji.  Guru ji slowly walked to the Divaan Hall, holding Bhai Sai Das ji’s hand.  Sri Guru Hargobind ji came and everyone stood up.  The Sangat folded their hands and bowed their heads.  They were all eagerly awaiting Guru ji.  A deep joy spread throughout the Sangat.  Guru ji first came and bowed to the Guru Ghaddi as it was Guru Nanak Dev ji’s throne.  Guru ji then sat on top of the Gurta Ghaddi.  The wide and tall Guru illuminated.  White Chaurs were waived over his head.  It looked like 2 swans flying from side to side over his head.  The Mevra stood up and did the Ardaas for the Sikhs.  He announced: “come and meet Satguru ji.  Line up to see him.”  The Sangat was eagerly waiting and ran to form a line.  They placed their gifts at the feet of Guru ji and bowed.  They folded their hands and had their wishes fulfilled.  A lot of money piled up in front of Guru ji.  The Sangat saw themselves as fortunate that they got to offer their Dasvands to Guru ji.  The Sikhs were being blessed in many ways.  Guru ji sat for 4 hours and then got up to have Langar.  The Sangat shouted out Jaikaras.  Guru ji walked towards the home where he was staying.  The Karah Prashaad was distributed.  The Langar was prepared for many days.  Many people came to eat the Langar.  There were so many people that it was hard to count.  The celebrations went on for 3 days.  The Sikhs visited Guru ji with great love and devotion.  Guru ji gave Siropas to the Sikhs from far away and gave them leave.  The Sikhs came from every direction.  They went back home, singing the praises of Guru ji. 

Many Sikhs went to Amritsar afterwards.  They bathed in the Sarovar as per the blessing and significance of bathing in the Sarovar on Vaisakhi.  Baba Bhudda ji and Bhai Gurdas ji prepared for the celebration in Amritsar.  They would remember Guru ji and ask the Sikhs about Guru ji who came from Daroli.  They wanted to see Guru ji and wondered when the handsome strong Guru was going to come home again.  Everyone came to Baba Bhudda ji and said: “write a letter to Guru ji.  Tell him: we are waiting for you.  We wish to have your Darshan.  That is all we think about.  We can’t come without your permission.  Our day passes with this wish in our hearts.  Oh master, when will you return?  How are you living there, leaving Amritsar?  This place is the place of your father and grandfather.  The Satguru made this amazing Teerath.  How can you forget about Amritsar?  Please come back and live here like your father and grandfather.”  Baba Bhudda ji wrote a letter with love.  Other Sikhs motivated him to write it.  A Sikh was sent to Guru ji with the letter.

The Sikh messenger came and met Guru ji.  He bowed and said: “I have come with an Ardaas from Amritsar.”  He placed the letter in front of Guru ji.  Guru ji asked how everyone was and then read the letter.  He understood that the Sikhs have sent a request with love.  Guru ji thought to himself that it was time to go back.  Guru ji had a response written: “I will come back quickly.  All of the tasks I set out to do are now complete.  The wishes of the Sikhs have been fulfilled.  Read the Shabads of the Satguru with love at night time when Guru Granth Sahib ji is in Sukh Aasan.”  The Sikh took the letter back to Amritsar.

The Sikh came back to Amritsar and everyone found out that Guru ji sent a Hukamnama.  Everyone was happy to hear it.  Baba Bhudda ji said: “Guru ji will be back soon now.  Do Rehraas with love and then get together.  We will slowly do Parkarma of Darbar Sahib and do Keertan in a group.  The Shabads will be sung together with love.  Your life here and hereafter will be successful because this is the Hukamnama of Guru ji.  Guru ji is bound by love.  When you will do the Shabad Chownki with love, he will come to give you Darshan.”  The Sikhs heard this and accepted his command. 

The Sangat met after Rehraas and got together near the Sarovar.  The gathered all around the four corners of the Sarovar.  They sang Shabads in a large group and did the Parkarma with love.  They all met and sang together.  They would do Seva of each other as well.  For about 1 and a half hours they did Keertan in this way.  They would then do Ardaas and ask Guru ji to give them his Darshan.  In this way, the Sikhs were determined.  The omniscient Guru knew everything and wanted to come back to Amritsar.  Guru ji felt the pull from the Sikhs of Amritsar. 

One day as Guru ji was laying down in the heat of the summer, water was being sprinkled in the room to cool it down.  Bhai Sai Das ji was massaging Guru ji’s feet.  Bibi Ramo ji was waiving a fan at Guru ji.  Guru ji was laying down on a soft bed and did a miracle: there was a Saudagar Sikh who had a ship full of commodities and was sailing to an island.  He entered deep waters with big waves.  He wanted to reach his destination quickly.  He wanted to dock and sell his commodities.  The waves were high.  There were many big creatures in the ocean.  Some trouble arose where his ship got stuck in the ocean.  It got caught in a mountain like structure in the ocean.  The crew tried to release the ship but failed to free the ship.  They all lost hope.  The Sikh stopped thinking of everything and prayed: “protect me Guru ji.  I am in your sanctuary.  You protect your Sikhs where no one else can reach.  This is your promise: you fulfill the tasks of your Sikhs when they call you.”  Guru Hargobind Sahib ji heard the Sikh’s Ardaas and came to help him.  It was noon as he was laying down.  He made another form of himself and went to help the Sikh.  He carried the ship on his shoulder and set it free.  He completed the task of his Sikh.  Bibi Ramo ji and other servants thought that Guru ji was sleeping but Guru ji was away in the ocean.  Bibi Ramo ji was waiving the fan all around Guru ji.  When she came to the pillow-side of Guru ji, she saw that Guru ji’s hair was open and dripping with water.  She was amazed to see this.  She said to her husband: “look how hot he is!  Look how vigorously he is sweating!”  Bhai Sai Das ji said: “Ramo, this is not sweat, this is the water from the ocean.”  He was massaging Guru ji’s feet and so he was connected to Guru ji.  He knew where Guru ji was and what he was doing.  Bibi Ramo ji said: “what is the reason for this?  I don’t understand.”  Bhai Sai Das ji said: “there is a ship of a Sikh which is stuck in the ocean.  Guru ji helped the ship across by carrying it on his shoulder.  That is why his hair is wet.  Stay quiet.  Guru ji is resting.  Don’t speak about this out loud.  I told you but don’t mention this.”  Guru ji then woke up after Bhai Sai Das ji spoke.  Guru ji said: “Sai Das, what you just said, where did you get this power from to know this?”  The fortunate Sikh folded his hands and said: “my mind is connected to you in your Seva.  I have put the dust from your feet on to my eyes.  I have eaten your leftover food with respect.  Doing your Seva with love, the Guru is happy.  There is nothing your Sikh cannot achieve.  I have received all these powers by your grace.  Where else would I have received it from?”  Guru ji heard this and was happy.  He said to him: “your Seva has been accepted.” 

5-39 Guru ji Comes back to Amritsar

Guru ji would think about going to Amritsar often.  He thought to himself: “the Sikhs want to see me again.  They all love me.”  One day, Guru ji was sitting with Mata Ganga ji and said to her: “it has been a long time that I’ve been away from Amritsar.  The Sikhs are waiting for me.”  Mata Ganga ji was happy to hear this and said: “listen son, I want to go as well.  I have stayed here for a long time.  I like being in Amritsar.  Let’s go.”  Guru ji heard this and came out of the house.  Guru ji spoke to Bhai Bidhi Chand ji and Bhai Jetha ji: “I wish to see Amritsar again.”  The two Sikhs were happy to hear this and said: “you heard the wishes of our hearts.  The Sikhs are sending letters from Amritsar and saying how you are away from home.  They want us to bring you back.  Let’s make preparations and leave as soon as we can.”  Guru ji said: “tell everyone to prepare for a morning departure.”  Bhai Jetha ji told everyone to make preparations to leave in the morning.  Everyone was happy to hear this.  Everyone got ready saying: “let’s go to Amritsar!”  They were very happy.  Guru ji sat on his bed to rest.  Bhai Sai Das ji and Bibi Ramo ji came to meet Guru ji.  They folded their hands and said: “you are leaving all of a sudden?  What mistake did we make that you are leaving so suddenly?  Please tell us, seeing us as your own, what was our mistake?  You are forgiving.  Please forgive us.  Did some relative of ours say any harsh words to you or your servants?  Did we disrespect you in some way?”  Guru ji smiled and said: “it was because of your love that I came.  It is been a long time that I have been away from Amritsar.  I wish to do the Pooja of Sri Harmandhir Sahib ji.  The Sikhs are writing Ardaas to me everyday.  These Sikhs have my love illuminating in their hearts.  Those Sikhs did Sangat of the elder Gurus.  Baba Bhudda ji has been with Guru Nanak Dev ji.  Those Sikhs are deserving of my respect.  I can’t reject their words.  Baba Bhudda ji wants me to come back.  This is the reason why I have made preparations to go all of a sudden.  Both of you should live here and be in bliss.  You will no longer be born again.  Do Simran of Satnam.  You no longer have any doubts.  I will come back here in a few years and do many great tasks.  You are always with me now.  I won’t ever separate you from me, neither here, nor in the world hereafter.”  Guru ji gave hope to the couple.  The couple obeyed and did not speak again.  They bowed and got up.  It was night time so Guru ji laid down to sleep.

Guru ji woke up in the morning and got ready.  Guru ji and the family set off to Amritsar.  The Sikhs of Daroli walked a long way with Guru ji.  Guru ji then gave them leave and set off.  Bhai Sai Das ji and Bibi Ramo ji bowed to Guru ji’s feet and felt the pain of separation in their hearts.  Mata Ganga ji mounted her chariot.  Bhai Sai Das ji and Bibi Ramo ji bowed to her as well.  Mata ji gave her blessings and set off.  Mata Damodri ji and Mata Nanaki ji were met by the couple.  They said to Mata Damodri ji: “you were born with a great destiny.  You saved the family of your parents.  It was because of you that our relationship with Guru ji was formed.  It was your favor that we are full of gratitude towards.  We bow to you, over and over again.  Guru ji’s eldest son was born to you.  You are fortunate.”  Bibi Ramo ji picked up her nephew and hugged him.  She kissed his forehead.  Mata Damodri ji said: “my sister, this is Guru ji’s grace that he took me in as his servant.  It is his grace that I was given joy and greatness.  Come to Amritsar on Diwali and Vaisakhi on the Jor Melas.”  The sisters hugged each other and shed tears.  Bibi Ramo ji then went towards Mata Nanaki ji.  She was about to touch her feet when Mata Nanaki ji grabbed her hands and pulled her into a tight hug.  They shed tears and eventually said their goodbyes.  Bhai Sai Das ji was crying as well.  They sat in their palanquins and set off.

Guru ji was on a very strong horse.  It rode off with force.  Many warriors travelled behind Guru ji with joy.  After 66 km, Guru ji set up camp.  They all ate and rested the night.  Guru ji hunted on the way.  Mata Ganga ji took care of everyone while Guru ji was gone hunting.  They rested the nights and travelled during the days.  They eventually reached Taran Taaran Sahib.  It was evening and so Guru ji set up camp.  The Guru Bhagavan visited the place of Guru Arjan Dev ji.  He took his son and bowed in the Darbar while distributing Prashaad.  They did Parkarma of the Darbar Sahib.  They rested the night after. 

In the morning, they set off again.  Guru ji had a messenger ride off ahead to Amritsar to advise the people that he was arriving soon.  The Sikhs heard the message and rejoiced; like the ocean excited by the waves.  The men and women of Amritsar wore beautiful clothes and jewellery to welcome Guru ji.  They headed outside of Amritsar towards Taran Taaran Sahib.  The roads of Amritsar were lit with Divas.  The women wore gold.  They were radiant and looked like lightening flashes as they walked the roads.  The happiness was overflowing like the water of the ocean overflowing by the waves.  Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib ji was like the moon, and the Sangat was like the ocean wanting to reach the moon.  The Sangat travelled 3 km ahead to greet Guru ji.  When Guru ji came, they all bowed to him.  They had brought sweets and flowers for him.  They were happy to see Guru ji and got the happiness of Guru ji.  Guru ji asked the Sikhs how they were and then travelled on.  Bhai Gurdas ji came and met Guru ji.  Baba Bhudda ji wanted to come but Guru ji sent a message and told him not to come outside of the city.  He said to him: “I will come to you.  Please don’t come outside.  I will do the Darshan of Harmandhir Sahib with you.”  The other Sikhs had come to meet Guru ji.  They were all happy to see Guru ji.  They all had discussions with Guru ji and travelled back to Amritsar.  As Guru ji entered Amritsar, the men and women of the city all came to bow to Guru ji’s feet.  They met Guru ji with love.  They placed money in front of Guru ji and said: “this is a good time!  We are seeing Guru ji again!  We are fortunate to see Guru ji and his son.”  Guru ji blessed everyone and spoke to some.  The master gave joy to all.  He had Baba Gurditta ji with him and headed towards Harmandhir Sahib.  He first bowed at Akaal Takhat and then went to the Darshani Deodi.  He bowed and then proceeded to cross the bridge.  He placed his head on the ground and bowed to Harmandhir Sahib.  The wise Baba Gurditta ji and Guru ji did Parkarma of Harmandhir Sahib.  They bowed to the door and went inside.  He remembered his father and grandfather while bowing in the Darbar.  He bowed to Guru Granth Sahib ji.  Baba Bhudda ji was there.  Guru ji bowed to his feet.  Baba Bhudda ji bowed to Guru ji.  After asking each other how they were, Guru ji had Baba Gurditta ji bow to Baba Bhudda ji.  Baba Bhudda ji did the Ardaas while standing up.

As they came out, a great celebration took place.  Napheeryas, Shehnais and Dhundhabs played.  Money was being showered.  The women of the city sang songs.  The Dholaks and other instruments were played.  People sang songs of joy.  Shabads were sung by Sikhs.  Wherever Guru ji passed, people showered him with flowers.  In this way, a great celebration occurred in the streets of Amritsar.  Mata Ganga ji took both her daughters-in-law and walked behind Guru ji.  The Naqeebs announced the arrival of Guru ji and sang his praises.  There were crowds of people on the streets but Guru ji met everyone.  Mata Ganga ji was really happy.  She entered her home where beautiful and expensive seats were laid out for all.  She carried her grandson.  The wives of Guru ji were sitting with her.  The women of the city came to congratulate Mata Ganga ji on the birth of her grandson.  They played dholkis and sang songs.  The maids came to give their congratulations.  They got money from Mata ji and said: “may your grandson live for eons.  May he be in love with the Guru’s feet.”  Guru ji sat in another home and gave his Darshan to the Sikhs.  Every home in Amritsar was celebrating: “Satguru ji has come.  We are so happy!”

5-40 Bibi Kaulan ji/ Painda Khan

When Guru ji was alone, Bibi Kaulan ji wished to see him.  She came to Guru ji’s place with great joy in her heart.  She came like the Chakori; being informed of the moon and running towards it to see it.  Love had made her lose her senses.  It was like a bee going toward the lotus.  She came inside the beautiful home and saw Guru ji sitting down.  She placed her head on Guru ji’s feet.  It was like a beggar getting a kingdom.  She thought to herself: “today is a blessed day.”  Tears shed from her lotus-like eyes.  Her tears fell on Guru ji’s feet.  She sat in front of Guru ji with her hands folded.  She did the Darshan of Guru ji.  His radiance was like the sun.  Her eyes bloomed, seeing Guru ji.  She kept staring at Guru ji without blinking.  She received the fruit of her Tapasya from previous births.  She was filled with extreme happiness, that couldn’t be described.  Satguru ji saw the love-drenched Bibi Kaulan ji and said: “are you well?  Was everything good while I was gone?”  Bibi Kaulan ji spoke in a sweet voice: “since you have blessed me, I have been in constant bliss.  I have no other desire in my heart, other than seeing you.  The Simran of your name was my support.  I didn’t like to eat or sleep though, while you were gone.  If you would have seen my state, then you would have known.  I heard about your arrival and joy blossomed in my heart.  Now that I have seen you, you are the destroyer of pain, your Darshan resides in my heart.  My pain is gone now.”  Guru ji heard this and said: “I had given you the gift of seeing me everyday.  You saw my everyday.  Why were you still in so much pain?  You saw me and ate everyday.”  Bibi Kaulan ji responded with her hands folded: “this is true, I did Japji Sahib and saw you everyday.  I bathed and did Simran.  I would see you for a few seconds.  Whatever you were doing, I would see you.  I saw you wearing different clothes.  Sometimes you were sitting and sometimes you were riding your horse.  I could see your emotions as well: smiling or thinking.  I saw you everyday but I couldn’t speak to you.  For this reason, I felt pain.  I did see you, that is why I am still alive.  I didn’t get to speak to you though.”  In this way, Bibi Kaulan ji spoke to Guru ji.  She then got up and went back to her home.  It was night and so Guru ji ate and went to sleep.

Guru ji, the master, got up at 2 am and bathed.  He connected to his real form in Samadhi.  When the sun came up, Guru ji opened his eyes.  The Bilawal Chownki took place after Asa Vaar.  Many people came from different places.  It was a great Divaan.  Sikhs came from far away lands.  They sat with great love in the Divaan.  The city was full of joy.  The Sikhs came to do their Ardaas and fulfill their wishes.  They brought gifts and did their Ardaas.  The warriors would come and get horses, weapons and money from Guru ji.  Guru ji sat until 10 am in the Divaan and fulfilled the wishes of the Sikhs.  He then got up and ate Langar.  Many types of delicacies were made.  The Langar would smell delicious.  Fine rice and rotis were made.  The roti was made with very fine flour.  Many dishes were made.  The Sangat would sit and eat in the Pangat (lines).  A great Langar was distributed.  The Sikhs came and bowed to Guru ji and ate Langar.  Guru ji rested in the afternoon in solitude.  Guru ji would wake up after an hour and a half and wash his face.  He would sometimes go hunting.  The warriors would mount their horses and follow him.  They would sit at Akaal Takhat after and have a Divaan.  Sikhs, Masand and other senior Sikhs came to see Guru ji.  The Masands from far away lands would come and bring a lot of money.  The Masands would bring the Dasvands of the Sikhs from the west, east, south and north. 

The Guru Bhagavan would hold a Divaan in the evening.  Many Sikhs would come.  They would visit Harmandhir Sahib and do its Parkarma.  They would all come and sit where Guru Hargobind Sahib ji would sit.  Bhai Babak Rababi ji would sing Shabads in various Raags.  Guru ji and the Sikhs would listen to the Keertan.  Many Sikhs would come and have their wishes fulfilled.  Many Jagyasos would come, many Mumukshus would stay with Guru ji and do his Seva with love.  They would do as Guru ji would say.  They would listen to So Dar in the evening.  Ardaas would be done.  They would all bow at Akaal Takhat.  Guru ji would then do Parkarma of the Sarovar.  They would do the big Parkarma and then bow to the Darshani Deodi.  After, they would do Parkarma of the Harmandhir Sahib.  Baba Bhudda ji and Bhai Gurdas ji continued the Shabad Chownki after Rehraas.  They would do the Parkarma slowly and sing Gurbani in a group.  Guru ji saw the Chownki that the Sikhs did with love.  He said: “great are Baba Bhudda ji and Bhai Gurdas ji who started this great tradition of the Shabad Chownki.  This is great that everyone has love for the Amritsar Sarovar.”  Guru ji praised Bhai Gurdas ji: “there is love for the Guru in his heart.”  Guru ji would then go home at night.  This is how he would spend his days. 

There was a big army of the Guru that lived in Kartarpur.  Guru ji sent a message and called them all back to Amritsar.  The whole army came back, including Painde Khan.  They all came and bowed to Guru ji.  Guru ji spoke to the senior officers.  Guru ji asked them how they were.  The soldiers were very happy and said: “we are fine by your blessings.”  Guru ji checked the horses of the army and noticed that they had become strong and healthy.  Guru ji then looked and Painde Khan, who was already big and strong.  He had grown bigger and stronger than before.  He had received good nourishment and become stronger.  His arms got bigger and longer.  They were like the trunks of an elephant calf.  His height got bigger.  He now had a moustache and a beard.  Nobody else had a body like him.  Guru ji was very happy to see him.  Guru ji thought to himself: “he will be a strong warrior.”  The gem of the Sodhi family said to him in regards to learning Shastervidya: “workout harder now.  Exercise twice a day with determination.”  He obeyed Guru ji and picked up clubs weighting 2 Maunds.  He began spinning it for an hour and a half, everyday.  He would then do squats with it.  He would exercise with the clubs with great strength.  He would throw the clubs upwards as well.  As he got stronger, he started to exercise with heavier clubs.  He would spin the clubs very fast.  Guru ji had pots filled with sand and tied them to Painde Khan’s arms.  Guru ji then had him spin the clubs with the pots of sand tied to his arms.  Guru ji would see this and be very happy.  He would say: “do this everyday.  Tie them to your arms and workout.”  The pots looked like domes hanging from his arms as he spun the clubs. 

Painde Khan worked out like this for many days.  Guru ji saw this and said: “I want two strong soldiers to hold his arms.”  Two soldiers came and obeyed Guru ji’s command.  They held Painde Khan’s arms and hung off of them.  Painde Khan would then spin his clubs as he did before.  He would test his strength further and push himself to the limit.  Everyone would be amazed to see this and say: “there is no one stronger than him.”  He would do a lot of push ups and dips.  He was able to take the weight of his body on his hands.  He could stand on one hand.  He was getting stronger by the day.  He was able to rip shields apart and break a coconut with his bare hands.  He was able to rub a coin and erase the content minted on top of it.  He was able to do such amazing stuff.  Guru ji would be happy to see all of this and gave him a lot of expensive gifts.  He would get a lot of money from Guru ji, which made him happy.  Painde Khan’s Katha will continue in the future. 

Now, oh listeners, listen to the Katha of Gursikhs that Bhai Gurdas ji wrote about in his 11^th Vaar.  The Sikhs came to meet Guru ji and received wisdom from him.  They acquired Gyaan and broke their bonds.  Their Kathas will be stated ahead.  Listen oh listeners, this Katha is full of Gyaan and pleasure.