5-56 The Engagement of Bibi Veero ji/ Baba Atal Rai ji

The celebration of the Mela was enjoyed by all.  The whole family was happy.  One day, the giver of Mukti was sitting with his mother.  Mata Ganga ji said: “son, look for a good match for your daughter.  This is an important task.  She is of age now to be married.  Send some Laagis to different villages to look for a match.  They should go and give us updates.  Send the items of engagement with them so they can look for the match.”  Guru ji heard this and said: “it will be done quick.  Wherever Kartar has set the match, that is where it will happen with ease.  The desire has come up in your heart, so it will be done soon.”  Mata ji then went to lay down.

Mata Damodri ji came to do Guru ji’s Seva with her son.  She folded her hands and said: “please find a good place for our daughter.  Make sure my daughter is happy.  I want to see her happy in her home.”  Satguru ji said: “wherever her destiny has been set, she will live there in joy.  It is not right to worry.  She is blessed.  Don’t worry about her.  Her destiny is the greatest.”  Mata Damodri ji heard this and was really happy.  She said: “you have said that: she will be happy.  May this be true.” 

Guru ji slept the night and woke up at Amritvela.  He bathed with clear water.  When the sun came up, the Divaan began.  The Sikhs came and bowed.  Some were standing and some sat near Guru ji.  Guru ji casted his divine sight on all.  Some Sikhs were standing and some were sitting.  Some were coming and some were going.  He saw one man with a small boy.  They seemed poor as their clothes were dirty.  When the man and boy came close, they bowed to Guru ji.  Guru ji said out loud: “from which place are you?  What is your caste and family name?  For what reason are you here for?”  The man heard this and folded his hands.  He spoke quietly in the Darbar: “we are from Mullaypur.  We have lived there for a long time.  Our money was lost and we became poor.  We are Khosla Khatris.  My name is Dharma.  My son is 7 years old.  His name is Sadhoo.”  Satguru ji heard this and had the man and boy sit close to him.  Guru ji said: “call the Brahmin and bring a chwara (dry fruit used as a mark of engagements).”  Everyone heard this and were surprised.  Everyone was wondering what Guru ji was doing.  When the Brahmin came, Guru ji said: “give this boy the chwara to eat.”  Bhai Dharam ji folded his hands and said: “you are the Guru of the whole world.  Oh master, you are omnipotent.  You do as you please.  Nobody can be equal to you.  I am poor and powerless.  I have no money.  My clothes are dirty.  How can this engagement happen?  How can a drop compare to the ocean?  It is like an ant being compared to the king of the elephants.  I am embarrassed, hearing this.  You are deserving of worship and so are your children.  I think this is not right.”  Satguru ji said: “don’t worry.  The creator has fixed this destiny.  Your son is very fortunate.  He is a great Bhagat who loves the Prabhoo.  You won’t be at fault.  If you have any doubts, get rid of them now.”  Guru ji had the tradition of the engagement done by the senior Sikhs.  The Sangat was amazed to see this.  Guru ji set his daughter’s marriage to a poor Sikh.  After the Divaan, Guru ji went to his home.  The details of the event spread far: “a poor Khatri’s son was engaged to Guru ji’s daughter.” 

Mata Damodri ji came to Guru ji.  She raised many doubts.  She said: “you didn’t analyse that you have given your daughter to a poor Sikh.  You didn’t look for an equal match.  You should have looked for a rich family.  What will people say?  When the family comes, what will they say?”  Guru ji gave her hope and said: “this is the best match.  He has the best destiny.  He will grow on a daily basis.  Nobody will be his equal.”  Mata Damodri ji heard this and went quiet. 

Mata Ganga ji was told what had happened.  Mata ji heard this and trusted Guru ji.  She did not raise any doubts or questions.  She thought to herself: “my son is the wisest of the wise.  He is full of unlimited power.  He is done the best thing.  What is done, is done.  There’s no use denying this.”  Mata ji didn’t say anything and accepted that what Guru ji is doing, is good.  She started to prepare for the celebrations.  The other people of the home began to prepare for the festivities. 

The next day, Guru ji mounted his horse with joy and went outside.  The warriors went with Guru ji and went hunting.  They went around the jungle.  The hawks were released to catch the birds.  The cheetahs were released to catch the deer.  The dogs hunted the rabbits by making the run and tiring them out.  Other hunting hawks were hunting the bird prey.  They would catch the small birds.  Guru ji was the “Raj Rikhi,” the royal saint.  He hunted and was happy in the jungle.  His motive was to give mukti to all the animals that were hunted.  Guru ji then came back to the city and began to test the Shastervidya of the warriors.  The warriors would practice their aim with the guns while hunting.  Some warriors only used swords to hunt.  Some used spears, arrows and guns to show Guru ji their skills.  Painday Khan was a powerful warrior.  He was a powerhouse and an expert practitioner of Shastervidya.  Many days passed like this.  Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib ji was the redeemer of the sinners. 

It was time for the birth of Guru ji’s next son.  Midwives were called to the home.  Divas were lit in the home.  The maids were serving with great hurry.  Mata Nanaki ji gave birth to a son.  Everyone was happy to hear this.  Mata Ganga ji was really happy to hear this.  She was happy to see her family grow so big.  The Dhundhabs sounded and everyone was happy to hear the instruments in the morning.  The beggars came to ask for donations.  Mata Ganga ji gave many donations.  Men and women came to offer their congratulations.  Many gifts were brought.  The celebrations were happening.  Mata Ganga ji celebrated.  Baba Bhudda ji was consulted and then Guru ji named the new baby “Atal Rai.”  He said: “he will be in the Atal Samadhi, the unending Samadhi.  He has been in an unending Samadhi from many births.  That is why he is Atal Rai.”  Guru ji gave donations to all.  The people praised Guru ji: “the grandson of Guru Ramdas ji is the pillar of the poor and the world.  Whoever comes to the Guru, the Guru grants them their wishes.  He pulls the roots of all pain.  He is the benevolent saint and the greatest warrior.  He gives the Sikhs, Mukti.  He blesses the Sikhs on a daily basis.  Inder bows to Guru ji and.  Inder is powerless in front of Guru ji.  Saying Guru ji’s name, the Jumms run away.  Doing Guru ji’s Darshan, the sins run away.  He is the “Raja Jogi,” the royal yogi, in the world.  His state is always the same.  He is unaffected by joy or sorrow.”  In this way, the Guru’s family was now: 1 daughter and 4 sons.  The new Sahibzada was very charming.  The house felt radiant.  Mata Ganga ji was overjoyed with all her grandchildren.  She would play with them and take care of them.  She would dress the grandchildren in golden jewellery.  She would feed them herself.  She would raise them with joy.  She was happy to see the Guru’s family grow.  Her son was the crown of the Sodhi family.  Many servants did Seva all the time.  Whether inside or out, the servants would follow the children around and serve them.  Satguru ji’s home was full of joy.  There was growth and prosperity everywhere. 

5-57 Bibi Kaulan ji

After many days, Mata Kaulan ji heard of the news of Guru ji’s newest son being born.  She was happy to hear this and wanted to see the children of the Guru.  She mounted her palanquin and made her way to the home of the Guru, with great joy.  She came to the home and bowed to Mata Ganga ji.  Mata Ganga ji gave Bibi Kaulan ji her blessings.  Mata Kaulan ji then went to the three wives of Guru ji and bowed to them.  She sat down with them and had pleasant discussions.  They all spoke with great love.  Mata Kaulan ji was given a lot of respect by everyone.  She was known as the Guru’s Bhagat and was respected as she came with love.  She gave her congratulations to all.  The four sons were playing together.  They were 4 handsome princes.  Mata Kaulan ji saw Bibi Veero ji, wearing golden jewellery.  She took all of the kids in her lap and gave them blessings.  Baba Gurditta ji was running around the house with his jewellery clanking as he ran.  Baba Sooraj Mal ji walked slowly as he was still a toddler.  Baba Ani Rai ji was crawling.  Baba Atal Rai ji was in his mother’s lap.  Bibi Veero ji was playing in a maid’s lap.  Mata Kaulan ji was very happy to see all of the children.  She loved them all and thought to herself: “these women are very fortunate.  They have great deeds from their last births, that they are enjoying the joy of having children.  They are fortunate to have the master of the world as their husband.  There is no other like him.  The sons are so handsome.  My heart is happy to see them.  Why wouldn’t they be so radiant?  Their father is so virtuous.  These women are fortunate and blessed to be enjoying the joy of their husband and their sons.”  She thought of all this and played with the children.  She took the kids in her lap, one by one.  She saw them and thought to herself: “why do I not have any children?  My other sisters have given birth to handsome and strong boys.  I haven’t asked for children.  I am unwise.  People from far away lands ask for things from Guru ji.  I should ask as well.  I have heard from many that: they received so much prosperity from Guru ji’s blessings.  Many ask for health.  Many ask for children who have none.  How many can I count?  Kings and paupers; both come to ask from Guru ji.  The generous Guru gives to all.  The Sangat takes the gifts and goes back to their homes.  If I had requested children before, I would have had them by now.”  She thought of all this, seeing the Guru’s children.  She became anxious as to why she hadn’t had children yet.  She didn’t sit long after she became anxious.  She was uneasy and got up.  She bowed to Mata Ganga ji and the 3 wives of Guru ji.

Mata Kaulan ji came back to her home, upset.  She thought very deeply.  She thought to herself: “Satguru ji sees me as a Turkani and that’s why he has let me go.  He doesn’t love me.  He didn’t do a good thing with me.  He sees me as the most impure.  He didn’t see the love in my heart.  The Sangat has all their wishes fulfilled.  Whoever comes for his Darshan, their wishes are granted.  Does anyone love the Guru as much as I do?  My mind does not go anywhere else besides Guru ji.  He lives in my heart, day and night.  I see his form all the time.  My mind rests in his form.  Why wouldn’t he grant me my wish?  His Dharma is to follow the love of his Bhagats.  That is his promise.  He is omnipotent.  He is the supreme.  Saying his name gives unlimited joy.  I am damned for not being able to ask for this wish.  Guru ji wasn’t happy with me.  That’s why I wasn’t blessed with children.  My Karma is bad.  The complete Guru didn’t do a right thing.  I loved him deeply.”  Mata Kaulan ji was shedding tears as she thought of this.  Her jewellery had diamonds and gems in them.  She took all her jewellery off.  She threw them in the middle of the home.  The jewellery on the floor looked like colourful stars in the sky.  She changed her clothes and wore thick and dirty ones instead of her expensive clothes.  She stopped eating or drinking.  She didn’t want to sleep on the soft beds. She preferred the hard ground instead.  She said: “either I will get a great son, or either I will die.”  She laid on the floor and shed tears.  She was angry and upset.  Her mind was not still.  She thought to herself: “Guru ji is omniscient.  He knows what’s wrong.  I will wait for him to come and pick me up.  I want him to grant me my wish.  I won’t get up till he comes.”  Mata Kaulan ji stayed on the ground, all day and all evening.  It was night now and she was more anxious.  She spent the night, suffering.  It felt like a year.  The maids would come to her and ask her: “what is wrong?  Why are you like this?”  Mata ji would respond: “the dispeller of pain only knows what’s wrong.  The Peer of Peers knows.”  She went quiet after that.

It was Amritvela and Guru ji got ready after bathing.  He sat in Samadhi and then went to the Divaan.  The Asa Vaar happened and then Sukhmani Sahib was recited as Guru ji sat on the Takhat.  He gave his Darshan to the Sikh Sangat.  Guru ji would recite a lot of Bani from Guru Granth Sahib ji as part of his Nitnem.   When Guru ji would recite Bani, we wouldn’t speak to anyone nor would he look around anywhere.  He would recite Bani with his eyes closed.  The night that Mata Kaulan ji spent in pain, Guru ji was reciting Sukhmani Sahib when hee felt the pull of the deep love of Mata Kaulan ji.  He could not remain seated in peace.  He could not tolerate the pain of his Bhagats.  Mata Kaulan ji was focused on the form of Guru Hargobind Sahib ji and so Guru ji could not focus his attention on the Bani.  Mata Kaulan ji’s focus was instilled upon Guru ji.  She was more focused than any Jogi in meditation.  Love had tied her into a deep Samadhi.  She was in love with great anxiousness.  Guru ji couldn’t tolerate her pain.  Guru ji had not completed the Sukhmani Sahib.  He couldn’t sit any longer.  He got up from the Divaan.  The Guru’s love for his Bhagats was greater.  He lived up to his promise and let go of his daily routine.  The Guru cannot let go of the love that his Bhagats have for him.  Guru ji went straight to Mata Kaulan ji’s home.

Mata Kaulan ji was on the floor with her eyes closed.  Guru ji sat on a bed near her and completed the recitation of Sukhmani Sahib.  After completing the recitation, Guru ji bowed his head.  He then called for one of the servants and said: “why is she laying on the floor like this?  What happened?  What task of hers was spoiled?”  The maid folded her hands and told Guru ji about the events leading up to this: “she went to your home and came back upset.  She threw off her jewellery and didn’t want to lay on her bed.  She wouldn’t tell us what’s wrong.  If we ask her, she says: the Peer of Peers knows my pain.  She has been like this for 18 hours now.  She hasn’t eaten or drank anything.  She is upset since yesterday afternoon.  She doesn’t want to eat, drink, sleep on beds or wear good clothes.  She threw her jewellery and takes deep sighs.  She keeps crying.  She calls you the Peer of Peers.  She will tell you everything.  Please ask her so she may tell you.”  Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib ji heard the whole story and wanted to ask Mata Kaulan ji himself.

5-58 Kaulsar

Mata Kaulan ji’s state was unspeakable.  Her eyes were beautiful like the eyes of a fawn but filled with tears as she lay on the ground.  Guru ji noticed that she had a wish in her heart.  Guru ji asked her: “why are you laying on the floor with your eyes drenched in tears?  You look pale when you are usually fair like the champak.  Who disrespected you?  Why are you wearing dirty clothes.  You should have told me what’s in your heart before.  I would have fulfilled your wish.  Why are you going through pain?  You are usually quite happy and joyful.”  Bibi Kaulan ji heard Guru ji’s sweet words.  She stood up and faced Guru ji.  She folded her hands and said: “you are omnipotent, oh master.  The whole world says this.  I have seen this as well.  Sikhs come from many lands and have their wishes fulfilled by you.  I had good karma in my previous births that I was to receive Mukti in this birth.  For this reason, I was able to latch on to your garb.  You saved me from the depths of Hell.  I was born in the house of Turks.  I am low.  I left all of that for your Sangat.  I came to you.  Till this world remains, your praises will be sung in this world.  I have thought about this.  I have no worry of my afterlife.  I know you have already saved me.  I have only one worry that is tied to this world.  Till it is not satisfied, my worry will not go away.  If being with you the worry is still there, then it is my fault.  The whole world receives such gifts from you.  I must be unfortunate.”  Guru ji said: “what is your task?  What is it that is causing you so much pain?  I will fulfill your task.  Why are you worrying for no reason?”  Mata Kaulan ji noticed that Guru ji was happy with her.  She was happy to hear this.  She said: “your praises are spread throughout the world and will continue to spread in the future.  I wish to have my name remain in this world.  I wish to receive the blessing of a son from you.  My mark will remain in the world then.  When people will see my son, they will say: “he is Kaulan’s son.”  This is making me upset.  Save me.  I only trust you.”  Sri Guru Hargobind ji heard this and said: “why did you think of this?  This world will not last forever.  I will cease to exist one day.  Why do you want to leave your mark here?  Let go of this desire and think about your real home, where everyone is to go.  Those people are wise and great who erase their worldly desires.  What will money and a son solve for you in the afterlife?  After dying, nobody can see their sons.  Ego and attachments are a myth.  They are false.  A person loses the game of his/her life due to the desire of possessing the material things of this world.  What will having a son do for you?  When a person dies, they go alone, leaving everyone behind.  The benefit of doing my Sangat is that so the desires in your heart don’t arise.  Why are you desiring such small things?  You have taken on so much pain for such a small thing.  Your love for me is very deep but the attachment in your heart still remains.”  Mata Kaulan ji said to Guru ji: “what you have said is for my own good.  I will tell you what happened.  I went to your home yesterday and saw your beautiful children.  Whoever gave birth to your children, their names will remain in this world.  When I die, my name won’t remain.  Nobody will say my name or remember me.  I did your Sangat.  I ask that my name remains in this world.  Your name will illuminate in every Yuga permanently.  Whoever says your name, you save them from this world.  I want my name to remain as well.  I have no other desire.  There is no other wish arising in my heart.  They have all died in my heart.  I want my name to be permanent just like yours.  This is my wish.  Give me a son, oh my beloved.  If I don’t get a son, I will die.  Just as the name of your 3 wives will be known in the world, I have the same wish.  Fulfill my wish, seeing the love in my heart.”  Satguru ji gave her hope and said: “this pain of yours will be easy to erase.  I will make your name illuminate more than the other 3 wives.  Your name will be known more.  Get up and bathe.  Be happy.  Wear nice clothes and eat food.  Your son will be such that everyone will know you by him.  I will make a Sarovar named after you.  It will be your son.  It will be called “Kaulsar.”  The Sangat will bathe in that Sarovar and say your name.  When all of the Sarovars will be named, this will be one of them.  It will be permanent.”  Mata Kaulan ji was very happy to hear this.  She got up and said: “you are my well-wisher.  Your ways are amazing.  I won’t be stubborn and ask for anything else.  You can do as you please.”  Mata Kaulan ji then bathed and got ready.

Satguru ji came back to his home and spoke to Baba Bhudda ji: “prepare for another Sarovar, quickly.  Whatever is needed, get it.  Bricks and other materials needed, have it gathered.”  Baba Bhudda ji heard this and said: “whatever you do, is always a generous thing.”  That day passed.  The next day, preparations were made.  The Masands and the Sikhs were gathered.  Guru ji came to the place of Kaulsar and did the ground-breaking ceremony.  Guru ji said to the Sangat: “whoever does Seva here, their wishes will be fulfilled.”  Baba Bhudda ji supervised the whole Seva.  Whatever was required, Baba ji had it brought.  When the Sangat came, they sang the praises of Guru ji.  They dug the dirt and threw it away.  The name of the Sarovar was Kaulsar.  Guru ji told Mata Kaulan ji everything: “your name will illuminate in all the lands.  This will become a great Teerath.  This is a gift to the world.  People will get joy from this Sarovar.”  Mata Kaulan ji was very happy to hear this.

The Sarovar was dug.  Listen to the next Katha.  Baba Rama ji went back home and told his wife what had happened: “Guru ji’s son is to be married to our daughter.”  Baba Rama ji’s wife was Mata Sukhdayee ji.  She heard this and said: “we are so fortunate.  The Guru’s son will come to marry our daughter.  The whole village will get to see Guru ji.  This is a great thing you did for everyone.  Because of you, our village will meet Guru ji.”

3 months passed.  The month of Maagh (January/February) came.  Baba Rama ji said to his wife: “let’s do the marriage now.”  The Pandha wrote the letter of the Engagement.  The letter was sent to Satguru ji.  When the Brahmin came to Guru ji, he gave his blessings.  Guru ji asked him: “where are you from and what brings you here?”  The Pandha said: “Rama sent me here to give you the letter of Engagement.  He invites you to Vatala to give your Darshan.  When someone’s good karma comes to fruition, they get to meet you.  Rama asked me to bow to your feet for him and invite you for your son’s marriage.”  Guru ji had the letter of engagement read out: “the month of Vaisakh (April/ May) is great for the marriage.  There is an auspicious day for marriage in that month.  Please come to our village for your son’s marriage.”  Guru ji sent news to his home.  Everyone was happy to hear this great news.  Mata Ganga ji said: “this is great!  I want to see my grandson’s marriage.” 

Satguru ji had the Brahmin served.  Guru ji got up and went to his home.  Mata Ganga ji asked Guru ji: “when is the marriage date?”  Guru Hargobind Sahib ji said: “the 21^st day of Vaisakh has been set for the marriage.  That is what they wrote.”  Everyone was happy to hear this.  The 3 wives and Mata Ganga ji were very happy.  The songs of joy were sung by the women of the city.  The celebrations started in the Guru’s home.  Everyone was happy to hear this.

5-59 Sri Gurditta ji’s Wedding

For 2 days, the Laagi Brahmins was kept in Amritsar.  After 2 days, he was given gifts and sent off.  Guru ji commanded everyone to gather the items needed for the wedding.  The Masands were given money to buy food for the Langar.  They bought sugar, ghee, long grain rice, and wheat.  They were given the instructions: “bring twice as much as you think you may need.”  The big pots were set on top of the fires and the “pakvaans,” fried food, was made.  When the pakvaans were made, many trays were filled with them and taken to Harmandhir Sahib.  They did the Parkarma of Harmandhir Sahib.  Baba Bhudda ji and Bhai Gurdas ji did the Ardaas.  The Prashaad was distributed.  Guru ji and the Sikhs came back to their home.  The rest of the trays were stored for the wedding.  Guru ji said: “fill carts with sweets and pakvaans.  Send them to the families of the Gurus; the Bedis, Trehans, Bhallas and Sodhis.  Invite them to the wedding.  Invited the whole family; relatives and friends.  Do this quickly.”  Mata Ganga ji sent the invitations to Khadoor Sahib and then Goindwal.  Mandyali (Mata Marwahi ji’s maternal home), Daroli (Bhai Sai Das ji’s village), and Dallay (Mata Damodri ji’s maternal home) were sent invitations with carts full of Pakvaans.  The homes of Ramdaspur (Amritsar) were all sent invitations.  They were all sent sweets and pakvaans.  Mata Ganga ji organized many celebrations.  Bhai Bidhi Chand ji was given a lot of responsibilities for the wedding preparations.  Tents with multi-colour cloths and silk ropes were tied up.  They had beautiful tarps and rugs.  They were all packed and ready to go for the wedding.  The horses were saddled with zarri cloths.  The saddles with rich cloths were prepared.  Clothes for the warriors were made.  Gems were embedded into their clothes.  A lot of money was used from the treasury to make clothes and jewellery.  When the items were prepared, they were shown to Guru ji for approval and appreciation. 

When only a few days remained, the family began to arrive in Amritsar.  Baba Dhatu ji and Baba Mohri ji came with their families.  Mata Daya Kaur ji and Baba Narayan Das ji came.  They all came with great joy to see their grandchild’s wedding.  Guru ji received them with great respect.  Guru ji bowed to his in-laws.  All of the women went to Mata Ganga ji and met her with great joy.  They embraced each other and laughed as they met.  Mata Damodri ji heard that her parents had arrived and came to meet them.  Baba Krishan Chand ji and Mata Dhanvanti ji arrived and met Satguru ji.  They were from the family of Mata Ganga ji.  Baba Duara ji and Mata Bhaagan ji came and met Mata Marwahi ji with joy.  The whole family of Guru ji came.  They all met with joy.  It was like meeting and immersing into a great ocean.  They all laughed and celebrated with joy.  Baba Gurditta ji was sitting in the middle.  The “Sapat Suhaagans,” (seven married women of the family – a tradition) were putting oil on to the groom’s body.  They rubbed the vatna on him and sang songs of joy.  They preformed the traditions of the family with joy.  They looked upon the boy with love.

Guru ji commanded the Bharaat to get ready.  Everyone began to pack and get ready.  They wore expensive clothes and jewellery.  A lot of money was spent on the new clothes.  The Shehnais, Dhundhabs and Nagaras were sounding.  The sound of the Nagara travelled far and wide.  The Bhatts and Naqeebs stood up and sang the glories of Guru ji.  They received a lot of donations.

The Guru’s son, Baba Gurditta ji, wore a new and beautiful chola.  A beautiful sehra was on his head.  Armlets and other jewellery adorned his body.  Everyone bowed at Harmandhir Sahib and did the Parkarma of the Sarovar.  They all mounted the horses and started their travel.  The beautiful women sang the “Ghoriya,” (folk songs sung when the groom mounts the horse) to send off the Bharaat.  They sang the songs with great joy.  Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib ji mounted his horse.  His army was ready and started off with Guru ji at the sound of the Nagara.  The Nagara sounded like a deep thunder.  When the “dhori chob,” double-beat, was played on the Nagara, that was the signal to move out.  The chariots, carts and palanquins started off.  The palanquins had zarri cloths which shined in the sun.  Bags of money were taken.  Guru ji was going to the wedding of his eldest son.  Mata Ganga ji took her 3 daughters-in-law, along other women, and did the traditions of the family, while the Bharaat left.  Mata ji and the other women came back to their home. 

Satguru ji was travelling with his son and the warriors.  Guru ji casted his divine sight on everyone.  He made sure that everyone was there.  After a little travel, evening came.  They set up camp and rested.  Where they stopped, was the place of Guru Nanak Dev ji, Sri Verka Sahib.  Guru Nanak Dev ji’s Bharaat stopped here and set up their Dhera.  Guru Hargobind Sahib ji and everyone else bowed there.  The Sikhs asked: “what place is this?”  Guru ji told them the history of the place as everyone listened attentively.  The Bharaat then made Langar and enjoyed the time there.  The horses and bulls were fed.  Everyone rested the night there.

At Amritvela, Guru ji bathed and got ready.  The Nagara was sounded to wake everyone up.  They all woke up and got ready.  They bathed and did their Nitnem.  They all got on top of their chariots and carts.  Satguru ji mounted his horse.  The instruments started to play as Guru ji started off.  The sounds of the Nagaras thundered in the sky.  The Turrarees and dhols were played.  The flutes, Jhanjh, and Napheeryas played.  The Bharaat started off in this way.  It was like a river flowing with force.  Everyone was eager to reach the place of the wedding. 

The people of Vatala were waiting.  They were busy preparing and eagerly waiting to see Guru ji and the Bharaat.  They wanted to see Guru ji and have their eyes blessed by seeing him. 

As the warriors travelled with Guru ji, they fired their rifles into the sky.  They practiced marching and Shastervidya.  The horses jumped like deer.  The warriors had to pull the reins and stopped the horses from running too fast.  The Bharaatis were decked out in beautiful clothes and jewellery.  They celebrated as they travelled.  They reached about 3 km near Vatala.  Guru ji saw a dense shade and stopped.  He got off his horse and sent a messenger to Vatala.  Everyone stopped there as well and sat under the shade.  They all fired their guns towards the sky in happiness.  They all fired at once which created a really loud noise.  The people of Vatala heard this and started playing their instruments.  Baba Rama ji was waiting.  When he heard the noise, he and everyone else got ready to receive the Bharaat.  The preparations were made for the Bharaat.  The pakvaans were made for the Bharaat.  They were very delicious.  Baba Rama ji had the pakvaans sent towards Guru ji with the elders of his village.

Baba Rama ji went right after.  They all reached the camp of Guru Hargobind Sahib ji and the Bharaat.  The carts were presented.  Everyone bowed to Guru ji and felt blessed to be in his holy presence.  They were happy to see the royal grandeur of the Bharaat.  They said to Guru ji: “Maharaj!  Please come to the village.  Give joy to your beloved Sikhs.”  The pakvaans were distributed to the Bharaat.  Everyone ate the delicious food and praised them.  When evening came, Guru ji commanded the Bharaat: “get ready with your good clothes.  Wear your clothes and weapons.”  The Naqeeb told the whole Bharaat to get ready.  Everyone got ready and mounted their vehicles.  Everyone was filled with joy.  It was the time of the “Tukaah,” the meeting.  The young men that were in the Bharaat, wore beautiful clothes and weapons.  Their faces were handsome.  They had golden hoops in their ears.  When they spoke, they were filled with joy.  Guru ji mounted an elephant as he rode into the village.  The tarp on the elephant was made with golden wires.  The bell in the elephant’s neck sounded, as it swayed from side to side during the travel.  The elephant was adorned with paints and pictures.  Guru ji saw Bhai Sai Das ji and signalled him to come and join him on top of the elephant.  Bhai Sai Das ji said: “you are the master and I am the servant of your servants.  How can I sit with you?  This would be blasphemous.”  Guru ji called him over and tricked him.  He grabbed him by the arm and pulled him up.  He had him sit with him on top of the elephant.  Bhai Dattu ji was on his chariot.  Other warriors were on their horses.  The palanquins shined in the sun.  Baba Mohri ji, Baba Krishan Chand ji and Baba Duara Das ji all travelled along with Guru ji on their chariots.  The whole Bharaat was big.  The horses had saddles made of gold and silver.  The warriors were on the horses.  Baba Narayan Das ji was the happiest of them all.  It was his grandson’s wedding.  He showered a lot of money as he travelled.  The Masands and Bhai Bidhi Chand ji showered money everywhere.  It was hard to count how many people were in the Bharaat that Gareeb Nivaaj brought with him.

5-60 Bharaat

Satguru ji, mounted his elephant, and the Bharaat headed forward to do the Tukaah.  The instruments sounded.  The pattahs and the Dhols were playing.  The Jhanjh, Napheeryas, flutes and the Dhundhabs were all sounding.  The Nagaras played and sent thundering echoes into the sky.  The Shuthri Nagaras played on the camels.  There was so much noise that no one could hear each other speaking.  The footsteps of the horses and the riding of the chariots could be heard.  The Bharaat was radiant.  The warriors fired their guns towards the sky.  The horses neighed.  The Bharaat showered money as they moved forward.  The beggars ran along the Bharaat, picking up the money that was showered.  The Masands showered money.  Like tireless clouds raining water, they would not get tired throwing the money.  The Bharaat reached the village like a river reaching the ocean.  The men looked radiant.  The people met each other with open arms.  It was like waves in the ocean.  The women of the village were energetic like lightening.  Their golden skins glistened as their zarri clothes adorned them.  The women got on top of their balconies, where their Dupattas would shine.  It looked like fire was on top of the houses.  The villagers all came out to receive the Bharaat from the main gate of Vatala.  Guru Hargobind Sahib ji was handsome like the full moon that comes out before sundown.  The Bharaat was life his moon rays.  It was like a tidal wave in the ocean.  There was a lot of noise and celebration.  Money was showered.  Guru ji did the meeting with the villagers.  The instruments played, the Nishans were waiving in the wind.  The Nagaras played loud.  The villagers were really happy to see the Bharaat.  It was like the clouds were showering joy.  Baba Gurditta ji was on his horse.  He wanted to reach the home of his in-laws.  Baba Rama ji brought his gifts and came to meet Guru ji with his hands folded.  He bowed to Guru ji’s feet instead of hugging him.  Many told him to hug Guru ji but he did not agree.  Guru ji grabbed Baba Rama ji by the arms and embraced him in a hug.  The traditions were complete.  The Tukaah was complete.  Everyone showered money as they walked into the village. 

Baba Gurditta ji got off his horse and walked towards the house.  He was standing at the door.  The family did the Arti of Baba Gurditta ji.  Everyone praised the groom: “oh my friends!  Look how handsome the groom is.  He is a great match for Rama’s beautiful daughter.  Vidhata has perfected this couple over the 4 Yugas.”  The family and Vedic traditions were completed.  The Bharaat was taken to their Dhera.  Everyone got off their horses and chariots. 

Baba Rama ji sent a messenger to call the Bharaat: “come and have food first.  We will do the Pheras afterwards.”  Everyone was happy to hear this.  The instruments sounded.  Guru ji and the Bharaat got ready and went to the home.  The fireworks were done to everyone’s delight.  The sparklers and other fireworks were lit.  There was a lot of noise from the fireworks.  The darkness was dispelled.  It looked like it was day again.  The fireworks made of gunpowder, displayed the Devatas, Devis and elephants in the sky.  People were in awe of the fireworks.  When the fireworks came close to the ground, in the form of a flying dragon, people would get scared and begin to run around.  Guru ji watched the fireworks.

Everyone then went to Baba Rama ji’s home.  Beautiful stools were placed for Guru ji to sit on.  The whole Bharaat sat in lines.  Guru ji sat down on a special sandalwood stool.  Tarps and rugs were laid out for everyone.  7 types of pakvaans were placed in a plate, along with ladoos and Jalabees.  They were very delicious.  Many types of dry fruits and nuts were placed in front of the Bharaat.  They all ate the food with great delight.  They ate as much as they wanted to.  The women with the lotus-petal eyes came to meet Guru ji.  They came and sang melodious songs.  They teased the Bharaat to create an environment of fun.  Many women sat on their balconies and watched.  The Bharaat was really happy.  Everyone got up after eating.  Guru ji gave money to the people who were going to wash his dishes.  The Bharaat came back to the camp at the sound of the instruments.  Guru ji sat radiant on his seat.  After some time, they were all called again: “come for the Pheras now.” 

The instruments played.  Guru ji took the senior Sikhs and went towards the place of marriage.  Baba Gurditta ji was at the front as he entered the home.  Everyone came and sat beside the bedi.  The Navgrehs were worshipped.  The Pooja of Agni was done and the fire was lit.  The Havan was done by the Brahmins by the recitation of Vedic Mantras.  The bride and groom both did the Pheras around the fire.  Baba Rama ji completed all the traditions as he was advised by the Brahmins.  Satguru ji gave a lot of donations to the Pandits and made them happy.  He gave respect to the family.  Guru ji then went back to his Dhera and rested. 

In the morning, the instruments played.  The Bharaatis got up and got ready.  Satguru ji took his wise son, Baba Gurditta ji, to the place where Guru Nanak Dev ji got married.  Bhai Sai Das ji was with them as well.  He folded his hands and said: “why did you bow to this place, Guru ji?”  Guru Hargobind Sahib ji told everyone the katha of Guru Nanak Dev ji’s wedding: “Guru Nanak Dev ji came here, to the home of Baba Mool Chand ji, and did the Pheras.”  Guru ji did the Pooja of the area and came back to the Dhera.  Guru ji and the Bharaat was called for food.  Guru Hargobind Sahib ji mounted a chariot along with the Bharaat and went to the home of Baba Rama ji.  Guru ji was wearing a radiant white chola.  2 Chaurs were being waived over his head.  Guru ji had a stick covered with flowers in his hand.  As he waived it, people bowed to him.  Thousands came to bow.  They slowly came to the home of Baba Rama ji.  The family of Baba Rama ji all ran to receive Guru ji and the Bharaat with respect.  They all folded their hands and smiled and Guru ji.  They said: “Dhan Gareeb Nivaaj!” 

A rectangular sandalwood stool was placed for Guru ji.  Guru ji was seated on it as everyone came and bowed to him.  Baba Mohri ji and the other elders of the Guru’s home were seated on high stools as well.  The best pakvaans were plated for the Bharaat.  They poured great quantities of food which did not require seconds.  Pistachios, almonds, dry fruits and coconuts were placed in front of them.  The dry fruits made everything taste great.  The Bharaatis all ate and enjoyed themselves.  The women came and made fun of the Bharaatis by singing “Sithinees.”  They sang songs of joy to their hearts’ delight.  Everyone was satiated with the food.  Guru ji completed the tradition of leaving some food.  He washed his hands and left money in his plate for the dishwashers.  Guru ji then went to his camp.  The Sooraj Mukhi sign was raised.  The fan with the golden rod was waived.  The Bhatts and Naqeebs sang the praises of Guru ji.  The people heard the glories of Guru ji.  The young soldiers were marching fearlessly with the Nishans and the Sooraj Mukhi.  Everyone rested in the Dhera.  Everyone was adorned with beautiful clothes and jewellery.  Many beggars came and got money from the Masands.  The day was over and evening came.  Everyone slept at night in peace. 

In the morning, everyone bathed and got ready.  Satguru ji said to everyone: “decorate your chariots and get ready.”  Everyone obeyed and got to work right away.  Guru ji got into his palanquin and Bhai Sai Das ji mounted his horse.  They had conversations as they travelled.  Baba Mohri ji and Baba Dhatu ji was with Guru ji.  Everyone wanted to see the place of Guru Nanak Dev ji.  They went to the place of Achal Sahib.  They all went with great enthusiasm.  They bowed to the place of Guru Nanak Dev ji and offered a lot of Karah Prashaad.  The Prashaad was distributed among the Sangat.  A Divaan was started there and everyone listened to the Bilawal Chownki.  It was a radiant Sangat with a lot of Sikhs.  Guru ji got up after and did the Ardaas.  Guru ji then got into his palanquin.  Bhai Sai Das ji was with Guru ji.  He asked Guru ji about the Katha of Guru Nanak Dev ji: “why did Guru ji come here?”  Guru Hargobind Sahib ji told him the whole Katha: “this was the place of the Sidhs.  Gorakh Nath and others lived here.  A big Mela would take place here where many people would come.  Guru ji came here to destroy the inflated egos of the Sidhs.  They were all defeated in debate and bowed to the feet of Guru Nanak Dev ji when they had nothing more to say after they lost.  It was like an elephant defeated by a lion.  From that time onwards, this place is a very holy site.  Whoever comes here, they receive a lot of rewards.”  As Guru Hargobind Sahib ji spoke, they reached the Dhera.

Baba Rama ji heard that Guru ji was arriving.  He had everyone come to his home for a feist.  Three days had passed in this way.  The Sangat of the nearby villages all came to see Guru ji.  They said to each other: “Guru ji came to have his son married.”  They all came for Guru ji’s Darshan.  They brought money and gifts for Guru ji and bowed to his feet.  Their eyes were blessed to see Guru ji.  For three days the Sangat came and had their wishes fulfilled.  Everyone was amazed to see the great celebrations.  It was like all the joy in the world had gathered here.