1-1 Manglacharan

Ik Oankaar Satgur Prasaad.

Sri Vahiguru ji ki Fateh.

Sri Baghauti ji Sahai.

Akaal Purakh is above all states of time, past, present and future.  The knowledge-filled are always trying to find Akaal Purakh.  The existence of Akaal Purakh is constant and infinite.  Akaal Purakh is aware if its existence.  Akaal Purakh is constantly in bliss, is the source of bliss, is pure bliss.  The existence of Akaal Purakh in all life forms is the same.  The Guru gives us the knowledge of Akaal Purakh and relieves the Sikhs from pain, attachment and desire. 

Just as the white clouds are praised in the winter months, Akaal Purakh’s power is beautiful.  Just as the moon is beautiful in winter; the colour of Naarad; the power of Akaal Purakh is beautiful; supreme, the giver of knowledge; destroyer of hunger and pain.  The name of the power that bestows knowledge is called Sharda Devi.  Kavi Santokh Singh ji bows to the power of Akaal Purakh. 

Desire, anger, greed, attachment and ego are the snakes.  These vices are killed and eradicated by Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji, the eagle.  The name of Guru Nanak Dev ji is the eagle that kills the snakes: desire, anger, greed, attachment, and ego.  Guru Nanak gave his Sikhs the mantra of Satnam and saved countless.  The messengers of death are afraid of the name of the son of Baba Kalu (Guru Nanak Dev ji).

Guru Angad Dev ji was the one to harness the power of Akaal Purakh, Guru Nanak Dev ji.  After acquiring limitless power and becoming one with Guru Nanak Dev ji, he had the ability to kill his ego.  Nobody else was able to live up to that level.  He pulled his vices and desires from the root.  He gave Sikhs the ability to control their vices.  I bow to Guru Angad Dev ji who is always assisting his Sikhs.

The vices that destroy the virtues, Guru Amar Das ji killed those vices.  He made 22 positions to preach the message of Sikh.  He assisted his Sikhs by giving them the mantra of Satnam.  The Sikhs succeeded in crossing the world with ease.  The gem of the Bhalla family raises the Sikhs like his own children.  He was the sun that removed the darkness of ignorance.

Just as Purshooram killed the tyrant kings; as Ramchandra killed Raavan; as Balram overpowered Jarasandh; Guru Ramdas Ji was a strong sun that dispelled the darkness of ignorance. 

Taking the essence of all the Vedas and the Shastras, Guru Arjan Dev ji gave it to the world.  He took the pain and torture upon his body and remained undeterred.  He showed the world that the soul was real and the body was a myth. 

The destroyer of the sinners, Guru Hargobind Sahib ji killed them in the battlefield.  The Mughals froze in front of him.

The mind of the Sikhs is like a jungle which has the deer as the vices.  Guru Har Rai’s feet were like a lion which scared the deer away. 

The pain of the body and mind are like a dry jungle.  Guru Har Krishan Sahib ji’s name was like fire that burned the dry jungle of the vices away.

Just as the fire burns the trees, my mind was burning by the vices of the mind.  Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji was the water that hydrated the dry jungle. 

Oh mind, if you want to rid the bad smell of the vices then make your mind a bee and think of Guru Gobind Singh ji’s lotus feet.  Those feet will relieve you from your vices.

One light of Akaal Purakh came into 10 incarnations.  I bow to the feet of the 10 Gurus.

The Guru is like the sun which travels through 12 months, and hence the Granth had 12 Raases.  The 12 Raases told the history of 8 of the 10 Gurus.  Dukhnayan and Uttarayan are the 2 solstices in which the 6 seasons (Rutts) exist.  The history of Guru Gobind Singh ji will be said in this manner. 

Sri Nanak Parkash was said in Poorbardh and Uttararad.  The glory of Guru Nanak was said in this manner. 

Now the history of Kalgidhar will be said in the 6 Rutts and 2 Ayans.  The history will be said in this manner.  Please bless the author so that I may meet the Guru Lord and emerge into the Guru’s being.  The history will be written to the best of the author’s ability.  The Guru’s sight gives peace in both worlds.  Why should one forget such a great Guru?  We should think of the Guru constantly. 

The Satguru’s beautiful history should be listened to by Sikhs, which will make you great and pure.  This is the most beautiful history that should be a part of your daily routine.  My friends, Sikhs, come together and listen to the beautiful history of the Guru. 

Filled with the warrior spirit, the giver of patience; who cut the bondages of the Sikh Saints; the root of peace; the killer of sinners; whoever followed the Guru, the Guru became theirs; Sikhs became educated and knowledge-filled, their pain went away, they were filled with bliss.  The son of Guru Tegh Bahadhur is filled with beautiful characteristics and has a peaceful personality.

The history of the Guru gives peace and makes the mind stable.  The listener of this history will become wealthy.  Listening to this history will kill your ego and attachment.  This history will strengthen the faith and devotion towards the Guru.  Pain and illness will be washed away.  This is the root of peace.  The essence of all the Vedas, Shastras, Puranas and religious scriptures has been churned; the butter was placed in this history, this beautiful history of the Guru, Guru Gobind Singh.  The traits of the Gurus are like the gems which this history has embedded within it.  This history will bring great happiness.

The beloved Sikhs will listen to this history in Sangat.  I bow to the feet of those Sikhs.  My mind is small and therefore I am scared to write the history, in case I make mistakes.  I will make many mistakes.  Please do not judge me or criticize my mistakes.  Please forgive me for my mistakes.  This is my request to all the Sikhs, to the Guru Khalsa.

The Sikhs who live in Amritsar, other cities and places of the Gurus; who live in Abachal Naggar and anywhere where Guru ji resided; and recite the words of the Gurus; I request them with both hands folded, I bow my head to the Panth Guru Khalsa, please help me to complete the whole history of the Gurus, without hurdles.  I would like to have this history full of nectar. 

The Sikhs in the whole world, who bathe in the morning and recite the Guru’s name, I bow to thee at your feet.  Please pray that I may complete this history.  Please bless me with this gift.  The Khalsa is the Guru’s form.  The Khalsa, that pacified the sinners in the battlefield, and recites the name of the Guru, I bow to their feet. 

The essence of Brahamgyaan, the boat which carries the Sikhs across this ocean of ignorance, Guru Granth Sahib ji came to assist the Sikhs.  Guru Granth Sahib ji is the light of the Gurus.  Guru Granth Sahib ji fulfills all the wishes of the Sikhs.  Guru Granth Sahib ji grants Bhrahmgyaan and wealth.  I bow to Guru Granth Sahib ji and place my forehead in front of you.  Millions of Sikhs will cross this world ocean reciting Guru Granth Sahib ji.  I bow to all of the Saroop of Guru Granth Sahib ji.  Guru Granth Sahib ji assists everyone at the time of death.  Sikhs in the past, present and future, I beg thee to bless me to complete this history without hurdles, which has the great glory of the Satguru.

Kavi Santokh Singh ji praises his teacher Sant Singh ji: I bow to thee, on your feet. 

Kavi Santokh Singh ji praises his parents: Father Deva Singh ji, I bow to thee.  I bow to my mother and begin to write the history that washes away all sins.

Listen to this history oh listeners, the glory of Guru Sahib cannot be said in its complete form.  Listening to this history will give wealth and salvation.  It will increase your faith and devotion.  It will fulfill all the wishes and remove the sins of all the births.  The listeners will become smart; their enemies will be destroyed.  How Guru ji lived, people will understand.  Virtues will form and sins will be washed away.  This history will be evergreen.  Please do not focus on the mistakes, but take the great virtues of the Gurus.

1-2 The Head of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji comes to Kiratpur

The Sikh that was set off from Delhi, who Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji gave the coconut and 5 coins to, was on his way to Anandpur.  He was carrying the power and radiance of the Guruship.  The Guruship was coming to Anandpur in his hands.  This was the tradition of passing the Guruship, started by Guru Nanak Dev ji and subsequently carried on by the successors: by placing a coconut and 5 coins, the Guruship, the Gurta Ghuddi, was transferred to the next Guru.  The person was on his way and travelled continuously.  He did not stop and did not get tired.  He came atop a chariot, as instructed by Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji.  He wanted to go as fast as he could to get to Guru Sahib, quickly.  He reached Anandpur in a few days. 

When it was about 10 am, the king of kings, Guru Gobind Singh ji was sitting in the Divan.  Whatever happens in the universe on a daily basis, Guru Gobind Singh ji is aware of everything, before it happens.  The Sikhs and Masands sitting around Guru ji were really worried.  They were worried of and waiting for news to come from Delhi.  Some Sikhs that were living in Anandpur permanently and some new Sikhs who had arrived, were all sitting with Guru ji.  The Sikh, carrying the Gurta Ghuddi (Guruship) reached the court.  As the Gurta Ghuddi, the throne of Akaal Purakh, with all its powers and rights, the position of Guru Nanak Dev ji, the seat of the Guruship approached the court, Guru Gobind Singh ji sensed it coming and got up from his seat to receive it.  He folded his hands and bowed to the Gurta Ghuddi and then sat down again.  The Sikh approached Guru ji and placed the 5 coins in front of Guru Gobind Singh ji.  He placed the coconut into the lap of Guru Gobind Singh ji.  He then folded his hands and bowed at the feet of Guru Gobind Singh ji.  The Sikh then got up and folded his hands and bowed to the Sangat.  He then sat down and looked towards the handsome and radiant face of Guru Gobind Singh ji.  Guru ji then asked the Sikh about news he had from Delhi.  He then began to speak: “Guru Ji, before leaving Delhi, I saw the sinful ways of Aurangzeb.  He was giving many types of tortures to Guru ji.  Guru ji was placed in an iron cage but was in high spirits.  He was not affected by the torture or harassment, whatsoever.  He was not in any fear.  He was brave and in the state of bliss, as he is always in.  Just as a lotus is blossomed, Guru ji’s face was always blooming.  Nauranga sends clever and despicable individuals from his court that come to Guru ji and say horrible things to him everyday.  They try to convince him in to converting to Islam and offer him wealth and women.  The Umraavs think they are smart and come to convince him everyday and ask him to show his powers.  They want him to let go of his religion and tell him to come into the Shariya of Islam.  They say if he converts, the whole world would become Muslim.  The Pandits of Kashmir are looking towards Guru ji and therefore will convert if he will.  The Umraavs say: “If the Pandits convert, then so will the other castes.  If you don’t want to convert, then show your powers as Ram Rai did.  Ram Rai showed many miracles, just as the Emperor asked him to.  The Emperor gave much wealth to Ram Rai along with great status and land.  Dehradun is under Ram Rai’s control.  Many people have become Ram Rai’s Sikhs.  Ram Rai is famous and has a great following.”  They want Guru ji to convert and become the Peer of Hindustan.  “Why do you not convert to Islam?” Say the Umraavs.  Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji would respond back to the Umraavs: “Nauranga, the Chaugata, is a fool.  His wisdom and logic have gone blind.  His mind is dirty.  His kingdom will fall.  The glory and tapp of the Mughals will now diminish.  The sun is about to set in their kingdom.  The Emperor is committing blasphemy and doesn’t even know it.  He is wasting his time and concentrating on the wrong things.  He is about to be caught in his own strategic web.  He will be in pain and sorrow.  His sins will send him to Hell.  Guru Nanak Dev ji gave his ancestor, Babar, a blessing.  He gave him the rule of Hindustan for 7 generations.  This Natanand (great, great, great grandson) will destroy everything.  Miracles are the door to calamity.  Akaal Purakh does not like the meddling of natural law.  Saints do not like miracles, this is not their way.  They do not show miracles like magic tricks.  They do not like people praising their work.  People who show miracles like magic tricks, saints look at them and feel bad.  They feel that they have done wrong by altering Akaal Purakh’s laws.  The saints only follow their traditions and do not leave it.  Whatever Ishwar does, will happen and cannot be stopped by anyone.  Anyone who tries to change what Akaal Purakh wishes, is not wise.”  This is what Guru ji said to the Umraavs.  The Umraavs would get angry upon hearing Guru ji’s words.  Guru ji told the jailor to bring me close to him into the jail.  The jailor had become a devotee of Guru ji and would help the Sikhs.  At night time, he would let us see Guru ji.  The jailor had become a faithful servant of Guru ji.  He would take the Sikhs, that you would send from Anandpur, and sneak them into the jail to meet Guru ji.  He took me to Guru ji as well.  Guru ji then said to me: “I only have a day or two left in my body.  Take the Gurta Ghuddi of the Universe, which I was taking care of, to Anandpur and do not rest anywhere.  Give the Gurta Ghuddi to the Avatar of Akaal Purakh’s power, who is the all-powerful Dusht Daman, Guru Gobind Singh ji.  His glory will be great in the world.  He will be the Maharaja of Maharajas.  Tell him: not to think of anyone else’s opinion and do what you need to do, to pull the roots of the Mughals.  Don’t fear anyone.  Start your own religion of soldiers.  Educate them in scriptural knowledge and battle training.  Teach them the martial ways and the skills of weaponry.”  With the blessing of the Guru, I then started from Delhi and did not stop till I reached here.”

Guru Gobind Singh ji and the Sangat heard the full description and accounts from Delhi.  He then meditated on Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji and brought him into his consciousness.  The Sangat thought of the great Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji and pictured him in their minds.  Guru Gobind Singh ji and the Sangat folded their hands and bowed, remembering the elder Guru.  The Guru, so powerful, having all of the powers of Akaal Purakh, never mentioned them or showed them.  His power was so great that it could not have been measured.  His ways were unique and only known to him.  He desired absolutely nothing in his life from this world.  He praised everyone else, except himself.  He gave everything he had to everyone else and kept nothing for himself, not even his head, not even his body nor his life.

Where Mata Gujri ji and Mata Nanaki ji were sitting, the Sikh that just arrived from Delhi went to go visit them.  He bowed to them and told them of what happened in Delhi while he was there.  The mothers were taking deep breaths and shedding tears from their eyes.  They said: “great is Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji.  He is all-powerful.  The servants of his servants have the power to do anything they want, but the Guru took all of the pain on top of his body.  He could have blown the Mughals away but didn’t.  He can do what he wants to do in an instant.  Today, he has sent the Gurta Ghuddi.  His doing is only known to him.  He has unlimited power and unlimited tolerance.  His patience is unlimited.  Aurangzeb has crossed many lines and is blasphemous.  Other then Guru ji, nobody can tolerate all this.  He is saving the Hindu religion and is carrying the brunt on his shoulders.  The Devatas could not assist the Hindus, only Guru ji took on the task.  His doings are without doubt.  We just wanted to see you, nothing else.  You give your servants peace and bliss in both worlds.  You take care of everyone and give them what their hearts desire.”  Mata Nanaki ji spoke: “what ever happened with my father-in-law, Guru Arjan Dev ji, is happening to my son now.  My father-in-law was the azimuth, the apex of powerful saints, he did not show an iota of it to anyone.  He took all of the pain, on top of his body.  Chandu became the guilty sinner for these heinous acts.  Guru Arjan Dev ji left his body near the shores of the Ravi.  His grandson is doing the same thing in Delhi.  They are all-powerful but don’t use their power at all.”

It was about 45 mins past noon and the mothers sat there, worrying.  All of a sudden, Guru Gobind Singh ji got up from his seat atop the beautiful bed, and sat down on the floor.  All of the Sikhs were surprised to see Guru ji get up from his seat and sit down on the floor.  Guru Gobind Singh ji sensed the tragedy that had occurred in Delhi.  The news came to the mothers that Guru Sahib has gotten up all of a sudden and sat down on the floor.  The mothers were in deep pain.  They figured out that Guru ji must have left his body and gone to Sach Khand.  They came to Guru Gobind Singh ji and saw him sitting on the floor.  Mata Gujri ji began to cry out loud.  The servants and other Sikhs began to cry out loud as well.  Everyone was in great pain.  “Maharaj, who will take care of us now?” Said everyone.  Guru Gobind Singh ji sent servants to his mothers and told them not cry.  He sent the message: “Remember his greatness and remember his doings.  He was in one state.  He was not in pain nor pleasure.  The Guru never dies nor is born.  He took on a human body to save the world.  Just as a cloud comes to bring rain and then disappears, that is how the Guru is.  The clouds give peace to the world and then go back.  The Guru is just like the cloud and gives peace to the Sikhs.  The Guru gives knowledge and peace to the Sikhs and shows them the rightful path in this world.  They come as they please and go back to Sach Khand as the please.  There is no reason to be sad when they leave.  Recite the name of Satnam and do not be in pain.  Dedicate your life to the Simran of Satnam.”  When everyone heard Guru ji’s words, they all stopped crying and pondered on his guidance.  They began to recite Gurbani. 

Guru ji sent two Sikhs on horseback and said: “there is a Sikh coming form Delhi.  Go and receive him and see what news he has.”  The Sikhs saddled their horses and headed towards Delhi.  They travelled day and night and looked for the Sikh on the way.  They looked around keenly.  After some distance, they saw the Sikh carrying a basket.  It was Bhai Jetha.  He had the head of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji in a basket, covered with Neem leaves.  He was looking around here and there, all around, not to be noticed by Mughals.  The Sikhs met Bhai Jetha.  They greeted him and said: “Bhai Jetha ji, what news do you have from Delhi?”  By Jetha responded: “I have the head of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji in this basket on top of my head.  The unthinkable tragedy has occurred.  I want to take Guru ji’s head to Sri Anandpur Sahib as soon as possible.  Where are you two headed?  What was going to happen in Delhi, has already happened.  There is nothing more to know or see there.  Whatever Guru ji wanted to happen, that has occurred.  You should go back and tell Guru Gobind Singh ji.  I will tell him everything.  I am going to Kiratpur and will wait for everyone there.  I’m going there because all of the elder Sodhi Guru’s resting places are there.  They were cremated there.  Please ask Guru Gobind Singh ji: where should the cremation of the head of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji happen?  Whatever Guru ji wants, I will do.  I will wait for everyone in Kiratpur in the meantime.”  The Sikhs on horseback agreed and went back to Anandpur.

The Sikhs reached Anandpur and tied their horses.  They came to Guru Gobind Singh ji and bowed.  They told everyone of what had happened in Delhi.  When they explained that Bhai Jetha is bringing the head of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji, everyone went into a deep sorrow and began to shed tears.  Guru Gobind Singh ji stopped everyone from crying.  He spoke to the Masands and said: “take money and prepare a palanquin to bring back the head of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji.  Prepare Kanchan pushps (golden flowers, i.e. Orchid-like flowers called Vishnu flowers: Bauhinia Tomentosa) and sandalwood for the pyre.  Make garlands of flowers.  Bring pashmina cloths and fragrances.  Bring barley, sesame seed oil and ghee.”  The Masands heard the commands and sent forth others to gather the materials from nearby towns and cities. 

Preparations were made for the cremation for Guru ji’s head.  Bhai Jetha was in Kiratpur, awaiting instructions. 

1-3 The Head of Guru ji Cremated in Anandpur

Satguru ji asked the mothers, Mata Nanaki ji and Mata Gujri ji: “where should Guru ji’s head be cremated?”  The elder Masands folded their hands and said: “Guru Hargobind Sahib ji’s body was cremated in Kiratpur.  From that day on, all of the Sodhis’ cremation is done in Kiratpur.  It is up to you to decide where the rightful place should be though.”  Mata Gujri ji did not agree and then spoke: “the other Sodhis did not establish their own cities, so their cremation was done in Kiratpur.  When Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji became the Guru, he left his city and came to establish a new one.  This was because the other family members were jealous of him.  Guru ji did not like conflict, that is why he left Bakala and why he didn’t stay in Kiratpur.  He had a very beautiful and calm personality.  That is why he came here to Anandpur.  He bought this land by giving a lot of money and worked really hard to establish it.  This place was very blissful and that is why he called it Anandpur.  Bring his head here.  Here is where his cremation should take place.  His mother is in deep sorrow.  She is very old and would like to see his face one last time.  This is where the cremation should take place.”  As Mata Gujri ji was speaking, her throat swelled up with emotion and she could no longer talk.  The Satguru heard his mother’s words and deemed them as the best advice.  Preparations were made to bring Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji’s head to Anandpur.  This way, both mothers did not need to travel.  Some of the members of the Sangat went to bring the head of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji to Anandpur.  The expensive palanquin was complete.  The Masands picked up the palanquin and set off to Kiratpur.  Guru ji lead the way, followed by the Sikhs and Masands.  The Sikhs were reciting Gurbani as they travelled.

Everyone soon reached near the place where the Sikh who brought Guru ji’s head was waiting.  When the Sangat of Kiratpur found out about the tragedy that occurred, they began to mourn and yell out in grief.  They reached the place where Bhai Jetha ji was waiting and saw Guru ji’s head.  Guru ji’s head was then placed in the palanquin.  The palanquin was lifted atop of the shoulders and everyone bowed to Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji’s head.  The Chaurs (royal fans) were being waived all around the palanquin by the Sikhs.  An expensive cloth was placed on top of Guru ji’s head, to cover it.  Rose essence water was sprinkled everywhere and garlands of flowers were placed in and on top of the palanquin.  Many fragrances were sprayed and a beautiful scent arose all around.  As they travelled back, Gurbani was sung in specific Ragas with Mridangams and Rababs.  Raga Maaroo and Vadhans were sung.  The Sikhs would stand still while singing the Paurees (poetic measure) in those Ragas.  Money was offered where they went.  It was put in the palanquin as they travelled.  Kanchan pushps flowers were showered atop the palanquin as they moved.  Men and women were very sad and shed tears as they watched the palanquin travel by. 

The travelling party walked slowly towards Anandpur, grieving their loss.  Many Masands and Sikhs were all around the palanquin.  Conches were blown, creating a very loud echo.  People would curse the Emperor as they walked: “the Mughals’ kingdom will now be thrown into the ocean.  It will not last long.  He is a stain on his family.  He is a wretched son.  His family is doomed.” 

As they came close to Anandpur, kids, seniors, men and women of the city came to receive the palanquin.  Mata Gujri ji came out ahead as well.  Mata Nanaki ji, being old, was kept inside the home, citing that this may be to overwhelmingly drastic for her to see.  Mata Gujri ji saw the palanquin and began to think of her husband’s greatness.  She spoke: “your son was still too young and your mother was too old to see this.”  Mataji folded her hands and continued to shed tears.  She bowed her head towards the palanquin.  The Palanquin was brought to the place where the sandalwood pyre was prepared.  Mata Nanaki ji came to the place of the cremation.  She was shouting her son’s name loudly and grieving: “my son was the idol of peace.  I want to see his face.  I will die now because of this pain.  How will I live with this pain?”  Guru Gobind Singh ji heard his grandmother’s words and told the carriers of the palanquin to rest it down.  The cloth from Guru ji’s face was removed.  Guru Gobind Singh ji, Mata Gujri ji, along with Mata Nanaki ji saw Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji’s face.  Mata Nanaki ji touched her sons face and cried.  It looked as though he was still alive, but sleeping.  His eyes looked like the petals of a lotus flower as it folds after sundown.  The white and black hairs of his head and beard could be seen.  The Masands and Sikhs wanted to see Guru ji’s face as well.  Everyone was in a deep shock seeing Guru ji’s face and would feel a deep pain in their heart; as though thorns were stabbed through their chests.  Guru ji’s face was covered again and placed on the pyre.  A deep sorrow casted over everyone as this moment was it.  It was the last time they would see the Guru’s face.  The Sikhs gave Guru Gobind Singh ji the flame, which he then lit the pyre with.  A bright glow radiated throughout as the flames burned.  Guru Gobind Singh ji went around the pyre, circumventing it and then bowed.  He performed all of the rites and rituals of the cremation and then went to go bathe. 

Everyone sat down at the shore of the Sutlej and began to sing the glories of the Guru.  They listened to the Kirtan with their full attention and pictured Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji in their minds.  Everyone gave Guru Gobind Singh ji their condolences as Guru ji came back, dressed in new clothes.  Guru ji came to where everyone was sitting and stood in the centre.  Upon singing the Shabads, the Paurees were read.  Kirtan Sohila was recited.  They then offered the Ardaas and bowed their heads.  Karah Prashaad was brought and distributed.  The Sikhs expressed their condolences in front of Guru ji again and one by one, set off towards their homes.  The remaining Sikhs would say: “Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji’s patience and forgiveness was unmatched.  Guru ji was full of bhakti and yog.  The foolish Emperor had committed a grave sin, which will surely send him to hell.  Guru ji gave his head and saved the honor of the Hindus.  Had Guru ji not given his head, the traditions of the Vedas, Puranas, Holy sites, yagnas offered to Devatas, dehuras, all would have been lost.  There was none other besides Guru ji who would give his life to save another religion.  Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji is great.  He showed everyone his bravery and protected the Hindu religion.”  Bhai Jetha ji, who brought the head of Guru ji from Delhi, was signaled to sit next to Guru Gobind Singh ji.  Guru ji asked him: “tell me, how did you get into possession of Guru ji’s head?  Didn’t anybody see you or stop you?  The Mughals must have had a strict watch.  How did you bring the head from there?”  Bhai Jetha folded his hands and said: “the Guru was my protector and he blessed me.  When Guru ji’s head separated from his body, it flew into my lap.  A wind storm began and dirt and rocks began to blow into everyone’s eyes.  Nobody else could see what was going on.  I took the head and wrapped it up and skid away so nobody would notice.  There were many people near the jail.  I ran away from all of them quickly.  Nobody stopped me.  I left the city and was on my way.  The guards then started to look for the head and were surprised after not finding it.  When they figured out that someone had taken the head, they had mounted soldiers sent to look for the head.  I met some of these soldiers who were on horseback.  I saw them and I got worried that they would take the head from me.  I saw some carts that were travelling by.  I put the head in one of the carts and began to walk alongside the cart.  The soldiers interrogated everyone, including me.  They asked me who I was and checked my clothes.  They then searched the carts by stopping them.  When they looked into the cart with Guru ji’s head, Guru ji’s head would disappear and go to the next cart.  Each cart they would go to, the head would disappear from there.  When they didn’t find the head, they went to the front and the head disappeared again and came to the last cart.  Only I was able to see Guru ji’s head.  The soldiers were tired of searching and returned.  When they left, I took Guru ji’s head and wrapped it up and put it in a basket and carried it on top of my head.  I was fearless at that point, knowing the Guru was with me.  I then travelled straight towards Anandpur as instructed by Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji.  I was without doubt and Guru ji assisted me the whole way.  I came here by his blessings, passing many guards and soldiers along the way.  Guru ji protected the tilak and Janyow of the Hindus.  Satguru ji saved the Hindu religion.  Delhi is in shambles now but I have no idea what happened.  Whoever is coming from Delhi will be able to tell you in detail.  I have told you all that I have heard.” 

1-4 Yagna and Langar

As the elder Masands advised, Guru ji did all the rituals required for his father’s departure from this world.  News spread far and wide about Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji’s great sacrifice.  Sangat came with their Masands from afar to pay their respects.  The Bedis (descendants of Guru Nanak Dev ji), Trehans (descendants of Guru Angad Dev ji), and Bhallas (descendants of Guru Amar Das ji) all came to Anandpur as well.  They sat near Guru Gobind Singh ji when they came and gave their condolences.  They rested in their tents afterwards.  Mata Nanaki ji was in a deep sorrow.  She continuously shed tears from her eyes and was in great pain.  Mata Gujri ji’s tears didn’t stop either.  Satguru ji sent Masands to console the mothers.  “There is no place for sorrow in the house of the Guru.  The house of the Guru is in constant bliss and high spirits.  One is to focus on the one, calm state, constantly,” advised Guru Gobind Singh ji.  The most scholarly and mature Masands went to the mothers to console them.  They sat on the ground and said: “Mataji, please listen to our plea.  You should not be drowning in such a deep attachment.  You shouldn’t keep remembering Satguru Tegh Bahadhur ji so much, and go into states of depression.  Guru ji left his body by his own will, to save the Hindu religion.  Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji is immortal, both spiritually and figuratively.  He will always be alive in the minds of Sikhs and Hindus.  He smashed his body atop of Aurangzeb’s head and put a great guilt on him.  He knew his body’s end was near.  He used it for this reason.  Please concentrate on Guru Gobind Singh ji, as he is now the Guru.  Please control your mind from going into depression and sorrow.”  Mama Kirpal Chand ji was standing next to his sister and spoke: “sister, you are very smart and you know the truth.  What was going to happen, already happened.  There is no going back.  Satguru ji sent the Saloks that he wrote and told us in his letter that everyone has to die one day.  Why do you not engrain the meanings of his Saloks in your heart?  Please consider what Gurbani says upon these topics.  His son will be a great Guru.  His radiance can be seen already and the whole world knows of how great he will be.  You yourself can see how powerful and scholarly he is.  Look at him and stay in bliss being by his side.  Your son is loved by everyone just as the chakor (partridge) loves the moon.  Look how he keeps sending people over to you, to console you and make sure you are all well.  He sends us to you, over and over again.”  Both of the mothers then thought about what they were just told.  They thought of the love of Guru Gobind Singh ji and shed their sorrows away.  Mata Gujri ji accepted the will of Akaal Purakh and started to look towards her son’s face. 

The mothers then began to prepare for the tradition of the Dastaar Bandhi (tying of the Turban).  This tradition signifies the coming of age of a young boy and also marks the transfer of an ownership, power or change of the head of the household.  This tradition is also done with the eldest son when the father passes away.  The mothers gave out their orders: “bring all the items required for the Dastaar Bandhi ceremony.  If you need to go to other cities to get them, so be it.  If you find them close by, pay for them and buy them.”  The Masands then sent out other Sikhs to buy clothes, dastaar and Pashmina materials.  Silk clothes were bought.  Ghee, sugar and other groceries were gathered for Langar.  They brought more than required as to prepare for a big gathering.  The news spread far and wide about the Dastaar Bandhi of Guru Gobind Singh ji. 

The Masands from far away lands told their Sangat of what the significance of attending last rite rituals is.  They told them how to pay their respects and offer their gifts to the new Guru.  They advised everyone to go, as Guru ji was also to mark the ascension to the Guruship throne.  It was going to be a very big event.  Sikhs from north, west, east and south came as soon as they could.  Many groups met up from nearby villages and came together.  The crowd began to grow at Anandpur.  They would talk amongst themselves and discuss Guru Gobind Singh ji’s glories: “his body is small but his face is radiant like the moon.”  Everyone came to bow to the Guru.  His wisdom was unmatched and his face showed the marks of a great scholar.  All of the Sikhs who saw him would rejoice and call him great.  His eyes were sympathetic and keen.  He was able to analyse everything in an instant.

The mothers told the Masands: “there is great yagna to take place in honor of Guru ji.  Many types of delicacies are to be cooked.  The heads of different religious organizations are to be invited.  Give all the saints a grand feast.”  Mata Gujri ji advised all of the Masands.  The Masands began to put all the tasks into place.  The invitations were sent out and the cooking began.  Sugar and ghee were brought along with wheat flour.  Fried breads were made for the saints and the Sangat.  Big pots were atop of open fire and Karah Prashaad was made.  Kachoris and sweets were made.  The cooks prepared tasty delicacies with respect and purity.  The food was pilling up and distributed to Saints of the Hindu and Muslim religions.  All were invited.  The Sadhus and saints gathered to come in large groups.  Brahmins and other castes came as well.  The Masands served everyone well. 

Guru Gobind Singh ji was standing on an elevated area and watching everything that was going on.  The Sangat was sitting in Pangats (lines) and enjoying the feast.  The Masands made sure that everyone’s different views and traditions were respected.  There were thousands of people who came.  “Please come and have a seat,” said the Masands.  They would serve everyone who came, with a great amount of food.  They would pour so much food, that they didn’t require any seconds.  They would serve everyone with great agility and without haste.  As everyone ate, they praised the food: “we never had so much tasty food before.  Guru Gobind Singh ji held this yagna in his father, Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji’s honor.  Guru ji was so powerful.”  Karah Prashaad, yoghurt with lentil dumplings were distributed.  Everyone enjoyed the food so much.  Sweet, spicy, sour and salty types of foods were distributed.  Water was distributed.  Everyone serving and eating were satiated and saying: “Dhan Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji.”  Mataji along with Guru Gobind Singh ji gave a lot of money to the Masands.  He gave them Siropas and told them to give the Saints and guests donations as well.  He told them to make sure everyone had more than enough.  The Masands took the money and gave it respectfully to all the Sadhus and Saints.  The Saints were very happy to receive the money and said: “Guru Gobind Singh ji looks like he will turn out to be like his grandfather.  He looks like him and will be strong, scholarly and generous, just like him.  He will bless everyone and give them bliss.”  Other people listening would say: “it is obvious that the kids turn out to be like their elders.  Just as Guru Ramdas ji and Guru Arjan Dev ji blessed many, this is their family and Guru Gobind Singh ji will be just like them.  Whoever will be fortunate, they will serve this Guru just as others served his ancestors.”  Everyone receiving donations were happy.  All of the Saints prayed for Guru ji’s high spirits and long life.  They would say: “may he live as long as the Ganga and Jamuna flow on this earth.”  This yagna happened this way and everyone was very happy.  The Sangat was happy with the Langar.  The Masands had Langar as well.  People who came from far, set up their tents and rested the night.

In the morning, Kirtan was done in the Divan and everyone met with great enthusiasm.  They were happy to see Sangat from afar.

The Date of Fagun (February), Panchami (5^th day after new moon) was set as the day to hold Guru Gobind Singh ji’s Dastaar Bandhi ceremony.  Sikhs from Lahore and Amritsar started their journeys to Anandpur to attend the ceremony.  The Masands that were given the titles from the elder Guru’s times came to Anandpur and set up camp.  All around Anandpur, there were tents set up. 

People brought many gifts and money for Guru Gobind Singh ji.  Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji, who saved the Dastaar of the Hind, his son was to have his Dastaar Bandhi.

1-5 Dastaar Bandhi

As the 9^th Guru had proceeded to Sach Khand, Baba Gurditta ji, the 6^th generation descendent of Baba Buddha ji, witnessed the whole event.  He left Delhi after Guru Sahib’s martyrdom.  He went to a place about 15 km away.  This was the place Baba Buddha ji stayed with the armed Sikhs to feed the horses while escorting Guru Hargobind Sahib ji to Gwalior.  Baba Buddha stayed here for a while.  Baba Gurditta ji came to that place and laid out a kusha aasan (a resting place made of a type of grass, on which corpses are placed upon.  This type of grass is considered pure) and laid down on it.  He pictured the Satguru in his mind and kept his focus on him.  He took his breath and forced his Dasam Duaar (10^th door) to explode.  He left his body this way, like one throws away a piece of grass (as he had no attachment to his body and didn’t need to think twice before discarding it).  The people of the area performed the cremation of Baba Gurditta ji’s body.  Kavi Santokh Singh ji says that he visited the place and the old signs could still be sign.

Baba Gurditta ji had a son named Ram Koer ji.  Baba Ram Koer ji was a Brahamgyaani as well.  He lived in the Ramdaspur village.  A lot of Sikhs lived in this area.  Everyone got Ram Koer ji ready, as he was quite young.  He was only 6 years old.  He was 3 years younger that Guru Gobind Singh ji.  People of his house knew the traditions of the house of the Guru.  Bhai Ram Koer ji and his family gathered many gifts for Guru Gobind Singh ji’s Dastaar Bandhi ceremony.  They all headed towards Anandpur with the Sangat of Amritsar and Gurdaspur.  He was the Vizier of the House of the Guru (Baba Buddha ji, Baba Bhana ji, Baba Jalal ji, Baba Sarvan ji, Baba Jhanda ji, Baba Gurditta ji were the past Viziers, his forefathers).  This family was designated as the “Viziers” of the Guru.  They would anoint the next Guru by performing the Tika (mark) ceremony.  It was only when this family bowed and conducted the Guru mark ceremony, that people would come to believe who the true Guru is (as many have tried to snatch it, falsely claiming to be the true Guru).   They used to bring a Saili topi in the past, but as of Guru Hargobind Sahib ji, they would bring weapons, horses and hawks.  For Guru Gobind Singh ji’s Dastaar Bandhi, the Vizier family brought expensive clothes, a horse, a hawk and a Kalgi.  There were many Masands that came from far away lands.  Many Sikhs came from near and far.  All of the Sikhs met each other with love.  Karah Prashaad and Langar was distributed openly.  The Raagis and Rababis performed Kirtan.  Taadis (traditional folk singers) came to sing the Vaars (verses) of warriors and battles of the past.  Doms and Bhatts (musicians) came to show their talents.  They all came to pay their respects to Guru ji, coming from many regions of the country.  There was a great crowd.  On the Chauth (forth day after the new moon) there was a gathering with celebrations that occurred.  Sangat from far away lands came.  Drama artists, actors, dancers and circus performers, all came to put on their shows.  They sang the glories of the Guru.  Thus, many celebrations took place and everyone’s hearts were delighted.  The Kirtan continued all night long with great bliss.  The Sangat was delighted to hear Kirtan.  The Masands brought their Sangats and performed Kirtan. 

In the morning, everyone bathed and continued to do Kirtan.  They wore expensive and new clothes.  They tied their Dastaars and said: “today we will see Guru Sahib’s Dastaar Bandhi.”  The excitement was uncontained.  There was joy and happiness everywhere.  The prestigious families of the House of the Guru: Bedis, Trehans and Bhallas had arrived.  They set up their camps and rested there, waiting for the ceremony.  Saints and Sadhoos came with high enthusiasm.  People from all religions were here.  The grandsons of Baba Sooraj Mal ji had arrived.  They were very happy to witness their uncle’s ceremony and brought Dastaars for Guru ji.  They wanted to stay close to Guru ji.  Many people were here for this purpose.

Mata Gujri ji asked her brother, Kirpal Chand ji to get Guru ji ready for the ceremony: “dress the Guru in expensive clothes.  Adorn him with beautiful jewellery.”  Mammaji dressed Guru ji with his own hands.  He commanded all the servants to set up a Divan on a high Damdama (elevated place).  “Place an expensive flooring with expensive rugs and furnishings.  Have the guards stand with spears and set out the Sooraj Mukhis (The royal flag standards of the Sooraj Vansh).  The guards should hold golden maces.  The Throne should be decorated nicely on which the Tilak and Dastaar Bandhi ceremony is to occur.  Cloths and pillows made of Zari and silks should be set.  Have the Mevra announce that the Divan is to take place at the higher place of the Damdama.”  Other required tasks were supervised by Mammaji.

Guru Gobind Singh ji took a bath.  He was dressed in a fine silk chola.  His body was handsome and the chola looked great on him.  A beautiful Dastaar was tied on his head.  He wore a pearl necklace.  He had a sword with a golden hilt with diamonds embedded in it.  The sword was very beautiful.  He wore a quiver that had pearl strands hanging from it.  The arrows were very sharp in the quiver.  He wore a kumerkassa.  He was ten years old.  He had a khanjar, bichua and a kataar in his kumerkassa.  The bow that was hanging from his shoulder was from Lahore.  He held an arrow in his hand, sometimes rolling it in his right hand, and then changing to the left, and then back again.  He wore golden jewellery.  He came to the mothers to greet them and bow to them.  Both of the mothers were happy to see him and blessed him by touching his head: “your glory will spread throughout the world.”  Guru ji left the room and exited through the door.  He wore a nice pair of shoes.  Thousands of people were waiting for Guru Sahib as he came outside.  It looked as though the ocean, eager to see the Guru, was restless with its waves hitting higher.  Guru ji was the moon, so handsome, and the Sangat were the chakors (Indian Partridge).  Everyone folded their hands and bowed.  Two guards holding golden rod gurjes (long staff maces) greeted Guru ji and preceded ahead of Guru ji.  The Naqeeb (heralder) announced the arrival of Guru ji: “saavdhaan (attention)! The grandson of Guru Ramdas Ji, Guru Arjan Dev ji, Guru Hargobind Sahib ji, the son of Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji, Gujri Nandan (son of Mata Gujri ji), Guru Gobind Singh ji is proceeding.  Hail to Guru Gobind Singh ji, Jai ho, Jai ho.” The Bhatt’s began to sing their songs.  People stood in attention as Guru ji walked by and bowed to him as he walked by.  They then followed, walking behind him after they paid their respects.  It was a joyous occasion.  Golden saddles were placed upon the horses.  Guru ji’s horse was a strong one.  Guru ji mounted the horse and rode slowly through the streets.  People in the markets and streets were watching atop of balconies and in the street.  They showered him with flowers as he rode by.  People’s hearts were in a joyous state as they saw Guru ji.  They were happy seeing him and in high spirits.  There were crowds everywhere.  Guru ji looked around and spread his blessings. 

Guru ji soon reached the Damdama, the highest point in Anandpur.  He got off his horse and Mammaji joined his side.  Guru ji entered the Divan.  As he entered the court, everyone already sitting in the Divan, got up and bowed to Guru ji as he walked by.  Guru ji walked up to the throne and folded his hands and bowed to it, as this was the seat of Guru Nanak Dev ji and the elder Gurus.  Every Guru, after Guru Nanak Dev ji, followed this tradition every time they sat on the seat.  Guru ji then folded his hands and looked towards the elders of the Bedis, Trehans, Bhallas along with the senior Sodhis.  He asked for their permission to begin. He performed the Ardaas to all of the Gurus who had sat on this Guru throne before him.  He then took his place on the Gurta Ghuddi throne.  His radiance was now shining as bright as ever.  It looked like the sun was shinning brightly from the throne.  The King of the day, the sun, saw Guru ji’s radiance and became mesmerized at Guru ji’s glory.  The Sangat was very happy.  The Nagaras sounded along with other joyous instruments such as the Shehnai.  The Sangat shouting: “Jai Jai Guru ji!”  It was a glorious event.  Sikhs and Masands brought their gifts and offered them to Guru ji.  Ram Koer ji was present as well.