1-21 Rattan Rai gets Ready to Come

Now Kavi Santokh Singh will begin the telling of the history of a king.  Listen to this story with great attention, oh listeners.  Guru Tegh Bahadhur, the patent one, went to Kamroop along with Bishan Singh, and resolved the conflict with the King of Kamroop.  The glory of the Guru had spread far and wide in the East.  The king of Assam could not conceive a child.  The glory of the Guru came to the king’s ears due to his good karma opening up.  The King of Assam tried many times to have a child but was unsuccessful.  He heard about the glory of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji and came to the Guru with his desire.  He brought his queen along with him, bringing many gifts.  He came to Guru ji and folded his hands and asked Guru ji to bless him with a child.  Guru ji heard his plea.  Guru ji’s heart melted and blessed him, seeing his humility and love.  Guru ji took his ring (that had his name written on it) and stamped the thigh of the King.  He blessed him and said: “you will have a son.  The son will have the mark of my ring on his forehead.  That birthmark will stay with him for his entire life.”  The king was happy with the blessing and returned to his home.  After one year, the king had a son.  There was a great celebration in his land.  The King donated a lot of money to the needy.  The king raised the son with great love.  The Guru’s blessing was really fast.  The King and Queen would sing the praises of Guru ji, waking up early every morning.  

When the son was seven years old, the king died.  The queen survived and continued to raise the son.  When the son was 12 years old, one day, he looked in to the mirror to comb his hair.  He tied his hair in a knot and looked closely.  He noticed there was a birthmark close to his forehead and the area didn’t have any hair in that spot.  He thought he may have been hurt as a child.  Either he may have been hurt or it was some sort of mole.  He fiddled with the area with his fingers and kept looking at it.  He tied his Pugri and kept thinking about it: “my mother must know what that mark is.”  He then went to his mother, inside the palace.  He sat close to his mother and said to her: “Mataji, what is this mark on my forehead?  Did I get hurt or was there a cist there before?  There is no hair in that area.”  The queen heard her son and told him the whole story: “the Satguru Bhagwant had come to our area and your father went to him for his blessing.  It was by his blessing that you were born.  Your father did an ardaas to Guru ji at his feet for a son.  The Guru then took his ring and stamped your father’s thigh.  He then said that, the son will have the mark of his ring on his forehead.  This mark on your forehead is the holy insignia of the Guru’s ring.  You are a great Sikh of the Guru, for the Guru had said he was going to send one of his Sikhs to our house.”  The twelve-year-old Rattan Rai was astonished to hear the story.  “This is a miracle.  Oh Mother, where is the Satguru now?  The one who is so powerful, that stamped my father’s thigh, I wish to visit the Satguru.  I wish to see the one with whose blessing I was born.”  The mother replied: “son, he was now gone to Vaikunt, Sach Khand.  His son, now sits on his throne.  He was born in Patna.  When he grew up, he went back to his native land of Punjab.  He lives on the land of his ancestors now.  We are now really far from Anandpur.  It is about 3000 km from here.”  The prince heard his mother and was inspired to hear about the Guru.  The prince was now anxious to see the Guru.  He started to make preparations to go see Guru ji. He began to collect the most expensive gifts for the Guru.  He would call his ministers and ask for their advice as to what he may take for the Guru.  He collected the best horses that were strong with golden saddles.  He had five horses and a very interesting elephant.  The elephant was smaller than average.  The face of the elephant was round and white.  There was a white line that extended from the trunk all the way to the tail.  The rest of the size was proportional.  The elephant was beautiful and trained by the best trainers.  The elephant would do whatever he was told.  He would hold torches and lighten the way.  He would also do the Chaur on top of kings for long periods of time.  He would be able to stand on two legs for long periods of time.  When someone would shoot arrows, the elephant would fetch the arrows and bring them back.  The elephant was very skilled.  Rattan Rai paid a very handsome sum (around 125,000 Rupees) for that elephant and fed it ghee and sugar.  The elephant came from a far away land.  Rattan Rai wanted to make the Guru happy.

For Satguru ji, Rattan Rai had a Shaster made called Panchkala.  He had it made and put in a gatra (strap/holder).  It looked like a sword with a sharp edge.  When you pressed a button, it transformed into a spear.  The spear could be thrown.  Another button would make it into a tamancha pistol.  It would then become a kataar with the press of another button.  Rattan Rai also had a stool made that was unique.  When you pressed the button, four dolls would pop out and lay out the Chauper game.  The dolls would start playing the game.  He also bought a small pot to drink Shardai (drink made with crushed almonds and various seeds).  He had golden jewellery made: rings and Kalgis.  Pashmina cholas and shawls were bought.  Rattan Rai collected these items and began to make preparations to leave. 

1-22 Rattan Rai in the Presence of Guru ji

Rattan Rai was accompanied by his wise mother and a small regiment of his army.  He was on his way to Anandpur.  Rattan Rai was very eager to see Guru ji.  He was waiting for the time he would bow and sit at the Guru’s feet and listen to his words.  He was waiting to see the moon-like face of the Guru, as the Chakor waits for the moon.  He wanted the Guru’s words to bless his ears.  All he though about was the Guru as he walked around.  He liked listening to the glories of the Guru.  Hearing about the Guru made Rattan Rai happy.  It was a long way to Anandpur.  When he would meet people from Punjab along the way, he would ask them: “how far is it now to Anandpur?  I’ve heard many people visit Anandpur.”  He would travel fast during the day, trying to cover 60km a day.  There were a lot of rivers and villages along the way.  He was headed in the Guru’s direction.  He crossed Ganga first and then Jamuna.  The holy rivers which would wash away sins.  He was eager to get to Anandpur.

He had finally reached Anandpur and his happiness had no limits.  He made sure the horses and the elephant were well fed and looked after for Guru ji.  There were soldiers with him too and it took a while to get there.  He came to the Sutlej and stood at the foot of Naitertung (Naina Devi).  He could see where Anandpur was now.  The place was lush with greenery.  He saw Sikhs, reading Gurbani under the trees.  He set up camp there.  He sent his senior officers to the Guru’s court to tell him that: King Rattan Rai from Assam, is here to visit Guru ji.  The officers went and told the guards at Anandpur: “The King of Assam, Rattan Rai is a Sikh of the Guru and wishes to be in the holy presence of the Satguru.  He has come with great faith and devotion from Assam.”  The guard went to Guru ji and told him with great respect.  Kalgidhar ji heard the request and said: “prepare Degh, Langar and send it to Rattan Rai’s camp.  Send grass and feed for the horses and elephants along with ghee, sugar and other foods.”  The Masands received the command and sent the Mevra to welcome the king.  They sent food and other items of need.  They served the king to his delight.  The whole camp was impressed with the service they were given from the Guru’s Langars.

The King slept peacefully that night.  In the morning he woke up and bathed, with great enthusiasm; for he was excited to see the True Guru today.  He sent his offices and minister to Guru ji’s court.  The ministers asked Guru ji for permission to come to the Guru’s court: “Guru ji, our king seeks your permission.  He spent the whole night in eagerness.  He is anxious to see you and to be in your divine presence.  He would like your permission to come see you Guru ji.”  Guru ji then spoke: “I will hold court in the afternoon.  He can come at that time and fulfill his wishes.  If this is how much love he holds in his heart, he will be released from all bondages and the purpose of his human life will be successful.”  The ministers went back to their king and informed him of the Guru’s command.  Rattan Rai’s face blossomed as soon as he heard that Guru ji had granted him permission to come.  He commanded his servants: “dress up the elephant and bathe it with care.  Place a zarri and muslin jhool (rider’s mat).  Have golden flowers attached to the jhool.  Tie tassels with pearls and diamonds.  Leave the face so the whiteness (which was a miracle of nature) can be seen.”  The rest of the body of the elephant was dark but the face was bright.  The elephant had small teeth just as the face was small.  The teeth had two golden rings in them.  The legs had chains of silver in them.  The 5 horses were saddled with golden saddles.  The Panchkala Shaster and the stool with the game were packed.  Clothes, dishes, golden bracelets with diamonds in them, were all ready and packed.  The gifts were ready to offer to Guru ji.  Other clothes and weapons for Guru ji were ready.  Rattan Rai dressed his best along with his soldiers.  It took them a good seven hours to get ready since morning.  The Mevra from Guru ji’s court arrived and said: “the Guru’s court is ready.  Guru ji has now taken his seat on the Takhat.  The Sikhs are present in the court as well.”  Raja Rattan Rai was happy and gave the orders to move out.  All the gifts with money and gems on top of plates were picked up.  Rattan Rai was bare-foot and the whole travelling party walked to the Guru’s court.  Ratan Rai folded his hands and bowed at the door.  He lowered his head and said “Vahiguru.”  His ministers followed and did the same.   He saw Guru ji from afar, sitting on his Takhat.  He looked like a full moon.  He wore a Kalgi with pearls dangling from it.  The Jigha had diamonds and gems in it.  The Chaurs were being waived above his head.  It was as though Vishnu ji was sitting in the court of Devatas.  The ocean of knowledge and treasures was radiating brightly.  The king ran to Guru ji’s feet and placed his head there.  He could not lift his head from Guru ji’s feet.  Guru ji placed his holy sight on the king and said: “rise, oh King, your bondages of both worlds have been broken.  You are successful in both worlds.”  The king heard Guru ji and lifted his head.  His eyes were shedding tears.  He sat down in front of Guru ji.  Guru ji asked how Rattan Rai was, to which Rattan Rai replied with his folded hands, “I am well, because of your blessings.”  Rattan Rai’s minister spoke: “your father, the elder Guru, came to our country.  It was our king’s father, Raja Ram who had come to him and requested for a blessing for an heir.  The Guru blessed our king and stamped his thigh with his holy insignia from his ring.  He said that: “the child will have the mark of my ring on his forehead.”  Our king has the mark on his forehead.  Our whole nation knows about this.  When our king was old enough, he saw the mark and inquired from his mother.  He heard the whole event from her.  He became eager to come and visit you.  Our king brings these gifts for you.”  The minister began to show all of the gifts.  He first showed the unique elephant that was smaller in size.  He said this elephant is unlike any other.  They then presented the 5 horses with golden saddles, clothes and Shasters.  All of the items were placed before Guru ji and the Mevra did the ardaas.  Guru ji was happy with the gifts and blessed the king.  Seeing Guru ji happy, Rattan Rai was extremely joyful.  Guru ji then asked about the stories of Assam.  Rattan Rai and the ministers told Guru ji about his land and the stories of his land.  Rattan Rai and the minister sat with Guru ji for 2 hours.  They showed the skills of the elephant to Guru ji: “he is trained to do many tasks Guru ji.  You can ask him to do as you wish.  This is the Panchkala Shaster, it is very useful in the battlefield.  It changes into a spear, kataar, sword and a pistol.  You can change it to what you need according to the enemy.  This stool is unique Guru ji.  Try it out tomorrow.  We paid a lot of money for these items.  I ordered these gifts from far away places and wanted to give you the best things.  I wish to be the servant of the Satguru for the rest of my life.  Please bless me with Sikhi.  I heard your glories and a great love arose for you in my heart.  Oh Satguru, please grant me Mukti (salvation).  Please hold my hand and make me your own.  Please bless me with the Charan Pahul.”  Guru ji heard Rattan Rai’s request and was happy.  He saw his love and released Rattan Rai from the karma of his past lives.  Guru ji washed Rattan Rai’s pains away.  Rattan Rai bowed and went back to his camp.  He ordered his servants to feed all the animals. 

1-23 The Gifts of Rattan Rai

The next day, Guru ji got up at 2 am and bathed.  He sat down and immersed his consciousness into the light of Akaal Purakh.  He got ready and entered his court, where Asa Di Vaar was then sung. 

The Mevra was sent to call Raja Rattan Rai to the court.  The Mevra said to Rattan Rai that the court is set and Guru ji has arrived.  Rattan Rai, the ministers and other Sikhs entered the Guru’s court, dressed up in royal regalia and weapons.  They all bowed and sat down.  Rattan Rai wore his sword, shield and other weapons.  Guru ji’s Sikh warriors were all present, standing and sitting around Guru ji.  Rattan Rai first showed the features of the stool.  When he pressed the button, 4 dolls popped up and placed the Chauper mat.  The dolls appeared as if they were playing.  Next, he showed the Panchkala.  He pressed a button and the Shaster became a pistol.  He demonstrated the pistol and fired a bullet.  It made a loud noise that echoed.  Guru ji analysed it closely and concluded that it was a high-quality pistol which would certainly be fatally harmful for the enemy.  Rattan Rai then pressed the button.  It turned into a sword.  It had a very sharp edge.  Guru ji held it by the hilt and inspected it with detail.  The next button transformed it into a spear.  The head was sharp.  It would go through a person’s chest.  Next, it turned into a kataar (push knife).  It would cause damage to the enemy’s belly.  Next, the Shaster turned into a gurj (mace).  It was the bajjar type of gurj (with extensions at the tip).  It was solid and would split the enemy’s head open.  The weapon was truly rare and amazing.  Guru ji then next inspected the 5 horses which were bred for war.  They were trained to run in water as well.  Guru ji then had his cousins ride the horses to test them.  The saddles were made of gold and silver.  Rattan Rai had the saddles made with great love.  The details that Rattan Rai had put in to these gifts, showed how his love was overflowing for the Guru.  Guru ji appreciated and understood Rattan Rai’s love.  He saw how Rattan Rai put in a lot of thought for these gifts.  Next, elephant was presented.  The hoodha (driver’s mat) was made of gold.  The elephant was decorated.  When it walked, it swayed left and right.  The elephant’s size was small, as tall as a bull.  The elephant saw Guru ji and picked up its truck as to form a salute to Guru ji.  Guru ji waived his hand on to the elephant’s head and gave him love.  Guru ji tapped his hand on the jubilant animal’s head and assured the elephant that he has come to his real home now.   The elephant grabbed Guru ji’s shoes with his trunk and began to dust the dirt off.  He placed the shoes in front of Guru ji, signaling Guru ji that they are now ready to be worn.  Everyone watching were really impressed.  Guru ji then fired some arrows from his bows and looked towards the elephant.  The Haathi (elephant) was so smart that he knew how many arrows to look for.  He went to go look for them and brought them back after finding them.  He placed the arrows in front of Guru ji.  The elephant walked in a very slow motion.  The bells in his neck would ring as he moved.  The small golden bells on his hoodha also clanked when he walked.  His trunk was washed and then a jug was given to him.  The elephant took the jug and washed the feet of Guru ji.  He placed the jug down and took a towel to wipe Guru ji’s feet.  He was then given a Chaur.  He went behind Guru ji’s Takhat and waived it over Guru ji’s head.  He showed many other acts and skills.  Guru ji was very happy with the elephant.  The Sangat was really impressed as well.  Guru ji then spoke: “I name this elephant Parshaadi Haathi.”  The elephant had a white line that went from its trunk all the way to its tail.  They made Karah Prashaad and fed him.  The Sikh sevadaars were given the seva of the Elephant.  Guru ji blessed Rattan Rai.  Rattan Rai folded his hands and spoke: “Satguru ji, I will show you another skill of his in the night time.  Give him a lighten torch at night.  He will light the way as you walk.  You can teach him many other skills.  There are no other elephants like him.  Its face is white.  I have not even heard of any other elephant like this one.  Guru ji, just like you are beautiful and unique, so is this elephant a one-of-a-kind.  Inder has an elephant named Ahravat.  I believe that Ahravat has come to earth to serve you.  Its height is small and unusual.  He wanted to make you happy and therefore took on a different and unique form.  He came to your sanctuary through me.  Vidhatta (creator/Akaal Purakh) has made this elephant specifically to be in your service, Guru ji.  What the reason in reality is, I do not know.  You, yourself know, Guru j,i but I have never seen an elephant like this.  You must know where this elephant has come from.”  Guru ji heard the loving words of Rattan Rai and blessed him.  Guru ji said: “the gifts that you have brought, I can see the love in your heart.  You will reach the equal level of bliss as much love you have in your heart.  You were a Gursikh in your last birth.  My father blessed you for being such a great Sikh.  He made you into a king to enjoy the pleasures and peace of life.”  Guru ji’s feet were then washed and the water was given to Rattan Rai.  He was given the Charan Pahul and the Guru Mantra, “Vahiguru”.  This mantra gives one the four types of mukti (Sulok, Saroop, Sameep, Sayudhya) and all of the pleasures of life.  The Raja then became a Sikh and a reciter of the Guru Mantra.  His ministers all took the Pahul and became Sikhs as well.  The king was a devout Sikh and looked after his family and public.  He was in peace along with his family and public.  Singing the glories of Guru ji, Rattan Rai went back to his camp.  He stayed in Anandpur for about 4 months and visited Guru ji everyday.  He sat with Guru ji, in the court for long periods of time.  He heard Kirtan and listened to Guru ji’s words.  He would go on hunting parties with Guru ji.  Guru ji would ride Parshaadi Haathi and make him do many tasks.  He would ask for the stool with dolls and watch them play.  He would use the Panchkala and try it out.  Sometimes, Guru ji would take Rattan Rai and go for hunts of deer and other wild animals.  Dogs, hawks and other hunting animals would be taken along.  He would take Rattan Rai into the Sutlej with other Sikhs and battle with water.  He would teach everyone how to swim and train with different mock situations.  Guru ji would take Rattan Rai for target practice and other Shaster vidya training.  They would practice horse riding and hunt while riding as well.  He would practice and teach Rattan Rai how to use a spear, so it would go through the enemy’s chest.  Guru ji would fulfill everyone’s wishes. 

Parshaadi was tied up in one spot and Guru ji would be happy seeing him.  Guru ji then said: “keep the other elephants tied but don’t tie Parshaadi.  Let him roam around free and be familiar with the streets of Anandpur.  He is here to seek bliss.  He can go anywhere in Anandpur and walk or stand anywhere, as he pleases.  For a few days, stay with him and see where he goes and stands in bliss.  When he is ok to go where he pleases, then you can leave him alone.  Give him good food to eat.”  Guru ji then opened Parshaadi Haathi’s chains.  The elephant roamed around the streets of Anandpur.  He ate all the food he wanted to and got bigger and stronger.  He would go through the market and eat from the stores and sometimes damage the stores’ merchandise.  He would eat the ladoos and jaleebis from the stores as he pleased.  He would stand where he pleases and eat what he pleased. 

All of the merchants came to Guru ji and said: “Guru ji, your elephant comes and destroys our stuff.  We know you have commanded us not to say anything to him, but he comes all of a sudden and eats a little and then spills the rest.  We try stopping him but he spills everything.  He comes and goes as he pleases.  When he comes, he eats the sweets but we don’t hit him with a stick.  He swings his trunk around as he pleases.”  Guru Kalgidhar ji listened to the merchants and called the Masands.  He said to the Masands: “my elephant goes to the merchants’ shops and destroys their items.  Go to the treasuries and reimburse them for their damages.  Ask them every evening if Parshaadi has done any damage.  If he did, give them money for it.”  The merchants were then happy after hearing Guru ji.  The Masands would then pay the merchants for their damages every evening.  Parshaadi Haathi would roam around Anandpur as he pleased. 

Thousands of people from far away would see the elephant move around as it pleased.  This was the true king’s ways.  The Guru’s elephant was free and everyone was happy too.  Rattan Rai saw Guru ji’s ways and was really happy.  He would take his mother to meet Guru ji’s mother and grandmother.  Rattan Rai was in bliss all day long.  Rattan Rai touched Guru ji’s feet everyday.  Rattan Rai then figured it was time to go back to his country.  When he would ask for permission, Guru ji would ask him to stay for a few more days and since he wouldn’t want to leave anyway, he would end up staying.  But alas, a time came where he really had to go.  He didn’t want to go.  Guru ji gave him permission to go.  Guru ji gave him golden zarri clothes, Dastaars and weapons.  The Raja was very happy and said: “Guru ji, you are grand just as I heard about you.  You have blessed me in every way in both worlds.  You have given me the pleasures of life and the salvation of the after-life.”  Rattan Rai’s throat swelled up with emotion and could no longer talk.  As he couldn’t talk now, he put his head on top of Guru ji’s feet.  Tears began to flow from his eyes which landed on top of Guru ji’s feet, washing them.  Guru ji was happy with Rattan Rai and made sure he was okay.  Guru ji blessed him with bhakti and knowledge.  Guru ji gave him the ultimate gift of Brahamgyaan.  Rattan Rai was now in pure bliss.  The ministers and family of Rattan Rai, all bowed to Guru ji and began their journey.  Rattan Rai felt great pain leaving Guru ji.  He kept looking back towards Anandpur and wondered if life was really worth living without being in the presence of the Guru.  The ministers, soldiers and other Sikhs of Assam were on their way home. 

1-24 Making The Ranjit Nagara

Raja Rattan Rai headed back to Assam after giving Guru ji the elephant.  He was very sad to leave and kept thinking about the Guru.  He wished he didn’t have to go so far, away from the Guru.  The radiant face of Guru ji was all he could think of.  He kept talking about Guru ji on his way home.

Anandpur was always in bliss.  The granter of salvation and Brahamgyaan, Guru ji was blessing people coming from far and wide.  New people would come everyday, bringing expensive gifts.  They brought many different breeds of horses from different countries: Sindhi, Marwari, Turki, Arabi.  The number of horses in the Guru’s stables grew day-by-day.  The sevadaars serving the Guru began to live in Anandpur, serving the horses and practicing Shaster Vidya everyday.  They practiced archery, swordsmanship and horse riding.  There were all types of castes in the Guru’s army.  The warrior spirit was growing in their hearts.  Some came to the Guru’s army looking for work.  They were paid well.  There were thousand of people in the Guru’s army now, shouting jaikaras all day long.  Guru ji would look after the Sikhs well.  He treated them like his own children and taught them well.  He gave them the best Shasters and horses.  There was only one thing lacking, a Nagara.  Guru ji thought to himself: “a Nagara should now be made to uplift the warrior spirit inside their hearts, further.  They will feel the power of Bir Ras (warrior spirit) once they hear the Nagara.  A Nagara should be in the house of the Guru as the Sikhs become kings and rule over lands.  From the ocean to the highest mountains, Sikhs will rule and the Nagara will play.  The Nagara will symbolize the glory of the Guru.  All other Nagaras will sound dim in comparison.”  Guru ji then gave out the command: “go to the best tradesman and get a Nagara made.  Make sure it is of the best quality.” 

Guru ji’s Devan, Nand Chand, obeyed Guru ji’s command and set out to get the Nagara made.  He called the blacksmiths and other tradesmen, and told them what the Guru’s command was.  The blacksmiths ordered the best type of iron.  They prepared the faulaad (type of metal) by folding it, over and over again.  They had ordered four times as much iron as they needed.  From that amount, they prepared iron sheets.  The craftsman prepared two rounded sheets and prepared the bowl of the drum.  Guru ji saw the bowl and was extremely happy.  He gave them twice as much money as they asked.  Guru ji then asked to have the best quality hide to be strung on to it. 

When the Masands found out about the Nagara, they started to think: “Guru ji is gathering a lot of soldiers and he loves Shasters and horses.  Now, he has prepared a Dhundhab Nagara.  When he will play the Nagara, Raja Bheem Chand Kahiloori, our neighbour, might not like it.  He will not like anyone else playing the Nagara in his state.  Bheem Chand has a great army.  Before, he was gone somewhere else, now he is back in Bilaspur.  Kings know what happens in their area.  When he finds out about the Nagara, he may find us as opposition.  We hope a conflict doesn’t begin, sighting a rebellion brewing.  This will cause conflict and ruin everything.  It will be difficult to live in Anandpur.  They will kick us out of this area.  A war will cost a lot of money and this will come on top of us, to collect more money.  We need to strategize and make sure the Nagara is not completed.  The Guru is still young and gets made what he wishes.  He does as he pleases.  We can’t even say anything to him.  We cannot say anything to him in front of him.  We should first go to Mata Gujri ji.  We shall tell her of all the problems the Nagara will cause.” 

The Masands then all went to Mata Gujri ji.  They all bowed and sat down in front of her.  They folded their hands and said: “Mata ji, please listen to what we have to say.  We want to tell you what Sri Satguru ji is doing.  He has accumulated a lot of soldiers in his army who are greedy for money.  They come here looking for money and food.  It is really expensive to keep these soldiers.  There are so many things to pay for: their food, Langar, feed for the horses.  We need to make food for thousands of people.  The Langar runs all day long.  Everyone eats the Langar and is happy with the gourmet foods.  Guru ji also pays the soldiers a salary every 6 months.  Nobody sticks around without money.  Only a king can afford all these things.  We don’t have a kingdom.  We only have poor Sikhs coming to the Sangat, giving their Dasvands.  Guru Ji’s hukam (command) is not to ask for money.  We have to work with what is given and we cannot command the Sangat to give more money.  We need money to support a whole army.  Guru ji does not think about these things, nor does he have any worries about these things.  Now he is getting a Nagara made and is almost finished.  It is about to be strung with hide.  The Nagara will cause a conflict.  When it will be played, Bheem Chang Kahiloori will find out.  He is a King with a lot of soldiers and money.  He rules a lot of land.  The mountain kingdom kings all follow him.  When he hears the Nagara, he will not stand this and become jealous.  He will not tolerate another Nagara in his kingdom.  His ego will not allow this.  No king would ever allow this.  This will be seen as an act rebellion.  The Guru is young still.  He is stubborn and will not stop if we ask him too.  We see a conflict brewing with the mountain kings.  This will lead to further battles and we are afraid that we will not be able to stay in Anandpur after that.  Please convince your son not to play the Nagara.  Please stop him.  The elder Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib ji, fought a war and had to leave Amritsar because of that.  After that, many troubles surrounded his life.  Mata ji, you have seen all this and heard the stories.  (Mata ji was about 9 then).  Mata ji, you understand everything.  Times are not good.  Please convince Satguru ji.  Tell him that he may do all the hunting as he pleases, and keep all the weapons he wants to, but it shouldn’t be to the point where he is declared a rebel.  Please stop him from these rebellious acts.  We should live here in peace and think this through.”  Mata Gujri ji heard the words of the Masands and started to worry.  “It would be good that the Nagara is not made.  This would bring upon conflict.  The Masands are right,” thought Mata ji.  She spoke after a long thought: “Okay, I will convince my son and tell him what happened with the sixth Guru.  All of the people around Guru ji, I will talk sense into them as well.  They are all encouraging of this type of behaviour in my son.  I will tell them not to speak to my son about battles and wars.  I will tell my brother Kirpal Chand to talk to my son too.  My brother goes along with everything my son does.  I will tell him to convince his nephew not to talk about war and weapons with him.  I will also tell the elder Guru ji’s nephew, Sango Shah and the other warriors not to encourage this type of behaviour.  You can go hunting close by, but not to go into the king’s area.  They should not encourage rebelliousness as it will lead to conflict.  I will speak to my brother.  If you wish to keep an army, only keep as much as you can afford.  We do not want to be on the bad side of the king.  The king has a great army.”  The Masands heard Mataji’s words and replied: “yes, please convince your son like this.  This is very important.  We are holy people and are worshiped by the world.  We need to see everyone as the same and regard them as our loved ones.  We should see everyone in every direction as our servants and Sikhs.  We have no enemies and therefore, we don’t need weapons.  To keep warriors, armies and Nagaras, this is what kings do.  To kill and get killed, this is what kings do on the battlefield.  This is not good for Gurus and saints.  Please convince everyone not to talk of war and battle strategies.” 

Mataji was thus manipulated by the Masands.  The Masands all bowed and left.  Whenever the Masands met any of the Sikhs that were close to Guru ji, they would try to brainwash them as well.  They would put their agenda forward with them.  Mata ji called Mammaji to her and said: “Bhraji, please stop Guru ji from making the Nagara.”  Bhai Kirpal Chand ji replied: “the Guru cannot be stopped.  Nobody can stop him.  Whatever wishes he has in his heart, always come into fruition.  When we hear Guru ji’s plans, all of us listen carefully and agree to everything he says.  He is the Guru.  We do not know how to disagree with the Guru.  The Guru is all-knowing and teaches everyone.  We cannot oppose his views.  If you wish to stop him, you can try to convince him.  None of us have that power or ability.  You are his mother, only you have the authority to talk to him in this way.  If any of us say anything, we will regret it later.”

1-25 The Discussion at Home, Ranjit Nagara

Guru Gobind Singh ji woke up in the morning and bathed.  After getting ready, Guru ji went to Mata Gujri ji and bowed to her.  He then sat down beside her.  Mata ji blessed her son with love.  She looked at her son’s radiance and rejoiced.  She got ready to speak to him in a very sweet manner.  He was her only child, so she loved him dearly.  The Guru was the most powerful, whose radiance and glory was growing day-by-day.  The Gurta Ghuddi, being the throne of Akaal Purakh, was fulfilling its glory.  Mata ji then spoke: “listen son, don’t do things to provoke the Pahari Rajas.  This will be seen as a challenge.  You have kept an army, that is fine, as rich people keep a regiment for their protection.  Even that you go hunting, that is fine as well.  Everyone worships you.  You are the Guru of the world and the successor to Guru Nanak’s throne.  You are worshiped and for this reason, you shouldn’t do acts of rebellions.  Consider everyone, in all directions, as your Sangat.  I have heard that you have made a Nagara and want to sound it within the army.  This will cause many conflicts.  You should live in peace near the Sutlej.  It is not good to get involved in conflicts.  It will grow and get out of hand.  When the elder Guru got into a conflict, we had to leave Sri Amritsar Sahib.  The Emperor of Hindustan has many generals, administrators, armies and officers to run the country.  They have all the resources to run the country.  Some are friends and some are foes.  I have heard with my own ears that the King, Bheem Chand is in the area.  Bheem Chand is a very powerful king and will not tolerate another Nagara being played in his area.  This will cause a conflict for no reason.  The Naubats (small Nagaras) are played at your doors everyday, that is good enough.  If you play the big Nagara, the Dhaunsa, that will be like a challenge to the King.  We cannot compare ourselves to them.  We are saints and don’t have the capital to support ourselves like them.  There is never peace or pleasure in war.  War is always worrisome.”  Guru ji heard his mother and replied to her: “I am not afraid of anyone.  We will play our own Nagara.  We will hunt in the jungles.  We won’t take over any one else’s kingdom.  Why would they be offended by this?  He can take care of his own region.  If we don’t cause him any harm, why would be angry?  If Bheem Chand will be egotistical and cause a conflict for no reason, then we will have to fight.  If he will be jealous seeing us, then there will be conflict, regardless.  If a conflict happens, then we will see what we need to do, when we get to that point.  If a king is proud of his own kingdom and becomes egotistical, Karta Purakh does not like that, and will take his ego away.  You say that Bheem Chand is close by, are you trying to scare me?  You are trying to scare me like a young child.  You are trying to scare me like there’s a boogey man out there.  I will be with the king just as the king will be with me.  If he will come towards me with aggression, then we will face him.  If he comes with love, we will love him back.  I will not strike first though.  We will be a friend to a friend and an enemy to an enemy.  The house of the Guru is like a mirror.  It will show someone their true face.  Mataji, the way you say, I am not one to hide.  Everyone knows me.  How long will we not play the Nagara?  Where will we hide and not show ourselves?”  Guru ji spoke to his mother as such.  As Guru ji spoke, his Kalgi was moving valiantly along with his head’s movements.  The Kalgi was different.  It was the Kalgi of a free man.  An independent man.  A fearless man.  A warrior Saint.  Guru ji bowed to his mother and came outside. 

His companions came to him and they all went to the court.  The Divan was in session now and the Sangat came to bow to him.  The Masands came and sat down as well after bowing.  Guru ji spoke with a great thundering voice: “is the Nagara ready yet or not?  Use alcohol and add powders to prepare the skin of the Nagara so that it resonates loudly.  Prepare it quickly.  Make sure it is the biggest in all of Hindustan.”  Mammaji Kirpal Chand ji was standing next to Guru ji.  He spoke: “you are the master of past and future, nothing is out of your sight.  We can’t say anything to you which you don’t already know.  You are the master of the universe and you can make everything.  The Masands are weak minded and aren’t courageous.  They have spoken to Mata Gujri ji, my sister, your mother.  They are afraid of war and told her that many soldiers will die in war.  They try to scare your mother about the past wars.  There is a great king named Bheem Chand who has many armies and the alliance of the other 22 mountain region kings.  There is no relationship with this king nor is there a conflict.  He is indifferent to us but political studies say: that if he is not saying anything, we should not start up anything with him.  This is what wise people say.  If there is a king in another king’s region, they may become enemies.  Conflict can arise at anytime between them.  Aside from them, if there is a third neighbour king, we should make them a friend, this is politics.  The other kings are indifferent.  When you play the Nagara and go for hunts, the other kings will be jealous, seeing you.  There may be a war and many soldiers may die.”  When Mammaji spoke to Guru ji in this way, Sango Shah ji spoke: “Mammaji, how long will we stay hidden?  The glory and radiance of Satguru ji will spread far and wide, beyond the borders of Hindustan.  The Pahari Rajas are nothing compared to Guru ji.  They won’t be able to cause any harm to Guru ji.  Guru ji’s glory shines in every world and dimensions beyond this earth.  The Nagara will sound and will be heard around the world.  The house of the Guru does not fear anyone.  Thousands of Sikhs are coming from far and wide.”  The Masands that were sitting by and listening then spoke: “we should think about everything first.  He shouldn’t be hasty.  We should compare the other king’s power with our own.  Analyse what you can fulfill by what you say.  Guru ji, you are the Guru and you are worshipped by the world.  The Guru should not be in conflict with kings.  The Mughals are powerful and their kingdom is far and wide.  They have countless cannons and guns.  The Emperor is very powerful.  He is famous in the whole world.”  Sango Shah heard the words of the Masand and responded in anger: “the Guru’s Pitamah (paternal grandfather) was my Nana (maternal grandfather).  He fought the Mughals and defeated them many times.  You speak of the Emperor being big with great big armies with great big canons and guns; my Nana made them eat dust and made them run away.  He defeated and killed many of the Emperor’s soldiers.  Both I, and Guru Sahib, are that Warrior Saint, Guru Hargobind Sahib ji’s grandchildren.  If Guru ji is going to make our glory grow, let him do so.  How long do you want to be enslaved by the Mughals?  Guru ji is the form of Akaal Purakh, he is the light of Guru Nanak.  He is all-powerful and he has the unlimited powers of Akaal Purakh.  Why are you trying to stop him?  You should not try to stop him from anything.”  Hearing the brave words of Sango Shah, Guru ji was extremely happy.  Guru ji spoke: “Mammaji, the Pahari kings are close by.  How long will we sit here in fear of them?  We will play the Nagar in our area.  We will do as we wish, we are not his slaves.  If he is jealous with us for no reason and tries to assert his might on us, we will show him that we are men.  We will show him the edge of our swords.  I have the command of Akaal Purakh to do as his will.  I came to be known in this world.  I cannot remain hidden.  I will listen to my master, Akaal Purakh.  Without the Nagara, my army is incomplete.  The ambiance, the radiance of the army is not there without the Nagara.  The army will not be motivated without the Nagara.  If we don’t do this, how can I fulfill the wishes of Akaal Purakh?  For this reason, make sure the Nagara is completed quickly.  Meditate on Guru Nanak Dev ji and play the Nagara.  We will hunt and play the Nagara, all the way to the other side of the mountainous region.  We will hunt in many jungles and they will see us hunting.  We will hunt openly.  Bheem Chand is egotistical.  He is the head of the 22 Pahari kings, he is too proud.  The first strike of the Nagara will ring in Bheem Chand’s ears.  When the double beats will play on the Nagara, we will find out what he thinks or says.”  Guru ji said to Devan Nand Chand: “prepare a great and valiant Nagara.”  

Nand Chand went and supervised the Nagara’s making.  He mixed powders into alcohol and applied it to the skin of the Nagara.  The Nagara sounded deep and thunderous.  Nand Chand prepared the Nagara and presented it to Guru ji in his presence.