1-41 The Rajas have a Discussion

Kesri Chand went back home along with Pamma Purohit.  Their Pugris were loose and their clothes were a mess.  They looked like they were looted.  They were very upset and were amazed that they were kicked out in this way.  They reached the capital city on top of their horses.  They got off their horses and went straight to Bheem Chand’s court.  They removed their Pugris and threw them in front of Bheem Chand.  They began to shed tears and said: “you sent us to the Guru and we have been insulted.  We cannot show our faces to the other Pahari Rajas.  You were looking to take the items from the Guru, but he is planning on taking over your land.  The Guru is planning to take away your kingdom from you and giving it to his Sikhs.  Guru Gobind Singh is proud of his power and his Sikhs.  He is looking towards ruling your land.  He wants to take over Lahore and Delhi.  He had us beaten up and thrown out of Anandpur.  Everyone in Anandpur was making fun of us.  Until you don’t avenge our insult, by waging war on the Guru and kicking him out of your land, we won’t live in peace.  The Guru is getting ready for war by building his army and weapons.  He wants to give the land to his Sikhs.  If you don’t find a solution, then Guru Gobind Singh will ruin us.”  When Bheem Chand saw Kesri Chand and Pamma Purohit.  He got angry and asked: “did the Guru meet you?  Did he talk to you?  Tell me what happened.  How did it get physical?  Tell me from the beginning what happened in Anandpur.”  Pamma Purohit spoke: “when we met the Guru, we praised him, as you said to.  We asked for the four items that you wanted, but the Guru did not respond.  He stayed quiet.  When we told him that we will give him money, he got really angry and told his Sikhs to take us away.  The Sikhs grabbed us by the arms and pushed us out of his house.  The Guru had us beaten up to our camp.  We couldn’t do anything as the Guru’s army was there.  We got pushed and punched and came home.  If you do not do anything to stop the Guru by sending your army, the Guru will think you are weak.  He will get stronger, as he is young right now.  Later, he will be stronger than you.  Show your might and kick him out of Anandpur.  Then, only let him come back if he bows to you and asks for mercy.”  When Bheem Chand heard this, he got really angry and wrote Guru ji a letter: “If you wish to stay in Anandpur, then send the Parshaadi Haathi.  Otherwise, I will take your Nagara and kick you out of Anandpur.  If you want to fight, I will kill all your Sikhs.  No one will survive.  I will arrest everyone and imprison you and kill your Sikhs.  Up till now, I considered that you are sitting on Guru Nanak’s throne and was lenient, but now you have crossed the line.  I will avenge their insult.  I am coming with my army.  The Nagara and the hunt that you do everyday, I will not let you do that anymore.  My army is coming, I will see your army.  If you want to stay, give me the Haathi.  I will meet you with weapons.  Call your friends to help you.”  Bheem Chand wrote and sent a letter full of threats. 

Bheem Chand began to call the other Pahari Rajas for help.  The Jaswaliay Raja, Kesri Chand, the Rajas of Mandi Naggar and Suket were told to mobilize their armies.  The king of Kangar, Kirpal Katochia, was told to bring his army.  He wrote to the king of Darolad to come.  He wrote to Raja Hari Chand Hundooreeya and said: “it’s now a matter of pride.”  Bheem Chand had, at times, refused to pay taxes to the Delhi Sarkar.  He figured that because his kingdom was in between the Sutlej River and mountains, no army would dare attack him.  But now, he felt that his pride was hurt.  He wanted to gather the Gujjars and the Rangar to join his army and enlist them to protect his kingdom.  In this way, Bheem Chand gathered his army.  Thousands got together in Bilaspur: horses, elephants, canons and warriors.

In Anandpur, the letter of Bheem Chand was received by Guru ji.  The guard told Guru ji that a letter has come from Bheem Chand.  Guru ji had the letter read out loud in his court.  The arrogant Bheem Chand’s letter was read out: “give the Haathi or leave Anandpur.  Be ready for war, my army is coming.”  Kalgidhar ji responded to Bheem Chand’s letter: “I only want war.  Whatever one asks for from the Guru’s house, one receives.  You will not get the Haathi, nor Anandpur.  You will get war.  We are waiting for you.  We will fulfill your wishes on the battlefield.  Be ready for war.”  This letter was sent back to Bheem Chand with the same messenger.

Guru ji said to Devan Nand Chand: “begin to enlist the soldiers.”  Thousands of new young men came to Anandpur and enlisted in to the army.  Guru ji assigned their salaries on a 6-month basis.  They were placed in regiments of a hundred and assigned a task.  Some were cavalry, some were on foot.  The goldsmiths were called to prepare bullets by melting metal.  Weapons were prepared.  Many types of arrows were made: Badamcha teer (almond head), nooloo teer (round headed), ardchandra teer (crescent moon shaped head to cut off heads or the string from the bow), Khapra teer (four fingers thick), Meen mukha teer (fish shaped head), and bows of metal, bamboo, and saarangdunush (made with animal horns stuck together) were all prepared.  Spears, guns, and swords were prepared and soldiers were letting out Jaikaras.  Kalgidhar was preparing for war.

The Pahari Rajas called a meeting and devised a strategy for war.  Guru ji’s letter reached Bheem Chand and was read out in his court.  Kirpal Chand Katochia, the mischievous one, said: “there are two things: either war; or no war.  This should be discussed.  I have figured out that the Guru is ready for war.  He didn’t care about Raja Kesri Chand and your Purohit.  He had them both beaten.  This means he is ready for war.  This letter that you have read, means that he doesn’t fear your threats.  We should discuss our next steps so that we win the war and that the Guru is kicked out of Anandpur.  The Guru has a big army.  He has his 5 cousins from his aunt who are ready to die for him.  His Mamma is trained in warfare by the Guru’s grandfather.  The Guru is a great warrior himself along with Devan Nand Chand.  This won’t be an easy war.  He will inflict a lot of damage on us.  It is now time for our prince’s wedding.  Maybe we shouldn’t fight a battle right now.  The Guru wants war.  If we go, this might be bad for the wedding.  A lot of people will die.  Who knows who will die?  If a family member dies, that will be a sad time during the wedding.  We need to go all dressed up in the Bharaat.  We don’t want to be heading to cremations.  For war, we need all the good warriors.  It will have to be us that goes to war.  If one of us dies, this will dim the glory of the wedding.  If you don’t go, or we don’t go, we won’t win.  We can’t just send the army on its own.  We can’t win without leaders.  Think about this, maybe it’s not good to fight a war right now.  After the wedding is done, we will see the Guru.  If you want to fight, then postpone the wedding.  Do one or the other.  This is my opinion.  Mourning during wedding is not good.”  Bheem Chand’s Vizier, Devi Das, then said: “I have a request.  To have a war with the Guru will not prove anything.  There is no reason to fight.  We will be blamed for bad advice.  We will be called the bad guys.  We can’t be certain that we will win.  We should analyse what our profit will be.  It is a happy time right now.  Let’s have fun at the wedding and not think about war at this time.  Let’s do the wedding first and then we will think of war after.”  Bheem Chand had nothing to say.  He was confused.  Satguru ji’s power and might was growing and Bheem Chand had to prepare for a wedding.  No decision was coming out of the discussion.  Confused and in doubt, everyone came out of the court. 

Bheem Chand went to his Runvaas (queens’ room).  The elder queen, the mother of Ajmer Chand, saw Bheem Chand’s long and confused face.  She spoke to Bheem Chand: “it’s Ajmer Chand’s wedding.  Let’s not have war.  Do the wedding first.  You are wise and mature, don’t get into war.  It’s not the right time.  Listen to my advice.”  All the wise people advised Bheem Chand not to fight a war.  Guru ji’s power was growing.  Bheem Chand did not want to delay and let Guru ji get mightier.  Bheem Chand got up the next day and called another court session.  The kings of the 22 Pahari kingdoms were present.  Bheem Chand placed his dilemma in front of them: “I have my son’s wedding and on the other side we need to fight a war with the Guru.  The Guru’s power is growing day-by-day.  This can prove to be devastating for our kingdom.  The Guru hunts in our area and his horses ruin our fields and farms.  His Sikhs cut our jungles.  He loots us and talks back to us.  We asked for items to show off at our family wedding which he refused.  All of you are wise, tell me, don’t neighbours help during weddings?  Forget about giving the things, the people that went to get them were insulted.  This makes my chest burn.  I have never been insulted like this.  I worry during the day and can’t sleep at night.”  The mischievous Kirpal Chand added fuel to the fire.  He told Guru ji that he is with him but also told Bheem Chand the same thing.  He didn’t want to fight a war with the Guru on Bheem Chand’s side though.  He didn’t see any advantage to fighting a war.  He then switched his opinions and said: “let’s leave the war right now and concentrate on the wedding.  Prepare for the celebrations and be praised by everyone.  The other royalty will come and bring gifts.  When the other kings come to the wedding, we will have another discussion to figure out how to deal with the Guru.  Fateh Shah will be there too; we can speak to him.  (Fateh Shah was a follower of Baba Ram Rai; Medni Parkash of Naan was Guru Gobind Singh ji’s follower) All the friends and family will have a discussion after the wedding.”  Kirpal Chand’s words were met with praise.  Everyone agreed that this was the best political strategy: they should focus on the wedding.  Bheem Chand then agreed and postponed the war.  He started to get involved in the wedding and its preparations.  He wrote to his relatives and other Kings and invited them to the wedding.  All of the friends and relatives from Lahore and Delhi came along with their armies.  Bheem Chand was an arrogant fool and kept enmity with the Guru.  All of the sinners and tyrants got together at the wedding.  Bheem Chand was waiting for the wedding to be done with so he can avenge his insult. 

1-42 Speaking to Mataji

Sri Kalgidhar ji was young and very handsome.  He was about 15-16 now.  Since the time when Pamma Purohit and Kesri Chand were beaten up and kicked out of Anandpur, Guru ji began to get ready for war.  He bought good horses and excellent quality weapons.  He would encourage his soldiers and give them good weapons and horses.  The young warriors would practice with guns.  Loud echoes could be heard from the firing of the guns.  The soldiers were waiting for the enemy, like people waiting for guests.  When somebody is coming to your house, you would prepare food.  Guru ji prepared for the enemies by making swords (being sweets) and shields (being plates to serve the visitors).  The bullets were like sugar balls; The hosts and servers were the warriors of the Guru; The Khappra teers and spears were like Jalebis.  Warriors were eager to feed the visitors and quench their hunger for war.  Five days had passed since the time Kesri Chand came but there was no sign of war. 

On the fifth day, Guru ji said, “they are not coming.  Let’s go and see their areas.  Let’s go hunting.”  The soldiers went with Guru ji, leaving Anandpur playing the Ranjit Nagara.  Where the mountains are in the decline, Guru ji headed to the place where the caves are formed.  They went towards the capital of Bheem Chand.  The dust flew from the horses galloping away.  They fired bullets as they travelled, making loud noises on purpose.  The noise echoed in the valleys.  Guru ji had his dogs, cheetahs, and hawks for the hunt.  They hunted wild bore and deer.  The soldiers were on top their horses and hunting in a fearless way.  There was no sign of Bheem Chand’s army.  In this way, they returned to Anandpur, sounding the Nagaras and the conches.  Many people of the Pahari area met Guru ji along the way and paid their respects.  They brought food and gifts for the Langar.  Whoever would come to see Guru ji, they would never be in pain and their obstacles were removed in their lives.  Guru ji would not let the horses ruin their fields.  The people that wouldn’t come to see Guru ji, their fields would be ruined.  When it was evening, they all returned to Anandpur and listened to Rehraas Sahib.  The soldiers would gather in their own regiments to eat Langar.  They all slept after eating. 

The Masands were worried for the last five days.  Their chests were burning and scared for war.  The Masands said: “we were living in peace.  There was Kirtan everyday and we got to eat Karah Prashaad and Langar.  Now, Guru ji has started war and we will be ruined.  He is young and does not know the aftermath of war.”  They would go tell Mata Gujri ji to convince Guru ji to stop the warrior ways: “why do you not think about this?  The Sahibzada is young and worsening the situation for war.  He talks of war and listens to his grandfather’s history of war.  He doesn’t know the reality of war.  There is great pain in war which he hasn’t seen with his eyes.  When war comes, then we will know, but it will be too late.  Bheem Chand is the most powerful of the Pahari Rajas and Guru ji insulted his messengers.  The Rajas will all come together.  We won’t be able to face them.  They are Rajas and have money and armies.  We don’t have that much money or soldiers.  Guru ji and his men shout out loud everyday that: “we will loot Delhi, Lahore and Multan.”  His soldiers say that Delhi will be their capital and Lahore their administrative building.  They want to conquer Peshawar and the whole of Punjab.  They will conquer the Paharis and the Sikhs will rule.  Mata ji, listening to these words, the whole world is becoming our enemies.  Delhi, Lahore and the Pahari Rajas are becoming our enemies.  If we don’t stop your son, he won’t let us live in peace in Anandpur.  Where will we go?”  Mata Gujri ji responded: “I am tired of telling him but he doesn’t stop increasing his army.  I am afraid that he may curse me if I try to say too much to him.  Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji told me in Patna that my son will be the one and only Avatar that will change the face of the world.  He told me not to stop him in any way.  I do not want to disobey the elder Guru.  This is the throne of Guru Nanak Dev ji.  Whatever he says, will be true.”  The Masands would convince Mata ji to speak to Guru ji.

Mataji then went to her son and sat beside him.  She put her hand on Guru Gobind Singh ji’s head and kissed his forehead.  She then said to him: “listen son, your grandfather fought many wars and killed thousand of Mughals and sent them to the realm of death.  His history is known through out the world.  You are wise, you know that there was a lot of damage.  There was a lot of pain.  The Masands left Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.  Even the ones that had love for the Guru, left because they were wondering why the Guru had left his peaceful ways and fought battles.  The Guru should do Kirtan and give wisdom.  Many Sikhs left.  Now in your time, Nauranga is a sinner of the Guru’s house.  Shah Jahan heard the Guru’s praises and backed down.  But Nauranga is filled with anger, he will not stop.  Your father was the idol of peace whom Aurangzeb caused his departure from this world.  He killed many saints and Peers.  He doesn’t care for Hindu or Muslim saints.  He is a sinner and a tyrant.  We are living in his rule.  He is in the south right now but he gives pain to saints.  We are no match for him.  Your Anandpur is such a beautiful place.  We are in peace here.  On one side is the mountain of Naina Devi and on the other is the Sutlej River; there is greenery everywhere.  It is heaven on earth.  The Pahari Rajas are our neighbours.  You like to hunt in their areas.  Hunt as much as you like, but don’t become their enemies.  There is tension, now, between you and Bheem Chand.  The 22 Rajas will side with Bheem Chand.  They look towards their advantage.  You will be all alone.  If they attack you, it will be difficult to live here.  The Masands that are well-wishers of Anandpur say that we should not be fighting wars.  The Masands are worried but don’t say anything to you because they are afraid.”  Sri Kalgidhar Ji heard his mother’s words and responded: “Mataji why are you afraid and worried?  Akaal Purakh is on our side.  I only trust Sri Kharagket in my heart.  I have great faith in Akaal Purakh.  What are these weak men?  The Mughal King’s roots will be pulled.  My Sikhs will rule by taking all their kingdoms.  Bheem Chand tries to show his might.  He is arrogant.  I will burst his ego.  He tries to cheat me and take the Haathi of the Guru’s house.  We will take their Haathis.  We will wage such a war on them that they will flea the battlefields.  We will kill them in battle or make them run away.  I am the son of a Kshatriya and do not fear anything, especially those who are arrogant.  I will strike such metal that they will not look towards us again.  Akaal Purakh is the savior of those in lower quantities.  I took birth to kill such arrogant fools by Akaal Purakh’s command.  I will kill the sinners and the one’s that oppress the saints.  I will make my poor Sikhs into kings by taking away the kingdom of these tyrants.  My Sikhs will sit under royal canopies and wear Kalgis to signify their authority.”  In this way both mother and son would talk everyday. 

The Masands had become cowards because they would eat the Sangat’s money to run their own households.  They were worried about their money.  The Guru’s soldiers were ready for war.  The foolish Masands did not have faith in the Guru’s power and radiance.  Sangat came from different regions of the country in the thousands.  The valiant and fearless ones stayed at Anandpur forever.  They told their families that they wanted to stay with Guru ji forever, seeing the glory of the Guru’s army.  They wanted to learn Shaster Vidya.  They did not want to leave the Guru’s side in time of war.  They settled in Anandpur.  Nand Chand ji “Sangha” would organize their salaries and uniforms. 

The Pahari Rajas were afraid to fight the Guru before the wedding.  They sent spies everywhere to keep an eye on Guru ji.  They were afraid to lose their kingdoms.  The spies kept an account of Guru ji’s every action and how many soldiers there were.  They would send the news back to Bheem Chand on how many new soldiers would join everyday.  The army was growing by the hundreds everyday.  This was concerning for Bheem Chand.  He had to prepare for the wedding too.  He told his guests to make sure they bring weapons in case of war.  He gathered many soldiers and enlisted them.  Hearing Guru ji’s news about Guru ji shooting arrows to 21 km, Bheem Chand would get scared.  Guru ji’s glory of being a master archer was now wide spread.  The spies would keep all these accounts.  They would report that the Guru’s arrows would split trees in half; if it went through lions or bores, it would go out the other end.  Bheem Chand would get angry and say: “the Guru lives in my area and does not obey me.  He did not give me items for my son’s wedding.  He insulted my messenger.”

Guru ji would encourage his soldiers and tell them to be ready for war.  Sangho Shah, Mari Chand, Jeet Mal, Gulab Rai and Ganga Ram would be around Guru ji all the time.  Devan Nand Chand and Pandit Daya Ram would encourage Guru ji: “Maharaj, just wait till we get the chance.  We will show you our battle skills.  The coward, cheat, sinner will not be able to face us.  He is nothing, we will loot Delhi and Lahore.”  The conflict grew on both sides.  The war was going to happen but the wedding stopped it.  Both sides were preparing for war.  Both sides had soldiers preparing for battle and Nagaras sounding.

1-43 The Ambassador of the Raja of Nahn Comes

The 22 Pahari Rajas were now well aware that Guru Sahib and Bheem Chand were not on good terms.  There was a battle brewing between the two.  There was a city named Nahn (Saar Mohr) on top of a mountain.  The place was beautiful and nestled at a high elevation.  The king of that place was Medni Prakash.  He had heard of the glories of Guru Gobind Singh ji, who lived in Anandpur Sahib.  He heard that: “thousands of people would come to Guru ji.  Guru ji does a lot of practicing of Shaster Vidya and keeps a great army.  He is a great and courageous warrior like his grandfather.  When he is filled with the warrior spirit, he does not care of anything and can take on thousands at one time.  Not only is he a great warrior but he is omniscient and all-powerful.  His arrows go miles off in to the distance when shot.”  Medni Prakash was happy when he heard Guru ji’s praises and wanted to see Guru ji.  He thought to himself: “if I meet Guru ji, all my tasks would be fulfilled.”  He wanted a saint’s blessings as Raja Fateh Shah of Garhwal was blessed by Baba Ram Rai.  Medni Parkash was not on the best terms with Fateh Shah.  Medni Parkash had a discussion with his ministers: “The Guru is the complete Avatar of Hari and sits on the throne of Akaal Purakh, Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji.  He has established Anandpur Sahib.  The Kahloor capital is close to him and the Raja of Kahloor, Bheem Chand is not on good terms with Guru ji.  Bheem Chand does not have faith in the Guru and doesn’t see his greatness.  They are not on good terms and conflict is brewing between them.  War can happen anytime.  We should write to him: “Prabhoo ji, please come and see our country.  Establish a city in Shaarmohr (Saar Mohr) and hunt in these areas.  This is your land.  The Jamuna flows here, adding to the beauty of the area.  The Jamuna is nice and cold here.  There are many deer in the jungles of this area for you to hunt.”  He had many discussions and had the letter sent to Guru Gobind Singh ji.  He sent his Prime Minister to take the letter.  He wanted him to request Guru ji to come to Nahn.  He wanted the minister to bring Guru ji.

The Prime Minister made the long journey and reached Anandpur.  When he reached there, he saw the crowds at Anandpur and how much happiness there was everywhere.  Kirtan and Langar were constant.  Raag Vidya and Shaster Vidya was seen everywhere.  The minister set up camp and sent a message to Guru ji of his arrival.  Devan Nand Chand ji informed Guru ji about the ambassador’s arrival: “Kalgidhar Paatshaah ji, Raja Medni Parkash has sent his royal ambassador with a message.  It is his Prime Minister, and he wishes to meet you.”  Guru Gobind Singh ji responded: “send food and feed for the Prime Minister and his men.  When we will hold Divan tomorrow, he may come to meet me.”  Nand Chand sent food for the Ambassador and his men.  He made sure the Minister had all the items of need.  Everyone ate and went to sleep. 

In the morning everyone woke up and did Simran of “Guru, Guru.”  Asa Di Vaar was sung in beautiful Raags.  Rababs, Taanpuras, Sarandas were playing.  The Naubats, Shehnais and the Ranjit Nagara was sounded.  It sounded like a loud thunder that echoed throughout the valleys between the mountains.  The Bhatts and Naqeebs sang the praises of the Guru, with conches playing.  Everyone was happy, waking up early.  As the sun rose, Guru ji gave the command to set up court.  The Kabuli tent was set up and the tarps were laid out.  The soldiers were asked to come along with the Masands.  A message to Medni Parkash’s minister was sent to come to the court.

The tent was set up and Kalgidhar ji headed towards his court and sat on his Singhasan.  There was a gem-embroidered canopy set up on top of Guru ji.  The Chobdhaars were holding golden gurjes.  The golden chaurs were waived over Guru ji.  There were diamonds and pearls everywhere.  The chaurs looked like swans trying to eat the pearls on Guru ji’s Kalgi but fly away, fearing Guru ji as they came close to his head.  Guru ji was wearing expensive clothes with all his weapons.  The Masands and the warriors came to the court.  The ambassador from Nahn came as the Sangat was doing Kirtan and Simran.  The Prime Minister presented gifts in front of Guru ji and bowed, many times.  He took permission and sat down.  He said to Guru ji: “Guru ji, my king bows to your lotus feet with his hands folded.  He has heard of your praises and was drenched in bliss, listening to them.  He wishes to see you and has sent me to you.”  The Prime minister put the Raja’s letter at Guru ji’s feet and said: “please read this letter Guru ji.  Please see for yourself how much love and devotion my king has for you.”  Guru ji had the letter read out loud in the court: “please consider me your servant.  I am the servant of your servants.  I have full faith on you, as a Sikhs does on their Guru.  Please accept my plea.  My name is Raja Medni Parkash.  I do not have words to write your praises as you are the Guru of the world and the Avatar of Akaal Purakh.  I send a request to you and want to know what your response is.  I have found out that you are not on good terms with the Raja of Kahloor.  He is a fool to take on conflict with you.  He does not know what is good for him.  He will suffer one day for having conflict with you.  Where your feet are placed, that place becomes pure and holy.   If you wish to travel the mountain ranges, please come to my country and live here.  There are many trees here and it is beautiful.  Please come here.  There are many beautiful gardens and fruit trees.  The Jamuna flows here, which is beautiful and blue.  You may hunt here as much as you want.  You may stay here as long as you wish.  You may ride your horses as much as you want.  Please consider this country as yours, not mine.  Please go where you wish in my country.  I can’t come to see you but I wish to see you.”  The whole court heard the letter and were happy.  They said: “this Raja is a good man.  He knows the praises of Guru ji.”  Guru ji asked the minister: “how beautiful is your country?  What is on the other side of Nahn?  Which country is close to you?  How big is your area and how many mountains are there?”  The ambassador responded: “Guru ji, that you will find out when you see it for yourself of how beautiful it actually is.  Our area is mountainous with many valleys.  You will have to see the beauty with your own eyes.  When Sri Ram Rai saw this area, he decided to stay there.  He saw the most beautiful area and made his home there, calling it “Dehradun.”  Our king lives on the other side of many Pahari Kings.  Our neighbour is Raja Fateh Shah who is a great king.”  Satguru ji then said: “it is almost time for war now.  We will need to fight a war first and then I will come to see your country.  The fools need to have their egos crushed.  I will not let the fraud in their hearts to live on.  Bheem Chand is ready for war too.  He is postponing war but we are ready.  That fool is not coming to the battlefield but we are waiting for him.  The coward fool is now scared.  Prime Minister, stay here in Anandpur for some days.  Then return to your king.”  Guru ji sat in the company of the Sikhs for about three hours.  He was like the moon around the stars and got up to go back to his home.

The Sangat and the Prime Minister were singing the praises of Guru ji by saying “Dhan Guru ji.”  Everyone went home after the court was adjourned.  The Masands got together and figured that the war seems to be postponed.  They were at ease for the time being.  They wanted to send Guru ji to Nahn so that war could be postponed: “it would be good if Guru ji goes from here and the war is postponed.  If war happens here, it would be bad.  If the battle is postponed, the anger will subside after a while.  Bheem Chand is busy in his son’s wedding.  He can’t leave the happy occasion.  If Guru ji goes to the beautiful country of Nahn, he will be distracted by its beauty.  How should we tell Guru ji to go?  Let’s go to Mata Gujri ji.  We can tell her that this will avoid war and she can tell her son.” 

The Masands all prepared what they were going to say to Mataji and went to her place.  They came to her and told her about the letter from Nahn.  They spoke very convincingly and cleverly: “listen Mataji, it is a good time to postpone war.  A letter has come from Nahn; so please convince Guru ji to go.  He wishes to fight the war first.  Please convince him to go.  Please start the conversation and then we will join in.”  Mata ji then said: “it can’t be me alone.  Call Devan Nand Chand and the five brothers as well.  Guru ji listens to all of them.  Tell all of them that: we all want to see Nahn.  He will then listen to all of them.”  Listening to Mataji’s words, the Masands then decided to go to Nand Chand, and the other warriors to convince them.  They all agreed that this was a good strategy. 

1-44 Going to Nahn

The next day, Satguru ji was sitting in his home.  Many Masands had come to make a request to Guru ji.  Sri Mata Gujri ji also came into the room.  Guru ji got up and paid respects to his mother and made her sit on a higher seat.  Devan Nand Chand and the five sons of Bibi Veero ji were present, who had the love for the Guru’s feet in their hearts.  The Masands sat down and looked towards Guru ji.  Mata Gujri ji spoke to her son, in a loving way: “son, I have heard of a letter that had come for you.  Who sent it and why did he send it?  From where is the Raja from and what did he write?”  Guru ji heard Mataji’s words and said: “Mataji, in the area where the blue Jamuna flows, there are Pahari Rajas there.  One of them named Medni Parkash of Nahn is faithful to the Guru’s house.  He found out that I have differences with Bheem Chand and that we are ready for war.  He sent a request for me to come to his country.”  Mammaji was sitting nearby and understood what his sister wanted to say.  He said: “sister, the Raja has written the letter with love and devotion.  His area is very beautiful as well.  It’s like heaven on earth with many valleys and mountain ranges.  The Jamuna is pure blue in that region.  People who have been there, have praised it as a must see.  When Baba Ram Rai ji saw the area, he loved it so much that he established a city named Dehra Ram Rai (Dehradun) in that region.  It’s a very nice area.  Jamuna, the daughter of Surya (in ancient texts, it is written that the Jamuna was the daughter of Surya, (the Sun), and Sanjana.  She is referred to as Yami and is the twin sister of Yama, the Devata of Death), is very pleasing to the heart.  About 70 km from Dehradun, exists Nahn.”  Devan Nand Chand also spoke: “yes, it is a beautiful place amongst plateaus between mountains.  Guru ji, if it be your wish, shall we go and see it?  We can hunt there everyday.  It will be a joyous time.  Bheem Chand is a sinner and is just making things more tense.  He was getting worked up for no reason as he wanted the elephant.  He is now scared of losing his own life, or his family member’s, and don’t want to fight now, so they can enjoy their family wedding.  Otherwise, he would have fought a battle and he would have seen our skills.  The Pahari Rajas would have been surprised to mess with us, and their faces would have been dirtied with dirt.  It would have been such a stain on their faces that couldn’t be washed off with water.  Guru ji, your praises are spread around the world and for this reason, Bheem Chand is now scared.  With Guru Nanak Dev ji’s blessing, we have won the war without fighting it.”  Bhai Sangho Shah ji spoke: “this is all because of the radiance of Guru ji.  These Pahari Rajas are nothing.  The Emperor’s army lost to Guru Hargobind Sahib ji.  The history of the sixth Guru’s four battles is well known.  Whoever raises a conflict with you, Guru ji, they will forever be in loss.  Bheem Chand is plotting something.  They will come for sure.  They will come after the wedding.  We will see them when they come.  At this time, we should go to Nahn and see the beauty of the area.  If you wish, we can stay a few months.  If we don’t like it, we will come back.  We can come back to Anandpur.”  Satguru ji heard everyone’s words and said: “I wish to fight a war.  If Raja Bheem Chand wishes to fight, we will fight.  It will be with the command of Akaal Purakh.  I will show Bheem Chand a great battle.  Till then, my anger will not calm down.  The fool does not know me, the throne of Guru Nanak Dev ji.  His whole army will be destroyed.”  Mata ji heard her son’s words and tried to convince him again: “son, the sinners of the Guru’s house will never live in peace.  They will get what they deserve.  He does not know the glory of the Guru.  The fool is unfortunate and will regret his choices after.  He will be happy if he asks for forgiveness.  If he has postponed the war, then why do you wish to fight a battle?  The Raja of Nahn is a faithful person whose country is beautiful.  Let’s go to Nahn and see the Jamuna.  You can travel the area and bless it.  You can hunt there and then come back to Anandpur.  There is no use to be angry.  Let’s go to Nahn.  The enemy has run away.  We should not chase him.  If a conflict is delayed, it is not good to probe it again.  If he comes again with his arrogance and tries to start up a fight, then do as you please.  I won’t stop you.  You are omniscient.  There is nothing hidden from you.  Listen to your mother this time.  Don’t start the war.  The previous Avatars of Akaal Purakh all listened to their mothers.  Sri Ram Chander Bhagwan and Krishan ji all listened to their mothers.  At his time, you are the Avatar and you should listen to me.  Calm your anger and let’s go to Nahn.  Let’s go to Shaarmohr.  There are many of your Sikhs there.”  Guru ji heard his mother’s words and said: “Mataji, I cannot disobey your command.  You are the Mother Guru.  But Mata ji, I have been sent by Akaal Purakh to wage war on the tyrants.  I will kill the sinners and punish them with my strength.  Their kingdoms will fall and will be taken away from them.  They did not recognize the saints and made them sit on hot plates.  Guru Arjan Dev ji was the pure form of Akaal Purakh.  They disrespected him.  They will pay for their sins.  Then the world will know what warriors are.  I cannot hide from the enemy.  The whole country belongs to the Mughals.  If we keep travelling and hide, they will kill us by making us move around.  They all want to supress me.  They won’t let us live in peace.  They give pain to saints.  I am the son of Kshatriya.  That is the only duty of a Kshatriya: to fight war.  A yogi cannot reach such a place by doing Tapasya for a 100 yugas; that a warrior can achieve by fighting one righteous war.  I will not renounce my duty.  I will give my Sikhs weapons and wage war.  I will make the poor into kings; and the kings into beggars.  Then they will understand my radiance.  I will finish countless sinners.  I will listen to you this time Mataji.  We will leave in the morning but don’t stop me next time from war.  Take fear out of your heart.”  Listening to Guru ji’s words, everyone said “Dhan Guru ji.  You are the doer.  Nobody can reverse your words.  Whatever you say comes out to be true.  It was your words that created the universe and it will be your words, by which the universe will fold into itself.  The fools do not know this and go to hell for their doings.”  In this way the discussion was over.  Everyone was happy that Guru ji was going to Nahn.

Guru ji commanded: “Nand Chand ji, go and tell your soldiers, Sikhs, and Masands to get ready to go.  All the tents and necessary items should be loaded onto the carts.  We will leave after the packing is done.  Tell everyone to be ready to go by morning.”  Devan Nand Chand ji came out of the room and made preparations.  He commanded everyone to get ready.  Mata Gujri ji was happy that her son listened to her wishes and that the battle was postponed.  She got up and went towards her home.  She went to Mata Jeeto ji and Mata Sundri ji and gave them the good news that: Guru ji has given the command to go to Nahn.  Now, they were to leave in the morning.  They were going to go the city that was at the shores of the Jamuna.  The whole family was happy.  They all ate and went to sleep. 

Everyone woke up to the sounds of the Nagara in the last hour of the night.  They bathed and attended the Kirtan in Raags.  There was Kirtan sung everywhere and the Sikhs listened to Asa Di Vaar with love.  Guru ji was sitting in his Samadhi and was witnessing the Brahm Saroop inside of him.  As the sun came up, there was light everywhere.  Everyone got dressed and we’re ready to go.  Guru ji opened his eyes and wore his clothes.  All of the Sikhs came to Guru ji.  Guru ji gave the signal to mobilize.  The Ranjit Nagara was sounded.  It’s deep thundering sounds made the clouds embarrassed.  The Prime Minister of Nahn was summoned to Guru ji.  He was given a very expensive Siropa and given permission to leave.  Guru ji told him: “tell Raja Medni Parkash that I am coming.  We will be behind you.”  The minister bowed and left Anandpur.  He started on his long journey but moved fast to tell the Raja that Guru ji accepted his request. 

The Minister reached Nahn and said: “Guru ji read your letter and was extremely happy.  When I bowed for you and presented your request, Guru ji happily accepted it.  He left right away by saddling the horses.  I came quickly to give you the good news.”  Raja Medni Parkash was happy to hear the good news.  He was waiting for Guru ji to bless his land.  He made preparations to receive Guru ji with Shehnais, Naubats, flowers and vaajas. 

1-45 Visiting Kiratpur before Going to Nahn

Guru ji got dressed with his clothes, jewellery and weapons.  Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji was ready to go.  The Ranjit Nagara sounded and it echoed between the mountains in the valley.  The soldiers were ready to go once they heard the Nagara.  Guru ji’s horse was saddled.  The palanquins and carts were covered with zarri cloths, made with real gold wires.  The Elephant mats were made of silver and gold.  The 33 Crore Devatas were mesmerized by Guru ji’s glamour.  The clever horse got excited once it was saddled.  It was eager to run around free.  It did not like to keep its feet on the ground.  It was excited that Guru ji was going to ride him.  The horse was aware of all directions.  It could see and sense its rider’s intentions.  When the horse was untied, it began to jump and dance.  It wanted to fly faster than the wind.  It rubbed the fronts of its legs on to the ground, getting ready to run.  The wind was no match for this horse today.  The deer were no match today.  This was Guru Gobind Singh ji’s beloved horse, Neela.  Its saddle had diamonds, emeralds and rubies embedded into it.  The tassels were made of zarri.  Neela’s neck was curved like a peacock’s neck.  Guru Gobind Singh ji’s horse was like Inder’s Haathi.  There were golden chains on Neela.  This horse was perfect in all known trots and gallops.

Guru ji donned a sharp-edged sirohi.  Its hilt was made of pure gold.  A quiver filled of arrows was on his shoulder.  He held his 9 tonka bow.  Guru ji’s radiance would wash all the sins away, one who would see it.  Guru ji was the treasure of virtues.  Neela was all ready and brought before Guru ji.  Guru ji got off his bed to mount his horse.  His Kalgi rocked to the movement of his head as he moved.  He put his shoes on.  He was wearing golden hoops in his ears and his cholas was made of a very fine, high-quality fabric.  His bulky arms were as big as the trunks of an elephant.  His Dastaar had a pearl and diamond embedded Jigha.  The Sikhs that were drenched with love and devotion would see Guru ji, and be filled with bliss.  Guru ji’s appearance was a bud, about to release its pollen of bliss for the Sikhs.  Guru ji put his foot into the stirrup and jumped to mount the horse.  He did an Ardaas to the Nine Gurus and rode off to the sound of the Nagara.  The soldiers heard the Nagara; ready beside their horses; wearing their swords; holding their spears and supporting their bows.  The sound of the Nagara was an indication that Kalgidhar Paatshaah had mounted his horse.  The soldiers mounted their horses after Guru ji and shouted out Jaikaras.  Everyone started off.  The Sangat was walking behind as well.  500 Udaasi Fakirs were with Guru ji who would take Karah Prashaad from Guru ji and then cook their own food.  Muslims, Hindus, Udaasis and other saints were in Guru ji’s Vaheer.  The elephants’ bells would ring as they walked.  The dust flew as the horses rode.  The Cavalry, Infantry and other soldiers were moving too.  Some Masands and a regiment of soldiers were ordered to stay back in Anandpur to serve the Sangat coming for Langar afterwards.  Baba Sooraj Mal ji’s grandsons: Gulab Rai and Shyam Das were commanded to stay in Anandpur Sahib to overlook the place.  They would serve visitors.  The people of Anandpur walked a few miles to see off Guru ji.  It is Gurduara Mitthasar (where Guru Hargobind Sahib ji dug a well) where Guru ji told the Sangat to go back home.

Guru ji soon reached Kiratpur Sahib and set up camp.  Karah Prashaad was prepared in huge pots.  Guru ji took some of the Karah Prashaad and visited his grandfather’s place of Pataalpuri Sahib.  He went to the final resting places of Guru Hargobind Sahib ji and Guru Har Rai Sahib ji and distributed Karah Prashaad there.  He bowed to those places along with Sheesh Mahal Sahib; Baba Gurditta ji’s Dehora Sahib and other holy sites in Kiratpur Sahib.  Takhat Kot Sahib and Harmandhir Sahib (Kiratpur) was visited by all as well.  Everyone went to Charan Kamal Sahib of Guru Nanak Dev ji where Guru Nanak Dev ji did Kirtan for a long time.  They rested at night time with the people of Kiratpur Sahib.  Everyone brought Guru ji gifts and money.  They were very happy to visit Guru ji.  The Sodhis lived here in great numbers.  Guru ji visited his Thai, Mata Khem Kaur ji (wife of Baba Sooraj Mal ji) to have Langar.  Mata Khem Kaur ji and Mata Gujri were childhood friends, who had great love for each other.  Every one ate and fell asleep.

In the morning everyone got up and bathed.  Guru ji wore his clothes and mounted his horse.  The Elephants and horses were ready.  The Ranjit Nagara was sounded and everyone left.  Guru ji hunted along the way and soon reached Ropar, where they set up camp.  Sada Vart Sahib (visited by the 6^th, 7^th, 8^th, 9^th and 10^th Gurus) was there in Ropar, where Guru ji stayed.  They slept the night there and left the next morning.  They travelled slowly during the day and rested at night.  They travelled the mountainous ranges and came to the area of Nahn.  The Raja found out that Guru ji was nearby.  He travelled ahead to receive Guru ji.  Medni Prakash took his soldiers and public to see Guru ji.  His ministers went with him.  Guru ji got closer and closer.  The Raja descended the mountains, bringing gifts of weapons, clothes and horses.

Raja Medni Prakash finally met Guru ji and bowed, folding his hands.  He was very happy to see Guru ji.  He saw Guru ji’s appearance and was mesmerized.  Guru ji asked him: “Raja ji, how are you and how is your family?  Is everyone well?”  The Raja responded: “Guru ji, we are all well by your blessings.  You have been gracious to bless my land and my home.  You are truly enslaved by love, Guru ji.  You come running to the ones who have love for you.  You came to visit me and now I am in bliss.  You fulfilled all my wishes by coming here.  I am no longer in pain, as soon as you set foot into my country.  Guru ji, I am your servant.  Please bless my home.  This is your country, not mine.  You can hunt here to your heart’s delight.”  Medni Parkash met Guru ji in this way and accompanied him up the mountain.  Guru ji started the ascend up the mountain.  All of Guru ji’s soldiers were on the left and right side of Guru ji as they made the climb.  The climb was quite steep.  Medni Parkash was travelling beside Guru ji and was showing Guru ji the view.  Guru Gobind Singh ji admired the views along the way.  The dwellers of the mountain ranges came out and showered Guru ji with flowers.  They all soon reached the market of Nahn.  Guru ji and Raja Medni Parkash made delightful conversations, with Guru ji smiling as he listened.  When Guru ji spoke, his white teeth looked like pearls arranged in a perfect line.  The Nahn city was on top of the mountains.  Everywhere Guru ji looked, there was greenery all around.  Guru ji loved to be around nature.  The trees and mountains along with the falls were the decoration of the region, just as a young maiden was dressed up with beautiful clothes and jewellery. 

In this way, Guru ji travelled and reached an open area in the Nahn city, where the Vaheer was to set up camp.  The Raja folded his hands and said: “Guru ji, please camp here and rest.”  Guru ji got off his horse and looked around.  The servants quickly laid down a bed, and Guru ji sat down on it.  The Raja sat with Guru ji for about an hour and brought his servants for Guru ji’s service.  They brought ghee, rice, sugar and vegetables.  They brought feed for the animals.  Food for Langar was brought.  The Raja went back home but the Prime Minister stayed.  He organised all items of need and served the whole Vaheer.  Sweet and sour Langar was made.  Fruit from the trees of Nahn came for Guru ji.  The Raja made sure everyone was happy.  The Prime Minister visited everyone in the Vaheer to make sure everyone was okay.  He served everyone including the Saints.  Everyone ate and rested the night.

In the morning, everyone woke up and bathed.  They did Simran of Satnam and Asa Di Vaar was sung by the Rababis.  They read Gurbani, which protected everyone from the Jumms, the Messengers of death.  Guru ji wore his royal clothes and weapons.  As the sun came up, Guru ji sat on his bed.  The Sangat came to visit along with Raja Medni Prakash.  He brought all his ministers.  He was wearing a sword with diamonds in the hilt.  He wore a Kalgi along with his full royal regalia.  He bowed to Guru ji’s feet and put his eyes to Guru ji’s feet.  He sat at Guru ji’s feet and said: “the mountains, forests, rivers and land are all yours.  Please hunt here as much as you wish.  There are many deer, bores and animals.  You can go anywhere you please and set up camp where you wish.  I will not refuse anything.  Which ever place you like, I will have an Ardaas of that place done to surrender it to you.  I’m only happy if you are.  Please look at the whole area and see which area is pleasing to you.  Please make a fort wherever you wish.  Guru ji, I know you keep a keenness in military action and would like to build a fort.”  Guru ji responded: “my wish is whatever your wish is.  Tell me which place you like.  Since you are familiar with your land, you tell us which is the place you wish to give to me.  I will hunt in that area with my hawks and dogs.”  Raja Medni Prakash folded his hands and said: “Maharaj, I am fortunate that you wish to take me along for the hunt.  Today we will stay here.  In the morning we will go and see the whole area.  Wherever you please, we will set up camp.”  In this way Medni Prakash and Guru ji spoke. The radiance of Guru ji was so great that the Raja and the ministers were all mesmerized by Guru ji.  They couldn’t believe their eyes as they would stare at Guru ji.  The radiance was so beautiful and calming.  They were happy just sitting there and serving Guru ji.  They couldn’t stop praising Guru ji.  They were all eager to show Guru ji their country.  They all rested the night and got up the next morning of the third day.