2-11 Nand Chand takes the Tambol/ Bharaat

As the night passed, everyone got up in the morning and bathed.  They got ready and bowed to Guru Gobind Singh ji’s feet.  They prepared the Tambol.  500 soldiers mobilized, carrying bows and other weapons.  Guru ji inspected everything and gave his orders to go.  Spears and weapons were donned, horses were saddled and mounted, 125,000 Rajitpun Tambol was off.  There were many unique items in the Tambol.  The items were placed on carts and mules.  Devan Nand Chand and Pandit Daya Ram ji headed towards Srinagar, Garhwal.  They planned their route along the shores of the Ganga. 

They soon reached the capital city.  Raja Fateh Shah was informed that Guru Sahib’s Sikhs were arriving.  The Raja sent his servants to prepare their resting areas.  A big area was prepared for the soldiers inside the city.  There was a haveli there as well and shown to Devan ji and Pandit ji.  Devan ji thought about everything and said: “tell the Raja that the soldier Sikhs of the Guru are with me.  They are always ready to fight and are an aggressive bunch.  It is my advice that we not stay inside the city.  We should camp outside of the city.  The soldiers are very fearless and rebellious.  They only listen to Guru ji and are apprehensive to anyone else.  They get into fights amongst themselves.  They need an excuse to fight.  They unsheathe their swords whenever they feel like.  The Sikh soldiers are from Punjab and are aggressive.  I don’t want them to get into a fight with the city dwellers.  They don’t take anyone else’s orders.  Other than Akaal Purakh and Guru Sahib, they don’t respect any other authority.  They don’t know anyone else besides Guru ji.  They are always ready to fight.  Tell the Raja to set up their camp outside of the city.  We need open spaces.  (Devan ji was also strategizing that they were only 500 in numbers and didn’t want to be surrounded inside the city in case of a fight.  He also wanted to keep a way open to go back to Paonta).  We will need access to the river for bathing.  They won’t be happy inside the city.”  The servants of the Raja went back and said: “Raja ji, we showed the Guru’s Devan the haveli but he said he wants the camp outside of the city in an open space.”  Fateh Shah heard this and said: “alright, if that is what they want, have the camp on the way towards Paonta, where there is a garden.  Tell the Devan to camp in the royal gardens.  We will send all the food there.”  The messengers went back and took the Devan to the Royal Gardens.  They showed him the gardens and Devan Nand Chand ji liked the place because it was an easier way back to Paonta from there. This was a very wise strategy that the Devan thought of.  He thought of all the scenarios and wanted to not take any chances.

The soldiers then went to the gardens and sent up camp.  They set up a boundary with wood and branches.  The Devan had advised the army to always be on alert.  They stayed the night there in the gardens and woke up the next morning.  They bathed in the Ganga and set up a Divan and performed Asa Di Vaar.  They then went to meet Raja Fateh Shah in his court.  Devan ji said to the Raja: “Guru ji is very pleased with you and sent a Tambol of 125,000 for your daughter’s wedding.  Guru ji sees you as one of his own and was gracious.  He sent me along with a regiment.”  Fateh Shah folded his hands and said: “Guru ji has blessed us.  I am a servant of the Guru’s house.  Guru ji has given me great respect by sending you.”  The Sikhs were respected and treated well.  The soldiers had their horses tied in the camp.  The Raja would send food for the Sikhs and feed for the horses.  He would send gourmet dishes for everyone to eat.  The whole army would make their own food.  They would always be on alert as Bheem Chand was an enemy.  Fateh Shah was very respectful and made preparations to receive the Bharaat.

Over on the side of Bheem Chand’s place, the Bharaat was getting ready to leave.  Bheem Chand invited all of the Pahari Rajas and his relatives.  Many Rajas came to Bheem Chand but some went over to Fateh Shah’s house.  The Rajas brought their armies as well, as Bheem Chand had advised.  They all came with their weapons, horses and elephants.  They came to Bilaspur and carried out their traditions.  The women sang songs and danced.  The vaajays sounded and the Bharaat set off.  The songs of wedding were sung.  Bheem Chand’s son tied his Sera and set off.  They headed off to Srinagar.  Paonta Sahib was on the way.  As they reached about 6 km from Paonta Sahib, they set up camp there.  Bheem Chand found out that Guru Gobind Singh ji was close by, in Paonta.  He wondered if he was going to be able to pass through or not.  Guru Gobind Singh ji, the most powerful was settled there with his army.  Bheem Chand thought to himself: “how will we pass through this area?”  He called his ministers and the other Rajas to discuss the situation.  Gopal Chand Galleria, Sidh Sen of Mandi, the Rajas of Suket and Jasuval and Handooria Raja also came to Bheem Chand.  Bheem Chand had everyone sit with him with respect and said: “I have a worrisome problem.  We are not on good terms with Guru Gobind Singh.  We almost had a battle.  The Guru was ready to fight too.  We postponed the battle due to the wedding.  We need to cross a path where the Guru is settled now.  He has a fort set up there with a huge army.  If we go close to the Guru, there will definitely be a war.  We postponed the war because of the wedding but we face the same situation now.  We have a lot of items and soldiers.” Kesri Chand the mischievous one, the Raja of Jasuval and Galleria all said: “don’t worry.  How much army does the Guru have that he can face us?  We have a real army.  The Guru has farmers and labourers.  They don’t know how to fight.  We are kings.  We can’t back down from war.  The Guru has little army.  Why should we fear him?  We will pass by him.  If he let’s us pass, that’s fine.  Otherwise we will fight.  Send your Vizier and have him convince the Guru to let us pass.  Send some wise people to see how much army the Guru has.  Tell the Guru that we have a great army.  They should tell the Guru to let us pass or else we will loot his fort.”  Bheem Chand listened and responded: “it is not good to talk about war.  We are in the wedding mood.  War is to kill or get killed.  If one of our kings or relatives get killed, what will we do?  I want to fight the Guru too but I want to fight after my son’s wedding.  Right now, I want to avoid the war.  My opinion is that we should not talk about war.  We should request the Guru to let us pass with love.  We should act like we are nice and be nice to him.  We need to take this path or else we will have to go the long way.  We will not reach the wedding on time.  What’s the use if we reach late?  It won’t be good.  If we cause problems with the Guru, it won’t be good.  The Guru has a great army and set up a fort there.  The Guru is a great warrior and is very strong too.  He is ready for war and is fearless.  It’s not good to talk war with him.  The Guru has fortified his settlement.  He has good weapons and armies.  He won’t let us pass with ease.  You are all wise.  Let’s figure out how we can pass with peace.  We are all masters of politics.  We should use the political strategy of “Shaam” to fold our hands at this time.  We need to take the Bharaat with peace.”  Everyone heard Bheem Chand’s words and said: “alright, but we won’t go to ask.  Send your Viziers.  But we will definitely fight after the wedding.”  The foolish kings wanted to cheat the omniscient one, the omnipotent and all-powerful Guru.  They were using all their wisdom.  They were without faith and devotion.  They had no love.  None of them thought about bowing to the Guru. 

Bheem Chand called his minister, Devi Das and had him sit near him.  He told him everything: “you are wise.  Tell the Guru that we don’t wish to fight.  Devi Das, we need to pass this way.  Do what you need to do, truth or lie, convince the Guru to let us pass.  Speak strategically to him.  When the elders knew of something going astray, they would become humble.  This is the politics of Shaam.  This is a wise thing to do.  Become humble and get your task done.”  When Bheem Chand said that we should be humble, Gopal Chand and Kesri Chand got angry.  Gopal Chand and Kesri Chand said: “why are you making us look bad in front of the Guru?  You are strong and wise.  Why are you afraid.”  Kesri Chand said: “Vizier ji, don’t be too humble.  Tell the Guru we have a great army.  Tell the Guru to let us leave and move his settlement.  If your army comes in front of ours, we will fight.  His Paonta will be looted. Warn the Guru.  Tell him to move from his settlement.  Don’t be humble.  Make sure the Guru is afraid of us.”   Bheem Chand heard this and said: “don’t use harsh words first.  Speak with love first.  If being humble works, that’s better.  Peace is better.  If the Guru is not convinced, then say what Kesri Chand is advising.  It is up to you to decide what to say.”  The Vizier was wise.  He said to all: “it is my opinion that we should not fight.”  Devi Das got ready to go to Guru ji with 20 soldiers.  He left from the camp.

2-12 The Raja’s Vizier asks for Right of Passage

The Vizier Devi Das was fearless and went to Guru ji, taking along 20 men.  Bheem Chand was worried and couldn’t stop thinking if he’d be able to cross without a fight.  Kalgidhar ji’s radiance was a concern for Bheem Chand.  He knew that Guru ji was fearless and didn’t give in to any authority.  He wondered if there was going to be a war here.  He didn’t want to fight Guru ji now as he didn’t want anyone to die.  He prayed for a peaceful wedding.  He wanted to make sure the songs at the wedding were sung with peace and happiness.  War is always full of mourning.  He saw that as a bad omen.  The Pahari Rajas all retired to their camps.  Bheem Chand was waiting for the Vizier to bring back good news from Guru ji.  He wondered if Guru ji was going to meet the Vizier.

In Paonta Sahib, Guru ji was sitting in his court like Inder sitting with his Devatas.  Guru ji was radiant and magnificent.  News came to Guru ji: “Bheem Chand has brought a big Bharat with a great army as well.  Their camp is close to Paonta Sahib.  There are canons, horses and elephants.  He needs to pass through Paonta.  He has a big army and is fearless because of that.”  Guru ji heard the news and said: “there’s no man with two heads, born of a mother, that can pass by here.  I will shoot an arrow that will make his generals fall like buildings, falling from lightening strikes.  His soldiers will fall into eternal slumber.  They will be finished in battle like mountains reduced to rubble by the strike of Inder’s Bajjar.  They will be cut like trees in the jungle being sawed by Tarkhaans.  He has come to marry off his one son, I will make them all get married to death.  I will pile their heads; their blood and guts will make the ground into mud.”  Guru ji was getting his soldiers ready.  Guru ji sent 500 soldiers, ready for battle, about 3 km ahead, towards Nahn.  Guru ji commanded them: “when Bheem Chand’s army comes by, fire your bullets at will.  There is no mercy for someone who comes to attack.  No matter how big is his army, we will be ready to fight.  We will kill them and take their weapons.”

As Guru ji was addressing the warriors, the Vizier of Bheem Chand arrived.  The Vizier saw Guru ji, all radiant.  The soldiers were ready and standing in attention.  He humbly bowed to Guru ji from afar and said to the guards at the gate of the city: “I would like to meet Guru ji.  My Raja has sent me with a message.”  Devi Das then was thinking: “the stuff that Devi Das asked me to say are full of deceit.  Guru ji is omniscient and the master of the universe.  He knows everything and can’t be deceived.”  Many soldiers with guns were standing at the front door.  Devi Das got off his horse, bowed again, and spoke to the guards inside the complex: “Raja Bheem Chand has sent me to speak with Maharaj Satguru ji.  Please let Guru ji know: I would like to speak to him.  Bheem Chand has brought a Bharaat with all the Pahari kings.  He is camped outside of Paonta.”  The guard quickly went inside to deliver the message.  He said to Guru ji with his hands folded: “Bheem Chand and the Pahari Raja’s are camped outside of Paonta.  His Vizier would like to meet you.  Guru ji, please give him permission to come.”  Guru ji told the guard to bring the Vizier inside with respect.  The guard brought the Vizier inside.  Guru ji’s radiant court was in progress, just as Devatas sitting in Inder’s court.  Guru ji looked like Inder on his throne.  He had a high Kalgi.  He was wearing his royal clothes along with golden weapons.  Guru ji was holding a khapra teer (arrow that was 4 fingers thick) in his hand.  He would roll the arrow in his hand all the time.  He had a very fierce-looking bow placed in front of him.  He saw Devi Das come into the court.  Devi Das folded his hands and walked towards Guru ji.  Guru ji began to give a subtle smile as Devi Das came closer.  Guru ji said to him: “come, Vizier of the Raja.  It has been a while since you last came.”  Devi Das bowed to Guru ji and sat down after Guru ji’s permission.  Guru ji continued: “how is your Raja, Bheem Chand?  What did he tell you to say?”  The Vizier heard Guru ji’s words.  He knew of Guru ji’s glory and spoke with humility: “Guru ji, the Rajas have considered you as their support and bow to you.  They praised you as the sun of the Sodhis.  Since you have left Anandpur, the Raja has regretted that he has been in conflict with you.  He realizes his mistakes.  He has brought a Bharaat for the marriage of his son.  The other kings are with him too.  They have come from Kahloor with a great Bharaat.  There are ministers and rich people in the Bharaat.”  Guru ji said to Vizier: “tell your king that: if you want to pass with the Bharaat, then pass by like kings.  If you pass without ego, the doors of the Guru’s house are always open.  If there is ego about your strength, then face us.  We are ready for war.  (Bheem Chand had originally planned to fight Guru ji on the way back, by sending the bride and groom home and the Pahari Rajas attacking Guru ji.  Hence the reason why Bheem Chand asked everyone to bring their armies.  The fact that Paonta Sahib was on their way, was not considered) You said that you want me to live in Anandpur, this won’t be the same anymore.  We will fight first and break his ego.  We will win first and then I will go back to Anandpur.  I will not side with a cheat.  I will not go back to Anandpur like this.  He says one thing and does another.  He says he is my servant but he wants to loot me.  We live on our own strength.  We only rely on Akaal Purakh and no one else.  Those who look for support are always weak.  The arrows in my quiver are eager to fly.  They are jumping and want to be taken out of my quiver.  When the enemy’s chests are in front of me, then I will calm them down by shooting them.  My arrows will go through their chests like a snake goes into its burrow.  They will bite the enemy like flying snakes, flying.  The Raja’s Bharaat won’t need sweets.  We already have prepared sweets for them.  I knew all of you were on your way so I had the cooks (warriors) ready to prepare your food (war).  My warriors have prepared shields as trays for the sweets.  The swords are the sweets made of ghee, that will cut your bodies.  The bullets of the guns are the sugar balls.  The khappra arrows are the jalebis I have prepared for you.  My warriors will serve you this food.  They will satiate you.  The warriors are hungry for battle.  They will fulfil your hunger for war.  If you are true warriors and hungry for war, come to the battlefield without delay.  Otherwise, you cowardly fools need to find another way around.  Don’t come through Paonta.  Listen Vizier, I have told you what I am going to do.  I won’t let anyone pass.  I have truthfully told you what I will do.  I haven’t hidden anything from you.  I don’t believe in deceit.  I wouldn’t have said this if Bheem Chand was truthful.  If he wants to fight, tell him to come now.   Not later.  He has wanted to fight me for a while now.”  When Satguru ji gave his decision and expressed himself, Devi Das had nothing to say.  He lowered his eyes and sat there.  He knew that Guru ji already knew what was said in Bheem Chand’s court.  Guru ji doesn’t need to be told anything.  He was way too powerful for everyone.   The Vizier figured that Guru ji knew about the deceit that the Pahari Rajas were planning.  Since Guru ji knows everything, there’s no way he was going to let Bheem Chand cheat him.  Devi Das thought for a while and knew that Guru ji was not going to let the Pahari Rajas pass.  The Vizier bowed and got up with great worry.  He bowed to Guru ji and folded his hands to everyone else in the court.  All the other strong and wide-chested soldiers, wearing their Shasters, Dastaars and fierce looking faces were looking at Devi Das.  Devi Das folded his hands towards everyone, hoping he wouldn’t be taken down by one of these warriors as he left.  He left the court and mounted his horse.  He looked around the fort and saw soldiers everywhere.  He saw the Pathaans as well.  He noticed that everyone had expensive and high-quality weapons.  He noticed the horses were from high breeds.  The soldiers were like lions in the jungle.  They were all 6 feet and wide chested.  They were young, agile and strong.  The stables had endless horses tied up in lines.  The soldiers were clearly from many lands.  They all had many weapons.  The whole camp had weapons everywhere.  The Vizier saw their enthusiasm and got worried.  They looked dangerous and brave.  The fort of the Guru was right along the shore of the Jamuna.  The fort was solid.  There were Sikhs everywhere.  Some were sitting on top of towers with guns, keeping watch.  Some were practicing and some sat in groups, keeping guard.  The city was well-established.  Some were doing business and shops were set up.  Devi Das travelled a bit and saw the garden that Guru ji had planted.  It had many fruit trees and perennials standing.  Many flowers were there.  Birds were singing.  Devi Das saw Guru ji’s glory and came to an understanding: that Guru ji’s grandeur and majestic lifestyle superseded the glory and grandeur of any king, past or present.  He said to his men: “look at the glory of the Guru.  Look at what you see.  This cannot be with any normal king.  He left Anandpur and came to Paonta and established a new city within a jungle.  This fort and city were built in a matter of days.  The fort was made in 12 days.  This is not a normal thing.  The Guru is Akaal Purakh’s form.  There are so many people here.  The army is so big and spread out through out the city.  The shore of the Jamuna is so beautiful here.”  The Jamuna is very quiet in this area where Guru ji wrote Dasam Guru Granth Sahib ji’s Bani.  The Vizier praised Guru ji and travelled with his men.

Devi Das reached the camp of the Pahari Rajas.  They were waiting to see what Guru ji’s response would be.  The Pahari Rajas were scared, looking at the armies.  Some kings said to each other: “the Guru is fearless.  He is a courageous warrior.  We don’t think he will let us pass.  He is fearless, like great warriors.  Warriors do not count armies.  They go to battle without thinking of numbers.  His fort is right in our way.  The Guru won’t listen to us.  The Guru does not know fear.  He is the best warrior.  He wields the sword with great skill and gives sustenance to all.”  The Rajas discussed amongst themselves with worry.  The Vizier came.  The Rajas asked the Vizier about Guru ji’s soldiers and armies.  They wanted to know if they will be given the right to passage.  They wanted to know if there will be war or not.

2-13 The Groom and the Vizier Get Right of Passage

Bheem Chand was waiting for the news.  He waited and waited.  Bheem Chand wanted to get to the wedding site, as soon as possible.  He wanted to fight Guru Sahib on the way back.  He wanted to meet the other Rajas at the wedding and bring them along to attack Paonta.  The Vizier came back to the camp and got off his horse.  He went to the Pahari Rajas and sat down.  Bheem Chand smiled and said: “what did the Guru say?”  The Vizier folded his hands and said: “Raja ji, the Guru is omniscient and knows of what you are planning.  He knows that we are being humble for our own selfish reasons.  He knows that once we pass, we will change and revert back to enmity.  Guru Gobind Singh ji is the Guru and sits on Guru Nanak’s throne.  He has Guru Nanak’s powers.  He has many powers and is a complete Avatar.  We can’t lie to him.  I told him that you were praising him.  Hearing my words, the leader of the Sodhis knew my hidden agenda.  He refused passage.  He spoke brave and courageous words: “I will not let anyone pass.  I will fight and destroy them.  Bheem Chand’s happiness will turn into mourning.  If the Pahari Rajas are strong, then come and bring your full army.  Since the time I was in Anandpur, you have been arguing with me.  I was ready to fight then.  I have only the wish to fight.  If you wish to fight, then come and fulfil your wish.  I do not wish to call a truce.  We will meet with all the Shasters.  I have a regiment of 500 men waiting for you on the way.  The army of the Guru has no delay.  We want to see how great warriors you all are.” 

Bheem Chand heard the Vizier’s account of his meeting with Guru Sahib and got worried.  “This is a big obstacle before the wedding.  If the war happens, people will die.  There is no other way to get to the wedding.  We will have to go through the mountains.  We will be late then.  The proposed time will pass.  This is a big problem.”  Bheem Chand called all the other Pahari Rajas.  He had them seated and said to them: “we have a problem.  We need to find a way to get to Garhwal within the next few days.  The Guru has refused us way to pass.  He is ready to fight.” 

Kesri Chand and the other kings said with arrogance: “Bheem Chand ji why are you worried?  We have armies, elephants and guns.  Why are you afraid of a Fakir Sadhoo?  We will fight and destroy their soldiers.  We are warriors and have the best fighters.  We pay them to fight wars.  We will attack the Guru at once.  The Guru’s army will be pushed to the side.  We will pass through.  No matter how strong he is, we will fight and the Guru will have to leave.  We will aim and shoot our guns all at once.  We will push through and pass.  Don’t worry.  We will pass through this way with ease.  We will reach the Jamuna sooner than later and cross it.  Our whole Vaheer will pass the river and will give one great push to the Guru’s army.  Let us do what we want to.  We will loot the Guru’s fort.  We will take his weapons and his possessions.  We will push his army aside and loot the Guru at the sound of our Nagaras.”  Gularia Gopal Chand and Kirpal Katochia said the same thing.  These two were very mischievous and wanted the war to happen to ruin Bheem Chand.  They tried to find a way for the war to happen.  Bheem Chand was wiser than the others.  He knew that Guru ji was a great warrior.  He was afraid of damage before the marriage.  Bheem Chand didn’t accept their advice: “I don’t want to fight the Guru before the marriage.  Vizier ji, tell us how can we get across.  I don’t want to miss the auspicious proposed timing of the marriage.  How much army does the Guru have?  How come he is so confident?  Tell us how we can get across without conflict.”  Devi Das responded: “Raja ji, you are wiser than me.  I can only advise you.  You ask about the Guru’s army?  His army has grown 10 times more than it was in Anandpur.  The Guru’s army is less than yours but his warriors bow to his feet and are ready to die for him.  This makes the Guru’s army more dangerous than yours.  They have collected weapons and soldiers from many lands.  He sits on the throne of Guru Nanak Dev ji, the greatest Avatar.  You are Rajas but nothing in comparison to Guru Nanak’s throne.  You ask about the Guru’s strength?  He is 100 times stronger now.  The Guru is now older and stronger.  His radiance and grandeur has grown even more now.  Anywhere I looked, there were soldiers carrying weapons everywhere.  There were strong horses and the Sikhs have a lot of enthusiasm.  Your soldiers are paid a salary but the Guru’s soldiers love him.  You can’t push the Guru’s army aside.  The Jamuna is too far.  The Sikhs won’t let you reach the Jamuna.  They will destroy you.  You want to loot the Guru?  You want to loot people who talk about war all day and night?  They will take the clothes off your back.  Don’t be egotistical about your kingdoms and wealth.  You will regret it later.  I have analysed everything.  I was talking to the Guru and reading the faces of his soldiers.  They are too strong and won’t let you cross Paonta.  We can’t match their army.  We won’t win.  I have another idea if you like: let’s get the groom across first by requesting the Guru to let him pass.  We will take 2 servants and pass Paonta.  The Guru won’t say anything to him.  He will reach the proposed time of the wedding.  Once he is married that’s fine.  We can take the long way to Garhwal.  We will be late but we will reach.  This is the best way.  Let’s send the groom.  We will request Guru ji to let them pass.  There is no other way without damage.” 

Kesri Chand and Gopal Chand spoke with ego: “Vizier!  What are you saying?  You don’t see us as warriors?  You want to make us into cowards?  What did you see in the Guru?  Which caste are his soldiers?  They are laborers.  His army are a collection of different wood.  How great of warriors are they?  How many horses can the Guru have?”  Devi Das responded: “you don’t know.  The Guru has 500 Pathans that were hired by the reference of Peer Bhuddu Shah.  They are the first line.  They are expert marksmen.  They are great at one-on-one combat with swords and shields.  He has the best and strongest men from many regions.  I am not lying.  The camps are spread out over many miles.  There are many Udaasi Sadhoos walking around with long staffs.  The are well-fed with Karah and are quite strong.  I saw the regiments and was surprised to see the armies.  I was amazed to see how big his army was, even though he doesn’t receive taxes or income.  How does he pay for all this?  No king can do this.  His Sikhs and soldiers are happy and ready for war.  They are enthusiastic for war.  They are already thinking they are going to win.  I am your Vizier.  I will never advise you for war.  You are wise.  The decision is yours.”  The Rajas heard about the Guru’s army and went quiet.  Bheem Chand was really worried now and said: “we can’t cheat the Guru.  Listen Vizier.  You say that we should send the groom.  What if the Guru arrests him?  Who will rescue him?  My son will be in trouble.  I will have to listen to whatever the Guru says.  People will mock me and call me a fool for sending my son alone.  They will call me foolish.  The Guru is not greedy so we can’t give him money to release my son.  If he was greedy, I could have given him money and do what I wanted to do.  Tell me what should we do?  Everyone needs to think about this.  I don’t want to miss the proposed auspicious moment.”  Devi Das said: “listen to me Raja ji.  Don’t think like that.  The Guru is patient, brave and a warrior.  He is a great being.  He is strong and full of power.  He will not do such a thing.  If your son goes to the Guru and bows, he will not arrest him.  He is gracious and wise.  He is a mine of virtues.  Don’t worry.  Send your son without thinking.  You can take the army the long way.  Let the groom go through Paonta.  Listen to what I am saying.  This is the best thing to do.  This is the best thing for everyone.  There is no other way to get to Srinagar.” 

2-14 The Vizier and Bheem Chand’s son reach Srinagar

Bheem Chand was the strongest and wisest of the Pahari Rajas.  He thought hard and agreed with his Vizier.  He wanted to convince the other Rajas.  He said to them: “Listen kings of the Mountains, the wedding time is near.  It will take many days to fight the war.  Let’s face the reality, the Guru will not run after seeing our army.  If the war happens, it will be intense.  Warriors from both camps will not back down.  The Guru is a brave warrior.  Who knows what will happen in the war?  Let’s go ahead with the wedding and then I won’t back down from fighting the war with the Guru.  Let go of your anger now and let’s get to Srinagar.  We will attack the Guru right after the wedding.  We will bring Fateh Shah with us.  We will bring our army and make the Guru leave Paonta.  The Guru is our enemy and Aurangzeb’s as well.  We won’t let him live in our area.  The Guru stopped us from getting through.  He caused us a problem.  I will not forget this and will fight the Guru to defend my honor.”  Bheem Chand spoke to the Rajas in this way.  He stopped the other Rajas from fighting the war.  Bheem Chand prepared his son and the Vizier to pass through Paonta.  He told Dev Das: “you must go with my son through Paonta.  If the Guru stops you, bow to him with humility and request him to let you go.  You need to do anything you can to get through.  Make a request from me to let my son go.  If the Guru asks why I haven’t come, tell him that it’s because he didn’t let me through.  Tell him that children belong to all, let him through.  Tell the Guru that I do not want to fight him.  Tell him that I bow to him.  It is not good to fight Gurus and that’s why I send my son and my Vizier for the wedding.”  Bheem Chand sent his son along with the Vizier.  He was worried that his son may be arrested but he sent him off.  The Vizier and 2 servants went with them.

The Vizier and Ajmer Chand travelled slowly, without any weapons.  As they reached closer to Paonta, the army of Guru ji noticed them approaching.  The mounted soldiers surrounded the Prince and the Vizier.  When they looked into the palanquin, they saw the prince with a sehra tied.  They noticed that there was no army with them.  They surrounded them and pointed their guns and spears at them.  They took the Vizier and the prince to Guru ji’s fort.  They made them stand at the front gate and told the main guard: “tell Guru ji that Ajmer Chand and the Vizier were going towards the wedding but we have arrested them.  There is only the Vizier, the Prince and 2 servants.  The rest of the Rajas and the armies didn’t come out of fear.  They took the long route to the wedding.  They sent the Prince this way so he gets to the wedding on time.  The army took the long route because Guru ji didn’t let them pass.”  Guru ji heard the message and called the Prince and Vizier to him.  When they met Guru ji, they folded their hands and bowed.  Guru ji smiled and said: “come child, you have come.  I will arrest you and make you eat the food of the jail.  Who will rescue you?  Your father is my enemy.  I will arrest you and make your father do what I want to.  I will ask for Lakhs (hundred thousand) of money from your father and do with you as I please.”  Guru ji was joking but the Vizier got scared and folded his hands.  He said: “Guru ji, the Raja’s son has come to seek your protection.  All the kingdom and wealth we have was blessed by the Guru’s house.  When I told Bheem Chand what you said, he accepted what you said.  He does not want to disobey you.  You did not want anyone to pass, so Bheem Chand and the other Rajas have gone through the mountains.  Because the groom needs to get to the wedding for the proposed auspicious timing, we need to go through Paonta if you allow us to.  That’s why Ajmer Chand and I have come this way.  We are at your merci.  You can do as you please.  Bheem Chand bows his head to you.  Please have merci on us.  I have heard of your greatness.  You are gracious.  Whatever you do, we do not appose.  The Raja holds no grudges in his heart.  He does not doubt you and that’s why he sent his precious and beloved son this way.  The Raja said: “this son of mine, is also the son of the Guru.”  If the groom does not go this way, the auspicious time of the wedding will pass.  We need to go quickly.  The Bharaat is not with us and we need to go alone.  The father and the uncle of the groom cannot go but we need to get Ajmer Chand there on time.”  Guru ji heard the Vizier.  He saw his and the Prince’s hands folded.  Guru ji was gracious and said: “look Vizier, Bheem Chand is a liar and a fraud.  If I was a liar and a cheat, I would arrest you all and keep you here.  Even if the Bharaat reaches, what will you do without the groom.  The Bharaat is useless.  So many people were in the Bharaat.  Devi Das, this is Guru Nanak’s house.  We do not cheat the cheaters.  Go to the wedding.  I will not be like the Raja.”  The Vizier and the others were relieved to hear Guru ji’s words.  He bowed to Guru ji many times and said: “you are great Guru ji.”  They felt like they were given a new life. 

The Vizier and the groom crossed the Jamuna and headed towards Srinagar.  There were big mountains with high peaks.   They eventually reached Srinagar before the time.  Fateh Shah was waiting for the great big Bharaat.  He was expecting a lot of people, armies and elephants.  He prepared nagaras, shehnais and other receivers.  He was expecting the Pahari Rajas with eagerness.  He prepared a big celebration with food and dance, just as a royal wedding would be.  Fateh Shah had a lot of people on his side.  Many kings and dignitaries were gathered in Srinagar.  The Vizier was alone with the groom arriving with 2 other people.  Fateh Shah saw the Vizier and greeted him by lowering his head.  He said to the Vizier: “welcome.  When will the Bharaat reach?  No other person was sent with you.  You came alone.”  The Vizier told Fateh Shah the whole situation: “the Bharaat will not come till after the wedding.  There was a big problem on the way.  Kalgidhar ji did not let the Bharaat pass.  He did not let even one person to pass.  He did not want to let the army pass.  Guru ji remembered the jealousy of Bheem Chand and did not let us pass.  I had to come alone with the groom by begging the Guru to let us pass.  The groom is with me.  We wanted to come before the auspicious occasion.  It was a very difficult path we travelled on.  The terrain was treacherous.  The groom is in the palanquin outside.  Go and do your traditions and bring him in.  There is no Bharaat with him.  The Bharaat is coming through the mountains and will be here in a few days after the wedding.  They won’t reach on time.  You can serve them when they are here.  Please do the wedding now.”  Fateh Shah was shocked to hear Devi Das.  It was like somebody sitting down got hurt, all of a sudden.  The celebrations went sour.  This was a problem.  Fateh Shah looked towards his ministers and officers and said: “get up and get the groom.  Bring him to his resting place.  Prepare the wedding ceremony.  When Bheem Chand comes, we will carry on with the hospitality then.”  The ministers heard this and were disheartened.  The queens were depressed.  Everyone was sad.  The ministers went to the groom and brought him to his resting place, with respect.  He was given food and drink. 

When the time for the wedding came, the groom was brought to the area of the wedding.  The traditions of the family were carried out by Fateh Shah.  They did as the elders directed.  The Vedic traditions were carried out by the Brahmins.  The gifts were given.  Fateh Shah had to carry out the groom’s father’s traditions as well as the bride’s father’s traditions.  He brought the groom to his home.  Fateh Shah began to think why Guru ji did what he did.  Fateh Shah was waiting for the Bharaat but the celebrations couldn’t take place.  It soured the mood of the wedding.

Purohit Daya Ram ji and Divaan Nand Chand ji heard what had happened, as they were in Srinagar on Guru ji’s behalf.  They thought to themselves: “the problem has gotten worse.”  They went to Raja Fateh Shah’s court.  Fateh Shah seated the two close to him, with respect.  Pandit Daya Ram ji said: “Raja ji, the Tambol that Guru ji has sent, we have brought for you.  It has been many days since we have been here.  We need to go back to Paonta Sahib quickly.  We don’t like to stay at different places for long periods of time.  We would like to go back home now.”  Fateh Shah heard Pandit Daya Ram ji’s words and spoke in the court: “I haven’t started receiving the gifts yet.  When everyone gathers, I will receive all of the gifts then.  Guru ji has brought up his old enmity with Bheem Chand and didn’t let him through Paonta.  The Bharaat is late for a few days.  When they come, then we will receive and record all the gifts.  When the Rajas from both side meet, you may show Guru ji’s Tambol at that time.  It will be praiseworthy for us to receive a Tambol from the Guru’s house and it will be in good praises for Guru ji too, that he gave such a big Tambol.  Everyone will see.  It will be just a matter of a few days.  Stay a while.  I will give you leave with great respect.  Stay here.  Keep the Tambol with you for now.”  Both men got up and came back to their camp.  They were on high alert now as the situation could get worse any time.  Guru ji said to them before they left: “these Paharis are weak-minded and can’t be trusted.  They are not on good terms with us.  Make sure there is not fight that breaks out.” 

2-15 The Saudagar/ The Bharaat reached Srinagar

When Kalgidhar ji didn’t give way to Bheem Chand, Ajmer Chand and the Vizier were allowed to pass.  Bheem Chand was glad to hear that his son and his Vizier were allowed to pass.  Bheem Chand and the other Kings took the long route through the mountains.  He was upset at the fact that he couldn’t attend his own son’s wedding.  His ego took a great blow.  He was embarrassed.  He was burning from the inside.  The path was very treacherous.

On the path that Bheem Chand was travelling, there was a very rich Saudagar (merchant) travelling on.  He was a Gursikh.  He bought and sold horses.  He had just bought horses from Kashmir.  They were strong and big horses.  He had 100 horses with him.  He wanted to take the horses to Guru Gobind Singh ji and gift them to him.  As he entered the mountainous area, he heard of what was going on in Garhwal.  He found out the whole story of the wedding of Fateh Shah’s daughter with Bheem Chand’s son.  He also found out that Guru ji did not let Bheem Chand pass with his army through Paonta.  Guru ji did not want the army to pass as they wanted to show Guru ji their might.  Guru ji wanted them to fight.  Guru ji let the groom pass though.  The Saudagar thought to himself: “these Pahari Rajas are weak-minded, corrupt people.  The situation in this area is tense and a fight can break out at any time now.  If they are jealous with Guru ji and pick fights with him, then what am I?  If they find out I am taking these horses for Guru ji, they will come and rob or kill me.”  He figured the Rajas will loot him.  “They have a great army and I have no army.”  He was worried that he won’t be able to fulfill his wish to present the horses to Guru ji.  As he reached close to Srinagar, he heard hopeful news that Satguru ji’s Devan was in Srinagar and camped along the outskirts of Srinagar in the gardens.  Guru ji sent the Tambol with him along with 500 soldiers.  The army was armed.  The Saudagar thought of Guru ji and bowed his head.  His faithful cry was heard by the Guru.  He felt fearless now and was confident the horses would reach Guru ji.  He said “Dhan Guru Gobind Singh ji, please protect the gift that I am bringing for you.  Your radiance is illuminated in the whole world.”  He was drowning into the river of his worries for many days but he now had hope and became calm.  His drowning mind got a ship.  He prepared the 100 horses, massaged them and decorated them.  He reached the camp where the Guru’s army was staying.  He met Pandit Daya Ram ji and Devan Nand Chand ji and said “Pairi Pauna ji.”  They bowed to each other.  Pandit ji and Devan ji noticed the strong steeds and acknowledged that the Saudagar was no average person.  To care for 100 horses is no small task.  To feed them, massage them and to attend to them is difficult.  They were happy to see the horses and met the Saudagar with respect.  They had him rest and gave him Langar.  There was Keertan of Asa Di Vaar that happened in the camp along with Shaster Vidya practise.  The Saudagar was very happy to be among his fellow Sikhs.  He listened to Keertan, saw the army practice Shaster Vidya and had delicious Langar to eat.  He was at home.  He was in heaven.  He was respected well.  The Sikhs served him well.  Pandit ji knew something was about to happen and told everyone to be prepared for war.

Bheem Chand and the Pahari Rajas had arrived in Srinagar, detouring more than 100s of kilometres.  Fateh Shah heard about their arrival and went to receive them.  The Bharaat was finally received by Fateh Shah, with great celebrations.  A shower of money was rained on them.  Colourful flags were unfurled.  It was like the sun was shinning in the wedding.  The Rajas did the Milni according to their traditions.  The Shehnais, Napheeryas and dhols were played.  They were so loud that people could not hear each other talk.  Camps were set up for the Bharaat in the Junj Ghar (Bharaat rest house).  They were given all their items of need.  Many types of sweets and delicacies were made and sent to the Junj Ghar.  Bhak, Bhoj, Lehaj (liquid/runny food), Choosan (food that is sucked) types of foods were made.  They celebrated for a few days. 

The time came for the Dholi to depart.  The gifts were shown at this time.  All the Kings sat in a court and the gifts were brought to the centre to show off everyone’s gifts.  Fateh Shah showed elephants, horses and dishes that he gave to his son-in-law.  Devan ji and Pandit ji reached the court to present the Tambol from Guru ji.  The Nayondra (journal) was written for who gave what.  A very expensive Tambol was given by Guru ji.  The Rajas that were sitting, they were presenting their gifts and their gifts were recorded in the Nayondra.  As all the kings sat, there were tarps placed everywhere.  All of the gifts from the different kings were place in the middle in piles.  Many horses were there with gold and silver saddles.  Gold and silver dishes were placed.  They all saw each others gifts in the court.  As they all sat, Bhatts (lower status Brahmins that sang songs of people) spoke out loud: “the Tambol with 125,000 Rajitpuns, presenting the Tambol from the throne of Guru Nanak Dev ji.  The giver of bliss, Guru Gobind Singh ji sits on that throne.  He has blessed Raja Fateh Shah.  This is worth 125,000.  The Devan and the Purohit has brought it and presented to the daughter of Raja Fateh Shah.  This is the most expensive Tambol out of all the Tambols received today.  It has many unique items.  Clothes, jewellery, dishes, elephants, horses and other items that are priceless.”  As soon as Bheem Chand heard Guru ji’s name, he began to burn with anger.  His jealousy in his heart overflowed.  He said to his fellow kings: “look at this interesting thing.  Sri Gobind Singh is my enemy.  What can I say?  He didn’t let me come to my own son’s wedding.  He sent his army to block my path.  I forgave him because of the wedding and didn’t fight.  I will never forget this.  He ruined my son’s wedding.  He is a big enemy of mine.  The whole Bharaat was blocked.  My new relative, Fateh Shah, is friends with my enemy.  I cannot tolerate this.  My enemy’s praises are being sung in front of me.  Whoever is the Guru’s friend, is my enemy.  This is politics, the enemy’s friend is your enemy as well.  How can I have relations with Fateh Shah?  He accepts gifts from my enemy.  I am sitting in front of him.  Why did he think of singing the Guru’s praises in front of me?  What will he do behind my back?  What can I say?  If Fateh Shah wants to be friends with the Guru, then I will not take his daughter’s Dholi.  I will leave his daughter here.”  When the other Rajas heard Bheem Chand’s words, Kirpal Chand Katochia and Kesri Chand Jaswaliay spoke: “what you are saying is true.  The Guru is our enemy.  Why did Fateh Shah not think about this?  Why is he accepting the Guru’s gifts?  Maybe Fateh Shah doesn’t know.  He should have known though.  He can’t keep ties with the Guru since the Guru is your enemy.”  Gopal Chand Ghularia spoke: “let’s ask Fateh Shah.  If he doesn’t listen to us and sides with the Guru, then what relationship remains?  If he agrees to fight with the Guru, then it’s ok.  We will keep ties and alliances.  We will take his daughter.  If he doesn’t agree to fight, then we have no remaining relationship.  Let’s not be angry.  Let’s find out what he’s thinking.  Let’s send a Vizier to Fateh Shah.”  Bheem Chand agreed.  The Vizier of Bheem Chand and Kesri Chand were sent to Fateh Shah.  They all spoke to Fateh Shah of what the Pahari Rajas decided. 

Where the gifts were placed, Fateh Shah was in that court.  Hundreds of people were there.  They took Fateh Shah to the side and spoke to him: “listen Raja Fateh Shah ji, you are wise.  Why did you keep ties with Guru Gobind Singh?  Why did you invite him?  Bheem Chand ji is upset.  He is asking why you invited the Guru and accepted his Nayondra?  He is our enemy.  The Guru and Bheem Chand are on the brink of war.  He didn’t let us all pass to get to the wedding.  Fateh Shah ji, you know what happened. The groom came first and alone.  We came after.  This was so embarrassing.   You are still accepting his gifts after knowing what just happened?  You should have severed your ties to him.  We want you to sever ties with him.  If you want to be friends with him, then we can’t be relatives.  You are being friends with Bheem Chand’s enemy.  You need to pick a side.  If you do not wish to fight the Guru, and do not help us, our relationship is finished.  Bheem Chand says he will not take your daughter’s Dholi.  Now’s the time to ask for Bheem Chand’s forgiveness.  He won’t accept your apology afterwards.  Our relationship and friendship will be soured.  If the Pahari Rajas were not involved, Bheem Chand was ready to leave.  We stopped him and convinced him to stay.  It is up to you now to keep the peace with Raja Bheem Chand.  Tell us what you want.”  Fateh Shah heard this and was worried.  This was a difficult situation to be in.  He thought to himself: “I am on good terms with Guru ji.  Guru ji thinks well of me.  He respects me.  He helped me negotiate a truce with the king of Nahn and finished my conflict.  Fateh Shah spoke: “listen Vizier, you are wise.  To appose and have enmity with good people is not good.  This enmity will grow.  Well-wishers are very hard to find.  Loved ones are hard to find.  Fighting such a person is a sin.  What did the Guru did to me that I should fight him?  What wrong did he do to me?  You want me to take my army and face the Guru for what reason?  You have all caused an unnecessary problem.  The Guru is powerful and full of miracles.  You asked for something from him and he didn’t give it to you.  The item was his in the first place.  Why were you upset that he didn’t give you his elephant?  The Guru should be worshiped.  Be humble in front of him.  This is the best thing for us.  Making the enmity grow will not be beneficial to anyone.  I will facilitate the discussion to clear the conflict.  I will ask Guru ji to forgive everyone.  I will tell him: “whatever happened, happened.  Let it go.  There is no point for this useless conflict.”