2-31 Victorious in the Battle of Bhangaani

Raja Fateh Shah ran away into the mountains.  Many Pathaans died.  Raja Hari Chand lost his life.  Thousands of warriors of the Paharis were killed.  The ones that survived, ran away from the field, along with their generals and Pahari Rajas.  The Rajas took their horses, losing the battle.  The river that is named Ghiri, crosses Bhangaani and meets into the Jamuna.  Many dead Pahari soldiers fell into this river.  The horses fell into the river as well.  The ones that could swim, crossed over to the other side and went into the mountains.  A village named Rajpura exists there, on the side of the Jamuna River.  Some scared soldiers ran towards that village.  The Paharis were in a chaotic state.  Some died running.  Some died in fear.  The news of their deaths reached their capital cities: “Guru ji won the war, showering his arrows onto the battlefield.  He killed the enemy with his arrows.”  The whole 22 mountainous “Pahari” region was in mourning.  From some regions, 100 died, in some regions there were more than 100.  There was crying and screaming everywhere.  Every house was in sorrow.  The women beat their chests and their heads, crying and screaming in sorrow.  They would get together and cry together in groups in their villages. 

In this way Guru ji was victorious and had the Ranjit Nagaras sounded.  He had the bodies of Bhai Sangho Shah and Bhai Jeet Mal ji lifted.  He had the bodies of his dearest brothers taken to Paonta and cremated.  They were now in Sach Khand.  The injured soldiers were brought back to Paonta and treated.  There were pyres burning.  The crackling noise of the fires could be heard along with the shrieks of the vultures.  The evening was a scary time.  Many bodies still lay on the battlefield.  The vultures ate the flesh.  Some were suffering from fatal injuries and waiting to die.  Their companions left them on the field to die, as the Paharis had ran away in fear.  They were afraid to come back, fearing death.  Slowly, one-by-one, they began to die as well.  Nobody came back for them.  They suffered to death. 

Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji came back to Paonta after being victorious in battle.  The sinners were killed.  The enemy was defeated.  There were sounds of Jaikaras everywhere.  The soldiers were happy.  They were talking about the war.  They talked about how many soldiers they killed. 

The Pahari armies came back to their cities.  They walked slowly and still in fear. 

The Sikh soldiers all came back to Paonta and gave their congratulations to Guru Sahib.  It was around 9 pm when Guru ji came to his home.  He removed his weapons and took a bath.  The soldiers all bathed as well.  Guru ji was thinking about his brothers: Sangho Shah and Jeet Mal.  He was mourning his loss.  Both were older that Guru ji.  Maari Chand, Ganga Ram and Gulab Rai were the younger three sons of Bibi Veero ji.  Everyone went to their homes, tired from the battle.  There was mourning in Paonta as well, as many great soldiers fell.  They talked about the battle within their groups.  The soldiers were talking in their camps.  They said: “these Paharis started the war and then ran away like cowards.  Many of our soldiers were killed as well.”  They talked about how their comrades fought as well as the enemy soldiers.  Guru ji was praised for his role in the battle.  Everyone eventually fell asleep. 

The next day, Guru ji woke up at Amrit Vela.  The Keertan of Gurbani was performed.  Some read Japji Sahib, Sukhmani Sahib, and other Banis.  They loved Gurbani like fish loves water.  They bathed in the Jamuna.  Guru ji sat down in his court.  The court was in session.  The warriors were dressed with their Shasters and came to meet Guru Sahib ji.  There was a great court in session as all the soldiers were coming.  The radiant and glorious Guru was sitting in the court.  

Peer Buddhu Shah ji came into the court along with his 700 Mureeds.  Two of his sons were killed in battle.  The other two sons came along with Peer ji to Guru ji’s court.  They were all wearing their Shasters.  They came to Guru ji’s feet.  As Peer ji came close to Guru ji, Guru ji spoke out loud: “come Peer ji, Welcome!  You are a true Peer who is connected to Allah.”  Everyone in the court heard.  Peer ji had a very pure heart.  He folded his hands as he approached Guru ji.  He bowed to Guru ji.  The rest of the Mureeds bowed to Guru ji and offered their “Salaams.”  They heard Guru ji’s words.  Peer Buddhu Shah ji folded his hands and made a request: “Guru ji, I do not mourn my dead sons.  I am not sad over them dying.  I will tell you why: death dances on every person’s head from the day they are born.  My sons died at the right place.  They died on the battlefield.  Fortunate are those warriors that die on the battlefield.  They died fighting for the Guru.  They have gone to “Bahist” (heaven).  My sons will receive the rewards of Bahist.  Please bless them and accept their martyrdoms.  Please accept their offerings of their lives.  This is a great thing.  For this reason, I am not sad.”  Kalgidhar ji heard Peer ji’s words and said: “Peer ji, what you are believing right now, is exactly the way it is.  But still, I want you to know this Peer ji: the nephews of Guru ji (Sangho Shah and Jeet Mal were Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji’s nephews) also lost their lives on the battlefield.  They fulfilled their Kshatriya Dharma.  I am sad and in mourning.  They were my brothers.  My heart hurts.  I can’t stop thinking about them.  I can’t stop thinking about their virtues and skills.  They were with great energy, enthusiasm and strength.  They lived here with me.  I played with them when we were young.  We used to go riding together and hunted.  Many hunts we rode together.  They were both older than me.  They were my left and right arm.  I am in pain.  You lost your sons.  I feel pain over the lost of your sons as well.  You are great, Peer ji.”  Buddhu Shah ji heard Guru ji and said: “you are great in every way.  This world is in your command.  It is you who is doing everything.  My sons were born in your command and they died in your command.  You do everything.  We are fortunate to have served you.  My head bows to your feet.  The purpose of my life has been fulfilled.  My sons served you on the battlefield.  I came to fight because I gave the reference for the Pathaans to be employed in your army.  They received a salary from the Guru’s house but then turned their backs on you when you needed them.  They became traitors, “Nimak Haraamis.”  They did a horrible thing.  When I read your letter, I was embarrassed.  I collected 700 of my Mureeds from the villages and started off towards the fields of Bhangaani.  I first came to Paonta and found out that you had left.  I then came with my men to Bhangaani.  I realised it was war time and that any delay may end up in a bad result.  I did not camp or stop anywhere and headed straight to Bhangaani.  I saw that the battle formations were formed and then took up a flank against the Paharis.  I saw the guns being fired.  I then attacked the Paharis and killed many.  My sons fought with courage and did not back down.  My sons fought hard and went to Bahist with many other Mureeds.  The Pathaans were fighting you.  Those traitors were killed by you.  The person that turns their back on their master, is punished severely.  These Pathaans were punished the same way and got what they deserved.”  Guru ji heard the brave words of Peer ji and spoke: “Shaabaash Peer ji!  You are a great saint.  You have reached a very high level of Brahmgyaan.”  In this way, Guru ji expressed his empathy and praised the great warrior saint, Peer Buddhu Shah.  Guru ji had Peer ji sit down next to him with respect and glanced at him with a sight full of blessings.  Satguru ji was combing his hair and about to tie his Dastaar.  A sevadaar was clearing the folds from Guru ji’s Dastaar.  After the Dastaar was prepared, the sevadaar gave Guru ji his Dastaar.  Guru ji said: “Buddhu Shah, what shall I give you?  Money and wealth do not last forever.  They eventually get spent.  That thing that lasts for many generations and is useful for a long time, I will give you that today.  Keep that thing.”  Guru ji said this and gave Peer ji his Dastaar.  The Dastaar was a fiery orange.  It was a bit on the red side from orange.  Guru ji’s Kanga (wooden comb) had his Kesh (hair) caught between its teeth.  There was a small Kirpan attached to the Kanga as well.  Guru ji gave Buddhu Shah his Kanga, Kesh, Kirpan and red-orange Dastaar.  Peer Buddhu Shah took the Dastaar, Kanga, Kesh and Kirpan and carried them on top of his head.  He bowed to Guru ji many times.  He was really happy with his reward.  Guru ji said: “Peer ji, take care of these items.  The kingdom of the Khalsa will grow.  Your generations will show these gifts to the Khalsa and receive respect for it.  They will give many gifts for seeing these items.”  Guru ji called for 5,000 Rajitpuns and gave it to Peer ji, saying: “give this money to the Mureeds who fought in the battle.”  Siropas were given to the soldiers of Peer ji.  They were given Dastaars, clothes and money.  The Mureeds were really happy with their rewards.  Peer ji was given leave with great respect.  Peer ji left Paonta, bowing to Guru ji many times. 

Peer Buddhu Shah ji came back to his village of Sadhora and fulfilled the wishes of his Mureeds.  Peer ji went to his home and met his wife, Naseera.  She asked Peer ji: “where are my sons?”  Peer ji showed his wife Guru ji’s Dastaar and Kanga.  When Naseera looked at the Dastaar, she saw her sons in Sach Khand, in extreme bliss.  She was calm and happy knowing her sons reached the highest status of a Brahmgyaani and warrior.

Over time, Peer ji and his family were Killed by Osman Khan for helping Guru Sahib.  When Peer ji knew his end was near, Peer ji had the items of Guru ji plastered into a wall.  In 1890 Vikram (1813 AD) the wall fell due to its instability.  The trunk in which Guru ji’s items were placed, fell out.  This was about 125 years after Peer ji was martyred.  A hukamnama written by Guru ji also came out of the trunk, authenticating the items belonging to Guru Sahib.  Kavi Santokh Singh says: “I was near the area when I was writing the Sri Nanak Parkash Granth.  I was in Bhooria at that time, whose Raja was a Sikh Sardaar.  The descendants of Peer Buddhu Shah brought those items to the Bhooria Sardaar to show him.  The items were authenticated after reading the Hukamnama.  We all saw the items along with the Sikhs of the area.  All the Sikhs bowed to the items and put them on their heads.  I touched the Kanga of Sri Kalgidhar ji and touched his Kesh.  I bowed to them and felt as though I bowed to Guru ji’s feet.  The rich Sardaars gave a lot of money along with the Sangat to the descendants of Peer Buddhu Shah ji.  The Descendants still live in Sadhora.  They still receive money from Sikhs as they do Seva of the items of Guru Sahib.  Many blessings of Guru Sahib are the reason for the family’s earnings.  The previous year, the items came back to Bhooria for everyone to see.  The descendants of Peer Buddhu Shah told us the history of Peer ji.  I have written the history of Peer ji in this Adhyaaya.”

2-32 Awards/ Ready to leave Paonta

Sri Satguru ji gave his Dastaar to Peer Buddhu Shah and tied another Kesri Dastaar on his head.  He tied a Jigha and Kalgi which was very radiant.  The court was in session and the warriors were all happy.  Mahant Kirpal Das ji came, who used his Kutka to kill Hayaat Khan in the battle.  He bowed to Guru ji as he came.  Guru ji had him sit on is right side, with great respect.  Guru ji said: “Shaabaash ji!  You are a great Sadhoo who has done great Sadhana (penance).  You will be in peace.”  To reward Mahant ji, Guru ji took half of his Dastaar and ripped it in half and tied it on Mahant ji’s head.  Kirpal Das ji used to wear a “Kulha” (high weaved hat).  Guru ji tied the Dastaar on top of the Kulha.  The Mahant’s radiance grew twice as much with the Dastaar tied on top of the Kulha.  His wisdom and bliss increased four times.  Guru ji said: “Mahant ji, this is a medal for your order of Udaasis.  This will be a distinct trait for your order.  These gifts from the Guru will make both your worlds a success.  Karah Prashaad will be provided to you and your students without any limits, forever.”  Guru ji instructed the treasurer to distribute Karah and Langar to Udaasis, without limits. 

Daya Ram ji, Purohit, was called upon.  Pandit ji’s effort in the battle was phenomenal.  He was a very powerful warrior.  Guru ji looked towards Pandit ji to bless him.  Guru ji gave his shield with the golden phull (studs) to him and also wrote a letter, citing the shield as a reward from Guru ji.  It said: “Daya Ram ji is the Guru’s Purohit.  Whoever visits this shield, their wishes will be fulfilled.” 

The three nephews of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji (Maari Chand, Ganga Ram, Gulab Rai) were sitting beside Guru ji.  Guru ji gave them encouragement: “the two elder brothers have gone to heaven and have achieved the status of being supreme warriors, martyrdom.  They fulfilled their duties of being a Kshatriya.  Their life and death were a success.  They made their ancestors proud.  They went ahead to fight and did not back down.  Don’t mourn their deaths because they lived up to their Dharma and succeeded.  They will be praised till the end of time.  They will be praised in heaven for all eternity.  They will be in peace, living among the Devatas.  It is not good for warriors to die on a bed.  The battlefield is the best place for a warrior to die.  It is difficult to be given a place to live in heaven but a warrior gets there in an instant.  They are also marked with the tika (mark on the forehead) of praises when they go.”  The three brothers folded their hands and said: “oh master of the universe, you give everyone the gifts and pleasures of both worlds.  Fortunate are those who impress you.  It is difficult to impress you.  Please break our bonds of attachments to this world.  Please give us the love of your feet.  The words that come from your mouth are the ones that give rise to progress and peace.  Your words give mukti.  We are not sad at the dying of our brothers.  We know that they are martyrs and with Akaal Purakh Guru Nanak Dev ji now.  They died fighting for you.  You are the master of all creation.  You have saved your servants and given them a place at your feet.  Our brothers are fortunate.”  Guru ji was happy to hear his cousins and gave them Siropas.  He also gave them golden bracelets with diamonds embedded in them.  They were given golden necklaces and expansive clothes along with a lot of money.  The other warriors were given horses, weapons, expensive clothes and golden coins.  Everyone was blessed and were in bliss.  They were given respect and a lot of wealth.  It was the first victory.  Everyone was happy.  The cowards were told to leave.  Guru ji was not happy with the ones that were scared. 

The whole country found out about the victory of the Guru in the battle of Bhangaani: “The Paharis ran away.  The Pahari army was destroyed by the Guru.”  Beggars heard about the glories of Guru ji and came to receive donations.  Dooms, Maraasis, poets and singers came and sang ballads of the battle.  They received rewards from Guru ji.  Many poets came to show their art and read their poems and compositions.  Guru ji loved artists and gave them a lot of money to sustain themselves so they can concentrate on the progression of their art.  Guru ji was the best musician and poet himself.  He gave them golden jewellery and horses.  Whoever he was really happy with, we would give them horses and elephants.  Guru ji would enjoy arts and do new inventions everyday.  There was a river of donations flowing in Paonta.  Sangat from many countries came everyday.  The best musicians, artists and poets came to Paonta Sahib to show their art.  Sangat came and brought the best weapons and horses for Guru ji.  Their wishes would be fulfilled by giving Guru ji the gifts.  Guru ji’s glory grew and spread further.  He was a shining sun in the world.  The Taadis sang in Guru ji’s court.  Musicians sang the most complex Ragas. 

The warriors would listen to the ballads of war from the Taadis and be filled with the warrior spirit.  The warriors would do Jaikaras and say to Guru ji: “when Guru ji gives us the signal, we will destroy Srinagar and loot Raja Fateh Shah.  We will take his palace from him.  We will bring Fateh Shah and throw him to Guru ji’s feet.  The 22 Pahari Rajas will then be won and thrown to Guru ji’s feet.  Once we win the mountainous regions, we will then win the Mughal territories.  We will win Bhooria and Daamala from where the Nimak Haraami Pathaans were from.  We will loot Lahore and then Delhi.  Our camps and flags will be where the Mughals camps and flags are now.  If Guru ji does not give us a command to win the far away lands, then we will make one kingdom from Paonta to Anandpur.  We will make all the Rajas run away from here.  We will go to Anandpur and Paonta in peace then.  Prabhoo ji, please give us the command to win Srinagar first.  The Ranjit Nagar will sound and we will win Srinagar.”  Guru ji heard the warriors’ naughty words and encouraged them.  He said to them: “wait a little while.  Watch the drama of Kartar (Akaal Purakh- the doer) play out.  Don’t be hasty.  Everything will happen with Akaal Purakh’s command.  Stay in the will of Sri Asket.  Do Simran of Akaal Purakh.  Everything will unfold as it is supposed to.  The Khalsa will rule the world.  Don’t worry about this country, the whole world will belong to the Khalsa.  You will enjoy kingdoms.  There will be forts and palaces.  There will be capitals with great armies and leaders.  The Nishans will fly everywhere on earth.  You will win places that you haven’t even heard of or thought of.  These Rajas will pay taxes to the Khalsa.  The time will come.  The Khalsa’s glory will be spread far and wide.  I have joined you to the true master, Akaal Purakh ji.  Akaal Purakh will always be by your side.  Do Simran of Satnam.  You will win the kingdom of this world and heaven if you will keep the Rehit (way of life) of the Khalsa.  The Gurmukh Dharma instructed by Guru Nanak Dev ji, living by it, will give you prosperity and glory.  You will be in bliss.  If you fight and die in war, you will be in bliss.  The reason for my Avatar was to give you all of this.”  Listening to Guru ji, the warriors said: “you are the provider of everything.  You give us courage.  Listen Maharaj ji, please let us win the forts in this area.  Right now, we want to win the 400 miles area of the mountainous regions.  After we win these forts and fly our flags, we will then see the other countries.  The Paharis do not have the strength to fight us.  We will snatch their forts in an instant.  We want to fight right now.  We are just waiting for your signal to go.”  Hearing the enthusiastic warriors, Guru ji thought to himself: “they have recently won a battle.  Their feet will not stay still now.  They will make excuses to fight the Paharis.  They are filled with confidence and ambition.  If I tell them to go, they will go right away and start a war.  They will go hunting and pick a fight with some Raja.  It is not the time to kill all of them right now.  We should go back to Anandpur so they calm down.  People of this area are our enemies now.  These warriors need to learn politics.”  Guru ji said to them: “have some patience.  Let’s go back to Anandpur and take care of our city.  Let’s win that area first.  It is the land of the elder Gurus.  We will go and bow to the land of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji.  That is the best thing to do now.”  In this way, Guru ji advised them and calmed them down.  Guru ji had the Ranjit Nagara sounded and said: “let’s get ready to go.  Get hundreds of camels and load all the luggage on to them.  Go and arrest the people in the area of Fateh Shah and make them load all our items.  They should know what the result of raising conflict with the Guru’s house is.”  The warriors heard Guru ji’s command and mounted their horses right away.  They went to Fateh Shah’s area and grabbed many people and told them to take all the stuff from Paonta to Anandpur.  They made the people carry the luggage.  The Vaheer was sent off first with all the luggage placed on camels.  Canopies, tents, floorings, tarps, printed fabrics, pots and pans were all packed and loaded on to camels.  The treasury of the Guru’s house was loaded on to mules.  Many types of items were packed and sent off to Anandpur.  The thousands of people brought from Fateh Shah’s area were given luggage to carry to Anandpur.  Warriors were sent along to protect the Vaheer.  The luggage was placed on the camels and sent to Anandpur Sahib. 

2-33 Travelling to Anandpur/ The Raja of Nahn/ The thieves of Laha and Tota

After winning the war, the soldiers were not be able to sit still, and wanted to wage war.  Guru ji made preparations and had everyone go back to Anandpur Sahib after living in Paonta for 4 years.  Everything was packed and loaded onto carts.  The army packed and mobilized to leave.  Slowly, everyone began to leave in groups and headed to Anandpur Sahib.  Prabhoo ji mounted his horse and the Ranjit Nagara was sounded.  The sound of the Nagara echoed throughout the mountains.  The mountains trembled by the sound of the Nagara.  A deep fear struck the hearts of the Rajas.  They were afraid that Guru ji was going to declare war on them.  The Rajas sent their spies to see which way Guru ji was headed.  They feared Guru ji coming towards them and wanted to see if they were safe.  Guru ji was in fact headed towards Anandpur.  The Rajas soon found out that Guru ji was going to Anandpur.  They then slept in peace after knowing this, that night.  Guru ji along with this family and Sikhs headed home to Anandpur.  Hundreds of carts, horses, camels and mules caused the dirt to fly and cover the sky.  The Vaheer was so long that the front reached Anandpur, but some had not even started from Paonta yet.  The soldiers fired bullets into the sky as they left.  They made their horses dance as they travelled.  They went fast.  The sound of the horses galloping echoed in the valleys.  The soldiers that were injured in the battle were seated on carts and palanquins.  The people of the Pahari area picked up the palanquins as well as the luggage.  The senior Sikhs were in charge of food and water along with taking care of the injured as they travelled.  Guru ji told them to give all the injured soldiers what they need.  Passing the mountainous terrain, Guru ji set up camp.  Guru ji got off his horse and sat on his bed.  His camp was set for his resting.  The floor was laid out and the tents were set up.  Feed for the horses and camels were given.  Langar was prepared for everyone.  Guru ji ate along with the Sangat and rested the night.

Everyone got up and bathed during Amrit Vela the next morning.  Guru ji got dressed and then the Vaheer was ordered to move again at the sound of the Nagaras.  The villages would find out about Guru ji passing by and would come to meet him, showering flowers and bringing food.  As Guru ji passed by Sadhora, the Raja of Nahn, Medni Parkash found out that Guru ji had left Paonta and were going back to Anandpur, the land of his elders.  He found out that the whole army was going too.  Medni Parkash sent a messenger to Guru ji.  The messenger rode fast and met Guru ji near Sadhora.  He bowed and said: “Guru ji, the Raja of Nahn bows to you and sent me quickly to you to give you a message: Guru ji, you left all of a sudden from my area.  I didn’t know when you decided to leave.  Please camp at Lahirpur and rest, so that I may come and meet you there.  I wish to meet you there and bow to you.  I would like to respectfully pay my respects and say goodbye to you there.  Please rest there for a few days.  I am your servant Guru ji, please wait for me.  You are omniscient.  Please see my devotion and wait for me.  I am under your protection.  I would like to have a discussion with you.  I only trust you Guru ji.  You are the king of kings.  Please recognize me as one of your own and bless me by staying there in Lahirpur.  It’s a good place to hunt for you in the meantime.”  Guru ji heard the request and camped at Lahirpur.

In Lahirpur, there was a small mountain with a river at the foot of the mountain.  Peer Buddhu Shah found out that Guru ji was close by.  He came to see Guru ji with his Mureeds.  He saw Guru ji sitting on his throne.  Peer ji was so happy to see Guru ji that the hair on his body was standing on its ends.  He had goosebumps and was filled with bliss.  He came to bow to Guru ji. 

The soldiers camped out near the river.  The Langar was ready and everyone ate.  Everyone rested at night.  They got up at Amrit Vela and bathed in the river.  Guru ji said to Nand Chand ji after his Nit Nem: “Devan ji, send the Vaheer, family, and the injured soldiers to Anandpur right now.  I have to wait for Raja Medni Parkash for a few days.  The injured soldiers would be better in Anandpur.  Keep some soldiers with you but send most of them home.  We will be here for a few days.  Everyone will be better rested when they reach their homes.”  Devan ji bowed and told everyone else Guru ji’s orders.  The Vaheer was mobilized and sent off.  Mammaji Kirpal Chand ji was the leader of the Vaheer going to Anandpur.  Mammaji was to keep an eye on everyone and see how everyone was doing, especially the injured.  The medical people were instructed to take care of the injured soldiers.  The Vaheer was told to travel about 20 miles a day and then rest.  They were to travel during the morning and afternoon when it wasn’t too hot.  Mammaji mobilized the Vaheer and took command.  They travelled slowly.  Mammaji was very wise and camped wherever everyone got tired.  He made sure the injured were attended and everyone ate Langar.  They rested during the night and travelled during the day.  They eventually reached Anandpur.  Mammaji would ask everyone how they were doing.

Guru ji would hunt everyday.  He hunted deer, rabbits, bears and lions.  This was the tradition of the Raj Rikhi (the saint soldier).  The Satguru was a king and kept his Dharma.  Guru ji would come back during noon and eat Langar.  After eating, he would rest.  After 2 pm, Guru ji would have Shaheedi Degh.  Next, Guru ji would bathe and sit down with his soldiers.  The court would be in session and people would come to see him.  The Sangat would come and have their wishes fulfilled.  They would not need to say anything.  The messenger of Nahn would come everyday and say: “Guru ji, the Raja is on his way.  He sends his respect.  Every time Raja ji wishes to come, some task would occupy him and hold him up.”  He would then return after saying that.  The reality was, Medni Parkash had doubts in his heart.  He was afraid to meet Guru ji as to not upset the Pahari Rajas, now that he was on good terms with them.  He thought to himself: “Fateh Shah and Bheem Chand are Guru ji’s enemy.  They will turn on me.  I will be left alone if I go and meet Guru ji.  Everyone will find out and they will be angry with me.  They will become my enemies then.  If I don’t go to see Guru ji, my relationship with Guru ji will break.”  He was in doubt and couldn’t decide what to do.  12 days passed and Raja Medni Parkash made excuses not to go by sending his messengers.  Guru ji was waiting for him.  Medni Parkash called his ministers and generals and asked for their advice: “I need a way to keep relations with Guru ji and the Pahari Rajas on good terms.”  The ministers said: “Raja ji, it is not advisable to meet Guru ji.  Send your Devan with great gifts to Guru ji.  The other Rajas will become your enemies.  According to politics, it is disadvantageous to meet Guru ji.  It is not good to break off from your kind.  The Guru was like a foreigner.  He came and is now going back home.  The Rajas are here forever.  Don’t spoil it with them.”  Raja Medni Parkash then decided to send his messenger on the 12^th day with gifts.  The messenger went to Guru ji and told him that Raja Medni Parkash couldn’t come but will be sending his Devan.  Guru ji was upset when he heard this and said: “he has become a coward.  He made me stay here but is afraid to come now.  Tell your king not to send his messengers anymore and I don’t want his gifts.  I will not wait for him or his Devan.  If his Devan or messenger come, my soldiers will loot him.  I won’t stop them either.  They will take his horse and weapons.”  Guru ji sent him the message that: “I do not keep friendship with cowards.”  The Raja did not come, fearing the Rajas.

There were two villages nearby: Laha and Tota (their old names were something else, as these were given by Guru ji.  The old names are unknown).  There were Fakirs that lived in Laha and Rangars lived in Tota.  The Rangars were converted Muslims from Rajputs.  The Rangars came at night and stole Guru ji’s camels from his camp in Lahirpur.  In the morning, Guru ji found out that two camels were stolen.  Guru ji called the Panchayats of both villages and said: “whoever took the camels should give them back to us.  Go and look in your villages who the thief is and give him to us.”  The Panchayat leaders folded their hands and said: “no Guru ji, nobody from our villages stole anything of yours.  We haven’t done it so please don’t ask us.  It must be some other thief.”  Guru ji separated both Panchayats and interrogated them separately.  They denied everything.  Guru ji let them go and they went to their homes.  Guru ji called one of the Fakirs from Laha and said to him: “Fakir, go and beg from the Rangars’ village and find out where the camels are.  Go and see which house has them.”  The Fakir went to beg from the houses in the Rangars’ village and eventually reached the house which had Guru ji’s camels.  The Fakir came back and told Guru ji where the camels were tied.  He said: “the camels are tied and are eating feed.”  Guru ji then called the people of Tota, identifying them as thieves, and said: “I will give your villages a new name, one is a good one, the other is bad.  The village of the Fakirs will be known as “Laha” (benefit) and the Rangars’ village will be known as “Tota” (broken).  (Before this time, the Fakirs were poor and the Rangars were rich; but in modern days after Guru ji’s blessing, the Fakirs are rich and the Rangars are poor) Go and bring back our camels, otherwise we will loot your houses and beat you up.  The Rangars quickly ran and brought back the camels.  They gave the camels back and began to cry.  Kavi Santokh Singh ji says: “the villages still exist.  The Fakirs are prosperous but the Rangars’ village is called Tota and they don’t get food properly.  The words of Kalgidhar ji are never empty.”   Guru ji then travelled onwards towards Anandpur Sahib.

2-34 The Rani of Raipur

There is a Gurduara there now where Guru ji stayed for 13 days and waited for Medni Parkash.  There is a river nearby.  Singhs made Gurduara Tokka Sahib there now.  Baba Sohan Singh ji Nihang Singh ji (student of Sant Baba Gurbachan Singh ji) was the Granthi Singh there.  He then went to Mata Sahib Devan ji and became the Sri Maan Pujaari ji there.

The name of the Gurduara is Tokka Sahib.  Kavi ji said, “I was not able to see this Gurduara Sahib but heard about it from the Singhs. “

On the 13^th day Guru ji woke up in the morning and got ready.  The Nagara was sounded and the army got ready to go.  As the army moved out, the Sikhs did Jaikaras.  The Jaikaras and Nagaras echoed in the mountains.  The Rajas would hear this and get scared.  When the Dal would travel, the ground would shake.  The leaders of the villages would come to give gifts to Guru ji.  Guru ji would tell them to remain fearless.  The leaders of the villages thought that the Guru’s army would loot their villages but Guru ji assured them that they were their protectors.  Some villagers would bring milk and some would bring food.  The wise people would recognize Guru ji as being the Avatar of the Yuga and come to see him.  They would say: “this is the same body as Sri Ram Chander ji and Sri Krishan ji.”  They would come and have their eyes blessed.  They would look at Guru ji and be mesmerized.  They wouldn’t blink when looking at him.  The beauty of the world was collected and made into Guru Gobind Singh ji by Akaal Purakh.

There was a place called Raipur who was ruled by a queen.  She had a son who was very handsome.  Her husband had died and she was the ruler.  This place was on the way to Anandpur.  As Guru ji came closer, the Rani found out that the Vaheer was going to pass by.  This made her very happy.  She was full of faith and devotion.  She had heard that Guru ji fulfills everyone’s wishes.  She wanted to see Guru ji.  Whoever loves Guru ji, Guru ji blesses them in both worlds.  The Rani found out that Guru Sahib was omnipotent and omniscient.  She found out that Guru Sahib could give the kingdom of earth to anyone he pleases and could take it away from them as well.  The Rani came outside with her ministers and stood on the path where Guru ji was going to pass.  Kalgidhar ji was greeted with flowers.  She bowed her head and approached Guru ji’s horse.  Guru ji is always bound by love.  Guru ji stopped his horse.  The Rani put her head on Guru ji’s feet which were between the stirrups of the saddle.  She touched Guru ji’s feet and wiped the dust off with her hands and put it on her forehead.  She said to Guru ji: “I am you servant, Prabhoo ji.  Please bless me by coming into my home for a few days.  I wish to serve you to the best of my abilities.  Please place your feet in my home and make it pure.  Please stay in my village tonight and set up camp.  I will bring my son to you in the morning.  I wish that you would bless my son, so that he remains your servant and he grows up to be a good king.  I want him to have kids and make his family grow.”  Guru ji accepted her request and set up camp in the village.  Guru ji got off his horse and saw a good place to set up camp.  Tents were set up, horses were tied.  The Sikhs rested.  The Rani brought feed for the horses and Langar for the Sikhs.  She brought ghee and sweets for the Sikhs along with rice and flour.  The army made Langar with vegetables and enjoyed themselves.  The Rani then sent her ministers to make a request to Guru ji: “Guru ji, today you had Langar in your camp, but please come to me home along with your Sikhs tomorrow afternoon for food.  My home will be blessed by you coming there.  I would like to keep you another day and make my village pure.”  Everyone rested the night.

In the morning, the Rani woke up and had her home cleaned.  She had Brahmin cooks whom she gave new clothes to.  She said: “the Parmeshwar Akaal Purakh ji is coming to our home to eat.  Please cook the food with respect and care.”  The cooks bathed and wore new clothes.  They made maal puray, Karah Prashaad, pooris and other delicacies.  Kachoris with bhalla yoghurt were made.  Kheer was made along with rice fried in ghee.  Sweet rice and salty rice were made.  Many masala spices were used along with dry fruits.  Gourmet foods were made.  The cooks were cooks from many generations and were experts in their trades.  The Rani supervised the cooking and stood by everything as it was being made.  She was wise in cooking as well, and told the cooks her techniques. 

Satguru ji woke up and bathed in the morning.  He sat down in his Samadhi and immersed himself into his Braham Saroop.  This was where only bliss existed; where there was no duality.  The Rababis sang Asa Di Vaar in various Ragas.  They sang Raags and Raagnis of the morning and the Sikhs recited Gurbani and listened to Keertan.  They recited Japji Sahib and Sukhmani Sahib, which give great bliss.  The sun came up soon and then Guru ji wore his royal robes.  He donned his weapons and tied his kumerkassa.  The Rani of Raipur sent her senior ministers to bring Guru ji.  She said: “request Guru ji and his Sikhs to come into the palace to have food.”  The ministers went to Guru ji with respect and eagerness.  They bowed and said: “Guru ji, the Rani awaits you in her palace.  Many types of delicacies have been made for you.  Please have the food and bless the Rani with bliss.”  Prabhoo ji got up and came to the Rani’s palace along with the soldiers.  Daya Ram ji, Nand Chand ji along with the 3 cousins came along.  Maari Chand, Ganga Ram and Gulab Chand, the handsome brothers came with Guru ji into the Rani’s home.  The Rani got up when she saw Guru ji and came to the door.  The Rani did Guru ji’s Aarti with a golden plate and ghee lamps.  She showered flowers on to Guru ji.  She had her son bow to Guru ji’s lotus feet and then bowed herself.  She was happy to see the handsome face of Guru ji.  She had her whole house cleaned and laid out the expensive mats and tarps.  She had placed a beautiful and expensive stool for Guru ji.  Guru ji was asked to sit on the stool and the soldiers sat near Guru ji.  Another stool was placed in front of Guru ji for the plates and glasses to be placed on it.  Bhak- crunching; Bhoj- chewing; Lehaj- liquids; Chose- sucking; the four types for foods were brought out.  The Rani sat by and had Guru ji’s plate prepared.  The wise cook brought Guru ji’s plate with faith and devotion.  The other cooks brought out the other food and plated it on to the plates.  Everyone ate the delicious food.  The Rani stood by with her hands folded.  She took manual fans and fanned Guru ji.  The different types of tastes: Madhur-sweet; Salvun- salty; Suamal – sour; Tikat- spicy; Kakhaya- bitter foods were given to Guru ji.  Everyone enjoyed the food and praised it.  They were satiated after eating.  They drank cold water and washed their hands.  After eating, the Rani presented Guru ji with a 1100 Rupees, a horse and bowed.  She had her son place the bag of money in Guru ji’s feet.  Guru ji was happy and said: “don’t cut your son’s hair and have him learn Shaster Vidya.  Make sure he becomes an expert in weaponry.”  The Rani folded her hands and said: “The Turks rule our land and so we are not able to follow our Dharma fully.  If I have my son keep his hair and learn the art of weaponry, the Turks may harm him.”  Guru ji then said: “don’t be afraid.  Throw away your fear.  The Turks’ time is up.  Their kingdom will be destroyed.  If you don’t want to keep your son’s hair, then add Singh to his name so when the Khalsa will rule, he can keep his hair.  The Khalsa will grow and take the land from the Turks.  He will keep his hair when he sees the Khalsa.  The Singhs will snatch all the kingdoms except yours when they see your hair and name.  Your family will be in peace with the Khalsa.”  Guru ji gave his sword and shield to the young prince.  Guru ji said: “make a room for worship in your home and worship this sword and shield.  Your kingdom will remain stable by worshiping these weapons.  Your wishes will be fulfilled.  Make Panchamrit Karah Prashaad and do Ardaas to the weapons.  This will be my form.  All your troubles will go away by doing Ardaas to the weapons.  Your wishes will be fulfilled.  The Guru will protect you.  Don’t be afraid, keep this Shasters and give them incense and flowers.”  The queen was very happy hearing Guru ji.  She folded her hands under her chunni (dupatta), took the weapons from Guru ji and said: “Maharaj, your gifts are indestructible.  You are always bound by love and devotion.  You are graceful.”  The Rani covered her hands (as a sign of respect as to not touching them with dirty hands) and put the weapons to her head and her son’s head.  She placed the weapons on a bed.  Guru ji blessed the Rani and then got up to leave.  As Guru ji went outside, the Rani followed Guru ji with her hands folded to see him off.   Guru ji then said: “stay here and do Simran of Guru.  You will be in bliss in heaven.  Your family will prosper and your kingdom will be stable.  Have Hari reside in your heart.”  Guru ji encouraged the Rani and gave her hope.  Guru ji then left Raipur.  Guru ji gives his Sikhs mukti and bhugti.  The people who don’t remember Guru ji, they are without wisdom.  They fail to prosper in this world and the next. It was night time and everyone slept.  Guru ji got up in the morning and bathed. 

Kavi Santokh Singh ji says: “I have seen the Sardars of Raipur and met them.  The Gurduara is inside the palace and they still worship Guru ji’s Shasters.  There were two brothers from that family that met with me.  The Guru’s words hold true.”

On the third day, Guru ji got ready and headed home.  Guru ji blessed many on the way to Anandpur.

2-35 Kiratpur/ Coming to Anandpur

The Nagara sounded and the army set off.  The Rajas heard the Nagara and trembled with fear.  The servants of the Guru were happy seeing the Glory of Guru Gobind Singh ji, the warrior, grow.  They said: “Guru Gobind Singh ji is travelling with his mighty army.”  As the army travelled, the dust flew and covered the sky.  The people of the villages would come to see Guru ji and give money and milk.  Some brought sweets and food.  They would bow at the feet of Guru ji.  Guru ji’s praises were sung by the villagers.  Thousands of people would come to bow to Guru ji along the way.  Wherever Guru ji’s divine vision would land, they would be blessed.  The Vaheer would travel during the day and rest when it got too hot.  They would leave when it would cool down.  The army would rest in the afternoon and the night.  The army would camp along the way, heading towards Anandpur Sahib.

The Vaheer soon arrived at Kiratpur and camped there.  Guru ji then said: “prepare a lot of Karah Prashaad.”  Guru ji got off his horse and took a bath in the Sutlej.  Guru ji tied his Dastaar and tied an expensive Jigha with a Kalgi.  He wore an expensive chola, tied a kumerkassa and fastened his Shamshir.  He wore his bow and quiver and looked like a lion.  Guru ji visited his grandfather, Guru Hargobind Sahib ji’s place along with the warriors.  He folded his hands, bowed and did an Ardaas there.  He held a Divaan there with the Sikhs at Pataalpuri Sahib.  The Rababis sang Keertan in beautiful Raags.  They sang complex compositions in Raags and big Taals.  Panchamrit Karah Prashaad was brought and distributed after bhog.  The people of Kiratpur came to visit Guru ji at Pataalpuri Sahib.  The grandsons of Baba Sooraj Mal ji (elder brother of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji) Baba Gulab Rai ji and Baba Shyam Das ji came to meet Guru ji with great joy.  They blossomed, seeing Guru ji, like a lotus flower blooms seeing the sun.  Guru ji had his nephews sit beside him with respect.  Guru ji asked how they were all doing.  The nephews responded: “Prabhoo ji, with your blessings, this place is really blissful.  We just wanted to see you.  We were waiting for you.  Without you, we were not happy.  We missed you a lot.  Now that we have seen you, we are filled with joy.”  Guru ji laughed and said: “stay with me now.  Come to Anandpur and live there.”  It was evening time and so Rehraas Sahib ji was recited during the Divaan.  Guru ji listened to the recitation and bowed his head at the place of his grandfather.  He circumvented the place and offered Karah Prashaad.  Guru ji then went to his camp with his nephews.  Gulab Rai and Shyam Das were the leaders of the place.  They served Guru ji and the whole army to the best of their abilities.  At night time, Guru ji slept.

Guru ji woke up during the great night hours and bathed.  After Nit Nem, the Nagara sounded like thunder and the army got ready to go.  Guru ji mounted his elephant this time.  The soldiers were on their horses and headed home.  The people had already been notified of Guru ji coming to Anandpur.  The people of Anandpur were happy to receive Guru ji after a long time.  They all began to celebrate.  They cleaned the roads and sprinkled essences of expensive herbs everywhere.  Many types of flowers were placed all along the path where Guru ji was going to arrive from.  Garlands of flowers were prepared for Guru ji.  Karah Prashaad worth thousands of Rupees was prepared.  The place of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji, Gurduara Sis Ganj Sahib, had Naubats and Shehnais playing.  Guru ji was to arrive there first before going home.  Langar was made.  Keertan was being sung.  The Sangat came forward to meet Guru ji at the gate of the city.  They brought gifts for Guru ji.  They saw the Dal, the horses, the elephants and the Nishan Sahibs from a distance.  They heard the Nagaras sounding along with the conches and ransinghas.  The king of kings was mounted on an elephant today, in the middle of his army.  The loud thundering sounds of the Ranjit Nagara could be heard, miles away.  The soldiers fired their guns in salute of Guru Sahib’s arrival.  The Sangat of Anandpur was standing with their hands folded.  They bowed as he came by.  Guru ji looked at everyone and blessed them.  He would ask how everyone was, as he rode by.  Guru ji arrived in Anandpur after 4 years. 

Guru ji got off his elephant and removed his shoes.  He walked bare-feet towards the final resting place of his father.  He bowed at Gurduara Sis Ganj Sahib and offered money and Karah Prashaad.  He did an Ardaas and circumvented the place, four times, and performed the Ardaas.  Panchamrit Karah Prashaad was distributed to the Sangat.  Guru ji then went to his home and removed his Shasters.  He sat on his golden bed.  His wives: Mata Sundri Ji and Mata Jeeto Ji came and bowed to Guru ji.  They had arrived from Tokka Sahib with the Vaheer and the injured soldiers ahead of time.  They were meeting each other about 12 days later.  They were happy to see Guru ji and said to him: “Prabhoo ji, with your blessings, we have good karma.  We are fortunate to be in your divine presence and be at your feet to serve you.”  Guru ji asked them how they were and gave them encouragement.  Guru ji then went to see his mother, Mata Gujri ji.  He bowed to his mother’s feet.  Mata ji circumvented bags full of money around Guru ji’s head and kissed his forehead.  She gave the bags to the poor.  She was happy to see her son.  She blessed her son: “may you have many sons and may your glory be as big as the ocean’s shores.”  Guru ji then went to his home and sat on his bed.  Guru ji had Langar and then rested. 

Guru ji woke up after his afternoon nap.  He had Shaheedi Degh and bathed.  He wore his clothes and weapons.  He wore his shamshir and looked like a lion.  He went to his court and met the Sangat.  Thousands of people bowed their heads towards Guru ji as he walked in.  He sat on his Singhasan and the court was in session.  The warriors were standing with their weapons fastened.  Sangat from far away lands had come to see Guru ji.  They were all waiting for a long time to see Guru ji.  The news of Guru ji coming back to Anandpur had spread ahead of time, so people knew when to come.  They brought many types of gifts with them.  There was a big crowd in every direction.  The line to meet Guru ji was very long.  When they would see Guru ji, they would fold their hands and bow their heads on the ground.  The Sangat brought expensive clothes, Pashmina and other materials; along with Saifs, Sirohis and Talvaars.  They brought sharp arrows and excellent bows for Guru ji.  They brought beautiful golden jewellery with precious stones.  The Mevra would do the Ardaas as the gifts were placed at Guru ji’s feet.  Guru ji would look at everyone with his keen and intelligent eyes.  Some would say their wishes out loud and some would keep them in their hearts.  But the Satguru is omniscient and knows every heart.  Guru ji fulfilled the desires and wishes of thousands and took care of them.  The gifts piled up in front of Guru ji, which were worth a lot of money.  There was a lot of money, clothes and weapons in front of Guru ji.  There was a great crowd standing all around and looking at Guru ji.  Guru ji was young and extremely handsome.  The praises of Guru ji’s beauty could not be written by any poet.  He was the form of Akaal Purakh and Akaal Purakh is infinitely beautiful.  The Sangat was amazed at Guru ji’s beauty and would keep staring at him without blinking.  His face was blooming like a lotus flower.  The red in the corner of his eyes were like the redness of a lotus petal.  His eyes were mesmerizing, so fast and keen.  His sight was sharper than a Kataar.  His eyes were full of grace and love.  The gems in his Jigha would shine and reflect everywhere.  The Kalgi would sway from side to side with the movement of his head.  There were pearls hanging from his Kalgi.  On both sides of his face, hung golden hoops in his ears which had gems in them.  It looked like two suns; and in the middle, was his face, the moon.  The eyes of the Sangat were set on Guru ji’s face like the chakor looking at the moon.  No one would leave Guru ji’s side.  They were afraid of separating from him.  A great big pearl necklace hung from his neck.  There were diamonds embedded into the necklace.  His long and thick arms were adorned with armlets.  The armlets had the “Navratans” (the 9 gems) hanging from them.  It looked like the nine planets were hanging from Guru ji’s arms and serving him.  The enemy would see Guru ji as their death.  The faithful saw Guru ji as the “Kalapbrish” (tree of wishes).  The Brahmgyaanis saw Guru ji as Parmatma Akaal Purakh.  They knew he was here for them.  The Bhagats saw Guru ji as an Avatar of Vishnu.  The Sikhs saw Guru ji as the tenth body of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji.  The citizens saw Guru ji as a great king who takes care of them. 

Guru ji sat in his court till evening and met everyone.  He fulfilled everyone’s wishes and removed their pain.  He removed their poverty.  Guru ji then got up and left through the main door.  He went to his home and went to sleep.