2-36 The Vizier of Bheem Chand comes

The news of Satguru ji coming back to Anandpur spread throughout the villages.  The enemy got worried but the Sikhs were happy.  Guru ji was in the Kahloor area, where it is beautifully located on the banks of the Sutlej.  It was a very peaceful area.  The water was deep and blue.  On the other side were tall mountains.  Sometimes Guru ji would walk the shores of the Sutlej and sometimes he would go hunting in the woods.  The Naina Devi Mandir is located upon the mountain.  This is the place of Chandi, the power of Akaal Purakh, who gave Inder his kingdom of heaven back and destroyed the demons.  This is the resting place of her eyes.  The praises of Guru ji spread far and wide: “Guru ji has won all of the Pahari Rajas.”  Guru ji helped many new people settle in Anandpur by giving them donations and helping them set up their new businesses.  Sangat would come to give gifts as well.  The skilled artists and wise scholars would come to Guru ji and compose complex poems and show their art.  They would be rewarded by Guru ji and supported by him, so they can work on their skills.  Musicians would come from far and present their musical compositions to Guru ji in the court.  Guru ji would give them so much wealth that they would not need any more money for the rest of their lives. 

There was a crowd of scholars, musicians, Taadis, poets and artists in Anandpur.  The Sangat would come in thousands to Anandpur.  The merchants came and set up shops in Anandpur.  Pashmina, silk and other expensive materials were brought as gifts for Guru Sahib.  The gifts would pile up in mounds in front of Guru ji.  The goldsmiths would sell gold and silver in Anandpur.  The people of Anandpur would wear expensive clothes when going out.  There was no shortage of any kind in Anandpur.  Everyone was well off with food and clothes.  The houses were huge and everyone had rich clothes and jewellery.  It was a city of kings.  Kalgidhar ji was a scholar of Rajniti (politics), Arthniti (sociology/economics), Dharamniti (spirituality), and Ranniti (warfare).  He would ponder on these typed of knowledges.  He had a great fort made in Anandpur.  There were many small forts made for fighting an army attacking, from far and near.  Guru ji supervised the construction.  For an approaching army, a fort of stones was being made.  To fight within these forts, Guru ji was getting ready for the future.  The main door was built very high so elephants may pass through them.  Guru ji’s door was wide and tall from which he would pass through.  Buildings for soldiers with strong arms to move around and stables were made.  There were mules, carts, bulls and camels in the stables.  Guru ji would wear many expensive weapons as did the soldiers.  Guru ji would wear expensive cholas made from high quality cloths.  Guru ji’s saddle was made of gold and Zarri, which would shine.  Any warrior that would come to enlist in the army would easily be enlisted.  The army would grow by the day.  The warriors would speak with confidence. 

The ones that were protected by the Guru, their pain was all gone.  Guru Gobind Singh ji was a protector like no other.  There was no one more generous and greater than Guru ji.  The merchants would hear the praises of Anandpur and come to Anandpur to sell their stock.  Many Sikh merchants came and settled in Anandpur.  They saw many benefits in settling in Anandpur.  One was: that they would get to see Guru ji everyday and the other was: to do business.  With great wishes, they made big houses.  There was no pain or sorrow here, only joy and bliss.  They prospered here much.  The Nau Niddhis (9 treasures) came and completed their tasks.  Ridhis came and gave them prosperity and abundance.  Wise and skillful people came to settle in the Guru’s city.  Whoever would find out about Anandpur, and how much respect Guru ji gives to skilled artists, they would move from their homes and settle in Anandpur.  The men and women were happy here.  There were many programs going on here all the time.  Musical recitals and poetry sessions were constant.  It was filled with bliss in Anandpur all the time.  Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji settled the city with great care, just as Krishan ji killed sinners in Mathura and then went to Dwarka.  Dwarka was founded by Krishan ji as a very happy place.  Bhagwan Ram Chander ji won the war of Lanka by killing Ravan and bringing Sita ji back to Ayodhya.  He took care of Ayodhya and made it prosperous.  Raja Inder killed the sons of the demons and settled heaven with the help of Durga Devi.  In the same way, Guru ji won the battle in Paonta and came back to settle Anandpur with peace and prosperity.  Many people settled in Anandpur and received bliss.  Guru ji wrote about this in his Bachiter Natak:

Sri Mukhvaak (from the Holy mouth of the Guru)

Dohra.  When I came back from winning the war, my feet did not stay there.  We came to Kahloor and settled Anandpur..36..318..

(DGGS 62)

As morning would come, Guru ji would go hunting with a big army.  The nagaras would sound with a loud thunder, making the mountains tremble.  The warriors would wear weapons and mount their horses with great enthusiasm.  They would take cheetahs, dogs and hawks along with them on the hunt.  Guru ji would hunt 12 pointer deer, rabbits, and bears.  The sinners’ chests would tremble when the army of the Guru would go hunting.  The thieves and looters would be punished.  Guru ji would protect the saints and honest people.  Sometimes the army would go without Satguru ji.  This would make the Rajas insecure.  They would go into the mountains and shout jaikaras.  Whoever would give them gifts for the Langar, they would love them and protect them.  They arrogant ones would be looted by the warriors.  They would take food from them and break their egos.  They would take goats from them along with milk and yoghurt.  They would take feed from the mountains.  They would cause some sort of conflict on a daily basis, fighting and punching away.  The villagers were fed up of the warriors.  They would not be able to rest.  They used to loot others themselves but now that the Sikhs would loot them, they would go to the Rajas to complain.  They would tell Bheem Chand: “you take taxes from us.  Why don’t you protect us?  The Guru’s Dal comes and loots us.  They take milk and feed from our homes.  They break our pots and pans as well.”  Bheem Chand would hear their complains but he would stay quiet as he had already seen the Guru’s power.  He had been defeated by him already.  His people were not happy and would come and complain to him everyday.  They would say: “why isn’t the Raja giving us justice?”  As Bheem Chand couldn’t do anything, Guru ji was punishing him.  He was regretting his actions.  He would think about Guru ji’s power and how Fateh Shah’s armies were defeated.  The memory of the red earth and many dead soldiers would haunt him.  The Paharis suffered many losses in the battle of Bhangaani.  Guru ji killed many of his soldiers.  Bheem Chand called his Vizier, Devi Das, along with his generals and ministers.  He said: “you are all wise.  Tell me what I should do now so that the people can live in peace.  For no reason, we fought a war with the Guru and now the Sikhs don’t let my people live in peace.  I can’t wage war on the Guru nor can we have good ties of friendship anymore.  I can’t stay quiet either, I am the Raja, people complain.  We can’t defeat the Guru nor can we be friends anymore.  Tell me what I should do.  How long can I sit, fearing the gem of the Sodhis?  He is the supreme warrior.”  The Vizier heard him and gave hope to Bheem Chand: “Raja ji, let go of your tension and regard Guru Sahib as the Peer of Peers.  It is my advice that you should forget the past and call a truce with Guru ji.  Let’s go to Anandpur and rekindle the original friendship we once had.  There is never peace and happiness in conflict.  There is always pain with ups and downs.  If you add the water of love, then the plant of bliss will grow.  Think about the well-being of your people.  Forget the enmity and extend the hand of friendship to the Guru.”  The others that were sitting there, said: “the Vizier is giving the best advice.   It is not a good time to fight the Guru.  We will suffer losses again.  We should send a wise messenger to Guru ji who can negotiate a truce.  We need someone to have talks with the Guru for peace.  Guru Gobind Singh ji is our neighbour and he is here to stay forever.  Where neighbours live in peace and love, that is where bliss is.  Otherwise, it becomes painful.  The king and the people suffer from war.  The Raja loses money and people.”  Bheem Chand heard his Vizier and let go of his anger.  He sent his Vizier and told him: “fold your hands and bow to Guru ji.  Tell him: please forgive our past mistakes.”  The Vizier was given expensive gifts to take to Guru ji.  The Vizier headed towards Anandpur, regarding Guru ji as a great warrior.

The vizier arrived in Anandpur and saw the beauty of Anandpur.  He camped in a very beautiful place and noticed the bliss and happiness of the area, right away.  There was a different aura and energy in Anandpur, not felt anywhere else.  He approached the guards of Guru ji’s court and asked to meet Guru ji.  The guards told Guru ji that the Vizier of Bheem Chand had arrived to meet him.  Guru ji told them to let him come in.  The court was filled with warriors.  The radiance of Guru ji could be felt from afar.  He was like a lion sitting on the throne.  The Vizier came and bowed to Guru Sahib.  He said: “Guru ji, I bow to you along with Raja Bheem Chand.”  Guru ji asked him how he was and had him sit down.  He then asked him: “for what reason has your Raja sent you to me today?  Tell me what is the reason for your visit?”  The Vizier folded his hands and said: “Guru ji, your radiance is like Raja Inder.  The reason for my visit is that the people of the mountainous area see the radiance of the Sikh army and complain to the Raja.  Your Dal goes and loots food and feed from the people.  The Raja hears the complains and so he has sent me to you.  We have made many mistakes.  You are great, please forgive us and let us live in peace.  Whatever anger you may have towards us, is because of our mistakes.  Please calm your anger and forgive us.  Please let go of enmity and call a truce.  You may hunt as much as you want in the jungles.  We won’t stop you.”  Guru ji understood the Vizier’s request and said to him: “go and tell your Raja: we were never at fault and nor did we start a conflict.  It was him, who started the conflict.  He lied and tried to cheat us to take the things of the Guru’s house.  He started it all by making up different fraud-filled strategies.  Why didn’t he think about this?  He should have known how to deal with saints.  People bring food and gifts to saints and do Ardaas.  He wanted to loot the Guru.  He wanted the elephant and wanted to cheat us.  This was wrong of him.  I would have given him the elephant if his heart was clean.  But I saw him as a fraud and didn’t give him anything.  People would have said that the Guru got cheated.  No one can cheat the Guru.  I went to Shaarmohr, leaving Anandpur.  This was after seeing your cheating ways.  Bheem Chand caused a problem there as well.  He made Fateh Shah fight a war with me and tried to kill my Devan and Purohit in Srinagar by surrounding them.  This was Bheem Chand’s strategy as well.  My men were wise and brought back the 500 Sikh soldiers.  Otherwise, you would have killed them all.  He still didn’t rest and had Fateh Shah fight a war with me.  Fateh Shah brought an army with all the other Rajas to fight me.  Maha Loh (the Great Metal, a name of Akaal Purakh’s power of war) protected us all.  Everyone knows that the battle of Bhangaani was caused by Bheem Chand.  Now, I have come back to settle Anandpur again.  The warriors are sitting here and they hunt.  We can’t go anywhere else to hunt.  We have equal rights in Kahloor as does Bheem Chand.  We need feed for the horses and meat to eat.  We take only as much as we need.  We don’t take more than we need.  What have we done wrong?  We haven’t taken money or anyone’s house.  We only take what we need for food.  We hunt for food and take wood for fire.  We don’t need palaces or money.  We haven’t looted any home, nor did we spoil any fields.  The farmers work hard, but we only take what we need.  What is the reason that Bheem Chand is upset about?  Raja Bheem Chand promised and didn’t give any horses nor did he send their feed, as agreed upon (this was part of an agreement for repayment after Bheem Chand lost the war).  But I don’t need anything from him.  He can keep everything.  Tell him to sit in his home with peace.  I am not his enemy.”  Guru ji said these words in a thundering voice, like the king of the Devatas, Inder.  The Vizier said: “Maharaj, please forget the past and become friends with Bheem Chand.  You can do everything.  Please make us your servants.”  The Vizier asked humbly and so, Satguru ji agreed.  He said: “okay, bring your Raja but tell him to leave his ego.  A person gets everything when they are humble.  The arrogant one breaks and falls though.  Tell your Pahari Raja this.” 

2-37 Bheem Chand comes/ The birth of Sahibzada Ajit Singh

The Vizier heard Guru Sahib’s powerful words.  He bowed and headed back to Bheem Chand.  He mounted his horse and understood Guru ji’s words.  He thought of Guru ji’s words as he rode back.

He met with Raja Bheem Chand and told him exactly what Guru Sahib said to him in Anandpur: “Guru ji is graceful.  He has no enmity towards you.  If you have no hatred, then he is ready to meet with you to talk about friendship.  You can go to meet him now.  I spoke to Guru ji and called for a truce.  Anandpur is full of bliss.  There is joy and happiness everywhere.  Thousands come everyday to see Guru ji.  Wherever I look, there were many soldiers practicing Shaster Vidya.  You should collect your soldiers and go see the Guru.  Make him happy, as you would receive happiness in return.  You need to see him as the omnipotent and omniscient being that he is.  Go and bow to his feet.  The conflict that happens in your region, that will be gone if we are friends.  We should talk to him about all this.  Don’t keep any hatred in your heart.  Take the Guru’s wisdom and engrain it in your heart.  Don’t keep fraud and cheat inside of you.”  Bheem Chand was reminded about Guru ji’s handsome form.  Bheem Chand let go of his stubbornness.  He started to collect gifts right away.  He mounted his elephant, mobilized his soldiers and got ready to go to Anandpur.

Bheem Chand reached Anandpur and set up camp.  He was there to ask for forgiveness.  Guru ji assigned Devan Nand Chand to provide food and feed for Bheem Chand’s camp.  Guru ji treated all his guests with respect.  Even enemies were given food.  Devan ji came to receive Bheem Chand and his army.  He brought food and feed.  He told the Raja to come to Guru ji’s court in the evening.

Guru ji got up from his afternoon rest and had his Shaheedi Degh.  He bathed and got ready.  He wore a new chola and wore expensive jewellery.  He wore a shamshir in his strap and carried his bow on his shoulder.  His quiver was tied.  He kept one arrow in his hand.  He walked like a lion and went to the place of his court.  He sat on his golden Singhasan.  He rested the bow and quiver to his side.  The Chaurs were waived over his head.  Guru ji’s radiance was bright like the sun.  Expensive tarps and carpets were laid in the court.  Rose and sandalwood essences were sprayed in the court.  Devan Nand Chand and Pandit Daya Ram ji arrived and bowed to Guru ji.  The three cousins (Maari Chand, Gulab Chand and Ganga Ram) also came, along with the Masands, in to the court.  The Masands were tall and wide as well.  They wore expensive cholas with round Dastaars.  They head big golden necklaces around their necks and bracelets in their wrists.  The Masands sat in their places.  The soldiers with their Dumaalaas and cholas came to the court as well.  When they heard about Bheem Chand coming, they donned their best weapons.  Mamma Kirpal Chand ji and his regiment came to the court.  He was a wise and patient man.  He was good at negotiating and understood diplomacy well.  The court was in session.  Guru ji sent the Chobdhaar to call upon Bheem Chand.  The Chobdhaar advised Bheem Chand to come to the court.

Bheem Chand was already ready and got up.  He took his ministers and soldiers and came to Guru ji’s court.  He folded his hands and bowed to Guru ji’s feet.  He presented his gifts at Guru ji’s feet and sat down.  Guru ji asked Bheem Chand how he was.  Guru ji was forgiving and had no enemies.  As he was the master of the universe and the power of Akaal Purakh, the relationship of Akaal Purakh with all life is evenly loving.  Bheem Chand responded: “with your blessings, Guru ji, all is well.  I have all the peace in my house because of you.  Whatever pain I had, is all gone, now that I have seen you.  You are the most powerful.  There is no limit to your glory and power.  You are able to control everyone’s mind.  You can turn someone away from you and then bring them back towards you.  There is no end and understanding to your ways and praises.  I have made grave mistakes.  I started a conflict with you.  I am guilty.  I started a fight with you for no reason.  The battle of Bhangaani was because of me.  I forced that battle upon everyone.  I have heard your praises and know that you are forgiving.  You are the house of love.  Please forgive me and keep me under your protection.  You save all.  You are the form of Parmeshwar.  There is no one equal to you in battle.  You are the warrior of all warriors.”  Guru ji heard Bheem Chand’s words and said: “Bheem Chand, listen, whatever conflict, problems and fights that happened between you and I, I will tell you what the reason for it all was: everyone knows that you started it, as I never start a fight.  You tried to cheat me.  You lied and tried to take the elephant from me.  Think about it.  You sent so many people here and attempted to take the elephant from me.  When I went to Shaarmohr, leaving you and the conflict behind, you didn’t leave me alone there either.  You brought the army of all the Pahari Rajas to attack me.  You are proud that all the Pahari Rajas listen to you.  You are egotistical.  If you are proud of your brothers, I am also proud of Sri Asket (the power of Akaal Purakh).  I achieved the “jung jeetbay ki Lachchmi” (goddess of victory) and defeated the enemy.  Knowing Anandpur as the land of my ancestors, I came back here and settled it again.  More people are being settled here.  New businesses have been established.  People are given happiness here.  People are living here in peace.  My soldiers go out to hunt and get grass for the feed.  We need firewood and feed for the animals.  My Sikhs don’t loot anyone.  Your people are complaining for no reason.  We only scold the ones that get in our way.  If you don’t have any hatred anymore, I will forget everything too.  I will waive your war penalties and tell the Sikhs not to cause any unnecessary trouble in your area.”  Listening to Guru ji’s words, Bheem Chand was extremely happy.  He was relieved that Guru ji will control his Sikhs now.  He folded his hands and said: “you are full of virtues.  You protect everyone that comes to your feet.  You give us peace.  You should live here in peace and please bless us with peace as well.  Please regard Kahloor as your own kingdom and get news about the region.  It’s all yours.  Whatever you need for the horses and Langar, take whatever you need.  Please bless us.  I will stay in your command.  I won’t repeat any mistakes.  There is no difference between us.  Please let me know how I may serve you.”  Guru ji heard Bheem Chand and smiled.  He laughed and said: “you started all the sourness in the past.  I was never your enemy.  It is up to you if you want to keep things good or bad.  Pain and pleasure are in your hands.  Peace is up to you.  You can live near or far, do as you please.  I do have one condition: people come here from every direction, bringing gifts.  Your people bother them and loot them.  If your people will loot the Sangat, then the soldiers will punish them.  They bring expensive items from far away lands.  I don’t want anyone from your region to bother or loot the Sangat.  The Sikhs come in peace and go back home.  My poor Sikhs don’t say anything.  But if someone bothers them, then you know what the soldiers can do.  Whoever gives the Sangat peace, they will be in peace.  If they are given pain, that person will be in pain.  There is no delay in the Guru’s house.  Whoever gives love, they are given the kingdom of the world, immediately.  Whoever does bad, they are punished right away.  If you do something bad, then you will see our military might.  If everything is good, we will live like family.”  Guru ji’s words were forgiving and fearless.  Bheem Chand folded his hands and said: “Guru ji, see us as your servants.  Kahloor is yours.  It’s your home.  Your father and grandfather had walked this land.  Live, walk, sit anywhere you please.”  Guru ji and Bheem Chand had a great discussion.  Guru ji signalled Devan ji to bring Siropas.  Guru ji gave Bheem Chand and his ministers expensive Siropas.  Bheem Chand was now happy, believing that Guru ji’s blessing were with him.  He folded his hands and bowed.  He threw away all his conflict and tried to make his mind pure.  He then returned to his home city.  His Vizier and soldiers were with him.  Devi Das, the Vizier, said to Bheem Chand: “Guru ji is the Peer of Peers.  He is the power of Akaal Purakh.  He is an Avatar.  He is fearless.”  Bheem Chand was now friends with Guru ji.  His doubt and fear were gone now.  He saw the radiance and glory of Guru ji.  He was confident that if he ever was in trouble, Guru ji would help him.  Conflict is never good.  People only talk bad.  The Raja figured out that he cannot match the glory of the Guru.  It is best to be friends with Guru ji.  He thought to himself: “I fought with Guru ji for nothing.  I caused so much damage and got so many warriors killed.”  He kept thinking about Guru ji and the past as he travelled.

In the future, every time Bheem Chand received a unique gift or got a hold of an expensive item, he would send it to Guru ji.  He would send weapons and horses for Guru ji to remain friends.  Sometimes he would get a good harvest of grains and rice.  He would send those for the Langar in Anandpur.  He would send apples and fruits from the mountains, filled in barrels towards Guru ji.  He would say: “Guru ji please accept this Seva.”  He would send peaches, guavas, and grapes; bananas, mangoes and other fruits.  Some were sweet, some were sour.  They were grown in his gardens.  He would have them picked and sent along with his ministers to Anandpur.  In this way, he always had someone going to Anandpur with gifts.  He would go himself to see Guru ji after every few months.  He would try to impress Guru ji and get his happiness blessings.  Guru ji’s personality was: to always give everyone happiness. He blessed the Raja.  The news of Guru ji’s and Bheem Chand’s friendship spread throughout the land.  Bheem Chand had his wishes fulfilled.  Other Sangat came as well.  The ocean of grace would spend his time in Anandpur like this. 

The history goes back in time to Paonta Sahib: one day, Mata Sundri ji came to Guru Sahib with a wish in her heart.  She stood in front of Guru ji with her hands folded.  She was shy and looking towards the floor.  She came when she had the opportunity to meet her husband alone.  She showed her love towards him and had her neck lowered.  Guru ji looked towards his wife and spook to her with a smile: “what news have you of the family?  Tell me what is in your heart.  Why are you standing here?”  Mata ji said to Guru ji: “you are the master of the hearts.  You are omniscient.  You know good and bad.  You know past, present and future of what is in every heart.  What do I need to tell you that you don’t already know?  If I don’t say it, the servants won’t be blessed.  I am a woman and want to keep ties with the world.  Every woman wants a son.  I want a son whose body is praiseworthy like yours.  Every woman wants a son to be a strong warrior like you.  Women want the happiness of their husband, children, wealth and jewellery.”  Guru ji heard Mata Sundry ji’s request.  He blessed his wife with a son: “Satguru Nanak Dev ji will bless you with a son, soon.”  (Although Sahibzada Ajit Singh ji was born in Paonta Sahib, Kavi Santokh Singh ji had to write this history after the Adhyaays relating to the Battle of Bhangaani and its aftermath.  When Mata Sundri ji requested Guru ji for a son, Guru Gobind Singh ji had written the Bani of Sri Akaal Ustat ji for Mata ji to recite.  It was upon the continuous recitation of Sri Akaal Ustat by Mata Sundri ji that Baba Ajit Singh ji was born to her) Mata ji bowed to Guru ji.  Guru ji understood Mata ji’s wishes and stayed in the place where Mata ji resided.  By Kok Ras (physical pleasure) and Jog Ras (pleasure of the mind), Guru ji fulfilled all wishes.  Saints go through the ways of the world without being affected by them.  They follow the physical traditions but remain unattached to any pleasures after utilizing them.  Mata ji’s wishes were fulfilled, and was pregnant.  As the Sahibzada’s light came into Mata ji’s womb, she became prettier.  Her form surpassed all boundaries of beauty.  She was in bliss.  Nine months passed and the tenth month arrived.  It was time for the delivery.  Mata Gujri was extremely happy.  In the month Maagh (January/February), Sudhi 4^th (fourth day after new moon), Friday, under the auspicious arrangements of the planets, was born, the great warrior, Baba Ajit Singh ji.  Guru ji named him Ajit Singh because he was born after the battle of Bhangaani was won (Ajit= one who could not be won). 

2-38 Finding and Punishing the Thief in the Mela

A son was born to Guru Sahib ji and the celebrations began.  The Nagaras and Naubats were played.  The Sangat came and congratulated the mothers.  Anandpur Sahib had a mela with big crowds.  Many beggars came to ask for donations.  Mata Gujri ji gave a lot of donations and fulfilled everyone’s wishes.  The women of the city came and sang Gurbani Shabads.  Their voices were like cuckoos.  They sang in a sweet voice.  Mata Gujri had had them sit inside.  Baba Ajit Singh ji’s eyes were like petals of a lotus flower.  The baby wore colorful clothes.  Everyone gave their blessings and congratulated Mataji.  Mataji accepted their blessings and invited them.  In that time period, people would give pieces of grass as a sign to show prosperity and lushness.  There were flower garlands hanging all over Anandpur.  The Hijras came and danced.  They clapped and sang.  They played bells and dholkis.  Mataji gave them a lot of money.  Satguru ji gave donations to anyone that came.  Money, Pashmina clothing and jewellery was given as donations.  Men and women were all happy.  They came to meet Guru ji.  The “Singh Puar” the front door with lion statues, had a crowd there of people that wanted to come in.  Some came to beg and some came to visit Guru ji.  People came from far and wide when they heard.  People sang Guru ji’s praises.  The Taadis and Kavishers presented their Vaars and poems.  They sang Gurbani and celebrated.  For thirteen days the celebration went on.

On the thirteenth day, Mata Sri Gujri ji called Purohit Daya Ram ji and said: “we should name the baby.  The name should be according to the traditions of the Guru’s house.”  Pandit ji came to Guru ji’s court and told him what Mata ji had tasked him with.  Sri Kalgidhar ji thought for a bit and said: “he will be undefeated.  His enemies will not be able to win him.  He should be named Ajit Singh.”  Pandit ji was sent back to Mata ji to tell her this.  Mata Gujri ji heard the name and loved it.  She picked up the baby and kissed his forehead.  She told everyone that his name is Ajit Singh.  Everyone was happy to hear his name.

She loved the baby and played with him everyday.  She would put new clothes and jewellery on him with diamonds, emeralds and rubies.  She put a bracelet on his feet and a bell ring around his waist.  She would tie a small Dastaar on his head.  His clothes would be small.  Mata Gujri ji would only focus on her grandson. 

After a while, a mela was held at Anandpur and Sangat came to see Guru ji, bringing a lot of gifts.  They came from far and wide.  Guru ji came to the court to meet the Sangat from far.  The Divaan was held at the highest place, in a tent.  He would sit on a Singhasan.  It was the place of Sri Keshgarh Sahib.  The Mevras told the Sangat to go to the tent to see Guru ji.  The Sangat was happy to hear when they were told they could go and see Guru ji.  Some brought Shasters, some brought horses.  Clothes and money were brought.  It was a great mela with thousands.  Many types of gifts were brought for Guru ji.  The senior Masands brought their Sangats from around the world.  They all lead the Sangat to Guru ji.  They brought golden jewellery for Baba Ajit Singh ji.  Weapons and horses were brought.  The gifts piled up in the court.  Their wishes were fulfilled by Guru ji.  The Mevras would be standing and did the Ardaas for the Sangat, as they came in and presented their gifts.  Guru ji would look at the gifts and then look at the Sikhs to bless them.  The crowd of the Sikh Sangat grew.  Among them, was a thief as well.  He picked someone’s pocket.  He had stolen their gold coins and went around the crowd to find another prey.  The Sikh whose money was stolen, got worried when he reached the court.  He said to Guru ji: “Maharaj, there is a sinner in the mela.  My money has been stolen.”  Guru ji said to the Mevra: “have this Sikh sit in one place.”  The Sikh sat down in a corner.  He was wondering if he was going to get his money back.  He needed money to travel back home.  The thief was still wandering around looking for another victim.  He stole from another person and went back into the mela.  The second Sikh also came crying to Guru ji.  He spoke out loud and said: “I’ve been robbed.”  Satguru ji had him sit next to the first Sikh that was robbed.  He was given the assurance that they would get their money back.  The thief looked around for another person to rob.  He was an expert who knew which person had money.  He robbed a third person, and then a fourth.  The third and fourth robbed Sikhs came and told Guru ji.  The Sikhs then said: “there are thieves in the Mela.  Are they not afraid of you?”  Guru ji then sent two warriors, instructing them: “there is a thief in the mela.  His pugri is red.  He has one larh (piece of the Dastaar) of the Pagri going up and one larh going down his back.  He is wearing a dhoti.  He is holding a mala with 108 beads, pretending to be a saint.  He has a sandalwood tilak on his forehead.  Grab him by the arm and scare him.  Bring him here.”  The warriors heard the description and went to find him.

The warriors looked around in the mela and found the thief.  They grabbed him and brought him to Guru ji.  Guru ji said: “search him.”  As he was searched, he was tied up.  The Sikhs found the money when they searched him.  Guru ji gave back the money to the Sikhs that were robbed.  The Sikhs were happy to receive their money.  They were amazed at how fast Guru ji found the thief with his power.  The Guru is omniscient and can see the whole universe.  The thief was a small thing.  They were still very amazed and sang Guru ji’s praises: “Dhan, Dhan.”  They said to each other: “look how bad this thief is.  He should be punished.”  Guru ji said: “arrest the thief and put him in the jail so he doesn’t do this again.”  The thief was put in jail.  The Sikh Sangat had their wishes fulfilled and went back to their homes.  The glory of Guru ji spread throughout the land.  They talked about how fast Guru ji found the thief.  It was like the Malti flower blooming in every home.  His glory was like the swan flying high.  His glory was sung in every world and dimension. 

After a few days, Guru ji brought the thief out of the jail and said to him: “listen you fool.  You thought of me and did an Ardaas to steal.  You said that: “I am going to go and steal.  Please hide my deed.”  You said you were only going to steal from three people and not a person more.  You came to rob people in the mela.  You had your reasons for stealing but you didn’t do an ardaas for the fourth person.  You got greedy after the third and robbed a fourth.  You didn’t do what you said you were going to do.  You should be hanged for your act, but I will still let you go.  You used the Ardaas for a bad deed but nonetheless, an Ardaas is still an Ardaas.  You may go now.”  The thief bowed and ran away quickly.  He sang Guru ji’s praises and promised never to steal again.  The thief became a Sadhoo and did Simran from then on. 

Many days passed like this with new events occurring everyday.  Satguru ji would sit alone and compose beautiful Chands, using Shingaar Ras, Bir Ras, Rohdar Ras and others.  Many wise poets came to Guru ji and presented their arts.  They were well respected by Guru ji and given subsistence so they can concentrate on their art.  They knew that Guru ji enjoyed their art, so they came.  They wrote beautiful poems and compositions in Anandpur.  They came to meet Kalgidhar ji and composed clever Granths and poems.  Guru ji would be happy to hear their poems.  Guru ji gave the poets 60,000 Rupees who translated the Mahabharat.  There were 18 poets that worked on the Mahabharat Granth alone.  He spent many Lakhs on the poets.  The artists were very happy to receive money.  They composed more poems.  Some stayed with Guru ji and received thousands of rupees.  They were no longer poor after receiving so much money.  They composed their poetry without the worry of earning money.  Guru ji showered them with money like a cloud showers rain.  Guru ji was the supreme poet.  He would love to hear other poems as well.  The artists of Hindustan were told of Anandpur and would come, hearing Guru ji’s praises.  They came to receive peace.  In the East, where Benares is, it was a hub for all the poets.  In the south, and North, all the poets from every direction came to present their poems.  Guru ji would give them money after hearing their poems.  Some would leave their homes forever and stay with Guru ji.  Some went home though.  Sadhoos, Pirs, musicians all came to Guru ji as well.  They came to removed their obstacles in their spiritual journeys.  Bairagis, Sanyasis, Tapasvis and Dighambhers came.  Jogis and Sidhs came to speak to Guru ji.  They would test Guru ji first and see that he is the master of the universe.  Then, they would ask Guru ji to give them moksha.  Guru ji would clear all their doubts right away.  Guru ji was omnipotent and had unlimited power.  He was higher than the Sumer Mountain and still like it.  He was vaster than the ocean.  The Sikh Sangat came from every direction and had their wishes fulfilled.  Anandpur was the place to be.  When there were a lot of people, the Divaan would take place, so they can see Guru ji.  He would come outside to hold court.  Their wishes were fulfilled.

Many warriors would come to Guru ji.  The army was getting bigger.  Guru ji would talk about weapons and war.  Hearing this, the best warriors would come to Guru ji.  Shaster Vidya was practised everyday.  Horse racing was done everyday.  The warriors practiced jumping with horses.  They would ride the horses and practise shooting their guns.  Guru ji would reward the best marksmen.  Guru ji, the king of kings, the master of the universe, his praises were sung in the world.

2-39 Meeyan Khan and Alaf Khan attack the Pahari

Satguru ji spent many days in this way.  The relations with Bheem Chand got better, as Bheem Chand discarded his enmity. 

Aurangzeb was not in the country anymore.  He attacked the “Dakhan” (southern states).  He took a great army to the state ruled by Sayed Tanay Shah.  He was the Nizam of Hyderabad.  The “Gol Kunda Qila” (the round fort), was a great fort in Hyderabad, that was an obstacle for an oncoming army.  The army came to attack this fort.  The war carried on for 8 years.  Aurangzeb sat around the fort for this long.  Both sides wanted to destroy each other. 

Hindustan had 22 Soobas who were really ruthless.  Out of the Soobas, there was a one Sooba named Meeyan Khan who had a great army.  He came to Jammu Kashmir to collect the taxes.  He attacked the area along with a general named Alaf Khan who had a great army as well.  Meeyan Khan commanded Alaf Khan: “go and attack the Pahari Rajas who have not paid their taxes.  The Raja Katochia and Raja Gularia, along with Jasuval and others, collect money from them.  Take your army with you.  They will need to be threatened.”  Alaf Khan heard him and was happy.  He took a great army to attack the Paharis.

Alaf Khan sent a messenger to collect the taxes from the Pahari Kings.  He sent a message to Kirpal Chand Katochia, the mischievous one, first: “pay your taxes or be ready for war.”  Kirpal Chand ignored the message.  As Alaf Khan reached the valley of Katoch, he threatened Kirpal Chand.  Kirpal Chand was shocked to see him.  He went to go see him with gifts.  He was a politician and a sweet-talker.  He said to Alaf Khan: “there are 22 Rajas of the Paharis.  Bheem Chand Kahiloori is the richest out of all of us.  We can pay you anytime.  You should collect the taxes from him first.  Once he pays, we can pay after.  Till he doesn’t pay, nobody else will pay you.  If he bows to you, the others will follow.  If Bheem Chand fights you, the other Rajas will fight alongside with him.  I promise you that I will fight from your side.  I will convince others to join me.  I don’t want Bheem Chand to be the bigger king.  We will see him as an enemy if he doesn’t pay.  Listen to me and do this.  All the Rajas will give you the taxes.”  Alaf Khan thought it was a good idea and he accepted Kirpal Chand’s proposal: “I will take money from Bheem Chand first.  I will kill him if he fights.  I have a great army along with Kirpal Chand.  Other kings will join me.  I will crush the others if they rebel.  We will need to make noise and cause pain in this area to collect the taxes.” 

Alaf Khan and Bheem Chand entered the area of Nadhaun.  They made a wooden fort called the “Nawras Qila” in the mountains.  They sent a messenger to Bheem Chand: “we have been sent by the Delhi Darbar to collect taxes.  Otherwise there will be a lot of damage in your country.  We will loot your country and your people.”  The messenger went to Bheem Chand and told him the message.  He told him that Kirpal Chand Katochia is with him as well.  Bheem Chand got really angry when he heard this.  He recited the Mantra of Hanuman and collected his soldiers for battle.  The other kings were called from the Pahari areas.  He roared in his court: “Alaf Khan is challenging our honor.  I will not pay him.”  He called his vizier, Devi Das, and asked him how they can win.  “If we fight, only then we can be saved.  I will not give in to Alaf Khan’s demands.”  Devi Das folded his hands and said: “listen to me: if you want to fight Alaf Khan, then there is nobody stronger than Guru Gobind Singh ji right now.  He is the bravest.  There is no other stronger and braver warrior than him.  He is on good terms with you now, since you apologized.  His rule is: “whoever comes to him, he protects them.”  Wherever he stands, victory will follow him.  Let’s ask him to come to the battlefield with us.”  Bheem Chand was happy to hear this.  We wrote a message and had it sent to Guru ji. 

Bheem Chand’s messenger reached Anandpur and headed to Guru ji’s court.  He bowed to Guru ji’s feet, folding his hands.  Guru ji began to smile as these were the same people that once attacked him.  Guru ji had a very deep voice.  It sounded like a low-rumbling thunder.  Guru ji said: “how is Bheem Chand’s health and his family?  For what reason have you come today?”  The vizier folded his hands and said: “Guru ji, we have a new problem upon us.  Kirpal Chand has joined the Turks and came with Alaf Khan with a great army.  They sent a messenger to Bheem Chand and have told us to pay 10,000 Rupees or face death.  Our king is not able to tolerate this.  He does not want to pay them.  He is gathering his army to fight them.  He sees you as his Guru.  He is faithful to you.  He wishes for you to be the leader of his army.  He has decided to fight, only if you are to command his army.  He has faith that he will win, staying in your protection.  Bheem Chand wants you to see him as your servant and asks for victory.  He wants us all to hold the Shasters and fight.  Alaf Khan and Kirpal Chand have joined forces to attack.  They are all like deer but you are a lion, Guru ji.  They will run away, seeing you.  The other Pahari Rajas are with us as well.  We wish to fight.  We don’t want to give in to their demands.  We are a burning flame.  We need your guidance and assistance.  We will kill them all with your blessings.  We will get strength from you.  We will make them all run away.  We want to gather the army by tomorrow morning and mobilize for war.”  The gracious one heard this and thought to himself: “Bheem Chand has come for my protection.”  Guru ji wanted to give him victory as he had come for his help.  Guru ji thought to himself: “Bheem Chand wants to be our friend and it is well known now.  If he losses, it will not be good.  People will talk bad about the Guru’s house if he loses.  We should help him win.”  Guru ji decided to prepare for war and wanted to leave.  He was four times as eager as before for war.  He wanted to fight the war.  Guru ji thought: “the Rajas are getting ready.  They know that I am always ready for war.  I can’t stay hidden like cowards in my home.”  After thinking about all this.  Guru ji said to Devi Das: “go to Bheem Chand and tell him: “I’m ready for war.  Don’t worry, you will win.  We will not pay taxes to the Mughals.  If you pay them now, then others will come to collect more.  They will try to scare you and collect money.  Kshatriyas need to fight for their land and money.  People who love their lives are cowards.  People make fun of them and they are not treated with respect in the after-life.  Warriors who are wise always fight in the battlefield.”  Devi Das was happy to hear this.  He folded his hands and bowed.  He headed back home and told Bheem Chand what Guru ji said: “Guru ji has said: “you will win.  Your praise will not go down.  People will praise you.”  In the morning, we should all mobilize.  Guru ji will join us.”  Bheem Chand was happy to hear this.  He collected his warriors and made preparations for battle at the sound of the Nagaras.  A great army was gathered and headed off.  The soldiers that went with him: Ram Singh Jaswaliay with his army; Prithi Chand Dhadhvali, who was eager for war; Sukhdev of Jasrotia; all these warriors came with Bheem Chand to fight the battle of Nadhaun, Guru ji’s second battle.

2-40 The Battle of Nadhaun begins

Bheem Chand was delighted to know that Guru Sahib was going to join him in battle.  It was a great sign for him that Guru ji was going to fight from his side.  He gave his soldiers guns, bullets, gunpowder and other weapons.  By sounding the Nagara, Bheem Chand and his soldiers advanced.  The proud warriors held their weapons in their hands and headed to the battlefield.  Guns in hand, they reached Nadhaun.  The enemy was in a wooden fort, high upon a mountain.  The fort was fortified.  Alaf Khan was ready for war.  The archers and the guns were ready.  They were ready to fight.  They were ready to shoot anyone who approached them.  They played the Nagaras.  Bheem Chand, Ram Singh and Sukhdev saw the enemy in the wooden fort.  It was high on a mountain.  The fort was fortified by tying big wooden planks together.  The Paharis fired their guns.  Many bullets flew but had no impact on the planks.  Not one enemy died.  Kirpal Chand Katochia fired his guns and arrows on the Paharis.  The bullets busted the limbs through.  Bheem Chand roared and said: “all of the warriors are ready.  Let’s all attack at once!  Let’s take over the fort and kill them with our swords.  Staying down here is of now use.  We need to climb the mountain and go inside the fort to kill them.”  The soldiers heard and pointed their guns forward.  They shouted and charged up the mountain.  It was a full force charge.  They came close to the border and surrounded it.  The bullets sounded “kaar, kaar.”  Kirpal Chand saw that he was surrounded.  Alaf Khan and Kirpal Chand said to their soldiers: “what are you looking at?  Hurry up and fire at the soldiers climbing the mountain.  Throw them down.  If someone comes too close, slice them with your swords.”  When the charge occurred, Kirpal Chand was fired up to fight.  The armies fired at each other.  The Paharis fell down, taking the bullets.  Many were injured and did not wish to advance further.  When many were injured, they went back and hid in the mountains.  Many had died.

Bheem Chand saw this and said: “my army is not able to attack hard as the fort is too high.  The enemy is playing their Nagaras and using the fortification to shoot my people.  My soldiers can’t find a way in to the fort.”  Bheem Chand was grinding his teeth and biting his lips in anger.  He couldn’t find a solution.  He saw his men going back.  He said to them: “where are you going?  Attack the enemy.  Let’s charge hard.  We will have to take their bullets and strikes.  That’s the only way to win.  Surround their fort.  Encourage your soldiers.”  The soldiers that were running, turned around and charged forward.  They fought and struck hard.  Some died and some were injured.  Kirpal Chand Katochia fired his bullets again with his army.  The bullets, spears and arrows came from the top, piercing the chests.  Bheem Chand had his army attack again.  Kirpal Chand and Alaf Khan’s army stopped the attack, again.  Bheem Chand’s people fell again and many died.  Bheem Chand saw this and thought: “how can we conquer the enemy on top of the mountain?  My army can’t do anything.  We are taking so much damage.”  He was in pain to see his army go back again.  He said to them: “we aren’t you holding the line?  We are being laughed at.”  Bheem Chand tried to look around and strategize.  He recited the Mantra of Hanuman and collected his fellow Pahari Rajas.  Prithi Chand, Jasrotia and Jasovaliay were gathered along with their armies to win the fort.  They didn’t back down and went forward.  Worry had surrounded them.  No Mantra worked.  Bheem Chand then remembered Guru Gobind Singh ji and sent a messenger to him.  He told him to go to Guru ji’s camp with this message: “Guru ji, you blessed me with victory but I am losing.  Please use your power to make the blessing true.  I am in your protection.  Please give me victory and praise by killing the enemy.”

The messenger came to Guru Gobind Singh ji’s camp, mounted on a horse.  He said to Guru ji: “our king is stuck on the battlefield.  He is trying to kill the enemy but he is not succeeding.  He comes to you with devotion.  He calls for your help, so he can win.  We know that you can’t lose.  Please fasten your weapons and take command of the army.  You are the strongest.  Nobody can stop your strikes.”  Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji’s son was the “Tegh Bahadhur” (courageous with the sword).  He heard the message: “the enemy is high upon a mountain and many soldiers have been killed.  The enemy has fought hard.”  Guru ji got up and tightened his kumerkassa.  He donned his weapons and mounted his horse.  He turned his horse towards the direction of the battle and was coloured with the colour of war.  His army rode out behind him. 

Bheem Chand saw Kalgidhar ji coming towards him.  He sent his generals to welcome Guru ji.  They said to Guru ji: “you are courageous, patient and the most powerful.  Please take command of the army.  This is all yours now.  Please attack hard and win the fort.  All the soldiers are with you.  Your soldiers are strong.  We don’t want any enemy to stay.  We want you to give us the “jai Laxmi.”  Sri Kalgidhar ji heard this and looked towards the battle.  He looked at the mountain and the field.  He observed the fort to see how it could be broken.    After looking at everything, the warrior spirit woke up in him, all of a sudden.  Guru ji roared, his eyes and face were red, just as a sun rising in the morning, because of Aruna (the red chariot rider of the sun).  He said to his soldiers: “attack the enemy.”  The Sikhs attacked forward.  They got their guns ready.  Bullets were fired from both sides.  The ramrods could be heard, the shots were fired.  The bullets pierced the enemy.  The rifles sparked as they lit up when fired.  The bullets flew and busted the soldiers’ limbs.  They pierced their hearts and went through their heads.  Their bodies bled like a fountain in the mountains.  The soldiers moved around and fought each other.  They were quick and agile.  Many fell and died.  The Sikhs charged with the blessing of Guru ji.  Kirpal Chand’s soldiers along with Alaf Khan’s soldiers, that were fighting outside the fort, ran back inside.  They hid behind the wooden planks as they couldn’t tolerate the attack of the bullets.  The 64 Joganis and 52 Beers came and danced.  They drank the blood of the soldiers.  The vultures came and ate the flesh of the dead.  They shrieked as they ate.  The soldiers became angry and attacked.  Guru ji owned the whole army now.  He gave everyone power to attack forward.  The soldiers were fire which burnt the wooden planks.  The archers attacked with their arrows, climbing high on top of the mountains.  The enemy backed down as they couldn’t stand the attack.  They were mad and embarrassed.  The arrows were sharp and flew like the wind.  Whoever was hit with them, they died right away.  The spears flew and caused much damage.  The soldiers wanted to break the planks.  Some soldiers were hit with bullets.  The dead bodies of the soldiers and horses began to pile upon each other.  The vultures came and at their flesh.  They shrieked in joy.  The witches came and drank the blood.  They ate the flesh and burped out loud.  The field was chaotic and scary looking.  It was a gruesome sight.  The ghosts and prayts came to celebrate.  They were happy to eat the flesh.

Guru ji was in the battlefield.  The battle turned around with him coming.  Many soldiers lost their limbs.  In this way, Guru ji’s army surrounded the fort.  It was an intense charge that occurred.  The enemy in the fort, Dyaal Chand Bijhadvaliay, Kirpal Chand Katochia and Alaf Khan, with others, all saw the army of Guru ji.  They saw their own soldiers injured and dead.  They met each other and had a discussion: “we will all die.  We have no other option, but to fight.  Collect your strength and let’s go outside of this fort to fight!”  They made the decision to go outside and face Guru ji’s army.