4-11 Bheem Chand’s Threat

The Pahari Raja’s were upset and had discussions.  Handooria didn’t want to go to Delhi.  He wanted to attack himself.  He said to the other Rajas: “all of the Rajas are afraid of the Guru and the Khalsa.  They loot us.  Let’s get together.  I can combine forces and we will be up to 300,000 in numbers.  The Guru doesn’t have enough Singhs to rely on and face us if we are together.  We will surround Anandpur, as they don’t have enough food to survive for a long time.  In a few days, we can force the Guru out.  We have the option of attacking if he doesn’t surrender.  If we do this and the Guru still doesn’t surrender, then we should go to Delhi.  We should do what we can first.  Let’s think about this.  We should attack together.  We haven’t been satiated by war yet.  If we go to Delhi without fighting, the Emperor will think we are cowards.  There are hundreds of villages full of Gujjars and Rangars.  They are fearless and ready to fight.  The Guru’s army is not liked by them.  The Guru’s army bothers them.  We should call the Gujjars and Rangars.  Thousands will come and gather with us.  Call the Rajas of Katoch (Kirpal Chand), Jammu, Noorpura, Mundi, Bhutant, Kullu, Kaintal, Ghulair, Daroli, Chanderi, Sri Nagar, Bishhar, and Dhadvaari.  Write a letter to them: “Raja Bheem Chand is calling you.  It is a tough time.  Come to help us.  If you don’t come to help us with your armies, you will be our enemies.”  Bheem Chand, you will need to call them all.  When you meet them all, your radiance will grow.  The smaller Rajas will come too.”  In this way Handooria advised Bheem Chand.  Bheem Chand started to think about this.  He said: “brother, what you are saying is good.  We haven’t fought the Guru properly yet.  We should all get together and fight the Guru with a united front.  Who can face our great army?  Nobody can match our numbers.  If we get together, the Emperor would get worried as well.  This is possible.  Whoever doesn’t join us, we will punish them.  Threaten the other Rajas with this consequence.  They will need to come and face the Guru.  Otherwise, the Guru will face them as well.  If we don’t do anything, the Khalsa will take the kingdom from all of us.  We need to get together if we want to survive.  The Khalsa will keep on looting our fields and villages (Although the Khalsa never looted the innocent).  They should collect their armies and come meet me in Kahloor.”  Handooria and Bheem Chand made this plan and wrote letters to the other Pahari Rajas.  They began to mobilize their armies and provided the soldiers with weapons. 

The letters reached the other Pahari Rajas.  They read the letters and said: “Bheem Chand is the biggest king.  He has called us.”  The Rajas collected their armies and started to head towards the Doon of Kahloor.  They set up camp in the Doon.  Bheem Chand saw this and felt proud.  Bheem Chand told his minsters to make sure all the Rajas have what they need: “send them food and other items of need.”  It was night and everyone rested.  The next day, the court was in session.  Bheem Chand had laid out an expensive flooring with rugs.  The Paharis got ready and came to the court.  They had swords in the straps and quivers on their shoulders.  They had beautiful weapons.  Handooria and Jasovaliay came with Katochia, the proud.  Katochia was Ghamand Chand, relative of Kirpal Chand (possibly his son).  They all sat in the court.  The king of Jammu came with his people.    Bheem Chand had them all sit with respect.  Many Rajas were sitting in the court with their ministers.  Kahiloori said: “I have thought about the good for all of us: the Khalsa has been born, who is a big threat to us all.  By bribing, joining or dividing them, we cannot win the Khalsa.  We will have to punish them.  If we keep peace with the Guru, the Guru will take our crops and ruin our fields.  They won’t let our crops ripen.  If we try to bribe them, they will loot our villages.  They have caused a lot of ruckuses in the village.  We can’t divide the Khalsa from the Guru.  They have a strong bond.  The Khalsa does the Simran of their Guru.  This problem is not just mine; this is everyone’s problem.  People are taking the Pahul and the Khalsa is growing in numbers by the day.  They are ready to fight at every hour of the day.  They love to fight.  We can do something about them now.  Let’s get together and fight the Guru.  We can conquer Anandpur.  If the Guru wants to keep ties with us, we will tell the Guru to be under our command.  Let’s go and attack Anandpur.  If we win, we will rule in peace.  If the Guru is not destroyed, this won’t be good for us.  He is our enemy.”  Katochia said: “all of the Rajas are here.  Nobody likes this.  Our kingdoms are being ruined.  We should attack in the morning.  Let’s surround Anandpur from every direction.  We will kick the Guru out of Anandpur.  We will finish the Singhs.”  Kesri Chand said: “when brothers fight, who will back down?  We should fight with our mind, body and wealth.  We will go forth and not back down.”  All of the Rajas agreed to this.  The court adjourned. 

The Rajas came back to their camps and prepared for war.  The foot soldiers and cavalry were ready.  Bullets and arrows were distributed.  Regiments were formed and readied.  The preparations were made all night long.  They slept very less.  When daytime came, Bheem Chand had the Nagara sounded.  The soldiers and kings got ready.  They donned their swords and shields.  They mounted their horses.  The Dhundhabs sounded.  They travelled 6 km from their kingdoms.  They set up camp to collect all of the army.  They got ready to write a letter to challenge Guru ji.  They sent the letter to Anandpur.

Guru Gobind Singh ji had already received the news that the Pahari Rajas were going to attack.  Guru ji already had made the preparations.  Guru ji sat in his Divaan with the Khalsa, looking radiant.  The letter reached the court and Guru ji had it read out loud in a loud voice: “listen Guru ji!  This is our place where you are living.  Where your Anandpur is established, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur ji purchased it from us.  Your father used to pay taxes to us (which was false).  Since the time you have lived here, you haven’t paid taxes.  What were you thinking?  You created your own Panth and gave them weapons.  You loot and beat up the Doon.  You are ruining my Doon.  You are ready to fight and die all the time.  I have been ignoring this till now but you have been ruining my country and kingdom.  You have killed many of my soldiers.  Many were injured.  If you want to keep the peace and stay in Anandpur forever then pay your taxes.  I won’t say anything if I get the taxes.  Otherwise we are angry.  There will be war between us.  Think about this.  The Turks are against you too.  Here, we are at odds.  You will be attacked from both sides.  Everyone will attack you.  You won’t be able to do anything.  You will be surrounded and won’t be able to leave.  Pay your taxes and stop your Singhs from ruining our fields.  Let go of your warrior traditions.  There is only pain in this.  Stay calm like your father.  Take gifts and money from your Sangat and stay their Guru.  Pay your taxes to us every year and live in peace.  Spend your time with joy.  Otherwise leave our land.  Go wherever you please.  We have come close to you with an army.  All of the Pahari Rajas are with me.  We will take everything from you and kick you out of Anandpur.  You have no other support.  Do what we say, without delay.”  When the letter was read out loud, Satguru ji was filled with anger.  Guru ji had a response written that he dictated out loud in the court before sending it. 

4-12 The Army Comes

Guru Kalgidhar ji roared like a thundering cloud in response to the Pahari Rajas’ letter.  This response was going to upset the Pahari Rajas.  Guru ji dictated: “listen Bheem Chand, you egotistical person!  Tell all your Pahari Rajas: if you want me to pay taxes then we will give it to you by the edge of our swords, by the tips of our arrows and by the bullets of our rifles.  We will give you so much that your generations will feel the effect.  The bullets will rain on you, which will be the sound of the coins clanking.  There is no one more foolish than you.  If you want money, then come in front of me.  When the metal of the swords clashes then you can count your money.  There is nothing good between us.  You haven’t done anything good between us.  Do whatever you want, bring your army.  If you are wise, you would think about what you are doing; this is the house of Guru Nanak Dev ji.  It is not wise to oppose this house.  You should seek the sanctuary of this house instead of fighting it.  You would have been happy in both worlds.  Come into the sanctuary of the Khalsa.  Let go of your stubborn pride and come to the protection of the Guru.  I will receive you.  Whatever you want from the Guru’s house, you will get.  Your kingdom will grow if you come to the Guru.  You have a lot of pride in your mind and you want to fight me.  The Guru’s house is a mirror which shows you your true face.  Your intentions can be seen clearly.  If you become a servant, you will be happy.  If you have hatred, then come quickly.  Come tonight.  Don’t even drink water, we will give it to you.  We won’t let you stay the night.  I promise you, come tonight and see the fierce battle you are waiting for.”  This letter was sent to Bheem Chand.

When Bheem Chand received the letter, he opened it and read it.  His mind and body burnt after reading it.  The fool was unfortunate.  He said to the Rajas: “look, this is the Guru’s letter.  We will go and fight now.”  They spent the night there and left in the morning.  The Rajas sounded the Nagaras in the morning and everyone got ready.  The regiments were ready to attack.  The instruments played and the battle standards were unfurled.  It looked like black clouds coming.  Ransinghas and dhols played.  The bullets were fired as a mark of coming.  Thousands of Rangars and Gujjars came.  The leader of the Gujjars was Jamtulla Bhao.  He brought thousands of Gujjars and was leading the army on foot.  They had spears, selay, saangs, and kataars; they had Tomars, Talvaars, and shields.  The Gujjars and Rangars were many in numbers.  Other militia were collected from villages and headed towards Anandpur.  The villages of the Pahari area, there were many that came from that area.  There was a lot of noise as they marched.  Bheem Chand was on the horse and left Kahloor.  The standards were flying.  Bheem Chand had his sword and shield.  He had a quiver on his shoulder.  He had a kataar in his kumerkassa.  The nagaras sounded in a double beat.  They were going to war with great enthusiasm.  Katochia was on his horse too.  His horse was dancing as it rode, like performers dancing in front of a crowd.  He had his shield and tulwar.  He had fought many before.  He was the son of Kirpal Chand.  The Raja of Kangar had his sword, shield and bow.  He was focused on heading to Anandpur in hopes of fighting Prabhoo Purakh Parmeshwar.  Jasovaliay Kesri Chand, the proud, was headed to Anandpur.  He was young and strong.  He was wearing expensive clothes. He had his tulwar and shield in his kumerkassa.  His shield was black.  He was holding a bow with a tight string.  He pulled his bowstring to show his intention of battle.  He was mounted on his strong elephant.  Handooria was ready to go.  He was intelligent in politics.  The Rajas were all taking about war.  They had a lot of soldiers with them which looked like the Ganga, sending a great tidal wave.  Bheem Chand mounted an elephant now and headed towards Anandpur.  They had guns, sailays, Khandas and other weapons.  There was a lot of noise.  The dust flew.  There were many Rajas going.  The Rajas of Kuloo, Kaintal, Bhutant, Jammu, Ghulair, Dhadvaal, Sri Nagar, Bhushhur, Chunder, Noorpura, Daroli, Mandi, Chumbyaal came with their soldiers, playing their Nagaras and waiving their flags.  Some Rajas, like the Raja of Mandi, were believers of the Guru but had to go to war at the call of the other Pahari Rajas.  As the army walked, the earth trembled.  The dust flew and covered the sun.  It was hard to see the sky.  In this way, the Pahari Rajas and their armies came towards Anandpur, wielding their weapons. 

In Anandpur, the army of the Shaheeds were all around.  Spies of Guru ji came to tell Guru ji of what the latest news was.  Guru ji was sitting in his Divaan.  The spies said: “Guru ji, how are you sitting without a worry?  The Pahari army is coming.  They are a lot in numbers.  They are coming to attack.  They have brought all the Pahari people.  Even though some are enemies of each other, today, they are all together and coming to fight you.  They want to take Anandpur from you.  They brought a big army.”  Guru ji said: “Khalsa ji, get ready.  It is time for a fierce battle.  Fight strong.  There is nothing bigger and better than this.  One may do many difficult Tapasyas for many year but it is nothing compared to dying on the battlefield.  One who dies on the battlefield goes straight to Sach Khand.  They are praised in both worlds and they receive all the joys.  Be fearless and fight like warriors.  You will be praised.  Take your weapons and fight with bravery.  You will get the highest status, the “Parm Padhvi,” which Rishis, Munis and Devatas wish for.  If one does Tapasya for thousands of years; tolerates rain on their body; give pain to their body; leave the pleasures of the world; they do not get the Parm Padhvi faster than this.  The Jogis want to be fearless but the warrior gets the Parm Padhvi instantly.  The warrior goes to Sach Khand within the blink of an eye.  Whoever fights and dies with desires in their heart, they go to Heaven, where the Devatas live.  They receive all the pleasures they desire there for thousands of years.  The Apsaras of heaven marry them.  Then, those people come to earth and become kings.  They experience all the joys on earth.  They still earn my Sikhi.  They do Bhagti in their next birth and then come to me to Sach Khand.  The one who is Shaheed on the battlefield and is desireless; fights the enemy with weapons; they will be with me forever.  They get the Padhvi that Jogis can’t get.  The Kshatriyas of the past died on the battlefield and went to heaven.  This is no secret.  The warriors get all the joys, the Granths say this.  I am always with you.  I will be with you wherever you go.”  Guru ji said this to the Khalsa.  The Khalsa was ready for war.  They wanted to fight.  They raised their moustaches and grabbed their weapons.  The Singhs of Majha and other areas, that had gone home and just recently returned, knowing that the Pahari Rajas were up to no good, were all present.  The Sardar of Majha, Bhai Dhunni Chand ji; who was the grandson of Bhai Salo ji, was a very strong warrior.  He was the Masand of that area.  He had brought a lot of people with him.  They all came to Anandpur.  Bhai Baksh Singh ji and Bhai Gurbaksh Singh ji from Bhaironval, were Kalaals (Distillers) who brought hundreds with them.  From Sursingh, Bhai Dyaal Singh ji came.  From Mattoo, Bhai Seva Singh ji Majail came.  All of these people came with Bhai Dhunni Chand ji.  They were 500 in numbers who came to Guru ji from Majha.  In this way, Singhs from other regions came.  They all found out about the conflict and came to give there service.  Thousands of Singhs gathered in Anandpur.  There were tents and battalions set up everywhere.  There were jaikaras everywhere.  They were ready like lions to hunt for deer.  They came to Guru ji and send: “we just want your command to go and we are ready for war.  These Pahari Rajas are nothing.  We are ready to go and attack Delhi.  We will kill all the Turks.  We will take Lahore from Jabbardast Khan.”  Bhai Uday Singh ji, (the son of Bhai Mani Singh ji), and other warriors were motivated by Guru ji.  Guru ji said to Bhai Uday Singh ji: “fortify the fort.  Go ahead and face the Pahari Army.” 

4-13 The Battle Begins

Guru ji called out to the warriors of Anandpur.  The special weapons were taken out of the armoury and given to the Singhs.  The edge of the Teghas was sharp enough to split ants if they walked on it.  The wootz blade Khandas were taken out along with the Sirohis, Halabhis and Janabhis.  Karachol (thick Teghas) and Khandas were taken out.  Sarblo barchas and Saangs were taken out.  Bichuas and Janbooas were taken out.  Churas (knives), Khokhanis and Saifs were taken out by the warriors.  They shined like the sun.  Sailays and Talvaars were taken out.  The edges were too sharp for an insect to walk on.  Tamanchas (Pistols), Tufangas (rifles) and other types of guns were given to the Singhs.  The shining Chakras were taken out.  The Singhs put the Chakras on their Dumaalaas and in their necks.  Expensive shields were taken out.  Arrows and bows were taken out.  The bows were fierce.  Many types of arrows were given to the Singhs.  The tips of the arrows were made of faulaad and skela.  The Singhs added their 5 weapons of their Kumerkassas: Kataars, Khunjers, Pechkavajs, Bichuas, Bugdas.  Guru ji spread his joyful blessings on top of the Khalsa.  Gunpowder and bullets were handed out to the Singhs.  Guru ji said: “kill the Paharis.  They are filled with pride.  They can’t understand the language of love.”  The Singhs got ready and stood in attention.  They were filled with the warrior spirit.  They all headed to battle, gathering in battalions and regiments.  They were like clouds.  The Khalsa mounted themselves at places where the enemy was likely to enter from.  They fired their bullets in the air to tell the enemy they were ready.  They were waiting for the Paharis.  The forts were fortified.  Fatehgarh and Logarh were fortified.  Agamgarh was also ready.  Bhai Sher Singh ji and Bhai Naar Singh ji from Majha were at Logarh Qila.  They had 500 Singhs with them.  They were ready to kill the enemy.  They had their weapons ready.

The Majail Singhs were at Agamgarh.  They were strong and tall Singhs.  Their weapons were ready.  Bhai Uday Singh ji the supreme general and Bhai Aalam Singh ji were supervising the whole strategy.  Where the distant battle was to be fought, Guru ji said to Bhai Uday Singh ji: “keep a battalion ready to be sent to the ranks where the enemy will come on strong.  Fight a fierce battle there.  Tear the enemy limb by limb.  Show them what war means.  I wanted to give them the kingdom of Delhi but they are not deserving of it.”  The Singhs were all ready to fight.  Guru ji told them: “make sure you don’t go ahead of your regiment.  Keep close to your army.  Keep cover while fighting.  Stay in your morchas.”

Bheem Chand, the egotistical, came with the Pahari army.  Nagaras were playing.  He looked at his army and saw all the other 22 Pahari Rajas.  He was sure to win this battle, he thought to himself.  He was prouder today.  He thought to himself: “if all these people are with me, Anandpur is nothing, I can take Lahore.  The Emperor would be worried seeing me.  When metal clashes and I make the Guru run, everyone in Hindustan will praise us.  All of the Pahari Rajas are together.  The Khalsa is nothing in front of us.  They are a bunch of low caste, low class people.”  157,000 soldiers were with the Pahari army.  They made a lot of noise and shouted Jaikaras.  They came close to Anandpur, where the Khalsa was waiting for them.  The Khalsa had their guns pointed towards to the enemy.  They heard the Pahari Nagaras and stood on attention.  Their guns were ready with gunpowder and bullets.  They rammed the bullets and the gunpower.  The toras were ready.  The guns were aimed at the enemy.

Guru Gobind Singh ji was at a high spot and observing the formations with his binoculars.  The Singhs came to give him news: “listen Maharaj!  The Paharis are here.  We can hear their Dhundhabs and their guns firing.  There are many Nagaras.  All 22 Rajas are here.  The Rajas are close by.  The Khalsa is at attention.  We are waiting for your blessings for our victory.”  Sahibzada Baba Ajit Singh ji was 6 and a half feet tall.  He was standing next to Guru ji.  He had a 3 feet shield tied to his back with a quiver full of arrows.  He wanted his father Guru’s command to fight with the enemy.  He wanted to fight, eagerly.  He had learnt Shaster Vidya and wanted to use it.  Bhai Uday Singh ji sensed the Sahibzada’s intentions and said to Guru ji: “Maharaj!  You know the wishes of everyone.  I don’t need to say this to you but I am going to make a request: the Sahibzada is eager to show his marital skills and fight the enemy.  The Singhs will be inspired to see him.  The Sahibzada is shy to ask you.  He wants your command.  He is not saying this to you.  Please command him.  I can take him with me.  He wishes to put the soil from your feet to his forehead and go to war.  All of the Pahari Rajas are here.  The Gujjars and Rangar are here too.  There is going to be a fierce battle.  He wishes to fight.”  Bhai Uday Singh ji was one of the 25 commandos that were personally trained by Guru ji for special missions.  Guru ji looked towards his eldest son.  He saw that Sahibzada Ajit Singh ji was ready with all his weapons.  He was tall and handsome.  He wanted to fight.  He had learnt archery from Guru ji.  It was time for him to show his skills.  Guru ji said to him: “go and fight.”  Baba Ajit Singh ji bowed to his father’s feet.  Guru ji said to him: “this is the way of the sons of Kshatriyas.  Just as Arjan’s son Abhimanyu went to war at a young age, you should go and fulfill your wishes.  You know the strategy of battle.  Go and see it first hand.  There is nothing better than this.  This is the Dharma of the Kshatriya.”  Guru ji was happy and gave him the command.  Baba Ajit Singh ji was eager to go for battle.  Guru ji saw his son’s eagerness to go to war and said: “go with Uday Singh and face the enemy head on.  Don’t let the enemy come forward.  Stand your ground and don’t leave your Morcha.”  Baba Ajit Singh ji was happy to hear his father’s words.  He folded his hands and bowed.  100 Singhs were with Baba Ajit Singh ji.  A strong steed was brought for him.  He went to the place of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji and went to bow to his grandfather.  He did 4 Parkarmas of Guru Tegh Bahadhur Sahib ji’s final resting place and did an Ardaas as he was going to war for the first time: “your grandson is going to war for the first time.  Please be with me.”  He mounted his horse.  Bhai Uday Singh ji was with him and having discussions of war.  Baba Ajit Singh ji made his horse jump and dance as we went towards the army of Singhs.  Sharp arrows were in Baba ji’s quiver.  He joined the ranks of the Singhs, where the guns were aimed at the army.  The Singhs saw Sahibzada Ajit Singh ji and rejoiced.  They were extremely happy and shouted out Jaikaras.  The Singhs all said the Fateh out loud to Baba ji as he came.  Their motivation grew several folds seeing him.  They shouted out jaikaras and headed foreword.  Baba ji remembered his father’s orders of not going on ahead.  He said: “Khalsa ji, stop here.  Don’t disobey Guru ji.  Stay here.  When the enemy comes, we will fight here.  If the enemy comes on strong, we can go and fight near the forts.  We will give a fierce response to the enemy.” 

Bheem Chand camped about 8 km behind.  Their food and supplies were kept there.  They stored their supplies and headed from that point forward.  They played the Nagaras, Napheeryas and conches.  The dhols played like thundering clouds.  He said: “we are going to fight a big battle and then we will rest.  We will go into the forts and kill all the Singhs.  Oh Rajas, we will win today.  Be strong and defeat the Guru.”  Bheem Chand took the army and headed towards Anandpur.  The flag standards were furling in the wind.  All of the Pahari Rajas had their own standards.  The bullets were firing from both sides.  Both sides were shouting Jaikaras: “Har Har Mahadev!  Sat Sri Akaal!”  These jaikaras could be heard.  The Ranjit Nagara was sounded wit a double beat by Baba Lakha Singh ji.  The sound made the mountains tremble.  The noise summoned the Army of the Shaheeds.  The Pahari Rajas faced a head wind, which was regarded as a bad omen.  The wise generals noticed this bad omen and became worried.  They saw their loss.  Just as Jarasandh came to face Krishan ji in Mathura, that is how the Paharis were coming to face Guru Gobind Singh ji, the lion.  Jarasandh was a great strong elephant, just like Bheem Chand, but Guru Gobind Singh ji was his death.  Cavalries, archers, foot soldiers, Paharis, Gujjars, Rangars, Rajputs; the whole Pahari area was here.  The Singhs were ready to fight. 

4-14 The Battle

In this way, both sides had warriors ready.  The battle started.  The guns began to fire from both sides.  Kesri Chand Jasovaliya made a charge, attacking with foot soldiers.  All of the guns fired at once.  Bhai Uday Singh ji charged on ahead with great strength.  Arrows and bullets flew from both sides.  The two sides looked like clouds coming together.  The bullets came down like hail to ruin the fields.  The soldiers fought fiercely.  The bullets flew and hit the soldiers in the chest, head or leg.  The ones that get hit sway around and fall to the ground.  Some break their legs and some break their arms; some get hit in the chest and fall.  Some fire and prepare the gun for the next shot.  The ramrods would prepare the guns.  The tall and strong soldiers fired.  The Singhs charged with the shouting of “Sat Sri Akaal!”  The Paharis couldn’t handle them.  The foot soldiers attacked.  Bhai Aalam Singh ji, Bhai Daya Singh ji and Bhai Bachittar Singh ji were together.  They said to Bhai Uday Singh ji: “stay with the Guru’s son.  We will face the foot soldiers.  They are coming on strong and we will go and stop them.  The cavalry must be stopped by you.  Command our cavalry and face the enemy.  Don’t let the Sahibzada go on ahead.  Strike the enemy in the chest.  Motivate the Sahibzada but keep his eagerness in check.  Make sure he doesn’t get too eager and goes on ahead.  He is young still, but eager to fight.  He is a brave and strong warrior.”  After saying this, Bhai Bachittar Singh ji and the others took 500 Singhs and attacked Jamtulla Bhao’s army.  The Singhs made it rain bullets.  They were brave soldiers who faced the enemy.  The bowstrings swished and the arrows flew.  They fought in the middle of the battlefield.  They swung their swords and sliced the limbs of the enemy.  The bodies began to pile on the ground.  The horses rode and trampled over the bodies.  The Singhs sliced all the soldiers.  They fought with fists and smaller weapons as well.  Many of the Gujjars and Rangars were killed.  Many began to run away, seeing the fierce charge of the Khalsa.  The Gujjars and Rangars didn’t stay.  They saw the Khalsa as their Jumm messengers.  When the Singhs swung their swords in the warrior spirit, no one could stay standing in front of them. 

Bheem Chand saw the fierce battle and said in great anger: “we are already losing!”  He said to Jamtulla Bhao, the Sardar of the Rangars, in great anger: “you used to say you want to take revenge on the Guru for destroying Bajroor (the Singhs destroyed that village because they used to loot the Sangat heading to Anandpur).  You’ve been angry every since.  You wanted to face the Guru with a bigger army.  You wanted revenge for Bajroor and Noh.  Collect your army and attack.  I will go with you in the charge.”  Bheem Chand sent his army and said: “we will attack together and destroy the Khalsa.  We are going to destroy the forts.  You wanted my help, didn’t you?  You have what you wanted.  Go and attack!  Your people are running away from the battle now.  You need to call your people and go forth.”  The Raja of Kahloor, Bheem Chand, called out to Jamtulla.  Jamtulla Gujjar became angry.  He took off his quiver and walked to his soldiers.  He said to his people: “come and fight!  We are going to get our revenge.”  He started to release arrows towards the Singhs.  His people saw their Sardar fighting and came back.  They fired their guns towards the Singhs.  The Paharis charged with the cavalry.  They shouted out: “kill them!”  Bullets and arrows showered.  It was a fierce charge from the enemy.  The Singhs began to move back.  They took their swords out and fought the enemy.  The bullets fired, which echoed throughout the valley.  Baba Ajit Singh ji saw the enemy charge and was filled with anger.  He released arrows, pulling them to his ear.  The arrows went through the enemy lines, killing many in their way.  Many horses and warriors were killed.  His arrows went right through the horses and soldiers.  The ones that were hit did not get time to ask for water.  Baba ji caused chaos in the enemy army.  The dust flew from the ground and made another layer of earth in the sky.  The flesh was ready from the dead for the vultures to eat.  Thousands of crows and vultures gathered.  Dogs had their tongues sticking out, waiting to eat.  The dead bodies seemed like they were still fighting.  The 64 Kaljognis and 52 Beers came with the hair open.  The Kaljognis shouted and laughed.  The bhoots (ghosts) and prayts (spirits) danced.  Naarad Muni played the Dooroo (small drum).  the Kaljognis drank the blood.  They were happy with Guru ji for satiating their hunger for warriors.  The Kaljognis only ate the flesh of brave warriors.  Guru ji had promised them the flesh of warriors. 

There was a great battle churning.  The dead bodies were all over the earth.  The Paharis were much more in numbers.  The Singhs moved back.  Bhai Uday Singh ji noticed the Singhs moving back.  He charged the place where the Pahari Rajas were standing.  He took Baba Ajit Singh ji and thousands of Singhs to attack.  They showered arrows and bullets, forcing a fierce charge.  It sounded like popcorns popping.  The noise echoed in the mountains. 

Guru Gobind Singh ji was on a high spot, watching the battle.  He saw the Singhs swinging swords and firing their guns.  There was a fierce battle happening.  Jaikaras were shouted, bullets flew.  The shields were clanking with the swords.  Bullets were raining down.  The soldiers were falling.  Gunpowder was rammed and bullets were fired.  Ramrods were ramming the bullets.  The bowstrings were pulled far.  Heads and limbs were severed.  The ones that were running were also being hit and would fall to the ground.  The horses jumped and bumped into each other.  It was as though the soldiers were playing Holi with blood.  The soldiers ran and threw the others down.  They ran like prisoners running from captivity.  The Paharis were great in numbers.  They set off fierce charges but the Singhs did not leave the battle.  When Guru Sahib saw the enemy come on strong, his eyes became red with anger.  He grabbed his fierce 9 Tonka bow and mounted it with his arrows.  He aimed and released them towards the enemy.  When Guru Gobind Singh ji’s arrows flew, the armies of the Shaheeds went with them, killing many in their path.  Guru ji’s arrows caused chaos in the enemy lines.  It was a great chaos.  Guru ji released many arrows.  Baba Ajit Singh ji released arrows along with other Singhs.  The swords swung and the horses danced.  The heads were severed.  The shoulders were severed.  The spears took out the soldiers’ intestines.  The bullets popped out the eyeballs.  It was a scary sight to see.  Some were hit in the heart and the heart came out.  Thighs were sliced, arms were sliced.  Thousands of Nagaras were playing.  The Napheeryas were played.  The Ranjit Nagara was playing.  Bhai Subegh Singh ji Jumberi was angry along with Bhai Kirpal Singh ji.  Ambreek Singh ji attacked; Bhai Bachittar Singh ji the warrior, Bhai Anand Singh ji, Bhai Gopal Singh ji, Bhai Dyaal Singh ji, Bhai Hameer Singh ji, Bhai Maan Singh ji (brother of Bhai Mani Singh ji and one who will be the first one to fly the Farla from his Dumalla after Baba Fateh Singh ji), Bhai Tek Singh ji, Bhai Divaan Singh ji, Bhai Shob Singh ji, Bhai Kol Singh ji, Bhai Hazaar Singh ji, Bhai Chet Singh ji, Bhai Sant Singh ji, Bhai Sujaan Singh ji, Bhai Kahn Singh ji, Bhai Daan Singh ji, Bhai Uday Singh ji, Bhai Fateh Singh ji along with Bhai Daya Singh ji; all charged on without fear.  They were the Bhujhangis of the Guru.  They were many that could not all be named.  They had the warrior spirit inside them.  They swung their swords.  The Pahari Rajas came on strong as well.  There was a lot of chaos.  The Singhs took on injuries but did not back down from war.  They struck with their Kataars and pulled out the enemy’s intestines.  A fierce war was in progress.  Rivers of blood were flowing.  Dead bodies were piling upon each other. 

4-15 Jamtulla Bhao Dies

The Pahari Raja, Bheem Chand, moved back to a safer place.  He stood from the back to watch the battle.  The soldiers fought with courage.  The dead bodies of men and horses were piled upon each other.  Fountains of blood sprouted everywhere.  There were many soldiers who were injured.  Blood was pouring out.  The injured yelled out in pain.  The injured would sway and fall to the ground.  It was a fierce attack.  The instruments of war were playing.  The brave warriors were getting tired.  Handooria and Katochia were with Kahilooria.  Kahilooria said to them: “this is a fierce battle.  Why is the Khalsa not backing down?  They have a lot of patience and strength.  They are strong-willed.  We did a strong charge but we are not succeeding.  Will you Rajas continue to stand here with your hands clasped to each other?  You need to motivate the army.  I came with the intention of winning.  We brought a lot of soldiers and I thought we would win.  Our army is losing.  We called the Gujjars and Rangars.  We called them for war not a wedding.  Tell them to go and fight.  The Gujjars and Rangars are backing down.  Nobody is going to the front line.  We are losing because the leaders don’t want to go to the front.  The Khalsa has their generals at their front lines.  We won’t be able to win like this.  We will need to fight ourselves.  The Rajas need to spread out so the soldiers see you.  The soldiers will be motivated then.  A battle is to kill or get killed.”  Handooria and Katochia said: “call Kesri Chand to you.  His army is big.  He is brave.  Tell him to take his army.  We will fire at Anandpur.  We need to kill the generals.  Kesri Chand should attack the right flanks.  We should send Jamtulla to the left.  He is like the Jumm for the Singhs.  We will stay in the middle and fight.  We will charge and attack the Guru.  Let’s push the Singhs back.  They will go into their forts.  We will surround the forts.  We will aim our canons towards the fort.  We will kick the Guru out.  We will pick up our injured soldiers.  We will have to go to the front.  How long can they all stay in the fort?  We will charge quickly and kick the Guru out.  They will starve.”  They all conversed and decided to call Raja Kesri Chand.  Bheem Chand said to Kesri Chand: “look, the soldiers are fighting.  Our people are tired and so are the Singhs.  Our people are firing from afar.  The foot soldiers aren’t going to the front lines.  The Singhs are firing at the front lines.  Our soldiers are afraid of the Singhs and don’t face them.  Our people are lying down without getting killed.”

The Singhs were fighting with eagerness.  They pushed the enemy back far.  Many Paharis were killed with bullets and swords.  The Singhs were drenched in blood.  Some Singhs went to Guru ji and said: “the enemy has been pushed back by your grace.”  Guru ji said: “great!  Fight with focus.  Don’t be too eager.  Don’t go on ahead too quickly.  Don’t make hasty advances.  Keep in your field.  You will be protected by Sri Asket ji.”  The Singhs listened to Guru ji and went back to the battlefield.  They fought with eagerness.  The Singhs stayed in their Morcha.  They went into the enemy lines and fired their guns.  They released their arrows, saying: “Guru, Guru.”  The mounted Singhs got together and followed Baba Ajit Singh ji.  They fought the battle with patience and bravery.  The fearless warriors fought the enemy.  Many dhols played and “Sat Sri Akaal” was shouted out.  The Nishans were waiving in the air.  The bullets were fired towards the enemy.  There was a fierce charge.  The enemy was being pushed back.  They stopped them from coming forward.  Bheem Chand shouted to his men: “go and fight.”  He called Kesri Chand, his brother-in-law, to him.  Kesri Chand was strong and brave.  Bheem Chand said to him: “you will have to command the army and fight.  Release sharp arrows and kill the generals of the Khalsa army.  Jamtulla Bhao will be towards Agamgarh with the Gujjars.  Be aware and charge.  Take your best soldiers and fight with courage.  Do one strong charge.  Take thousands of soldiers and make the Khalsa go back.  Make them run.  This is a deep wish of mine to defeat the Guru.  I have been waiting to win for so long.  Fulfil my wish.  Make the Singhs go into the forts.”  Kesri Chand heard Bheem Chand and went to his soldiers.  He said: “attack with a strong charge.”  He took his best men and attacked.  He made his horse run, after making it jump like a peacock.

Jamtulla Bhao was approached by Kesri Chand.  Kesri Chand said to him: “go and attack the Agamgarh fort.”  Kahilooria was angry and shouted to his army: “go and attack the enemy.  Swing your swords.”  The Pahari Rajas were getting ready to attack.  “Let’s push the Singhs.”  The Rajas sent a strong charge.  Kesri Chand went back and forth.  He kept bringing the warriors ahead.  He instructed all to come to the front.  The soldiers roared.  The Nagaras and Ransinghas sounded.  Thousands attacked.  The Pahari Rajas all came ready to fight.  They attacked.

Bhai Uday Singh ji noticed the fierce charge.  He saw Kesri Chand coming.  He said: “the enemy is coming with a strong charge.  They brought their best men.  Khalsa ji, get ready.  We are not going to move back.  They want to push us to the forts.  We will face them.”  The Singhs took out their swords.  Bhai Uday Singh ji said: “let’s push forward!”  He heeled his horse and inspired all to fight.  Everyone took their guns and looked towards the enemy.  Baba Ajit Singh ji was ready.  He was fearless and advanced ahead.  He took a thick arrow and released it.  He aimed for the Pahari generals and killed them one by one.  His arrows would go right through the chainmail armour the enemy had on.  His arrows went right through the men and horses.  The enemy came with a strong charge with their swords and shields.  100,000 people attacked.  The bullets all fired at the same time.  Many charges were made.  The soldiers met and engaged in hand-to-hand combat.  A fierce battle roared on.  The soldiers fell to the ground.  The Singhs did not back down, swinging their weapons.  They gave a strong front.

Bhai Sahib Singh ji, of the Panj Payaaray, took his rifle and headed towards Agamgarh to face Jamtulla Bhao.  Jamtulla came with a fierce charge, causing chaos.  He made his horse run fast and rode towards the Singhs.  Bhai Sahib Singh ji aimed his gun towards Jamtulla.  He yelled out “Sat Sri Akaal” and fired his gun.  His bullet flew through the air and hit Jamtulla Bhao.  It was like he was hit by lightening.  He was hit in the forehead with the bullet; making his head explode.  Jamtulla fell to the ground and died instantly.  Bhai Sahib Singh ji only required one shot.  The insides of Jamtulla’s head came pouring out like butter coming out of a broken clay pot.  The thousands of Gujjars and Rangars saw their leader die.  They were all disheartened seeing Jamtulla Bhao being killed.  Jamtulla Bhao had laid down to sleep forever.  The Gujjars and Rangars were upset.  They all headed towards Jamtulla’s body to pick it up.  The Singhs wouldn’t let them take his body.  Bhai Aalam Singh ji took a regiment and charged them hard.  He said to the Singhs: “Khalsa ji, don’t let them take the body of Jamtulla.”  The Singhs shouted out the Fateh and attacked hard.  They laid down many Gujjars and Rangars.  There was smoke from the guns everywhere.  The Singhs took their Khandas and attacked.  The Gujjars and Rangars charged to take their leader’s body.  The Singhs attacked the thousands of Gujjars and Rangars.  It was a fierce battle.