Baba Banda Singh Bahadur: A Warrior Hero of Sikhism
The name of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur is inscribed in golden letters in the annals of Sikh history as a symbol of valor, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion. His life was a testament to renunciation, courage, and the principles of justice. Born in 1670 CE in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, he came from a humble Rajput family. His father, Ramdev, was a farmer, and Banda Singh was initially known as Lakshman Das.
The Beginning of a Spiritual Journey
In his youth, a life-altering incident shaped his destiny. While hunting, he killed a pregnant deer, which deeply disturbed him. This event led him to renounce worldly life and follow the path of a Bairagi ascetic. He became a disciple of Bairagi Guru Janaki Das at Panchvati Ashram, where he was renamed “Madhodas.”
Meeting with Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji
In 1708, at Nanded in the Deccan region, Baba Banda Singh Bahadur had a historic meeting with Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The Guru introduced him to the ideals of Sikhism and baptized him with the sacred Amrit of Khande-Bate, renaming him “Gurbakhsh Singh.” From that moment, he became known as Baba Banda Singh Bahadur. Guru Gobind Singh Ji entrusted him with the leadership of the Sikh Panth, bestowing upon him five arrows, the Nishan Sahib, a battle drum, and the companionship of five devout Sikhs—Bhai Vinod Singh, Bhai Kahan Singh, Bhai Baj Singh, Bhai Ran Singh, and Bhai Daya Singh—and sent him to Punjab to lead the struggle against tyranny.
Leadership in the Righteous Battles of the Khalsa Panth
Upon reaching Punjab, Baba Banda Singh Bahadur launched a campaign against the atrocities committed against the Sikh community. He captured and executed cruel oppressors like Jalaluddin, who had martyred Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, and Shashal Beg and Bashal Beg, who were responsible for the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s younger sons. He laid waste to the town of Samana, erasing it from existence.
In the historic battle of Chappar Chiri on May 14, 1710 CE, Baba Banda Singh Bahadur defeated the tyrant Wazir Khan, who had ordered the execution of the younger Sahibzadas. Bhai Baj Singh delivered the final blow to Wazir Khan. Following this victory, Sarhind was conquered, and the oppressors like Gangu Rasoiya and Sucha Nand were brought to justice. Bhai Baj Singh was appointed as the Subedar of Sarhind, and the fort of Sukhlgarh was renamed Lohgarh, becoming the first capital of the Sikh Raj. With this, the foundation of the Khalsa Raj was laid.
Establishment of Khalsa Rule and Minting of Coins
Baba Banda Singh Bahadur established Khalsa rule in Punjab and issued coins in the name of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, engraved with the words:
“Daggoh Gobind Singh Ke, Mihro Banda Bahadur.”
He abolished the feudal zamindari system, making farmers the rightful owners of their land—a revolutionary step towards justice and equality.
Final Battle and Capture
In 1715 CE, Emperor Farrukhsiyar launched a massive campaign against Baba Banda Singh Bahadur. After an eight-month siege at Gurdas Nangal, Baba Ji was treacherously captured along with 740 Sikhs. They were taken to Delhi under humiliating conditions.
Torture and Martyrdom
In Delhi, a hundred Sikhs were executed daily, but neither Baba Banda Singh Bahadur nor his followers wavered in their faith. On June 9, 1716 CE, Baba Ji faced unimaginable tortures. His four-year-old son, Ajay Singh, was brutally killed, and his heart was forced into Baba Ji’s mouth. Baba Ji’s body was mutilated piece by piece with a weapon called Jamura, and his eyes were gouged out with hot iron rods. Finally, he attained martyrdom, leaving an indelible legacy of sacrifice and courage.
Conclusion
Baba Banda Singh Bahadur’s life epitomized the principles of Sikhism and the highest ideals of humanity. His sacrifice teaches us that enduring every hardship for the defense of righteousness and justice is the truest form of glory. His bravery, penance, and devotion inspire us not only to persevere on the path of faith but also to draw strength from it.
This tribute honors the unparalleled courage and sacrifice of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, whose legacy remains eternal.
“Blessed is the hero who illuminated the darkness of injustice with the light of righteousness.”
