In his six years of intensive research during the 1960s, Giani Ishar Singh Nara personally visited a large number of places where Guru Gobind Singh Sahib had set foot and pieced together chronologically his journeys and gathered credible information on his life. He brought out startling facts of which the Sikh community, by and large, was hitherto unaware. "Safarnama and Zafarnama" tells us of the circumstances under which Guru Sahib founded the Khalsa Panth, his relentless clashes for justice and religious tolerance with the tyrannical Mughals, martyrdom of his four sons and the many trials and tribulations undergone by him. The book also tells us of Guru Sahib's erudition as a scholar and a poet par excellence whose many compositions including his memoirs, "Bachittar Natak" and his telling letter "Zafarnama" in Persian to Emperor Aurangzeb, were compiled in the "Sri Dasam Granth" after him.
About the Author
Giani Ishar Singh was born in Nara, Tehsil Kahuta, District Rawalpindi (Pakistan) in 1898. He started his career as a raagi and pracharak in gurdwaras in and around Nara. In time, however, he realized that his forte lay in researching and writing on Sikh theology and pre-eminent Sikh personalities and over the years produced some outstanding works in Punjabi that won him much acclaim. Other than "Safamama te Zafarnama" (biography of Guru Gobind Singh Sahib), his other well-known works include "Vasakn Nahin Kattak", "Itihaas Baba Sri Chand Sahib te Udasin Samprada", "Raja Jogi-Jeevan Baba Sahib Singb Bedi" and "Sikh Panth ate Maharashtra di Saanjh" to name a few Giani ji passed away in 1995.
Lt. Col. Harindar Singh Bedi took voluntary retirement from the technical branch of the army in 1983. After a few years in the corporate sector in Nigeria and India, he decided to retire from active service in 2007 and took to translating Punjabi and Hindi books into English as a leisurely pursuit. He has translated several books up to now of which "Safarnama and Zafarnama" is the first one to be published.
Foreword
This year in Jan. 2017, the 350th birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji was celebrated with great enthusiasm. Lacs of devotees from all over the world reached Patna Sahib, the birth place of the Guru. There was great fervour among the non-Sikhs also. Prime Minister Sh. Narinder Modi and various Chief Ministers were present in the main function. For the first time the entire media covered the programme and people at large could understand the contribution of Guru Gobind Singh Ji towards humanity. It was an awakening for the people and there was keenness to know more about the life and deeds of Guru Sahib. It was realized that enough literature, especially in English and other world languages, is not available. It is heartening to see soon after the celebrations that a proper book will soon be available. I admire Lt. Col. Harindar Singh Bedi who has done a great service in translating into English the book 'Safarnama te Zafarnama' written by Giani Ishar Singh Nara. What a coincidence that Giani ji presented this scholarly thesis to the community in 1971 at the time of tercentennial birth celebrations of Guru Gobind Singh ji and now his book will be available for a larger number of readers.
Lt. Col. Bedi is a direct descendant of Guru Nanak Dev ji. He has already translated Giani Nara's books on Baba Sri Chand and Baba Sahib Singh Bedi. I remember in my village Dhudial in District Jhelum (Pakistan) there was a beautiful Gurdwara on a small hillock surrounded by a dense jungle. This was built by the villagers as a mark of veneration for Baba Sahib Singh Bedi who visited the village in 1815. Our whole region is indebted to Baba Sahib Singh Bedi, his great-grandson Sir Baba Khem Singh Bedi and the latter's son Sir Baba Gurbaksh Singh Bedi of Kallar who brought thousands of people into the Sikh fold. Lt. Col. Bedi is the grandson of Sir Baba Gurbaksh Singh Bedi.
Giani Ishar Singh Nara went to each place which was visited by Guru Gobind Singh ji and collected the material for his book. He removed many doubts and clarified many myths about the Guru's life. The travels of Guru Sahib were quite extensive and every place sanctified by his visit has a separate story to tell which has been very well described by Giani ji. The last days of the Guru at Nanded will be of great interest to the readers. I have known Lt. Col. Bedi for the last 3 decades but I was not aware of his great talent in English-writing, He has thoroughly described every line written by Giani Ishar Singh. His translated work is a full and complete version of the original book. I expect S.G.P.C, Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee and our Universities to take full benefit of Lt. Col. Bedi's efforts to propagate the ideals of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The community should always encourage such efforts by competent persons.
It is most appropriate to add here what the great Indian scholar and former President of India Dr. S. Radhakrishnan wrote about the Tenth Master published in Baisakhi Number of the "Spokesman" 1956: "Guru Gobind Singh was besieged at Anandpur for three years; his two elder sons died fighting at Chamkaur; the two younger ones, innocents of 7 and 5, were first entombed alive and when a tremor of the earth demolished the wall, leaving them yet alive, they were literally slaughtered as sheep and goats by butchers! Guru Gobind Singh created and organized, vitalized and militarized the Khalsa. He created heroes out of dross and earth clods. Truly, he turned sparrows into hawks, lambs into lions, lumps of clay into heroes. For 1000 years, after the defeat of Raja Jaipal, India had lain prostrate. The raiders and invaders descended into India and took away the people to be sold as slaves. People watched and had not the courage to strike a blow in defence of their weeping, wailing, sobbing, groaning mothers, sisters and daughters.
(These tragic scenes were repeated in 1947). Alas, poor India suffered unfathomable anguish. Guru Gobind Singh raised the Khalsa to defy religious intolerance, religious persecution and political inequality. It was a miracle that heroes appeared out of straws and common clay. Those who grovelled in the dust rose proud, defiant and invincible in the form of the Khalsa. They bore all sufferings and unnamable tortures cheerfully and unflinchingly, and accepted martyrdom for over fifty years in the first half of the eighteenth century. In the time of Bahadur Shah, Farrukh Siyar, Mir Many and Zakariya Khan, Bhai Taru Singh suffered martyrdom in 1738 and Bhai Mani Singh in 1750. Their martyrdom did not go in vain. On their ashes, on their blood and bones, was laid the foundation of the Sikh empire which was secular in character and which blocked the Khyber Pass. India was spared the anguish which invaders had repeatedly inflicted on India for about 1000 years.
India is at long last free. This freedom is the crown and climax and a logical corollary to the Sikh Guru's and Khalsa's terrific sacrifices and heroic exploits. The Khalsa's traditions must inspire the Sikhs to live and die (if need be) for India's freedom. No cause could be worthier, nobler, grander, dearer."
Many such writings by various scholars are available. Our religious organizations should earmark enough budgets for the proliferation of such literature.
Preface
‘Nama’ is a Persian word denoting a letter, epistle, document or book presenting one's view, deed or undertaking such bai nama (sale deed), rehin nama (mortgage), ikrar nama (undertaking), rehit nama (Sikh code of conduct), hukam nama (written command, edict), etc.
The letter that Guru Gobind Singh Sahib wrote about the victory of his ethics and truth to Aurangzeb was named 'Zafarnama'. That has been reproduced in this book partly in its original form but in Gurmukhi script and partly translated into Gurmukhi.
Prior to this Guru Sahib has himself written about the earlier journey of his soul in his granth "Bachittar Natak." His soul left the Hemkunt Mountain and found an 'abode' in Mata Gujari ji's womb on the banks of the Triveni. He then took birth in Patna city.
He spent six years in Patna and then came to the Punjab. This journey has been covered briefly. From Anandpur he went to Paonta. He again returned to Anandpur and travelled to many places from there. Eventually he had to forsake Anandpur, and after the saga of Chamkaur and Machhiwara, went to Dina in the Malwa region of the Punjab. He spent a few months here, and then passing through Rajasthan, arrived in Nanded (Deccan). He breathed his last in Nanded. This too was a journey of his soul. That is why this book has been given the title "Safarnama te Zafamama."
It is hoped that discerning readers will find this title appropriate, and in addition to bringing to light Sri Guru Gobind Singh Sahib's noteworthy acts in all the 'journeys' of his life that have been recorded in historical perspective, my well- researched work in removing all kinds of historical misconceptions and shortcomings will be acknowledged as a work of rare value.
Contents
Grateful Thanks of the Author | XVII |
Foreword | XIX |
Note by Translator | XXIII |
Preface by Author | XXV |
First Journey 1 | |
Preamble | 1 |
Baba in Bakala | 3 |
Journey to the East | 4 |
Other Reason for Journey | 5 |
Mata Gujari Ji Conceives | 7 |
Guru Tegh Bahadur in Bihar and Assam | 7 |
Patna is Blessed | 9 |
Celebrations in Dhaka | 12 |
Pir Bhikan Shah has Darshan of Newborn | 13 |
Guru Tegh Bahadur in Kolkata | 15 |
Second Journey 18 | |
From Patna to Sri Anandpur | 18 |
Concern of Sikh Sangats and Uncle Kirpal Chand | 26 |
Arrangements for Education and Marriage | 28 |
Beliefs of Poets | 32 |
Policy of the Mughal Rulers | 33 |
Change in Mughal Policy | 35 |
Briss in Anandpur | 40 |
'Liberated' a Bear | 41 |
Valuable Canopy from Kabul | 42 |
Guru Sahib's Second Marriage | 43 |
Raja Rattan Rai of Assam Arrives for Guru Ji's Darshan | 44 |
The 'Ranjit Nagara' | 45 |
Inauguration of the Ranjit Nagara and Hunting Expeditions | 47 |
Raja Bhim Chand's Envy | 49 |
Visit by Raja Medni Prakash | 51 |
Third Journey 53 | |
Relocating in Paonta | 53 |
Pir Budhu Shah of Sadhaura Visits Guru Ji | 55 |
Guru Ji's Meeting with Sri Ram Rai | 56 |
Sri Ram Rai Passes Away | 61 |
At Kopal Mochan | 63 |
Guru Sahib's Cantonment in Paonta | 65 |
Sends Shagan to Raja Fateh Shah | 67 |
Battle of Bhangani | 69 |
Bestowal of Rewards after Victory | 71 |
Birth of Sahibzada Ajit Singh | 73 |
Fourth Journey 75 | |
Return to Anandpur from Paonta | 75 |
Five Sikhs Sent to Kashi to Study Sanskrit | 79 |
Fifth Journey 81 | |
Battle of Nadaun | 81 |
Fight with Hussian Khan | 82 |
Assault by Bahadur Shah | 82 |
Building Forts | 83 |
Anoop Kaur's Trickery | 84 |
Tribute by the Author | 93 |
Composition of the 504 Charitars | 96 |
Compilation of Sri Dasam Granth | 102 |
Sri Sarb Loh Granth | 104 |
Predicted Creation of Khalsa Panth and its Greatness | 106 |
Story of Devi Chandika's 'Appearance' | 108 |
Historical Perspective | 111 |
Author's View | 112 |
Conducted a Massive Sacrificial Feast | 116 |
Creation of Khalsa Panth | 118 |
Extraordinary Demand for Sacrifice | 121 |
The Baptism Ceremony | 123 |
Gurmantra and Code of Conduct | 126 |
Covered Donkey with Tiger Skin | 128 |
Had Karah Prasad Looted | 129 |
The Shikar Episode | 130 |
Lest Someone Cast an Evil Eye | 131 |
Bhai Pheru Singh | 131 |
Bhai Joga Singh of Peshawar | 132 |
Meeting Bedi Baba Kaladhari | 136 |
Bhai Nand Lal 'Goya' takes Refuge of Guru Ji | 137 |
Guru Ji Reveals Significance of Langar | 139 |
Portents of Battle in Anandpur | 140 |
Anandpur's Second Battle | 141 |
MasandsExposed | 142 |
Mai Bhagan of Agra | 143 |
Offering by a Disciple of Nigahe Pir | 144 |
Cantonment at Anandpur | 144 |
Qazi Salar Din's Query | 145 |
Battle of Lohgarh | 147 |
Entreaties by Hill Chieftains | 149 |
Sixth Journey 152 | |
Camp at Nirmohi | 152 |
Battle of Nirmohi | 153 |
Raja of Basali Visits Guru Sahib | 156 |
Battle on Sutlej Riverfront | 157 |
Guru Gobind Singh Ji in Basali | 159 |
Raja of Bibhaur Arrives for Darshan | 159 |
Plundering Kalmot | 160 |
Seventh Journey 163 | |
Back in Anandpur | 163 |
Raja Bhim Chand Acknowledges Mistake | 165 |
Narad Ji Comes for Darshan | 166 |
Dola of Sri Sahib Devan | 167 |
Sri Sahib Devan made Mother of the Khalsa Panth | 169 |
Devoted Sewak Bhai Jagga Singh | 170 |
Veneration of Bedi Sahibzadas | 171 |
Baba Kaladhari's Grievance | 172 |
An Important Question | 175 |
Raja Bhim Chand's Deceitfulness yet Again | 177 |
Another Battle in Anandpur | 178 |
Eighth Journey 180 | |
The Rewalsar Fair | 180 |
Guru Sahib with the Raja of Mandi | 182 |
The Princess of Chamba | 183 |
Ninth Journey 186 | |
From Chamba to Anandpur | 186 |
Said Khan has Change of Heart | 186 |
Consequences of Swearing | 187 |
Settled' Account' of Previous Birth | 188 |
Brahmins Return Charity | 189 |
Aspirations of the Khalsa | 192 |
Significance of 'Ardas' | 194 |
Hargopal Das 'Sells' His Faith | 195 |
Sermon to a Sanyasi | 197 |
Explained Method of Simran to Sri Mata Jito Ji | 198 |
The Big Battle of Sri Anandpur | 202 |
Tenth Journey 214 | |
Abandoning Sri Anandpur | 214 |
Battle of Chamkaur | 215 |
Leaving the Garhi at Chamkaur | 221 |
Guru Ji in Machhiwara Forest | 222 |
In Gulaba Masand's House | 226 |
Nabi Khan and Ghani Khan | 228 |
Eleventh Journey 231 | |
In the Guise of 'Uch da Pir' | 231 |
Sayyed Ji's Testimony | 235 |
Guru Sahib's First Letter to Aurangzeb | 236 |
Historical Research | 240 |
More Views of the Author | 243 |
From Ghulal to Lal Kalan and Katani | 247 |
From Rampura to Kanech | 250 |
To Sahnewal and Nandpura | 251 |
From Jodhan to Mohi and Siloni | 252 |
Siloni to Hehran | 252 |
To Lamme Gram, Jhirari and Alamgir | 255 |
With Rai Kala | 255 |
Guru Gobind Singh Ji in Dina | 259 |
Recruitment of Sewaks Starts | 260 |
Bhai Shamir's Sewa | 262 |
Shamira ‘Liberated’ | 263 |
Mahant Dayalpuri Forgiven | 264 |
Guru Ji Writes 'Zafarnama' to Aurangzeb | 266 |
Bhai Daya Singh's Meeting with the Emperor | 278 |
Evidence of Remorse | 280 |
Anguish of the Subedar of Sirhind | 282 |
Twelfth Journey 284 | |
Guru Sahib Leaves Dina | 284 |
Naming a Sikh Child | 285 |
Guru Ji Comes to Kot Kapura | 286 |
From Kot Kapura to Dhillav Gram | 289 |
Guru Ji in Jaito | 292 |
Khidrana di Dhaab | 293 |
Arrival of Deputation from Majha | 294 |
The Bloody Battle of Muktsar (Khidrana di Dhaab) | 299 |
Sense of Honour Awakens | 299 |
Kapura's Gambit | 301 |
Mughal Army Turns Back | 303 |
Guru Ji Tears Bedawa and Re-ties 'Knot' | 304 |
The Story of Mai Bhago | 307 |
Blessed a Sadhu | 308 |
Boon to Singhs and Discharging Surety | 309 |
Liberated a Raven | 311 |
Humbled a Conceited Yogi | 312 |
Guru Ji Pays Fine | 314 |
Blessed a Mastana Sadhu | 315 |
Brars Ask for Salary | 315 |
Avarice of the Brars | 318 |
Baptized Bahmi Faqir | 319 |
In Sahib Chand Village | 321 |
Sikh Sangat of Babiha | 321 |
Story of the Diwana Faqirs | 322 |
Departure for Sabo ki Talwandi | 324 |
Dalla Receives Guru Sahib | 325 |
Entering Sabo ki Talwandi | 328 |
Mata Sundari and Mata Sahib Kaur Arrive | 330 |
Re-Writing the Adi Granth | 332 |
A Complex Question | 334 |
Author's View | 337 |
Apt Response to Taunts | 338 |
A Great Feat | 339 |
Marvel of an Accomplished Guru | 341 |
Going on Hunts | 345 |
Dayal Das' Reluctance to get Baptized | 347 |
Blessed Bhai Godaria | 348 |
Subedar of Sirhind Threatens Dalla | 350 |
Arrival in Bhagu Village | 352 |
The Bathinda Fort | 353 |
Back in Talwandi | 354 |
Dispelled Drought | 354 |
Guru Ji Baptizes Thousands | 355 |
Sant Baba Pheru Singh of Attock (District Hazara) | 356 |
Sant Baba Punjab Singh | 356 |
Sant Baba Rocha Singh | 357 |
Second Warning Letter from Subedar of Sirhind | 361 |
Inspiring Martial Spirit | 361 |
Initiated a Mock Fight | 362 |
Had Karah Prasad 'Looted' | 362 |
Amrit Poured into Sarovar | 363 |
Boon to Sikhs | 363 |
Those Absent were Actually Present and Vice Versa | 364 |
Dalla Baptized | 364 |
Boon to Ancestors of Nabha and Patiala Rulers | 365 |
Guru Ji's Utterances regarding Malwa's Future | 367 |
Kapura's Gory End | 369 |
Invitation from Aurangzeb | 371 |
Thirteenth Journey 380 | |
Guru Ji Leaves Sabo ki Talwandi | 380 |
Dalla Slips Away | 381 |
Blessed a Brahmin Astrologer | 382 |
Sightseeing in Nohar City | 383 |
Bestowed Largesse on Param Singh and Dharam Singh | 384 |
Consequence for Disregarding Guru Sahib | 386 |
Guru Sahib Arrives in Madhu Singhana | 387 |
At Pushkar Raj | 388 |
In Dadu Mahatma's Ashram | 389 |
Bhai Daya Singh Returns | 393 |
What Delayed Bhai Daya Singh | 394 |
Aurangzeb's Death | 395 |
Divine Intervention | 396 |
Guru Ji in Historical City of Baghaur | 398 |
Sudden Clash in Baghaur | 399 |
Fourteenth Journey 401 | |
Back towards Delhi | 401 |
Bahadur Shah Seeks Guru Ji's Help | 402 |
Guru Ji Ensures Bahadur Shah's Victory | 404 |
Guru Sahib in Delhi | 405 |
Shoots an Arrow from Moti Bagh | 407 |
Fifteenth Journey 410 | |
From Delhi to Mathura | 410 |
Views of the Author | 411 |
From Mathura to Agra | 413 |
Blessed Emir Khan Khanan | 414 |
Guru Sahib's Meeting with Bahadur Shah | 414 |
Silence of Historians | 417 |
Misunderstandings of Historians | 421 |
Guru Ji's Views on Keeping Kes | 427 |
A Sayyed Asks Guru Ji to Show Miracle | 428 |
Tore Up Qazi's Written Order | 429 |
Rajas Jai Singh and Ajit Singh Call on Guru Ji | 430 |
Bahadur Shah Comes for Guru Ji's Darshan | 434 |
Discussion on Religions | 435 |
Guru Ji's Archery Tested | 436 |
Guru Ji Visits Royal Toshakhana | 439 |
Bahadur Shah Reminded of Promise | 440 |
Sixteenth Journey 442 | |
From Agra to Rajasthan and the Deccan | 442 |
Guru Ji in Chittor | 444 |
Death of Bhai Man Singh | 445 |
In Burhanpur | 447 |
The Fortunate Udasi Mahatma | 448 |
Bahadur Shah Invites Guru Ji | 451 |
Guru Gobind Singh Ji in Nanded | 452 |
Meeting of Guru Ji with Banda Bahadur | 455 |
A Pertinent Question | 467 |
Urged Banda to Remain a Celibate | 469 |
Another Big Misunderstanding | 472 |
Banda Singh Bahadur's Spirituality | 477 |
Author's Views | 479 |
Demand for Pay by Brar Sikhs | 488 |
Bahadur Shah Gifts a Diamond | 489 |
ShikarGhat | 491 |
Dedicated a Gem | 491 |
Under Debt for Purchase of Horses | 492 |
Arrival of Udasi Mahatmas | 493 |
Mata Sahib Kaur Sent Back to Delhi | 494 |
Bahadur Shah Prepares to Leave for Hyderabad | 495 |
Hinduism, Islam and Khalsa Panth | 46 |
Views of the Author | 501 |
Royal Conspiracy to Assasinate Guru Sahib | 504 |
God's Will is Inalienable | 509 |
Dagger Assault on Guru Sahib | 511 |
Passing Away of Bhai Daya Singh | 514 |
Guru Ji's Wound Opens Up | 514 |
Guruship Conferred on Sri Adi Granth | 522 |
Final Guidance and Departure from World | 529 |
Seventeenth Journey - The Last 534 | |
Spiritual Flight of Soul | 534 |
Epilogue | 538 |
Additional Information | 541 |
Views on Conspiracy to Assassinate Guru Sahib | 546 |
Author's Views on Postulations | 552 |
How Postulation on Curse Gained Currency | 562 |
Laying of Foundation of Takht Sri Hazur Sahib | 565 |
Guru Sahib's Weapons and Other Relics | 567 |
Notes | 572 |
Glossary | 593 |
Bibliography | 599 |
Reviews | 602 |
Annexure 1 | 611 |
Annexure 2 | 612 |
In his six years of intensive research during the 1960s, Giani Ishar Singh Nara personally visited a large number of places where Guru Gobind Singh Sahib had set foot and pieced together chronologically his journeys and gathered credible information on his life. He brought out startling facts of which the Sikh community, by and large, was hitherto unaware. "Safarnama and Zafarnama" tells us of the circumstances under which Guru Sahib founded the Khalsa Panth, his relentless clashes for justice and religious tolerance with the tyrannical Mughals, martyrdom of his four sons and the many trials and tribulations undergone by him. The book also tells us of Guru Sahib's erudition as a scholar and a poet par excellence whose many compositions including his memoirs, "Bachittar Natak" and his telling letter "Zafarnama" in Persian to Emperor Aurangzeb, were compiled in the "Sri Dasam Granth" after him.
About the Author
Giani Ishar Singh was born in Nara, Tehsil Kahuta, District Rawalpindi (Pakistan) in 1898. He started his career as a raagi and pracharak in gurdwaras in and around Nara. In time, however, he realized that his forte lay in researching and writing on Sikh theology and pre-eminent Sikh personalities and over the years produced some outstanding works in Punjabi that won him much acclaim. Other than "Safamama te Zafarnama" (biography of Guru Gobind Singh Sahib), his other well-known works include "Vasakn Nahin Kattak", "Itihaas Baba Sri Chand Sahib te Udasin Samprada", "Raja Jogi-Jeevan Baba Sahib Singb Bedi" and "Sikh Panth ate Maharashtra di Saanjh" to name a few Giani ji passed away in 1995.
Lt. Col. Harindar Singh Bedi took voluntary retirement from the technical branch of the army in 1983. After a few years in the corporate sector in Nigeria and India, he decided to retire from active service in 2007 and took to translating Punjabi and Hindi books into English as a leisurely pursuit. He has translated several books up to now of which "Safarnama and Zafarnama" is the first one to be published.
Foreword
This year in Jan. 2017, the 350th birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji was celebrated with great enthusiasm. Lacs of devotees from all over the world reached Patna Sahib, the birth place of the Guru. There was great fervour among the non-Sikhs also. Prime Minister Sh. Narinder Modi and various Chief Ministers were present in the main function. For the first time the entire media covered the programme and people at large could understand the contribution of Guru Gobind Singh Ji towards humanity. It was an awakening for the people and there was keenness to know more about the life and deeds of Guru Sahib. It was realized that enough literature, especially in English and other world languages, is not available. It is heartening to see soon after the celebrations that a proper book will soon be available. I admire Lt. Col. Harindar Singh Bedi who has done a great service in translating into English the book 'Safarnama te Zafarnama' written by Giani Ishar Singh Nara. What a coincidence that Giani ji presented this scholarly thesis to the community in 1971 at the time of tercentennial birth celebrations of Guru Gobind Singh ji and now his book will be available for a larger number of readers.
Lt. Col. Bedi is a direct descendant of Guru Nanak Dev ji. He has already translated Giani Nara's books on Baba Sri Chand and Baba Sahib Singh Bedi. I remember in my village Dhudial in District Jhelum (Pakistan) there was a beautiful Gurdwara on a small hillock surrounded by a dense jungle. This was built by the villagers as a mark of veneration for Baba Sahib Singh Bedi who visited the village in 1815. Our whole region is indebted to Baba Sahib Singh Bedi, his great-grandson Sir Baba Khem Singh Bedi and the latter's son Sir Baba Gurbaksh Singh Bedi of Kallar who brought thousands of people into the Sikh fold. Lt. Col. Bedi is the grandson of Sir Baba Gurbaksh Singh Bedi.
Giani Ishar Singh Nara went to each place which was visited by Guru Gobind Singh ji and collected the material for his book. He removed many doubts and clarified many myths about the Guru's life. The travels of Guru Sahib were quite extensive and every place sanctified by his visit has a separate story to tell which has been very well described by Giani ji. The last days of the Guru at Nanded will be of great interest to the readers. I have known Lt. Col. Bedi for the last 3 decades but I was not aware of his great talent in English-writing, He has thoroughly described every line written by Giani Ishar Singh. His translated work is a full and complete version of the original book. I expect S.G.P.C, Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee and our Universities to take full benefit of Lt. Col. Bedi's efforts to propagate the ideals of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The community should always encourage such efforts by competent persons.
It is most appropriate to add here what the great Indian scholar and former President of India Dr. S. Radhakrishnan wrote about the Tenth Master published in Baisakhi Number of the "Spokesman" 1956: "Guru Gobind Singh was besieged at Anandpur for three years; his two elder sons died fighting at Chamkaur; the two younger ones, innocents of 7 and 5, were first entombed alive and when a tremor of the earth demolished the wall, leaving them yet alive, they were literally slaughtered as sheep and goats by butchers! Guru Gobind Singh created and organized, vitalized and militarized the Khalsa. He created heroes out of dross and earth clods. Truly, he turned sparrows into hawks, lambs into lions, lumps of clay into heroes. For 1000 years, after the defeat of Raja Jaipal, India had lain prostrate. The raiders and invaders descended into India and took away the people to be sold as slaves. People watched and had not the courage to strike a blow in defence of their weeping, wailing, sobbing, groaning mothers, sisters and daughters.
(These tragic scenes were repeated in 1947). Alas, poor India suffered unfathomable anguish. Guru Gobind Singh raised the Khalsa to defy religious intolerance, religious persecution and political inequality. It was a miracle that heroes appeared out of straws and common clay. Those who grovelled in the dust rose proud, defiant and invincible in the form of the Khalsa. They bore all sufferings and unnamable tortures cheerfully and unflinchingly, and accepted martyrdom for over fifty years in the first half of the eighteenth century. In the time of Bahadur Shah, Farrukh Siyar, Mir Many and Zakariya Khan, Bhai Taru Singh suffered martyrdom in 1738 and Bhai Mani Singh in 1750. Their martyrdom did not go in vain. On their ashes, on their blood and bones, was laid the foundation of the Sikh empire which was secular in character and which blocked the Khyber Pass. India was spared the anguish which invaders had repeatedly inflicted on India for about 1000 years.
India is at long last free. This freedom is the crown and climax and a logical corollary to the Sikh Guru's and Khalsa's terrific sacrifices and heroic exploits. The Khalsa's traditions must inspire the Sikhs to live and die (if need be) for India's freedom. No cause could be worthier, nobler, grander, dearer."
Many such writings by various scholars are available. Our religious organizations should earmark enough budgets for the proliferation of such literature.
Preface
‘Nama’ is a Persian word denoting a letter, epistle, document or book presenting one's view, deed or undertaking such bai nama (sale deed), rehin nama (mortgage), ikrar nama (undertaking), rehit nama (Sikh code of conduct), hukam nama (written command, edict), etc.
The letter that Guru Gobind Singh Sahib wrote about the victory of his ethics and truth to Aurangzeb was named 'Zafarnama'. That has been reproduced in this book partly in its original form but in Gurmukhi script and partly translated into Gurmukhi.
Prior to this Guru Sahib has himself written about the earlier journey of his soul in his granth "Bachittar Natak." His soul left the Hemkunt Mountain and found an 'abode' in Mata Gujari ji's womb on the banks of the Triveni. He then took birth in Patna city.
He spent six years in Patna and then came to the Punjab. This journey has been covered briefly. From Anandpur he went to Paonta. He again returned to Anandpur and travelled to many places from there. Eventually he had to forsake Anandpur, and after the saga of Chamkaur and Machhiwara, went to Dina in the Malwa region of the Punjab. He spent a few months here, and then passing through Rajasthan, arrived in Nanded (Deccan). He breathed his last in Nanded. This too was a journey of his soul. That is why this book has been given the title "Safarnama te Zafamama."
It is hoped that discerning readers will find this title appropriate, and in addition to bringing to light Sri Guru Gobind Singh Sahib's noteworthy acts in all the 'journeys' of his life that have been recorded in historical perspective, my well- researched work in removing all kinds of historical misconceptions and shortcomings will be acknowledged as a work of rare value.
Contents
Grateful Thanks of the Author | XVII |
Foreword | XIX |
Note by Translator | XXIII |
Preface by Author | XXV |
First Journey 1 | |
Preamble | 1 |
Baba in Bakala | 3 |
Journey to the East | 4 |
Other Reason for Journey | 5 |
Mata Gujari Ji Conceives | 7 |
Guru Tegh Bahadur in Bihar and Assam | 7 |
Patna is Blessed | 9 |
Celebrations in Dhaka | 12 |
Pir Bhikan Shah has Darshan of Newborn | 13 |
Guru Tegh Bahadur in Kolkata | 15 |
Second Journey 18 | |
From Patna to Sri Anandpur | 18 |
Concern of Sikh Sangats and Uncle Kirpal Chand | 26 |
Arrangements for Education and Marriage | 28 |
Beliefs of Poets | 32 |
Policy of the Mughal Rulers | 33 |
Change in Mughal Policy | 35 |
Briss in Anandpur | 40 |
'Liberated' a Bear | 41 |
Valuable Canopy from Kabul | 42 |
Guru Sahib's Second Marriage | 43 |
Raja Rattan Rai of Assam Arrives for Guru Ji's Darshan | 44 |
The 'Ranjit Nagara' | 45 |
Inauguration of the Ranjit Nagara and Hunting Expeditions | 47 |
Raja Bhim Chand's Envy | 49 |
Visit by Raja Medni Prakash | 51 |
Third Journey 53 | |
Relocating in Paonta | 53 |
Pir Budhu Shah of Sadhaura Visits Guru Ji | 55 |
Guru Ji's Meeting with Sri Ram Rai | 56 |
Sri Ram Rai Passes Away | 61 |
At Kopal Mochan | 63 |
Guru Sahib's Cantonment in Paonta | 65 |
Sends Shagan to Raja Fateh Shah | 67 |
Battle of Bhangani | 69 |
Bestowal of Rewards after Victory | 71 |
Birth of Sahibzada Ajit Singh | 73 |
Fourth Journey 75 | |
Return to Anandpur from Paonta | 75 |
Five Sikhs Sent to Kashi to Study Sanskrit | 79 |
Fifth Journey 81 | |
Battle of Nadaun | 81 |
Fight with Hussian Khan | 82 |
Assault by Bahadur Shah | 82 |
Building Forts | 83 |
Anoop Kaur's Trickery | 84 |
Tribute by the Author | 93 |
Composition of the 504 Charitars | 96 |
Compilation of Sri Dasam Granth | 102 |
Sri Sarb Loh Granth | 104 |
Predicted Creation of Khalsa Panth and its Greatness | 106 |
Story of Devi Chandika's 'Appearance' | 108 |
Historical Perspective | 111 |
Author's View | 112 |
Conducted a Massive Sacrificial Feast | 116 |
Creation of Khalsa Panth | 118 |
Extraordinary Demand for Sacrifice | 121 |
The Baptism Ceremony | 123 |
Gurmantra and Code of Conduct | 126 |
Covered Donkey with Tiger Skin | 128 |
Had Karah Prasad Looted | 129 |
The Shikar Episode | 130 |
Lest Someone Cast an Evil Eye | 131 |
Bhai Pheru Singh | 131 |
Bhai Joga Singh of Peshawar | 132 |
Meeting Bedi Baba Kaladhari | 136 |
Bhai Nand Lal 'Goya' takes Refuge of Guru Ji | 137 |
Guru Ji Reveals Significance of Langar | 139 |
Portents of Battle in Anandpur | 140 |
Anandpur's Second Battle | 141 |
MasandsExposed | 142 |
Mai Bhagan of Agra | 143 |
Offering by a Disciple of Nigahe Pir | 144 |
Cantonment at Anandpur | 144 |
Qazi Salar Din's Query | 145 |
Battle of Lohgarh | 147 |
Entreaties by Hill Chieftains | 149 |
Sixth Journey 152 | |
Camp at Nirmohi | 152 |
Battle of Nirmohi | 153 |
Raja of Basali Visits Guru Sahib | 156 |
Battle on Sutlej Riverfront | 157 |
Guru Gobind Singh Ji in Basali | 159 |
Raja of Bibhaur Arrives for Darshan | 159 |
Plundering Kalmot | 160 |
Seventh Journey 163 | |
Back in Anandpur | 163 |
Raja Bhim Chand Acknowledges Mistake | 165 |
Narad Ji Comes for Darshan | 166 |
Dola of Sri Sahib Devan | 167 |
Sri Sahib Devan made Mother of the Khalsa Panth | 169 |
Devoted Sewak Bhai Jagga Singh | 170 |
Veneration of Bedi Sahibzadas | 171 |
Baba Kaladhari's Grievance | 172 |
An Important Question | 175 |
Raja Bhim Chand's Deceitfulness yet Again | 177 |
Another Battle in Anandpur | 178 |
Eighth Journey 180 | |
The Rewalsar Fair | 180 |
Guru Sahib with the Raja of Mandi | 182 |
The Princess of Chamba | 183 |
Ninth Journey 186 | |
From Chamba to Anandpur | 186 |
Said Khan has Change of Heart | 186 |
Consequences of Swearing | 187 |
Settled' Account' of Previous Birth | 188 |
Brahmins Return Charity | 189 |
Aspirations of the Khalsa | 192 |
Significance of 'Ardas' | 194 |
Hargopal Das 'Sells' His Faith | 195 |
Sermon to a Sanyasi | 197 |
Explained Method of Simran to Sri Mata Jito Ji | 198 |
The Big Battle of Sri Anandpur | 202 |
Tenth Journey 214 | |
Abandoning Sri Anandpur | 214 |
Battle of Chamkaur | 215 |
Leaving the Garhi at Chamkaur | 221 |
Guru Ji in Machhiwara Forest | 222 |
In Gulaba Masand's House | 226 |
Nabi Khan and Ghani Khan | 228 |
Eleventh Journey 231 | |
In the Guise of 'Uch da Pir' | 231 |
Sayyed Ji's Testimony | 235 |
Guru Sahib's First Letter to Aurangzeb | 236 |
Historical Research | 240 |
More Views of the Author | 243 |
From Ghulal to Lal Kalan and Katani | 247 |
From Rampura to Kanech | 250 |
To Sahnewal and Nandpura | 251 |
From Jodhan to Mohi and Siloni | 252 |
Siloni to Hehran | 252 |
To Lamme Gram, Jhirari and Alamgir | 255 |
With Rai Kala | 255 |
Guru Gobind Singh Ji in Dina | 259 |
Recruitment of Sewaks Starts | 260 |
Bhai Shamir's Sewa | 262 |
Shamira ‘Liberated’ | 263 |
Mahant Dayalpuri Forgiven | 264 |
Guru Ji Writes 'Zafarnama' to Aurangzeb | 266 |
Bhai Daya Singh's Meeting with the Emperor | 278 |
Evidence of Remorse | 280 |
Anguish of the Subedar of Sirhind | 282 |
Twelfth Journey 284 | |
Guru Sahib Leaves Dina | 284 |
Naming a Sikh Child | 285 |
Guru Ji Comes to Kot Kapura | 286 |
From Kot Kapura to Dhillav Gram | 289 |
Guru Ji in Jaito | 292 |
Khidrana di Dhaab | 293 |
Arrival of Deputation from Majha | 294 |
The Bloody Battle of Muktsar (Khidrana di Dhaab) | 299 |
Sense of Honour Awakens | 299 |
Kapura's Gambit | 301 |
Mughal Army Turns Back | 303 |
Guru Ji Tears Bedawa and Re-ties 'Knot' | 304 |
The Story of Mai Bhago | 307 |
Blessed a Sadhu | 308 |
Boon to Singhs and Discharging Surety | 309 |
Liberated a Raven | 311 |
Humbled a Conceited Yogi | 312 |
Guru Ji Pays Fine | 314 |
Blessed a Mastana Sadhu | 315 |
Brars Ask for Salary | 315 |
Avarice of the Brars | 318 |
Baptized Bahmi Faqir | 319 |
In Sahib Chand Village | 321 |
Sikh Sangat of Babiha | 321 |
Story of the Diwana Faqirs | 322 |
Departure for Sabo ki Talwandi | 324 |
Dalla Receives Guru Sahib | 325 |
Entering Sabo ki Talwandi | 328 |
Mata Sundari and Mata Sahib Kaur Arrive | 330 |
Re-Writing the Adi Granth | 332 |
A Complex Question | 334 |
Author's View | 337 |
Apt Response to Taunts | 338 |
A Great Feat | 339 |
Marvel of an Accomplished Guru | 341 |
Going on Hunts | 345 |
Dayal Das' Reluctance to get Baptized | 347 |
Blessed Bhai Godaria | 348 |
Subedar of Sirhind Threatens Dalla | 350 |
Arrival in Bhagu Village | 352 |
The Bathinda Fort | 353 |
Back in Talwandi | 354 |
Dispelled Drought | 354 |
Guru Ji Baptizes Thousands | 355 |
Sant Baba Pheru Singh of Attock (District Hazara) | 356 |
Sant Baba Punjab Singh | 356 |
Sant Baba Rocha Singh | 357 |
Second Warning Letter from Subedar of Sirhind | 361 |
Inspiring Martial Spirit | 361 |
Initiated a Mock Fight | 362 |
Had Karah Prasad 'Looted' | 362 |
Amrit Poured into Sarovar | 363 |
Boon to Sikhs | 363 |
Those Absent were Actually Present and Vice Versa | 364 |
Dalla Baptized | 364 |
Boon to Ancestors of Nabha and Patiala Rulers | 365 |
Guru Ji's Utterances regarding Malwa's Future | 367 |
Kapura's Gory End | 369 |
Invitation from Aurangzeb | 371 |
Thirteenth Journey 380 | |
Guru Ji Leaves Sabo ki Talwandi | 380 |
Dalla Slips Away | 381 |
Blessed a Brahmin Astrologer | 382 |
Sightseeing in Nohar City | 383 |
Bestowed Largesse on Param Singh and Dharam Singh | 384 |
Consequence for Disregarding Guru Sahib | 386 |
Guru Sahib Arrives in Madhu Singhana | 387 |
At Pushkar Raj | 388 |
In Dadu Mahatma's Ashram | 389 |
Bhai Daya Singh Returns | 393 |
What Delayed Bhai Daya Singh | 394 |
Aurangzeb's Death | 395 |
Divine Intervention | 396 |
Guru Ji in Historical City of Baghaur | 398 |
Sudden Clash in Baghaur | 399 |
Fourteenth Journey 401 | |
Back towards Delhi | 401 |
Bahadur Shah Seeks Guru Ji's Help | 402 |
Guru Ji Ensures Bahadur Shah's Victory | 404 |
Guru Sahib in Delhi | 405 |
Shoots an Arrow from Moti Bagh | 407 |
Fifteenth Journey 410 | |
From Delhi to Mathura | 410 |
Views of the Author | 411 |
From Mathura to Agra | 413 |
Blessed Emir Khan Khanan | 414 |
Guru Sahib's Meeting with Bahadur Shah | 414 |
Silence of Historians | 417 |
Misunderstandings of Historians | 421 |
Guru Ji's Views on Keeping Kes | 427 |
A Sayyed Asks Guru Ji to Show Miracle | 428 |
Tore Up Qazi's Written Order | 429 |
Rajas Jai Singh and Ajit Singh Call on Guru Ji | 430 |
Bahadur Shah Comes for Guru Ji's Darshan | 434 |
Discussion on Religions | 435 |
Guru Ji's Archery Tested | 436 |
Guru Ji Visits Royal Toshakhana | 439 |
Bahadur Shah Reminded of Promise | 440 |
Sixteenth Journey 442 | |
From Agra to Rajasthan and the Deccan | 442 |
Guru Ji in Chittor | 444 |
Death of Bhai Man Singh | 445 |
In Burhanpur | 447 |
The Fortunate Udasi Mahatma | 448 |
Bahadur Shah Invites Guru Ji | 451 |
Guru Gobind Singh Ji in Nanded | 452 |
Meeting of Guru Ji with Banda Bahadur | 455 |
A Pertinent Question | 467 |
Urged Banda to Remain a Celibate | 469 |
Another Big Misunderstanding | 472 |
Banda Singh Bahadur's Spirituality | 477 |
Author's Views | 479 |
Demand for Pay by Brar Sikhs | 488 |
Bahadur Shah Gifts a Diamond | 489 |
ShikarGhat | 491 |
Dedicated a Gem | 491 |
Under Debt for Purchase of Horses | 492 |
Arrival of Udasi Mahatmas | 493 |
Mata Sahib Kaur Sent Back to Delhi | 494 |
Bahadur Shah Prepares to Leave for Hyderabad | 495 |
Hinduism, Islam and Khalsa Panth | 46 |
Views of the Author | 501 |
Royal Conspiracy to Assasinate Guru Sahib | 504 |
God's Will is Inalienable | 509 |
Dagger Assault on Guru Sahib | 511 |
Passing Away of Bhai Daya Singh | 514 |
Guru Ji's Wound Opens Up | 514 |
Guruship Conferred on Sri Adi Granth | 522 |
Final Guidance and Departure from World | 529 |
Seventeenth Journey - The Last 534 | |
Spiritual Flight of Soul | 534 |
Epilogue | 538 |
Additional Information | 541 |
Views on Conspiracy to Assassinate Guru Sahib | 546 |
Author's Views on Postulations | 552 |
How Postulation on Curse Gained Currency | 562 |
Laying of Foundation of Takht Sri Hazur Sahib | 565 |
Guru Sahib's Weapons and Other Relics | 567 |
Notes | 572 |
Glossary | 593 |
Bibliography | 599 |
Reviews | 602 |
Annexure 1 | 611 |
Annexure 2 | 612 |