Guru Hargobind Sahib
Balanced Temporal and Spiritual Power.
Guru Hargobind Ji is the Sixth Guru of the Sikhs. He was the only son of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. He was born on June 19, 1595 at Guru Ki Wadali near Amritsar. He got his training in martial arts and spirituality from Baba Budha Ji
Guru Hargobind Sahib wore two swords of Miri (Temporal Power) and Piri (Spiritual Power) after martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji but he never allowed the temporal aspect to overpower spiritual aspect of his life.
Guru Hargobind Sahib transformed the Sikh saints into saint-soldiers. He gave a fine blend to the powers of Bhakti and Shakti. He called upon the Sikhs to protect human rights and stand for human liberty, equality and fraternity.
Guru Hargobind Sahib built Akal Takht in proximity of Sri Harmandar Sahib with the help of Baba Budha Ji and Bhai Gurdas Ji. He issued Hukamnamas to the Sikhs to learn martial arts for self defence.
Guru Hargobind Sahib fought many battles against atrocities of the Mughal Empire. He traveled extensively to preach high ideals of Sikhism.
The Guru was arrested and put into Jail at Gawalior by the tyrant Mughals. He is called "Bandi Chhore" as he got 52 princes released from the Gawalior jail of the Mughals.
On his release from jail, the residents of Amritsar illuminated Sri Harmandar Sahib and fired crackers in rejoice. Since then, the Diwali festival is celebrated at Amritsar in memory of the Guru.
Out of total life of the Guru, thirty eight and half years as pontificate Guru were full of historic events. Battles were thrusted upon him. Guru Hargobind Sahib fought battles at Amritsar, Sri Hargobindpur, Lahira and Kartarpur. Sikh troops carried Nagara and Nishan Sahib in the battles during the times of Guru Hargobind Sahib.
Guru Hargobind Sahib shifted his head quarters from Amritsar to Kiratpur Sahib to get respite from the daily oppression caused by the Mughal forces. He left for his heavenly abode on March 2, 1644 at Kiratpur Sahib.
Sri Har Rai became the seventh Guru after the eternal rest of his grandfather Guru Hargobind Sahib.
Contemporary Ruler of India
Emperor Jehangir from 1605 to 1626 A.D.
Emperor Shah Jahan from 1627 to 1658 A.D.
City Founded
Kiratpur Sahib in Punjab and development of Sri Hargobindpur
Special Contribution
- Foundation of Sri Akal Takht Sahib at Amritsar
- Put on two swords of Miri (Temporal) and Piri (Spiritual)