The Baisakhi Day of 1699 was unique and crucial event in the history of religious world. Guru Gobind Singh with a direction from the Akal Purakh, created an institution which transformed ordinary people into spiritually enlightened (saintly) and iron-willed (soldiers) to fight the wickedness. They will defend the oppressed, follow the True path, share with needy, never use tobacco or intoxicants, not commit adultery, earn honest living and practice all the noble qualities of the mankind. They would sacrifice everything including body and soul to live up to holy ideals.

Guru Gobind Singh bowed before them as they were created by the Will of “Akal Purakh” and obtained the nectar from them by joining the Order of Khalsa Panth. ‘They carried his mission:

“To establish the religion of mankind new line to uphold the saintly and new line to extirpate the wicked”

He was an example of dedication and humility. He was the Home to Homeless. He was the hope of those without hope. He was abode for those without any place. He was the shelter to shelter less. He died at the ripe age of 93 in 1574 in Goindwal and appointed his son-in-law as the next Guru.

In appreciation of Khalsa Panth, Guru Gobind Singh wrote the followings:

The battles I have won thru the favor of my Singhs,

Thru their favor have I been able to disburse largess

Thru their favor my troubles have receded

And thru their favor my prosperity expanded

Thru their favor I acquired know ledge

Thru their favor I subdued my enemies

Thru their favor Am I exalted Else there are, millions of such humble persons as myself

Let my body, my mind, my head, my wealth, and all that is mine Be to them dedicated.

The inauguration of Guru Khalsa Panth created a divine spirit to up lift human dignity by transforming dormant energy into positive upright and altruistic action.

This extraordinary spirit of sacrifice and gallantry to fight oppression is un-parallel in human history.

Khalsa ji ! The holy Baisakhi day reminds us of our real heritage. The spirit of “Charahdi Kala” is still there,

It is a matter of rekindling it, which can be done by obeying the commandment of the Gurus with unity and courage.

It may seem an uphill task butts the only way.

Article extracted from this publication >> April 11, 1986