Sahibe Kamal – 7

In dedication to Guru Gobind Singh ji

Guru Gobind singh ji’s extensive studies of various literary works in several languages and his interaction with scholars on various matters as well as with poets not only helped him to gain insight into the matters of State and the condition of the Hindu society during his sojourn at Paonta but perhaps helped him to conceive an idea to metamorphosis’ the existing society into something far more active, brave, ready for sacrifices, united under one banner and patriotic at the same time an extremely spiritual and devotional society. This was his idea of Khalsa but he needed time to give a very firm foundation. After his return from Paonta he started working towards this direction. To bring about any revolutionary changes one needs like minded people, though Guru Nanak had provided a very wide spectrum with his missionary travels so did Guru Teg Bahadurji with his travels in the north - east, Patna Bihar and Bengal. There was Sikh sangat all over the country but still to bring about the revolutionary change more preparation was required. Guruji was getting lots of inputs about degradation in personal behavior and corruptions in Masands, all these matters needed urgent attention. To create Khalsa he needed a solid foundation of personal and collective behavior and character in his men. After the Bhangani battle it took him ten more years to consolidate the values he needed in his men. He had large contingent of followers who were getting training in marshal art, warfare and religion and all those who were far-off, Hukumnamas( dictates) were sent to them about directions that they needed to follow. There was very good communication with people living at far off places.

Hindu society lacked unity because of its caste division and hatred factor that is why the invaders could gain an upper hand. Brahmin would not help in fighting the invaders, shudras were not allowed and kashtriyas were never united, there were constant fightings amongst various kingdoms and because of that there was no general policy and no national character. Many hill kingdoms failed to understand the importance of unity and patriotism of Guru Gobind Singh so much so that they were constantly complaining to the Emperor and plotting with Moguls against Sikhs just because of their egoistic upper caste position. A different class of people was required who would be high on moral values, brave, self-sacrificing, patriotic to the core and who understood the meaning of unity in society and religious matters. There was constant effort in 1) uplifting the personal and collective character of the followers, 2) Superstitious beliefs and blind faith was eradicated, 3) equality in the society was emphasized 4) Respect for women got new parameters, 5) surrender in ego 6) faith in one supreme God  were certain factors that had to be consolidated.