Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, was born on April 15, 1469, at Talwandi, Nankana Sahib, Pakistan. He is the first of 10 sikh gurus. He was born into a Hindu Khatri family to Mehta Kalu Ji and Mata Tripta Ji. Guru Nanak had a strong spiritual inclination and a curious mind from an early age; he frequently had thoughtful conversations concerning God and spirituality. Guru Nanak Dev Ji married Mata Sulakhni at the age of 16, and they had two sons, Sri Chand and Lakhmi Das. When Guru Nanak was around 30, he experienced a 3 day spiritual experience. While bathing in the Kali Bein river, he disappeared for three days. Upon his return, Guru Nanak received the message that there is only one God, who transcends Hindu and Muslim boundaries. This revelation marked the beginning of his mission to spread a message of unity, equality, and devotion to one God, while rejecting caste, ethnic, and religious boundaries. Guru Nanak spent the following 20 years traveling extensively, known as Udasis, promoting his message of oneness, equality, and devotion to one God. He traveled around India, the Middle East, and Central Asia, interacting with people of many religions and ethnic backgrounds. He wrote numerous hymns, which were ultimately incorporated in Sikhism’s holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib. In 1522, he moved to Kartarpur, a town he created on the banks of the Ravi River. He invented the Langar practice, which involved a communal kitchen where people of all backgrounds could enjoy a meal. Guru Nanak Dev Ji died on September 22, 1539, in Kartarpur. Before his death, he nominated Bhai Lehna as his successor, who later became Guru Angad Dev Ji, the second Sikh Guru. Guru Nanak’s teachings on love, equality, and devotion continue to inspire millions throughout the world.
Guru Angad Dev Ji, the second Guru of Sikhism, was born as Bhai Lehna on March 31, 1504, in the village of Matte Di Sarai, Punjab, India. His parents, Bhai Pheru Mal and Mata Ramo, were devout Hindus. Bhai Lehna was extremely spiritual from an early age and dedicated his life to worshipping the Hindu deity Durga. His life changed dramatically when he met Guru Nanak Dev Ji in 1532. He was inspired by Guru Nanak’s teachings and became his devoted disciple, abandoning his former practices to follow Sikhism. Guru Nanak recognized his dedication and selected him as his spiritual successor in 1539, giving him the name Guru Angad, which means “one’s own limb,” meaning that he was a part of Guru Nanak Dev ji’s himself. Guru Angad Dev Ji made important contributions to Sikhism. He promoted the Gurmukhi script, which Guru Nanak had established, and standardised it for writing the Punjabi language. This script became the medium for Sikh scriptures and contributed to spreading the teachings of Guru Nanak’s . Guru Angad also compiled the hymns of Guru Nanak and wrote 62 of his own, which were eventually included in the Guru Granth Sahib, Sikhism’s sacred book. In addition to his literary achievements, Guru Angad Dev Ji stressed physical well-being and established the tradition of Mal Akhara, a venue for physical training and wrestling, supporting the belief that a good body equals a healthy mind. Guru Angad Dev Ji passed away on March 29, 1552, in Khadur Sahib. Prior to his death, he appointed Guru Amar Das Ji as his successor, insuring the continuity of Sikh leadership.
Guru Amar Das Ji, the third Guru of Sikhism, was born on May 5, 1479, in the village of Basarke Gillan, Punjab, India. He was born into a Hindu family to Tej Bhan Bhalla and Mata Bakht Kaur. Guru Amar Das led a traditional life, marrying Mata Mansa Devi and raising four children. He was highly religious, having spent many years as a devout Vaishnava Hindu. At the age of 62, Guru Amar Das became acquainted with Sikhism through his nephew’s wife, Bibi Amro, who sung Guru Nanak hymns. Guru Amar Das was deeply moved by these songs, therefore he sought out Guru Angad Dev Ji and became his dedicated disciple. His commitment and service to Guru Angad were exceptional, and he rapidly became one of his closest followers. In 1552, Guru Angad Dev Ji named Guru Amar Das as his successor, making him the third Guru of Sikhism. He built the Manji system, a decentralized administrative structure for promoting Sikhism and organizing the society. Guru Amar Das implemented numerous important religious and social changes. He banned the rituals of purdah (the veiling of women) and Sati (the burning of widows), advocating for gender equality and women’s dignity. He also advocated for inter-caste marriages and the abolition of caste-based discrimination. In 1574, Guru Amar Das established Goindwal Sahib which grew into a prominent Sikh pilgrimage and activity center. He built the Baoli Sahib, an 84-step well where pilgrims could perform ablutions. Guru Amar Das Ji died on September 1, 1574. Before his death, he appointed his son-in-law, Bhai Jetha, as his successor, thereafter known as Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Sikh Guru.
Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Guru of Sikhism, was born on September 24, 1534, in Lahore, modern-day Pakistan. His birth name was Bhai Jetha. His parents were Har Das Ji and Mata Daya Kaur. Bhai Jetha’s spiritual tendencies and loving personality were evident from a young age. At the age of 12, Bhai Jetha became a student of Guru Amar Das Ji, the third Sikh Guru, and dedicated his life to him. He married Bibi Bhani, the daughter of Guru Amar Das Ji, which cemented his connection to the Sikh Guru dynasty. Guru Ram Das Ji made significant contributions to Sikhism while serving as Guru from 1574 until 1581. He created Ramdaspur, which later became known as Amritsar, which means “Pool of Nectar”. Amritsar became the focal heart of Sikhism, and Guru Ram Das Ji oversaw the construction of the Harmandir Sahib. The Golden Temple is considered the holiest Gurdwara (place of worship) in Sikhism, representing equality, inclusion, and spiritual freedom. Guru Ram Das Ji further organized the Sikh community by developing the Manji system, which involves assigning responsible Sikh missionaries (Manjis) to various locations to propagate Sikhism’s teachings. He also formalized the institution of Anand Karaj, the Sikh Marriage ceremony, The Sikh marriage ritual emphasizes the value of family and community in Sikh life. Guru Ram Das Ji composed numerous hymns that were included in the Guru Granth Sahib, Sikhism’s Holy Scripture. Guru Ram Das Ji died on September 1, 1581, in Amritsar. Before his death, he appointed his youngest son, Arjan Dev Ji, as his successor, and he became the fifth Sikh Guru.
Guru Arjan Dev Ji (5th Sikh Guru)
Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Guru of Sikhism, was born on April 15, 1563 in Goindval, Punjab, India. He was the youngest son of Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Sikh Guru, and Mata Bhani Ji. Guru Arjan Dev Ji shown remarkable intellect, spiritual insight, and compassion from an early age. Guru Arjan Dev Ji took over the Guruship in 1581, at the age of 18, following in his father’s footsteps. He oversaw the completion of the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) at Amritsar, which became the focal point of Sikh worship around the world. One of Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s most important accomplishments was the compilation of the Adi Granth, now known as the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The Guru Granth Sahib was established at the Harmandir Sahib in 1604, confirming its position as the eternal Guru of Sikhism. During his Guruship, Guru Arjan Dev Ji faced numerous obstacles, particularly from political leaders who opposed Sikh doctrine. In 1606, the Mughal Emperor Jahangir imprisoned him on spurious treason allegations and subjected him to brutal torture. Throughout his hardship, Guru Arjan Dev Ji was firm in his faith and commitment to truth and justice. Guru Arjan Dev Ji was martyred in Lahore on May 30, 1606, by being plunged in the Ravi River. His martyrdom serves as a powerful example of sacrifice and resilience in the face of hardship for Sikhs all across the world. Guru Arjan Dev Ji left a significant and enduring legacy. He is admired for his spiritual understanding, his role in establishing Sikh institutions, and his persistent dedication to promote equality, peace, and compassion. His compilation of the Guru Granth Sahib continues to teach and inspire millions of Sikhs worldwide, encapsulating the universal message of love, harmony, and devotion to God
Guru Hargobind Ji (6th Sikh Guru)
Guru Hargobind Sahib, the sixth Guru of Sikhism, was born on June 19, 1595, in Guru Ki Wadali, near Amritsar in Punjab, India. He was born to Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Sikh Guru, and Mata Ganga Ji. Guru Hargobind Sahib demonstrated leadership, courage, and a strong spiritual sense from a young age. Guru Hargobind Sahib became the sixth Guru of Sikhism at the age of eleven, following the martyrdom of his father, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, in 1606. Guru Hargobind Sahib, determined to safeguard the Sikh people and its rights, introduced the notion of Miri-Piri, which represented the merger of spiritual and temporal authority. Under Guru Hargobind Sahib’s direction, Sikhs were encouraged to preserve a martial spirit while focusing on spiritual goals. He built the Akal Takht, the Throne of the Timeless One, opposite the Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar to symbolize the Sikh community’s temporal power Guru Hargobind Sahib also established the tradition of the Kirpan (sword), which represents Sikhs’ obligation to defend virtue and protect the oppressed. He formed the Sikh community into the Akali Dal, a military organization dedicated to defending Sikh interests and upholding justice. Guru Hargobind Sahib stayed devoted to the ideals of fairness, equality, and religious freedom in spite of the Mughal emperors’ ongoing opposing views. He wrote hymns emphasizing strength, dedication, and love for God, which were ultimately incorporated in the Guru Granth Sahib. Guru Hargobind Sahib died on March 3, 1644, in Kiratpur Sahib, Punjab, leaving behind a legacy of strength, courage, and spiritual fortitude. His grandson, Guru Har Rai Ji, succeeded him as the seventh Sikh Guru. Guru Hargobind Sahib’s leadership provided the groundwork for the Sikh community’s militarization while also reinforcing the Sikh dedication to justice, freedom, and human rights.
Guru Har Rai Ji (7th Sikh Guru)
Guru Har Rai Ji, the seventh Guru of Sikhism, was born on January 16, 1630 at Kiratpur Sahib, Punjab, India. He was the grandson of Guru Hargobind Sahib, the sixth Sikh Guru, and Mata Nanaki Ji. Guru Har Rai Ji became the seventh Sikh Guru at the age of 14, succeeding his grandfather, Guru Hargobind Sahib. His leadership was defined by a devotion to peace, compassion, and the protection of nature and wildlife. He expanded the medicinal garden at Kiratpur Sahib, indicating his interest in herbal medicine and therapeutic techniques. Throughout his Guruship, Guru Har Rai Ji worked to enhance the Sikh community’s spiritual and moral underpinnings. He highlighted the value of humility, service to others, and dedication to God. Guru Har Rai Ji also encouraged education, establishing schools to teach Sikh scriptures and philosophy. Despite political instability and external pressures, Guru Har Rai Ji maintained a nonviolent and diplomatic stance during his term. He was actively involved in philanthropic efforts, helping the destitute and offering aid during times of hunger and hardship. Guru Har Rai Ji passed away on October 6, 1661, in Kiratpur Sahib. Before his death, he appointed his younger son, Guru Har Krishan Ji, as his successor, and he became the eighth Sikh Guru. Guru Har Rai Ji’s legacy is defined by his compassion, calm temperament, and dedication to social justice and environmental care. He is recognized as a Guru who embodied humility and kindness, making an indelible mark on Sikhism and motivating followers to live lives of integrity and service.
Guru Har Krishan Ji (7th Sikh Guru)
Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji, the eighth Guru of Sikhism, was born July 7, 1656, at Kiratpur Sahib, Punjab, India. He was the younger son of Guru Har Rai Ji, the seventh Sikh Guru, and Mata Krishan Kaur Ji. Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji exemplified intelligence, spirituality, and compassion from childhood. Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji became the eighth Sikh Guru at the age of five, succeeding his father, Guru Har Rai Ji. Despite his young age, Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji exhibited exceptional spiritual insight and leadership abilities. He built on his predecessors’ legacy by emphasizing devotion to God, humility, and service to humanity. During his brief Guruship, Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji traveled extensively to preach and serve the Sikh people. He traveled throughout India, including Delhi, where he offered spiritual instruction and comfort to the people, notably amid a smallpox epidemic. Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji’s compassionate attitude and healing presence won him respect and adoration from both Sikhs and non-Sikhs. He is remembered for his unselfish service and commitment to easing the suffering of others. Tragically, Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji developed smallpox and died on March 30, 1664, at the age of eight in Delhi. Before his death, he selected his granduncle, Baba Bakala Ji (later known as Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji), as his successor, becoming the ninth Sikh Guru. Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji’s brief but significant guruship created a legacy of compassion, dedication, and service. He is revered as a Guru who embodied selflessness and sacrificed his personal well-being for the sake of others, offering an example of humility and spiritual strength for Sikhs and mankind as a whole.
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji (9th Sikh Guru)
Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji, the ninth Guru of Sikhism, was born April 1, 1621, in Amritsar, Punjab, India. He was given the name Tyag Mal by his parents, Guru Hargobind Sahib (the sixth Sikh Guru) and Mata Nanaki Ji. Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji demonstrated a profound spiritual inclination and intelligence above his years from an early age. On March 20, 1665, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji became the ninth Sikh Guru, succeeding his grandnephew, Guru Har Krishan Sahib Ji. His Guruship occurred at a difficult time when the Mughal Empire, led by Emperor Aurangzeb, was becoming increasingly intolerant of religious pluralism and tried to convert non-Muslims(hindus) to Islam through force. He traveled to various parts of India, including Kashmir, Assam, and Bengal, promoting the values of equality, justice, and devotion to God. One of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji’s most courageous and selfless efforts was in favor of religious freedom. In 1675, he selflessly promised to safeguard the Kashmiri Pandits, who were being compelled to convert to Islam by Mughal officials. Despite the hazards, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji chose to face persecution and martyrdom rather than compromise his convictions. Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji was taken into custody in Delhi, along with his friends, and tortured and imprisoned. Despite the severe torture, he maintained his beliefs and refused to convert to Islam. Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji died as a martyr in Delhi on November 11, 1675, after being beheaded on Emperor Aurangzeb’s orders. Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji’s martyrdom is a potent symbol of resistance to oppression and the defense of religious freedom. His sacrifice motivated the Sikh community and others to uphold the values of justice, tolerance, and compassion. His son, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, succeeded him as the tenth Sikh Guru, further strengthening the Sikh faith and community.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji (10th Sikh Guru)
Guru Gobind Singh Ji, born Gobind Rai on December 22, 1666, in Patna, Bihar, India, was the Sikhs’ tenth guru. His father, Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, was killed when Gobind Rai was nine years old. This pivotal event had a profound impact on him and his future leadership. Guru Gobind Singh assumed the Guruship at a young age and served as both a spiritual leader and a military commander. He dedicated himself to defending the Sikh community from the oppressive Mughal regime and other adversaries. In 1699, he established the Khalsa, a warrior community dedicated to purity of action and intent. The “Five Ks” (Kesh, Kangha, Kara, Kachera) were established during this period. This establishment was distinguished by the creation of the “Five Ks” (Kesh, Kangha, Kara, Kachera, and Kirpan), which are symbols of faith and commitment for baptized Sikhs. Guru Gobind Singh was a prolific author and poet. He wrote numerous works in Punjabi, Braj, and Persian, including the renowned Jaap Sahib, Benti Chaupai, and the Zafarnama, a letter to Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. His writings and actions emphasized the value of justice, equality, and resistance to tyranny. Guru Gobind Singh was assassinated in Maharashtra’s Nanded in 1708. Before his death, he declared that the Guru Granth Sahib, Sikhism’s holy scripture, would become the Sikhs’ eternal Guru. This act provided continuity and spiritual guidance to the Sikh community. Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s legacy is monumental. He not only established the Khalsa as a symbol of Sikh identity, but he also advocated for social justice and resistance to oppression. His life and teachings continue to inspire millions all over the world.
Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji (Eternal guru)
The Guru Granth Sahib Ji, central to the Sikh faith, is regarded as the eternal Guru. Its origins can be traced back to the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who composed hymns conveying spiritual and moral truths. Successive Gurus, including Guru Angad Dev Ji and Guru Amar Das Ji, added their own hymns to this spiritual collection. Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Sikh Guru, took on the task of compiling these hymns into one scripture. In 1604, he compiled the Adi Granth, which included hymns from previous Gurus as well as those of saints and scholars from various religious traditions, including Hindu and Muslim beliefs. This inclusiveness emphasized the Sikh belief in the universality of divine truths. The Guru Granth Sahib is written in Gurmukhi script and contains 1,430 pages, or Angs. It is divided into musical measures, or Ragas, to emphasize the importance of music in Sikh worship and the belief that the divine can be felt through melody and rhythm. The Adi Granth was first installed in the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) in Amritsar in 1604, with Baba Buddha Ji acting as the first Granthi, or official reader. This installation marked a watershed moment in Sikh history, uniting the community around a single scripture. The final version of the Guru Granth Sahib was completed by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, in 1706. He added his father’s hymns to the Adi Granth. Guru Gobind Singh established the Guru Granth Sahib as the everlasting spiritual guide for Sikhs and put an end to the line of human Gurus when he declared it to be the Guru before his death in 1708. The Guru Granth Sahib’s teachings place a strong emphasis on social justice, the oneness of God, equality of all people, and the value of leading an honest and truthful life. It encourages a direct and intimate relationship with the divine through devotion, meditation, and moral living, rejecting rituals, superstitions, and blind dogmas. There is the highest regard and reverence for the Guru Granth Sahib. It is frequently treated as a living sovereign and kept in a place of honor in Sikh Gurdwaras. Rituals include regular recitation, ceremonial coverings, and fans to keep it cool. It guarantees that the Sikh way of life is centered on its teachings by providing direction, inspiration, and consolation. The Guru Granth Sahib has an impact that is not limited to the Sikh people. Its universal message of equality, peace, and devotion to God never ceases to uplift seekers of spiritual wisdom and direction from a wide range of backgrounds.