Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the leader of Sikhism who started the sikh religion, was born on April 15, 1469, at Talwandi Nankana Sahib, Pakistan. He occupies the initial position among the 10 gurus of Sikhism. Guru Nanak Dev Ji came into existence to Mehta Kalu Ji and Mata Tripta Ji within a Hindu Khatri family. Guru Nanak exhibited both deep spiritual tendencies along continuous inquiry about God and spiritual topics since his young days. Guru Nanak Dev Ji married Mata Sulakhni during his 16th year which resulted in two sons named Sri Chand and Lakhmi Das. Guru Nanak had his three-day religious vision when he was thirty years old. The Kali Bein River swallowed him during bathing before he reappeared three days later. Upon his return to his family, Guru Nanak Dev Ji received divine wisdom that revealed God exists beyond all distinctions between Hindu and Muslim faiths. He started his mission at this time to spread the message of religious unity and divine equality alongside God-centered devotion, which rejected ethnical identity and religious classifications. During his 20-year travel period, which Sikhs call Udasis, Guru Nanak dedicated his time to spreading the message about one God along with promoting equality among all people. During his lifetime he explored India along with the Middle East and Central Asia before meeting with various religious groups and ethnic populations of these regions. Through his poetic hymns, he wrote many compositions that would be included later in the Guru Granth Sahib, which serves as the Sikhism holy book. He shifted residence to Kartarpur, which he established by the Ravi River in 1522.
Guru Angad Dev Ji, before named Bhai Lehna, became the second successor of Sikhism after his birth on March 31st, 1504, in Matte Di Sarai village of Punjab in India. The couple Bhai Pheru Mal together with Mata Ramo practiced Hinduism in devotion. From his early age, Bhai Lehna devoted himself fully to spiritual practices by worshipping Durga, the Hindu deity. His entire existence underwent a radical alteration after Guru Nanak Dev Ji appeared in his life in 1532. Guru Nanak inspired him to become his respected follower, through which he dedicated himself to Sikhism while abandoning his previous religious practices. In 1539, Guru Nanak chose Bhai Lehna as his successor when he bestowed the name Guru Angad upon him, signifying that the disciple had become an essential part of the great master. During his time as Guru of the Sikhs, Guru Angad Dev Ji created numerous important developments for Sikhism. Through his initiatives, he standardized Gurmukhi, which Guru Nanak established for Punjabi written language. The Gurmukhi script that Guru Nanak had established became the primary vehicle to spread his doctrines as Sikh sacred texts were written through this medium. Guru Angad compiled the hymns of Guru Nanak while writing 62 newly penned verses which eventually found their place in the sacred Guru Granth Sahib manuscript of Sikhism. Guru Angad Dev Ji both created literary works and promoted physical health through his founding of Mal Akhara venues that enabled wrestling and training activities thereby establishing the view that bodily wellness leads to mental harmony. The passing of Guru Angad Dev Ji happened on March 29, 1552, at Khadur Sahib. The succession of Guru Amar Das Ji as his replacement was put forth by Guru Amar Dev Ji before his death to secure Sikh leadership.
Guru Amar Das Ji, the third Guru of Sikhism born on May 5, 1479, within Basarke Gillan village situated in Punjab, India. Guru Amar Das Ji emerged from a Hindu family under the care of parents Tej Bhan Bhalla and Mata Bakht Kaur. Throughout his life, Guru Amar Das followed traditional customs after marrying his wife, Mata Mansa Devi, and giving birth to their four children. His faith was profound since he dedicated many years to following Vaishnava Hindu teachings. Bibi Amro introduced Guru Amar Das to Sikhism when he was sixty-two years old, after she began sharing Guru Nanak hymns. The spiritual songs touched Guru Amar Das deeply, so he began his journey to find Guru Angad Dev Ji to follow him as his spiritual student. His dedication to Guru Angad led him to become one of his most loyal disciples and perform extraordinary service in a short period. At the age of thirty-four, Guru Angad Dev Ji designated Guru Amar Das to succeed him as the third Guru of Sikhism in 1552. The Manji system was a decentralized administrative framework designed by him to spread Sikhism and reorganize the social structure. During his tenure, Guru Amar Das established many essential changes throughout the Sikh religion and society. Through his policies, he eliminated the customs of purdah for women’s veiling and Sati widow immolation while defending the rights and respect of the sexes. Among his teachings, Guru Amar Das fought against both racial segregation in marriages and against caste-based bigotry. Guru Amar Das created Goindwal Sahib in 1574, thereby establishing a leading Sikh religious site that attracted countless pilgrims. The Baoli Sahib was constructed by him as an 84-step well dedicated to bathing rituals of pilgrims. The tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Amar Das Ji, passed away on September 1, 1574. Before he died, Guru Ram Rai appointed Bhai Jetha as his successor, which established him 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.