Bhai Mukanda

Bhai Mukanda a talented musician, was initiated into Sikhism by Guru Arjan. He daily recited kirtan at the morning and evening divans attended by the Guru himself. His name has been included by [[Bhai Gurdas]] in his Varan, XI. 18

Bhai jee was a devoted Sikh of the time of Guru Arjan. Once he, accompanied by Bhai Mula Beri and Bhai Tirath and Bhai Nihalu, a goldsmith, waited upon Guru Arjan. They asked a question : "0 True King, how is it that while exposition of the Sabda, or sacred hymns, by some Sikhs mellows the heart and is readily absorbed by the mind, sermons delivered by others have no effect at all?" The Guru, according to Bhai Mani Singh, Sikhdn di Bhagat Maid, said: "Only he who has himself assimilated the sabda can quench the seekers' thirst. Keep, therefore, company only with those who are not only wise but also act upon the Guru's word. Good company puts right what is bad. Remember the chandan tree (Santalum album), which not only imparts fragrance to nearby trees but even cools down the poison of serpents that coil around it." Bhai Gurdas, Varan, XI. 25.