Daya Singh Samparda

Portrait of the first of the Panj Pyaare: Bhai Daya Singh Ji Maharaj

Bhai Daya Singh Ji Samparda (Punjabi: ਭਾਈ ਦਇਆ ਸਿੰਘ ਜੀ ਸੰਪਰਦਾ [Gurmukhi]) is an original Khalsai Samparda, tracing back to the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh ji. This 'Taksal' (school) was founded by Bhai Daya Singh ji, the Mukhi of the original Panj Pyaare, under the Hukam of Guru Gobind Singh ji in the early 1700s, aiming to pass down the divine knowledge of Naam Simran, Gurbani and Sikh Itihaas to the Sangat.

The lineage of Bhai Daya Singh ji Samparda is listed below:

1. Bhai Daya Singh Ji 2. Baba Sobha Singh Ji (Anandpur Sahib) 3. Baba Sahib Singh Ji Bedi (Una Sahib) 4. Baba Bhag Singh Ji (Kuri) 5. Baba Bir Singh Ji (Nurangabad) 6. Baba Maharaj Singh Ji (Naurangabad) / Baba Khuda Singh Ji (Lahore) 7. Baba Ram Singh Ji 'Virakt' (Naurangabad) 8. Sant Karam Singh Ji (Hoti Mardan) 9. Sant Attar Singh Ji (Reru Sahib) / Sant Aaya Singh Ji (Hoti Mardan) 10. Sant Isher Singh Ji (Rara Sahib) / Baba Kishan Singh Ji (Rara Sahib) / Sant Bhagwan Singh Ji (Reru Sahib)

BRIEF HISTORY

The saints of Bhai Daya Singh Ji Samparda have been esteemed figures in Sikh history. As great saints and warriors, they spiritually guided the masses and initiated innumerable individuals into the Khalsa Panth. Their contributions have been profound to the Sikh Itihaas, spreading the teachings of the Guru Sahibs and the essence of Naam to countless souls. Due to the extraordinary saints and spiritual leaders who emerged from its lineage, this Samparda also came to be known as the 'Sant Samparda' or the 'Nirmal Sant Samparda' (not to be confused with the Nirmala order, which was established when Guru Gobind Singh Ji sent five Sikhs to Varanasi for scriptural studies).

Bhai Daya Singh Ji was the first Sikh to rise and offer his life to Guru Ji during the historic Vasiakhi of 1699 C.E. (Bikrami Year 1756). When instructed by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Bhai Daya Singh Ji established a school to impart the spiritual wisdom he received from Guru Ji to the Sikh Sangat; this school became prevalent as the Bhai Daya Singh Ji Samparda. As prophecized by Guru Ji, the saints of this Samparda left an everlasting mark in Sikh history.

When Baba Sobha Singh Ji, a devoted Gursikh and a descendant of the esteemed Sodhi clan, sought the blessings of Amrit from Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Guru Sahib directed him to Bhai Daya Singh Ji. Guru Gobind Singh Ji declared that there is no difference between Himself and His Khalsa, emphasizing the unity of the Guru and His Beloved Saints. Following this divine principle, Baba Sobha Singh Ji became a dedicated student of Bhai Daya Singh Ji, immersing himself in intense Bhagati (spiritual devotion) and Nishkaam Seva. After the battle of Anandpur Sahib, as Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the Sikhs were leaving the fort, Guru Ji entrusted two devoted Sikhs with important seva. The first was Bhai Gurbaksh Das Ji Udasi, who was given the responsibility of taking care of Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib, the sacred site where Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s Sis (head) was cremated. The second Sikh was Baba Sobha Singh Ji, who was entrusted with the responsibility of Anandpur Sahib, who completed his seva with unwavering resolve. After Bhai Daya Singh Ji left for the heavenly abode, the responsibilities of the Samparda fell onto the shoulders of Baba Sobha Singh Ji. Baba Ji was respected as the Jathedar and devotedly carried out the Seva of the Takht for a very long time. With unwavering commitment, he provided spiritual guidance to countless Sikhs and initiated thousands into the Khalsa.

Misl Era and Sikh Empire

'Baba Sahib Singh Ji Bedi was a revered descendant of Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj and was deeply respected by the entire Sikh community as a great saint. His birth was prophesied by Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj to his grandfather, Baba Kaladhari Ji of Una Sahib, foretelling his emergence as a great Mahapurkh. After the passing of his father, Baba Sahib Singh Ji eventually traveled to Anandpur Sahib, where he sought the blessing of Amrit from Baba Sobha Singh Ji, and became his student. Under Baba Sobha Singh Ji’s guidance, Baba Sahib Singh Ji immersed himself in spiritual practice and later succeeded him as the next Mukhi of the Samparda. Baba Ji later left Anandpur Sahib to eventually settle in Una Sahib. There, He established a spiritual center for Sikhs to learn the Path of Gurmat. Baba ji was greatly respected by the Sikh misldars (chiefs) during the era of the Sikh Confederacy and acted as a common uniting cause between the various bickering, rival chiefs. He played a pivotal role in the unification of the Sikh Misls and the establishment of the Sikh Empire. Baba Ji was held in such high esteem by the Sikhs and the Jathedaars of the Panth that they were also respectfully requested to apply the tilak during the coronation ceremony of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. During the Sikh Raj, Baba Sahib Singh Ji Bedi was highly revered as the Raj-Guru of the empire. His wisdom and spiritual guidance earned him immense respect, and the Sikh community affectionately referred to him as 'Guru, not in the sense of the Guru of the Sikh Panth, but as a mark of deep reverence for his role as a spiritual teacher and guide, respecting the fact that he was a Brahmgiani Mahapurkh who was one with the Guru. Baba Ji guided countless with spiritual wisdom and initiated countless into Khalsa.

Baba Sahib Singh Ji Bedi's esteemed students included Baba Bhag Singh Ji of Kuri, who later succeeded the seva of the Samparda. Baba Ji’s father was a devoted Sikh of the ninth Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Guru Ji bestowed his blessings upon him and prophesied that his son would grow to be a great Mahapurkh. Baba Bhag Singh Ji not only established a spiritual school in Kuri, where he preached the teachings of the Guru Sahibs to thousands of Sikhs, but also traveled across India, visiting various Gurdwaras and Sikh communities, spreading Gurmat through Parchaar, offering his support and inspiring many to become Gursikhs. Baba Bhag Singh Ji was deeply respected by the entire Sikh community and was renowned throughout Punjab and beyond as a true Sant, embodying spiritual wisdom, humility, and devotion to the Guru Sahibs. The Seva was passed down to Baba Ji's renowned student, Baba Bir Singh Ji of Naurangabad.

'Baba Bir Singh Ji was not only a great Sant but also a distinguished warrior in Sikh history. He was a great general during the era of the Sikh Empire, under whom thousands of Sikh warriors of high Avastha served selflessly without pay, drawn by their devotion to the Guru's humble Saints and his spiritual guidance. Alongside his military command, he was also a revered spiritual teacher and a Brahmgiani like his predecessors, succeeding as the Raj-Guru of the Empire; the Sikhs therefore also respectfully referred to him as Guru'. His birth was prophesied by the sixth Guru, Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, during His visit to Baba Ji’s village. Baba Ji joined the army at a young age, yet he dedicated a significant portion of his time to deep meditation, balancing his martial duties with spiritual devotion. Later, Baba Ji left the army to fully immerse himself in Seva and Simran under the guidance of Baba Bhag Singh Ji. During this time, he was entrusted with the responsibility of Langar Seva at Kuri, serving the Sangat with dedication and humility. Baba Bhag Singh Ji later sent Baba Bir Singh Ji to Baba Sahib Singh Ji Bedi in Una Sahib, where he continued his Seva and meditation under Baba Sahib Singh Ji’s guidance. Upon request of another Sikh and recognizing his spiritual strength and dedication, Baba Sahib Singh Ji later sent Baba Bir Singh Ji to bless the Majha region of Punjab, bestowing upon him the divine blessing: "Even the heads that do not bow to anyone shall bow to you." Accepting this Hukam with humility, Baba Bir Singh Ji established his base in Naurangabad and later succeeded the Seva of the Samparda. In a short span of time, thousands of devotees began partaking in Langar at Naurangabad daily. Baba Ji engaged in extensive Parchaar, spreading the teachings of Gurmat and initiating many into the Khalsa Panth. People from across the empire sought his divine guidance, recognizing his spiritual wisdom and leadership. After the death of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the British devised a plan to seize control of the Sikh Empire. In this scheme, Raja Heera Singh allied with the British and betrayed Baba Ji and the Sikh Panth. Aware of this betrayal, Baba Ji informed the Sangat but strictly forbade any retaliation, ensuring that the Sikhs would not be perceived as fighting among themselves. Instead, he issued a Hukam to prepare twice as much Langar, ensuring that even the enemy would not go hungry. With unwavering faith, Baba Ji entered deep meditation. Despite multiple failed attempts to harm him, the enemies ultimately martyred Baba Ji by firing a cannon at his body, marking his supreme sacrifice for the Panth.

Baba Maharaj Singh Ji was a devoted student of Baba Bir Singh Ji, embodying deep humility and spiritual discipline. Though a devout and humble Sant, he would later emerge as the greatest obstacle for the British, leading a fearless resistance against their rule and striving to uphold the sovereignty of the Khalsa Panth. Baba Ji became a devoted student of Baba Bir Singh Ji, dedicating himself to meditation and selfless service under his guidance. Entrusted with Langar Seva, Baba Ji carried out his duty with immense love and devotion. One day, while Baba Ji was meditating, a Sevadar approached him, requesting a large spoon to stir and cool down the boiling Degh. Finding nothing suitable for the task, Baba Ji placed his Seva above his own well-being and, without hesitation, submerged his hand into the scorching Degh. Miraculously, the Degh cooled down instantly, and Baba Ji remained completely unharmed. This divine occurrence was a testament to Baba Ji’s unwavering faith and devotion. Protected by the grace of Waheguru, he demonstrated that true Seva, done with pure dedication, transcends physical suffering and is blessed by the Guru’s divine presence. Baba Ji went on to succeed Baba Bir Singh Ji in leading the Samparda, carrying forward his legacy of Seva, Simran, and dedication to the Sikh Panth. Through his unwavering commitment, he made significant contributions to the Panth, strengthening Sikh principles, guiding the Sangat, and continuing the mission of his predecessors with deep devotion and sacrifice. When the British allied with the traitors of the Sikh Empire, they declared Baba Ji a fugitive and sought to capture him. As one of the most influential leaders of the empire, Baba Ji stood as a formidable obstacle to British rule, resisting their attempts to seize control. A remarkable warrior and fearless leader, Baba Ji mounted a strong resistance against the British. However, he was eventually arrested and exiled to Singapore, where he endured immense torture. Despite their efforts to break his spirit, Baba Ji remained steadfast in his faith and devotion until he ultimately left for the heavenly abode in 1856. Even in jail, Baba Ji's unwavering faith in the Guru Sahibs astonished everyone around him, many even experiencing miraculous events that reinforced their belief in his divine connection. Even Henry Vansittart, the Jalandhar deputy commissioner, acknowledged Baba Ji’s Spiritual Prowess and their Avastha as a Pooran Brahmgiani, stating: "The Guru [Maharaj Singh] is no ordinary man... He is to the natives what Jesus is to the most zealous of Christians. His miracles were seen by tens of thousands and are more implicitly believed than those worked by the ancient prophets.".

Baba Khuda Singh Ji was another devoted student of Baba Bir Singh Ji and a Gur-Bhai of Baba Maharaj Singh Ji. Initially serving as a Thaanedar, Baba Ji’s life took a transformative turn after having the Darshan of Baba Bir Singh Ji. Deeply moved, he became his disciple and chose to stay in Naurangabad, dedicating himself to Seva and meditation for several years. Recognizing his spiritual dedication, Baba Ji was later entrusted with the responsibility of spreading Parchaar of Sikhi in the border regions. Under Baba Bir Singh ji's Hukam, he traveled to places such as Kabul and Kandahar, carrying the message of Gurmat and spreading the teachings of the Gurus.

Post-Sikh Empire

Baba Ram Singh Ji Virakt served under Baba Maharaj Singh Ji and was known for his deep detachment from worldly affairs. He immersed himself deeply in bhagati (devotional meditation) and Nishkaam seva (selfless service). Baba Ji inherited the Seva after Baba Maharaj Singh Ji, and under their Hukam, Baba Ji did Gurmat Parchaar and initiated many into the Khalsa, including the esteemed Mahapurkh, Sant Karam Singh Ji of Hoti Mardan. The British viewed Baba ji as a close aide of Baba Maharaj Singh ji and considered them a fugitive. However, the Sikh community recognized Baba ji's high spiritual Avastha and respected him as a Pooran Sant. Baba Ji would dedicate himself to spreading Gurmat through extensive Parchaar, traveling from village to village. In his later years, Baba Ji eventually traveled to Hoti Mardan, where he chose to settle. Before departing for the heavenly abode, the responsibilities of the Samparda were entrusted to Sant Karam Singh Ji.

Sant Karam Singh Ji Maharaj of Hoti Mardan was a prominent Sikh Brahmgiani Mahapurkh who succeeded the Seva of the Samparda, carrying forward its spiritual mission. At the age of 18, Sant Ji joined the Sikh army and received Amrit from Baba Ram Singh Ji. While serving in the British Army, Sant Ji devoted long hours to meditation and actively engaged in Parchaar, spreading the teachings of Sikhi among fellow soldiers. His spiritual influence was profound—not only did he immerse himself in Naam Simran, but he also inspired many others in the army to do the same. Even British officers recognized and admired Sant Ji’s pious character, acknowledging his unwavering commitment to faith and selfless service. Among Sant Karam Singh Ji’s followers in the army, one soldier, who would later be revered as Sant Lal Singh Ji of Hoti Mardan, became a devoted disciple of Sant Ji. One day, as part of his Nitnem, Sant Karam Singh Ji sat in deep meditation by the banks of Kalpani. Completely immersed in divine love, he became so absorbed in Samadhi that he lost all awareness of time—including the fact that his guard duty had come and gone. When officers received a report that Karam Singh had failed to attend his post, they sent an officer to investigate. However, in His boundless grace, Waheguru Himself took the form of Sant Karam Singh Ji and fulfilled his duty—just as He had once taken the form of Bhagat Sain Ji to complete his service. Upon emerging from Samadhi and learning of what had transpired, Sant Karam Singh Ji realized that he could no longer serve any worldly master, for Waheguru Himself had performed his duty. With this realization, he resolved to resign from the army and dedicate his life entirely to Seva and Simran. However, the officers were hesitant to remove Sant Karam Singh Ji’s name from the records, as he was known to be an honest and pious soldier. But Waheguru’s miracle prevailed—Sant Karam Singh Ji’s name miraculously vanished from the register. No matter how hard they searched, it was nowhere to be found, leaving all in awe of the divine will at play.

After the British invasion, the Sikh population had drastically declined due to widespread oppression. During this critical time, Sant Karam Singh Ji emerged as a central figure, rekindling the spirit of Gurmat and spreading the fragrance of Naam far and wide. Sant Ji had countless disciples, with tens of thousands seeking his divine guidance, and innumerable individuals were initiated into the Khalsa under his leadership. His spiritual radiance was so profound that not only Sikhs but also Hindus, British officers, and even Pathaans bowed at his feet in reverence. Even the then Maharaja of Jammu & Kashmir, Maharaja Partap Singh, humbly bowed at the feet of Sant Karam Singh Ji, recognizing his divine presence. However, Pooran Gursikhs like Sant Karam Singh Ji saw no distinction between a king and a beggar. To him, diamonds and rocks held the same value, as he viewed all people with the same impartial and compassionate gaze, embodying the true essence of Gurmat and humility. Such is the greatness of a Pooran Sant of Waheguru—one who embodies divine grace and uplifts all who come into his presence. Among Sant Karam Singh Ji’s many disciples, 101 attained the exalted state of Brahmgiaan (divine enlightenment). Under his guidance, these enlightened souls were sent across Punjab and beyond to spread the teachings of the Guru Sahibaans. As a result, Parchaar of Sikhi, which had been severely impacted by British rule, began to flourish once again.

Sant Attar Singh Ji of Reru Sahib and Sant Aaya Singh Ji of Hoti Mardan were two prominent disciples of Sant Karam Singh Ji.

The Seva of the Samparda was succeeded by Sant Isher Singh ji and Sant Kishan Singh ji of Rara Sahib.

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