Table of Contents
Introduction to Saka Nankana Sahib
A historic event known as 'Saka Nankana Sahib' took place on February 20th, 1921, in the locality of Nankana Sahib, which is situated within the Sheikhupura district of Pakistan. Sikh history marks this incident as a turning point in their religious freedom, showcasing the extraordinary sacrifices Sikhs made to regain their holy sites and religious liberties. Nankana Sahib stands as a central location in Sikhism because Guru Nanak established this town as the birthplace of Sikhism. The Sikh devotion to their religious mission, combined with their strength and determination, emerged from the sacrifice of over 130 of their fellow Sikhs during the Saka Nankana Sahib.
This article explores Nankana Sahib's historical context along with the reasons behind the Saka and traces the massacre's influence on Sikh history.
1. The Significance of Nankana Sahib
Birthplace of Guru Nanak
Nankana Sahib is located 80 kilometers west of Lahore, Pakistan, and was originally known as Rai Bhoeki Talwandi. Guru Nanak made Nankana Sahib his home and birthplace in 1469, marking the beginning of Sikhism. Rai Bular, who belonged to the Bhatti clan, governed the area and later helped transform the town's name to Nankana Sahib in honor of Guru Nanak's birth.
The religious teachings of Guru Nanak, which emphasize God's singularity and human equality, transcend traditional religious norms. Nankana Sahib, along with its numerous Gurdwaras, is considered a premier holy destination by Sikh devotees worldwide.
The Role of Gurdwaras in Nankana Sahib
The town is home to several important Gurdwaras, including the Janam Asthan, the birthplace of Guru Nanak. Other significant shrines include Gurdwara Bal Lila, Gurdwara Mal Sahib, Gurdwara Kiara Sahib, and Gurdwara Tamboo Sahib, all of which commemorate different aspects of Guru Nanak's life, from his childhood play to his spiritual awakenings and teachings.
Several Gurdwaras were established under the patronage of Maharaja Ranjit Singh during the years of 1818-19. These religious sites, together with their land grants, helped solidify Nankana Sahib as an essential center for Sikh religious activities.
2. The State of Sikh Shrines Before the Saka Nankana Sahib
The Corruption of the Gurdwaras
Before the Saka Nankana Sahib, the Gurdwaras of Nankana Sahib were under the management of Mahants, who were primarily members of the Udasi or Nirmal sects. However, the administration of these sacred sites had become increasingly corrupt. Many Mahants adopted lavish lifestyles and engaged in immoral practices. Reports indicate that they misused donations and even placed Hindu statues in the Gurdwara buildings, violating Sikh religious principles.
In response to this, a growing number of Sikhs formed a movement to reclaim the Gurdwaras from the corrupt Mahants. This initiative gained momentum, especially after the formation of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) in 1920.
The Catalyst for Change: The Gurdwara Reform Movement
The Sikhs established the Gurdwara Reform Movement in 1920 to address the corruption and mismanagement in the Gurdwara administration. The movement aimed to remove the Mahants from control and restore the principles of humility, devotion, and community service that Guru Nanak had taught. This movement marked a significant effort to return to the original values of Sikhism.
3. Saka Nankana Sahib: The Tragic Massacre
The Prelude to the Saka
On February 20, 1921, at dawn, 130 Sikhs, led by Bhai Lachhman Singh, initiated a peaceful takeover of the Gurdwara Janam Asthan from Mahant Narayan Dass. The Mahant, however, resorted to violence to protect their control over the Gurdwara. Sikhs were met with gunfire from Pathan mercenaries hired by the Mahant Narayan Dass after suggesting the Sikhs take control of the shrine.
Outnumbered and under attack, the Sikhs chose passive resistance, in accordance with Sikh traditions of non-violence. Despite their peaceful stance, the attackers indiscriminately killed 130 Sikhs, and the bodies of the martyrs were burned in a brutal display.
The massacre at Nankana Sahib shocked the Sikh community and sparked widespread outrage. The news of the killings spread like wildfire, and the Sikh community began to rally around the cause of reclaiming their Gurdwaras.
The Aftermath: The Second Attempt and Victory
The massacre at Nankana Sahib sparked outrage among Sikhs worldwide. The news of the atrocity led Bhai Kartar Singh Jhabbar, along with 2,200 Sikhs, to march toward Nankana Sahib in pursuit of justice. British authorities, who had initially failed to act, intervened after the killings were reported.
On February 21, 1921, the British government granted the Sikhs permission to take control of Gurdwara Janam Asthan. This victory marked the end of the Mahants' rule over the Gurdwaras in Nankana Sahib. The final stage of Sikh control over the shrines came with the passage of the Punjab Sikh Gurdwaras Act of 1925, which officially placed the Gurdwaras under Sikh management.
4. The Legacy of Saka Nankana Sahib
A Turning Point in Sikh History
The Saka Nankana Sahib marked a new chapter in Sikh history, as Sikhs showed unwavering commitment to both religious freedom and the preservation of their holy sites. The massacre at Nankana Sahib has come to symbolize the defense of Sikh values and the relentless pursuit of religious liberty.
Every year, Sikhs commemorate the martyrs who died at Nankana Sahib. February 20 is observed as a sacred day to honor those who gave their lives to protect Sikhism.
The victory at Nankana Sahib laid the groundwork for the Gurdwara Reform Movement, which ultimately restored Sikh control over the shrines and reinforced the principles of unselfish service, humility, and spiritual teachings that Guru Nanak had imparted.
5. Saka Nankana Sahib in Modern Context
Nankana Sahib Today: A Symbol of Sikh Unity
Sikhs from around the world continue to visit Nankana Sahib as an essential pilgrimage site. The Gurdwaras there stand as a testament to Guru Nanak's rich spiritual legacy. The sacrifices made during Saka Nankana Sahib left a lasting influence, teaching future generations about sacrifice, religious unity, and the unwavering dedication to Sikh faith.
Following the 1947 Partition of India, the holy sites in Nankana Sahib came under Pakistani control. Although Sikhs can still visit the Gurdwaras, they must adhere to strict regulations imposed by the Pakistani government, which oversees the management of the shrines.
In response, Sikh communities worldwide have established the Nankana Sahib Foundation to advocate for religious freedom and the management rights of these sacred sites.
6. Conclusion: The Enduring Impact of Saka Nankana Sahib
The Saka Nankana Sahib is not just a chapter in Sikh history; it is a testament to the courage, determination, and resilience of the Sikh people in the face of injustice and adversity. The tragic loss of 130 lives on February 20, 1921, played a pivotal role in shaping the future of Sikh religious practice and the management of their holy sites.
Sikhs continue to honor the martyrs of Nankana Sahib, and the memory of their sacrifice serves as an inspiration for future generations. As the Sikh community moves forward, the lessons of the Saka Nankana Sahib remind them of the importance of standing up for their beliefs and fighting for the preservation of their sacred heritage.
For readers who are interested in learning more about the Nankana Massacre and its historical significance, we highly recommend downloading the book "Saka Nankana Sahib" written in the Punjabi language. This detailed account of the events leading up to the tragedy and its aftermath provides a comprehensive understanding of this tragic chapter in Sikh history. Don't miss the chance to gain a deeper insight into one of the most tragic incidents in the history of India.
