Vahiguru ji ka Khalsa, Vahiguru ji ki Fatih!

The Sikh Research Institute (SikhRI) team joins the global Sikh community in commemorating two significant days: 16 September, the Gurgaddi Divas (Coronation Day) of Guru Arjan Sahib, and 18 September, the Gurgaddi Divas of Guru Angad Sahib.

In Ramkali Ki Var, Rai Balvand and Sata Dum write: Guru Arjan is sitting on the throne; the canopy of the true Guru is shining. From sunrise to sunset and from sunset to sunrise, he has spread light in all four directions.

We bow.
We receive.

Guru Arjan Sahib carried forward Guru Nanak Sahib’s spiritual and political mission by spreading light far and wide. The Guru compiled the Adi Granth (the foundational text of the Guru Granth Sahib), developed the cities of Amritsar and Tarn Taran, and established vital sarovars (pools), baolis (step-wells), and wells to serve the community.

As the embodiment of perfection, Guru Arjan Sahib imparted the message of the One and the 1Ness of Creator and creation. He established the benign dominion (halemi raj), where peace reigned, and no one dominated another. Through this, the Guru extended dignity and justice to all, challenging both political and religious oppression. This political-spiritual principle (raj-jog) of Guru Nanak Sahib empowered the masses. Guru Arjan Sahib’s establishment of Sri Amritsar Jiu and Sri Harimandar Sahib as centers for cultivating divine wisdom and fostering a just socio-political order posed a threat to the rulers, leading to his imprisonment, torture, and eventual martyrdom.

Guru Angad Sahib’s journey began as Bhai Lahina, a leader of Vaishno Devi devotees. His life changed when he encountered Bhai Jodha, a Sikh of Guru Nanak Sahib, whose divine hymns stirred his soul. Leaving behind his past, Bhai Lahina dedicated himself to serving Guru Nanak Sahib, surrendering his ego and embracing the Guru’s wisdom.

As Guru Angad Sahib, he established Khadur Sahib and introduced the Gurmukhi script, granting equal access to literacy and solidifying Sikhi's identity. He also encouraged physical fitness and combat training among Sikhs.

The transformation of Bhai Lahina into Guru Angad Sahib is a powerful testament to the transformative nature of faith, humility, and surrender, showing the potential for spiritual elevation. On this Gurgaddi Divas, we honor this legacy and the profound impact of Sabad (Infinite Wisdom) and Nam (Identification with IkOankar, the 1).

We honor the timeless legacy of their wisdom, courage, and grace as we commemorate the Gurgaddi Divas of Guru Angad Sahib and Guru Arjan Sahib. Their lives embody transformation, sacrifice, and the boundless light that continues to guide us.

Do we feel the miracle of this light illuminating our hearts and minds?

May we feel the pull of this divine connection.
May we serve with every breath, yearning to walk the path they paved for us.
May the Wisdom-Guru guide us!