PARCHI BHAI KANHAIYA, i.e. parchi (from Sanskrit prichaya or introduction here used in the sense of a life or biography) of Bhai Kanhaiya, a Sikh of the time of Guru Gobind Singh (1666-1708) and founder of the Sevapanthi sect. Written in Bhakha sometimes between 1728 and 1740 when its author Bhai Sahaj Ram happened to be staying with Bhai Addan Shah, another leading Sevapanthi saint, the work was edited by Bhai Hira Singh Mahant and published in 1966 by the Sevapanthi Addan Shahi Sabha, Patiala.
The book comprises in all twenty sdkhis, i.e. stories or anecdotes, relating to the life of Bhai Kanhaiya. The book lays more stress on the spiritual aspect of the saint`s personality than on biographical detail. Only such incidents and happenings from his life are related as highlight his spiritual attainments and philanthropic activities. Following generally the style of the Janam Sakhis of Guru Nanak, the book is perhaps the first one conceived as a biography of a Sikh saint.
References :
Gurmukh Singh, Sevapanthian di Panjabi Sahit nun Den. Patiala, 1986.
Parchi Bhai Kanhaiya is a biographical account that narrates the life and contributions of Bhai Kanhaiya, a revered Sikh figure and the founder of the Sevapanthi sect. Bhai Kanhaiya is celebrated for his selfless service (seva) and compassion, particularly during the battles of Anandpur Sahib, where he provided water and aid to both allies and enemies alike. His actions exemplified the Sikh principle of universal brotherhood and earned him the admiration of Guru Gobind Singh, who endorsed his humanitarian efforts.
The text delves into Bhai Kanhaiya’s early life, his spiritual journey under the guidance of Guru Tegh Bahadur, and his eventual establishment of the Sevapanthi tradition. It also highlights his unwavering commitment to serving humanity without discrimination, a legacy that continues to inspire Sikh practices of seva today.
