KALU NATH, son of Jaimal, also called Data, a Dhalival Jatt of the Malva region, became a Vaisnav sadhu while still very young and, according to his biographer, Balmukand Das, roamed the countryside accompanied by his mother, Mohini, and young brother, Chikha. Later, he settled down under a jand tree near Nalhana, a village in Bathinda district, and practised severe austerities. During the battle of Mehraj in 1634, he served Guru Hargobind and his Sikhs with milk and food. As Guru Hargobind visited Nathana after the battle, Kalu Nath offered obeisance and received the Guru`s blessing. Kalu Nath is still remembered with reverence in that part of the Punjab, and an annual fair is held in April at his shrine at Nathana.
References :
1. Gurbilas Patshahi Chhevin. Patiala, 1970
2. Santokh Singh, Bhai, Sri Gur Pratap Suraj Granth. Amritsar, 1927-33
Kalu Nath was a revered Vaisnav Sadhu from Punjab’s Malva region whose life and legacy continue to inspire many. He was the son of Jaimal—often also called Data—and hailed from the Dhalival Jatt community. According to historical accounts by his biographer Balmukand Das, even in his youth Kalu Nath embraced a life rooted in deep spiritual devotion. He roamed the countryside accompanied by his mother, Mohini, and his younger brother, Chikha, reflecting a profound early commitment to his religious path .
Settling under a jand tree near the village of Nalhana in the Bathinda district, Kalu Nath devoted himself to severe austerities while nurturing a peaceful, contemplative life. This period of ascetic practice laid the intellectual and spiritual groundwork for his later contributions to the community. His deep faith was not confined to personal enlightenment—he extended it in service to others, particularly during trying times .
A defining moment in his life occurred during the battle of Mehraj in 1634. During this turbulent period, Kalu Nath played an instrumental role by serving Guru Hargobind and his Sikh warriors with milk and food. His humble act of service not only addressed an immediate need but also symbolized the spirit of selflessness and communal support. As Guru Hargobind visited Nathana in the aftermath of the battle, Kalu Nath’s respectful obeisance earned him the Guru’s blessings, further cementing his status as a sacred figure revered by both his contemporaries and later generations .
Today, Kalu Nath’s legacy endures in Punjab. His shrine at Nathana remains a site of spiritual significance where an annual fair is held every April. This yearly gathering serves not only as a remembrance of his life and deeds but also as a celebration of the enduring values of devotion, community service, and humility that he exemplified. The fair and the many stories recounted about his life continue to draw people who wish to connect with the historical and spiritual heritage of the region .
