REKH RAO, BHAI, and Bhana Mallan were Sikh residents of Kabul. They looked after the local chieftain`s stores. Both were pious Sikhs and very honest. Once complaints were laid against them questioning their dealings. By Guru Arjan`s blessing their honour was publicly vindicated. The names appear in Bhai Gurdas, Varan, XI. 26.
References :
1. Mani Singh, Bhai, Sikhan di Bhagat Mala. Amritsar, 1955
The story of Guru Arjan’s blessing for the Kabul sangat stands as a vivid reminder of Sikh values in action—a moment when honor, humility, and selfless service converged to vindicate the true spirit of the Sikh community.
The Journey of the Kabul Sangat
A devoted community of Sikh pilgrims from Kabul had embarked on a long and arduous journey of over 600 kilometers to seek the darshan (audience) of Guru Arjan Dev Ji in Amritsar. During their travels, the sangat encountered a humble Sikh and his wife who rendered exemplary sewa (selfless service) by attending to their physical needs—massaging weary legs, fanning them with refreshing fans, and bringing water and food. This act of kindness not only alleviated the hardships of the journey but also set a tone of service and compassion for the group, reinforcing the idea that every small act of kindness is prized in Sikh tradition .
The Humble Act of Service at Darbar Sahib
When the sangat finally arrived at the sacred Darbar Sahib, the excitement to meet the Guru was palpable. The jathedar (the leader) of the Kabul sangat requested that boys help secure and look after everyone’s shoes—a task most were reluctant to perform in the rush of anticipation. At that moment, the very Sikh who had previously rendered critical service stepped forward and volunteered to care for the shoes. Moments later, when the sangat inquired about the whereabouts of this devoted soul, Baba Buddha led them outside in search of him. To everyone’s astonishment, they discovered that the man they had seen diligently caring for their shoes was none other than Guru Arjan Dev Ji himself, disguised in humble service .
Vindicating Sikh Honor Through Humility
This extraordinary act—where the Guru chose to perform even the most menial of chores—was far more than a demonstration of humility. It served as a profound lesson to his followers: that genuine honor and spiritual nobility are not found in a lofty position or pomp, but in acts of selfless service and deep equality. By personally assuming the role of a caretaker, Guru Arjan Dev Ji not only fulfilled the need of his sangat but also reaffirmed the Sikh teaching that no task is too lowly when done in the spirit of love and seva. Moreover, when Baba Buddha examined the shoes and recognized them as those of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in spirit, it underscored the timeless connection between the Gurus—a legacy of service that binds the Sikh community together .
An Enduring Legacy for Modern Sikhs
Guru Arjan’s blessing in Kabul reverberates through the ages as a beacon of spiritual inspiration. It challenges aspirants to dismantle hierarchical boundaries by embracing humility and recognizing that every act of service—no matter how seemingly insignificant—can be an expression of divine love. Today, as Sikhs and others look back on this sakhi (sacred anecdote), they are reminded that the true measure of honor lies in compassionate service and an unwavering commitment to selflessness. Through this act, Sikh honor was vindicated not through grand gestures of authority, but through the gentle, transformative power of humility and service.
