SINGARU, BHAI, and his brother Jaita, both brave soldiers, received initiation at the hands of Guru Arjan. The Guru directed them to be in attendance upon his son, Hargobind. They continued to serve the latter and were happy to see him installed as Guru in 1606. According to Bhai Santokh Singh, Sri Gur Pratap Suraj Grantli, they were once on a visit to their native village when they were given by a yogi ash of mercury supposed to turn base metal into gold.
They brought it as an offering for Guru Hargobind. The Guru, however, cast the ash into the pool, saying: “This is mere charlatanry for one who has reduced his ego to ashes. The ash of mercury might transform copper into gold, but the reduction of ego transforms man into God.” Bhai Singaru and his brother ranked among the prominent Sikhs of the time. They also took part in Guru Hargobind`s battles with the Mughal troops.
References :
1. Mani Singh, Bhai, Sikhan di Bhagat Mala. Amrilsar, 1955
2. Santokh Singh, Bhai, Sri Gur Pratap Suraj Gianth. Amritsar, 1927-35
Bhai Singaru and Bhai Jaita stand as timeless symbols of Sikh valor and transformation—a dual legacy that illustrates the evolution of Sikh identity from one of pure devotion to one embracing martial resolve when duty demanded. Their heroic journey is intricately woven into the pivotal moment when Guru Arjun Dev Ji, recognizing the rising tide of injustice, signaled that his Sikhs would soon need to defend their sacred way of life. He entrusted these two fearless warriors with a critical mission: to join the forthcoming era under Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, a transition from peaceful spirituality to a balance of spiritual wisdom and the readiness to confront tyranny with arms.
Bhai Singaru (pronounced “Singaaroo”) and Bhai Jaita answered this call with unwavering commitment. Historically revered as the trusted custodians of Sikh martial traditions, they played instrumental roles in the battles that followed. Their contributions not only secured the safety and dignity of the Sikh community during tumultuous times but also set a precedent for future generations—affirming that faith and courage must go hand in hand. Their legacy, resonating through centuries, continues to inspire the Sikh ethos: one that champions justice, defies oppression, and never shies away from the responsibility of protecting one’s community.
Their collective narrative—a blend of deep spiritual loyalty and the brave acceptance of martial duty—reminds us that, for the Sikh tradition, the pen and the sword are both revered. The transformation they underwent is emblematic of a broader historical shift, where the ideals of love, sacrifice, and devotion were matched by the courage to stand up against injustice. This duality remains at the heart of Sikh identity, inspiring not only martial training but also a commitment to cultural preservation and social justice.
