SUNDAR, BABA, celebrated for his six stanza composition, the Ramkali Sadu, incorporated in the Guru Granth Sahib, was the great grand son of Guru Amar Das. His father, Anand Das son of Baba Mohri, was a man of a devout temperament. Sundar grew up in an environment of faith and piety and developed deep affection and reverence for Guru Amar Das, his great grandfather. The theme of his poem, Sadu meaning call, is the ascension of Guru Amar Das, described in terms of his having been recalled by God Almighty.
The hymn states how Guru Amar Das had completely surrendered himself to the Will of the Supreme Being, ever remaining absorbed in meditation on the Name, how he had, through the favour of Gurus, attained the office of Guru, how he, at the time of his departure, had appointed Ram Das his successor and how he had told his family to abide by the Will of the Lord and not to weep for him after him.
References :
1. Gurdit Singh, Giani, Itihas Sri Guru Granth Sahib (Bhagat Bani Bhag). Chandigarh, 1990
2. Sahib Singh, Bhagat Barn Satik. Amritsar, 1959-60
3. Macauliffe, Max Arthur, The Sikh Religion : Its Gurus, Sacred Writings and Authors. Oxford, 1909
Sundar Baba, celebrated for his six-stanza composition known as the Ramkali Sadu, holds a unique place in Sikh devotional literature. As a great-grandson of Guru Amar Das, Sundar Baba grew up steeped in the spiritual environment and legacy of the early Sikh Gurus. This intimate connection to his illustrious lineage is reflected in the depth and sensitivity of his composition, which is incorporated in the Guru Granth Sahib under the musical measure of Ramkali.
The Essence of Ramkali Sadu
The word “Sadu” literally means “call” or “invocation” and, in this context, it transforms what might traditionally have been a lament into a powerful expression of devotion and transcendence. In the hymn, Sundar Baba recounts the ascension of Guru Amar Das—not as a moment of mortal loss, but as an inspiring passage into the eternal, where the Guru fully surrendered himself to the Supreme Will. Through his verses, he imparts a timeless message: grief should give way to acceptance and rejoicing in the liberation that death brings when viewed as a union with the Divine.
Spiritual and Poetic Themes
Sundar Baba’s Ramkali Sadu touches upon several profound themes. It reflects on:
- Divine Surrender: The hymn emphasizes that true liberation comes from renouncing worldly attachments and wholeheartedly accepting the Divine Will.
- Transcendence of Mourning: Instead of mourning, the composition teaches that one should embrace the Guru’s departure as a joyful reunion with the Supreme Being.
- Continuity of Spiritual Legacy: By documenting the Guru’s journey into the spiritual realm, the Sadu reinforces the continuity of spiritual guidance passed down through generations.
The language of the hymn combines a precision of thought with a lyrical beauty that is both meditative and uplifting. Its verses invite listeners to contemplate the inevitable transition of life and to develop a deeper sense of spiritual detachment that honors the eternal nature of the soul.
Legacy in Sikh Devotional Practice
The Ramkali Sadu remains a cherished piece within the Guru Granth Sahib, frequently recited during congregational prayers and special occasions. Its performance in the traditional raga of Ramkali infuses the hymn with an evocative musical quality that enhances its meditative power. For many devotees, Sundar Baba’s composition is not merely a recitation; it is an experiential journey that bridges personal loss with a celebration of divine unity.
