BHAGATA, BHAI, an Ohri Khatri, figures in Bhai Gurdas`s roster of the principal disciples of Guru Nanak, Varan, XI. 14. To quote Bhai Mani Singh, Sikhan di Bhagat Mala, Bhai Bhagata, accompanied by Bhai Japu Vansi, presented himself before the Guru and said, "Holy Sir, we are illiterate and can neither read nor write. How shall we be saved!" "By shunning the ways of the manmukh," said Guru Nanak. "Pray, unfold to us the ways of a manmukh." The Guru replied, "Recognize a manmukh by his four traits, viz. envy, pride, backbiting and aversion to good counsel. These you must avoid, and you must share with your brethren food earned by the labour of your hands." Bhai Bhagata and Bhai Japu, continues the Bhagat Mala, practised the precept and attained liberation.
DARGAHA SINGH, BHAI (1713-1823), a Nirmala saint, was born in 1713 the son of Bhai Nigahia Singh of the village of Laungoval, in present day Sangrur district of the Punjab. Nigahia Singh was known to be the elder brother of Bhai Mani Singh, the martyr. For the divali festival of 1725, Nigahia Singh along with his seven sons went to Amritsar where the whole family received the initiatory rites of the Khalsa at the hands of Bhai Mani Singh. Three of the brothers remained in Amritsar, among them Dargaha Singh who showed marked aptitude for scholarly learning as well as for the martial arts. He gained proficiency in both fields, though he was more inclined towards religious pursuits.
