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.
BHAGIRATH, BHAI, whose name occurs in the roster of leading Sikhs in Bhai Gurdas, Varan, XI. 18, was a Soini Khatri. He entered the Sikh faith in the time of Guru Arjan. From the Guru himself he received enlightenment and learnt to distinguish a true gurmukh (one with face turned towards the Guru) from a manmukh (an egoridden one). See BHULLA, BHAI
