The story begins with Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s travels through Assam, Bengal, and Bihar before settling briefly in Talwandi Sahib and Dhamdhan. In April 1665, while visiting Kiratpur Sahib, news arrived of the passing of Raja Deep Chand of Bilaspur—a devoted Sikh. Out of respect, Guru Ji traveled to Bilaspur to offer prayers, staying until May 13th.
During this time, Rani Champa learned of Guru Ji’s plan to move his headquarters to Dhamdhan. Distressed at the thought of his departure, she approached Mata Nanaki Ji (Guru Ji’s mother) with a heartfelt plea: “Please ask Guru Ji not to go so far from Bilaspur.” Moved by her sincerity, Mata Nanaki Ji conveyed the request to Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, who agreed to stay closer to Bilaspur.
Overjoyed, Rani Champa offered to donate land for Guru Ji to establish a new city. But here lies the remarkable part: Guru Ji refused the gift. Instead, he insisted on purchasing the site himself—a stretch of land between Lodhipur, Miyapur, and Sahota villages—for 500 rupees. This land, nestled in the Shivalik foothills near the ruins of Makhowal, would become Anandpur Sahib.
Why the Refusal?
- Principle of Self-Reliance: Guru Ji upheld the Sikh value of earning through honest labor, rejecting dependency on royal favors.
- Strategic Wisdom: The location—protected by the Sutlej River, forests, and hills—was ideal for defense against Mughal threats, as past attacks on Amritsar and Kartarpur had proven.
- Spiritual Sovereignty: By purchasing the land, Guru Ji ensured the Sikh community’s autonomy. The site, named “Chak Nanaki” after his mother, became a sanctuary for meditation and intellectual growth.
Rani Champa, though initially hesitant about accepting payment, rejoiced that Guru Ji chose to settle nearby. For Bilaspur, having a Sikh stronghold on the Mughal frontier meant greater security. The fertile land, yielding two crops yearly, promised self-sufficiency—a vision Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji fulfilled with humility and foresight.
Anandpur Sahib’s foundation reminds us: true sovereignty begins with dignity and self-respect.
