The creation of the Khalsa Panth is a pivotal moment in Sikh history, initiated by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the son of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. This is the story of how the Khalsa, a community of virtuous and courageous Sikhs, came into being. On a spring day in 1699, Guru Gobind Singh Ji called upon Sikhs from across India to gather in Anandpur for the festival of Vaisakhi. Thousands of Sikhs arrived, sensing that something extraordinary was about to unfold.
Standing before the massive crowd, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, clad in his uniform and holding a sword, addressed the Sikhs. For years, they had fought valiantly to defend their faith against oppression. Now, Guru Ji sought to instill in them a spirit of unwavering bravery and readiness to sacrifice their lives for their beliefs.
“Who among you is ready to lay down their life for the Guru and God?” he asked, brandishing his sword. The crowd fell silent. Guru Ji repeated his question twice, but no one responded.
On the third call, a man named Daya Ram stepped forward. “I will give my life for the Guru and God,” he declared courageously. Guru Ji led him into a tent. Moments later, a loud sound was heard, and Guru Ji emerged with his sword stained with blood. The crowd was stunned, and some began to leave.
Guru Ji repeated his call, and four more brave individuals—Dharam Das, Mokham Chand, Sahib Chand, and Himmat Rai—stepped forward one by one. Each was taken into the tent, and each time, Guru Ji reappeared with his bloodied sword.
Finally, to the astonishment of the crowd, Guru Ji revealed the five men alive and unharmed. They were dressed in radiant saffron robes, adorned with blue sashes and turbans, each holding a gleaming sword.
“These five have proven their courage and willingness to die for their faith,” Guru Ji proclaimed. “They are the Panj Pyare, the Five Beloved Ones, and the first members of the Khalsa—the pure ones chosen by God. The Khalsa is open to all, regardless of caste, gender, or background, but their hearts must be pure, their souls brave, and their faith unshakable.”
Guru Ji then conducted an initiation ceremony, preparing Amrit (sacred nectar) in a bowl. The Panj Pyare drank from the same bowl, symbolizing equality. In a profound gesture, Guru Ji himself knelt before them and received Amrit, declaring, “The Khalsa is the Guru, and the Guru is the Khalsa.”
This historic event marked the birth of the Khalsa Panth, a community rooted in courage, equality, and devotion to righteousness.
