SUNDRI

Written  By Bhai Vir Singh Ji

  PART  I

 In a remote corner of Punjab, there was a small village, surrounded by rich green fields. At a short distance, there was a thick forest, which had a large pool in it. This was used as a watering hole by the wild animals. So it had become a favorite hunting ground, and a lot of people used to come there looking for prey. 

On the out skirts of the village along the main road lived a rich farmer called Sharma. His married daughter was to go to her in-laws place and the whole house was full of people and the smell of delicacies being prepared. The shadows grew long as evening approached and a slight breeze began to blow. 

The young girl, whose name was Saraswati went into the open yard behind her house when her friends were playing. 

Like a flock of birds they chattered, sometimes bursting into song while they clapped and danced. Saraswati was the most beautiful of all of them, and when they saw her they made a circle around her, and began to sing. Nearby was a grinding stone with a wooden pole, in which some women had put rice to de-husk it. The 'Thump! Thump!' of the pole became like a drum – beat to the song and they were soon lost in the beauty and poignancy of the words relating the closeness between mothers and daughters. 

When the song ended, the girls were horrified to see a young Mughal soldier on a horse. He had probably been attracted by the singing. Now he sat astride his horse and stand unblinkingly at Saraswati. The girls were completely unnerved and looked as if turned to stone. 

The young Mughal moved forward suddenly, and grabbing Saraswati's tender wrist pulled her forward and lifting her on to the horse, rode off and soon vanished from sight. 

Hearing Saraswati’s agonized screams and the shrieks of her friends, the family members and other villagers rushed to the spot. Everyone heard the shocking story. But no one came forward to go to the young girls rescue. No one had the courage. 

After a lot of discussion, it was decided that the girl's father, brother and husband should go to the Mughal's camp and beg him to let the girl go. Maybe he would take pity and give in to their pleadings. 

The Mughal's camp had been set up about a mile away from the village, and the young man, who was the Nawab of the area, had come there for hunting, He had some servants and a few Soldiers with him and they had accompanied him on the hunt. While chasing a deer he had left his companions far behind. The deer managed to escape and he, being thirsty turned towards the village for water and there he found a different prey in the form of a young and beautiful girl. When he reached his camp, he pushed the girl into a tent and went to tie up his horse and to drink some water. 

By this time the girl's relatives also reached, The girl sat in a corner, sobbing quietly. The Nawab sat down on the cot and looked angrily at the villagers. They came to him and bowed low. 

Shama joined his hands and said, "My Lord, She is my beloved daughter and she is married. Today she has to go to her husband's home. Please set her free. The rulers are like one's mother and father, always caring for their subjects." 

Nawab - "Go away all of you. What I take I do not qive up." 

Shama - "My Lord, I can offer you her weight in silver, but please let her go." 

The brother also spoke up - "Surely you have no shortage of beautiful women, If you like we can offer you gold instead, Please release my Sister!" 

The Mughal however, continued to shake his head obstinately. 

It was the turn of the husband now, to catch the Nawab's feet and beg for mercy, "Please spare us this shame . I am ready to offer you anything valuable - jewels - anything you wish, but please return my wife to me, and save my honor!" 

The Nawab now turned his head and looking slyly at them said. "You seem very moneyed people - but I don't care for your silver, gold and jewels. Leave right now or I'll have you thrown in prison. 

The husband realized that in their eagerness to get his wife free they had revealed how wealthy they were. He had no wish to lose everything for the sake of a mere girl. Quietly, he slipped away. 

Seeing the Nawab's adamant attitude, the girl's father began to wail loudly and her brother fell down in a dead faint. 

Saraswati looked at them, then drying her tears and pushing back her veil she came close to her brother and began to whisper softly in his ears, "Wake up dear brother, wake up and go home" I will not drink the water from a Mughal's home, brother. I would rather set fire and kill myself!" 

At these words of quiet confidence, the brother and father got up. They knew they could gain nothing by staying except the Nawab's anger. With slow, dragging steps, they returned to their village. 

The house, which a short while earlier had been a picture of joyous celebration was now turned into a place or mourning. The people collected around to console the girl 's family and to condemn the injustice and tyranny of the rulers. But they were helpless to do anything. 

PART  II

  Just then, the people heard the sound of hooves, and turning saw a handsome figure ride up to them. He was fully armed, and was wearing a bright orange turban on his head. His face was radiant and his eyes shone with loving compassion. He got off his horse and stood quietly. 

Suddenly, Saraswati 's mother ran forward, and took the young rider in a warm embrace. She had recognized her elder son, who had left home some time ago to become a Sikh, and had not been heard of since. 

Seeing him like this, all of a sudden, their anger against him vanished, and the father and brother also rushed forward to embrace him, The joy of meeting him, however, was soon dimmed by the recent sad events, which were narrated to the young Sikh warrior. 

Balwant Singh, as was his name now, was filled ,with rage as the sad story came to an end. Quickly he asked for directions to the Nawab’s camp, then without another word he leapt onto the horse and weeling him around, qallopped off. His parents kept calling out to him not to go there as he would surely lose his life. But by this.time the brave young man had vanished. 

Balwant Singh reached the camp and Seeing no one began to circle it. Behind one tent he saw a pile of logs, with smoke pouring out of it. Then faintly, he heard a voice reciting "Japji Saheb". In an instant, Balwant Singh got: off his horse, and reaching the pile saw his sister. Quickly he lifted her to the ground. She was overjoyed to see him. "My dearest brother. I was not afraid to die and had only one wish, to see you before the end. Guruji has been very kind and fulfilled that too, SHUKAR HAI. Now go quickly. I want to die before the Mughal comes " 

The brother refused and wanted her to go with him. But Saraswati. was desperate and said "To die in order to save ones ‘dharm’ is not wrong. I am not afraid. Guru TegBahadurji. Will protect me. If I go with you, the Nawab will destroy the whole village, and you too will not be spared. I can't bear the thought of causing so much suffering, Please, please go." 

Hearing some sounds. Balwant Sinqh hurriedly picked up his sister and in spite of her protests, placed her on the horse and rode away like the wind. 

When he reached his fathers house, they turned on him with anger, "You fool! What have you done! Wasn’t it enough that you put all of us in such danger by becoming a Sikh! Now you have snatched the girl away from that Mughal! He will come roaring like a hungry lion and destroy all of us. Have mercy on us and go right back and return the girl to him," 

Balwant Singh was horrified at this reaction and taking his sister with him he at once rode off. After an hour or so he reached an open place, which was littered with bodies and the blood had soaked into the ground turning the earth a dark red color. He was shocked at the sight and wondered how to find the whereabouts of the rest of his companions whom he had left only a short while ago. 

Slowly Balwant Singh began to check the bodies lying on the ground and came upon one who was still breathing, and did not appear to be mortally wounded. 

Balwant Singh recognized him as one Sher Sinqh. Tearing up a turban into strips, he bandaged his wounds with Saraswati's help and trickled some water into his mouth. Sher Sinqh took a deep breath opened his eyes and whispered, "Brother, I am so glad to see you." 

Balwant Singh - "Sher Singh, what happened? When I left - all was peaceful. How could all this happen in such a short time?" 

Sher Singh: "After you left, brother, we were busy setting up camp, when the Mughals attacked taking us by surprise. We fought as best we could, but they were too many. After I got wounded, I don't know what happened. I hope some of the Singhs managed to reach the deep woods." 

Leaving Sher Singh under the shade of a tree, the brother and sister started searching for other survivors. But they could find only one who was unconscious, but not wounded. As soon as he recovered consciousness, he gave them some more details of the attack. 

They had to join the rest of their companions at the earliest, so finding another horse tied behind a tree they quickly rode off with Balwant Singh holding Sher Singh in front of him. 

Saraswati used to listen to her brother talking about the Sikh religion and had develop a great liking and respect for it. On the quiet, she would recite the prayers of Gurbani, and was now, so strong in her faith, that she could confidently console her father and brother, and then prepare to immolate herself, before her brave brother came and rescued her. Now when she saw so many dead and wounded Sikhs, she was overcome and decided that there could be no better way to live than to serve these brave people who were constantly risking their lives for the sake of their religion. She had seen the transformation in her brother who was not only courageous but compassionate as well. She too wanted to become like him and also to become a warrior. 

With this thought in mind she had picked up a sword from the ground and slung it around her neck before leaving the battle ground on a horse. 

She was deep in her thoughts when she heard her brother shout. Looking back, they saw a dust cloud in the distance. Soon it became clear that they were being chased by the Nawab and his soldiers. 

Balwant Singh and Saraswati urged their horses to go faster and faster, but were soon overtaken. 

A short and fierce battle was fought, but how long could the three hold out against three dozen! Sher Singh and his companion were killed, Balwant Singh and Saraswati were wounded and taken back to the camp to face whatever hardships the Nawab planned for them. 

PART  III

 Deep in the woods of Punjab, the Sikhs had cleared a part of the land and made a camp, where they could take shelter when the oppression of the Mughal rulers became too much. There were a number of such camps. Only the Sikhs knew their location, and how to reach them. 

In one such place, the evening prayers were being recited in the presence of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. After the completion of the recitation one of the Sikhs whose name was Sham Singh stood up. He was extremely tall and well - built and his face was alight with fervor. Addressing the group, he said, "Khalsa Ji, do any of you know the where-abouts of Balwant Singh. 

Everyone shook his head. Then one of them said, "We have not seen him since the day he left for his village. Maybe he found it difficult to leave the comforts of his home and family." 

But Sham Singh disagreed. "No, he is not the one to be so tempted. I am sure he is in trouble." 

Rathorh Singh spoke up, "I think the best way to find out is to send someone to his village." 

Hari Singh promptly offered to go. Sham Singh warned him, "Yes, go, but be careful and disguise yourself as a Mughal. Also try and find out what is the condition of the Sikhs in other places, and come back as quickly as possible." 

Han Singh immediately bowed before Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Then putting on the dress of a Mughal, he took his horse and left the clearing. 

Darkness was falling, but Hari Singh did not let that worry soon the open, he got on to his horse and a, village, there was a broken-down hovel in which a Muslim shopkeeper lived. When Hari Singh in the Mughal disguise came near, they greeted him respectfully, gave him a cot to sit on, and brought some hay and water for the horse. 

They offered Hari Singh some food. But he refused, and tying his horse to the cot, he went to sleep. 

Hari Singh had been asleep only for a couple of hours, when he was woken up by a loud commotion. 

A Mughal prince had arrived with a large number of servants and horses. It took them quite some time to settle down, but finally everything was peaceful again. 

Near Hari Singh’s cot, a couple of the Amir’s guards made their beds, and lying on them, they began to talk. 

First Guard: "Who is this ‘Balvant’ ?" 

Second Guard: "He is that unbeliever, who became well - known among the Sikhs, as a brave warrior, who carried out daring raids during Nadir Shah’s reign. Also in the previous battle, this same man had killed Rustam Khan." 

First Guard: "Well, it is our good fortune that such a fighter has been captured." 

Second Guard: "And if you see his sister, you will lose your senses completely. I don’t know why the Hindu women are so beautiful" 

First Guard: "Will she also be converted to Islam ?" 

Second Guard: "Of course, because Nawab Sahib wants to marry her. 

The ‘Nikah’ will be done with a lot of pomp and show. We too will get gifts." 

First Guard: "But have the brother and sister agreed to accept Islam ?" 

Second Guard: "Do these Sikhs ever give up their religion happily ? They have to be forcibly fed on the sweet. meats, as they have come to love the sour taste of the sword.!" 

First Guard: "You are right. They are extremely stubborn, like solid rocks. God knows where they came from? Tell me, how much further do we have to travel?" 

Second Guard: "Not very far. Today is Monday; by Friday, we must be there. Your master, the Mullaji has been invited to attend. Along with him you too will get a big amount of cash. But more than that it is a holy act to see these Sikhs being brought into our religion." 

First Guard: "I wonder why they have taken so long to carry this out. After all, Balwant Singh and his sister were captured over a month ago. 

Second Guard: "Oh, that was because both were injured during the fighting and have just recovered from their wounds." 

After some more talk, both the guards fell asleep. Hari Singh got up, and after softly undoing the reins of his horse, quietly slipped away like a shadow. 

In spite of dark clouds and the pitch black night, when it was difficult to see the hands in front of one's face, Hari Singh rode on and reached his camp just as the sun was rising. 

PART  IV

 In the camp, the group of Sikhs had bathed and begun the recitation of "ASA DI WAAR". Hari Singh sat down and began to listen, After the Bhog, he related all that he had heard from the two guards. 

"Brother Balwant Singh and his sister are captives in Doaba, and will be forcibly converted to Islam on the coming Friday,’ he told them. 

The Sikhs were outraged to hear this news. Their blood boiled at this tyranny, and especially at the thought of a young girl in Mughal captivity. They were ready for action and the air rang with the sound of "Guru! Guru! Guru!" 

Bhai Sam Singh gathered all the Sikhs together and told them, "We must leave immediately, There is no time to waste. We shall see what food we can get on the way. Lets go!" 

The whole 'Jatha' of Sikhs tightened the reins of their horses and rode off as one. 

It is a cloudy day, and a strong wind is chasing the dark clouds across the sky, so that the sun, cannot be seen, At times the wind turns into a gentle breeze, but after some time, it freshens again, blowing dust all over the place. 

The people, mostly Mughals are busily moving around, while some poor shop - keepers sit in resigned silences in their shops.  

The big Mosque is a hive of activity. Groups of men are coming in and sitting down, till the place is over - flowing with people. Fully armed soldiers are standing guard outside the main gate of the Mosque.

Just then a palanquin, borne on the shoulders of four Brahmins comes into view. In it sits the senior Mullaji who had been specially invited. He comes out of the palanquin and enters the Mosque, where he is respectfully escorted to a seat at the front.

The Nawab comes next with his armed guards, and immediately behind them is a closed palanquin followed by a young man on foot, whose hands and feet are in chains. He is wearing dirty and torn clothes, with a small turban on his head. This is tied so loosely that long strands of hair have escaped on to the nape of his neck. He has an anxious expression on his face but his eyes are flashing defiance and anger at the lookers - on.

A burqa - clad figure comes out of the palanquin and along with the prisoner is pushed into the Mosque.

The Mosque was crammed with people, who waited in silence for the drama to begin.

The Mulla addressed the two figures in an authoritative voice, "Do you, Balwant Singh, willingly agree to accept Islam?"

Balwant Singh: "It is death, I willingly and joyfully accept!"

The Mulla turned to the Nawab and said, " He is a stubborn one. He will not agree easily. You will have to cut off his head or use force -------".

Nawab: "Yes, your second suggestion is good."

Mulla: "Is the barber present? "

Barber: "Yes, my Lord,"

Mulla: "Come here and remove this fellow's hair."

Barber: "As you wish, my Lord."

The barber opened his bag and took out a sharp razor, but as he approached he glanced at Balwant Singh's face and immediately moved back, such was the threat In the Singh's angry face. Immediately four guards moved up and roughly caught hold of Balwant Singh so that he could not move. As the barber approached him again, the figure standing quietly by, suddenly flung the ‘burqa’ aside and grabbing the barber by his scrawny shoulders gave him such a push that he went rolling like a football across the courtyard.

The people were stunned to see the vibrant beauty of the young girl, and looked on in silence. The Nawab looked as if he had been struck by lightning. The Mulla made a sign to the two nearest guards, who immediately caught the brave girl and pulling her hands behind her back tied them securely.

The barber got up, and brushed his clothes. He came forward for yet another attempt. Sawaswati looked at her beloved brother with eyes filled with love and despair. For her sake her gallant brother was to go through such dishonor!

Just then, a loud banging was heard from the bazaar and a cloud of dust could be seen, Some thought it was a dust storm, others felt a house had collapsed or there was an earthquake.

Soon it became clear that armed horsemen were fighting with the soldiers. One small group entered the Mosque like the wind and with a loud victory call they snatched up Balwant Sinqh and his sister and forced their way out through the crowds.

Surrounded by the rest of the party, this army of Sikhs moved like lightning through the bazaar towards its Eastern gate.

Suddenly their leader called, ‘Halt’! and their way was blocked by soldiers who had recovered from the shock and were ready to attack.

Sardar Sham Singh pointed silently to two soldiers with cannon which were partially hidden. Immediately his ace shooters took aim and let off a volley from their hand guns, with the result that the two soldiers fell on the road like dead birds.

Another group with bows and arrows then let off a shower of arrows knocking out the rest who stood guard at the gate. Battering this down, they rode out to be faced by another bunch of soldiers.

With their swords raised, the Sikh warriors rushed through, slashing left and right till they were clear, and soon disappeared from sight.

PART  V

 Reaching a clearing, Sardar Sham Singh signaled to his troops to stop. They dismounted and within a short time set up camp. The horses were tied to the near—by trees and given bowls of water and hay from the surrounding fields. Two Sikhs went to a near—by village in search of food.

Sardar Sham Singh spread a cloth on the ground, and calling Balwant Singh and Saraswati, asked them to sit down. Every Sikh in the group came up in turn to greet Balwant Singh with a warm hug and Saraswati with folded hands and ‘Gur Fateh I The skies echoed to the exuberant calls of "Gurbar Akal I"

Gradually, everyone became quiet as Balwant Singh began to narrate his painful experience. He was locked up in a dark cell and alternately tortured and brain washed with promises of enormous riches and comforts. But his worst suffering was at the thought of the Nawab forcing his sister into marriage.

In due time the two men returned from the village, empty-handed.

"There are few Hindus in the village and mostly Mughals, said one, "So, no-one is ready to give us food and water. We even offered to pay, but they are too afraid."

Sham Singh said, "Then bring two ‘Panch’ (head men) of the village.

"We have already brought them, Sardar sahib," said the second Sikh, pushing two villagers forward.

Sham Singh : ‘Why didn’t you give food, Chaudhary ?"

Panch: "The ruler of the land does not allow it

Sham Singh : "Khalsa is the ruler at present."

Panch: " How can we rely on the Khalsa - here today, and like the passing clouds, gone in the next instant !"

Sham Singh turned to his companions and said, "Some of you go into the village and bring whatever food-stuff you can find. But don’t touch the women and children1 or anything else besides the food."

He had barely finished speaking, when four Muslim women in "burqas" came slowly up to them. They were crying softly and had a 14 - year old boy with them. Using the boy as their spokesman, they requested the Sikhs, "Please, don’t hurt our men-folk We are ready to give whatever you need."

Sardar : "We only need food and water."

Women : "We will make the Hindu women prepare large quantities of food and send to you. But you won’t trouble our men, will you ?"

Sham Singh : "NO. We will also pay for the food, We don2t believe in harassing the people. Our fight is only against the tyranny of the rulers. Now, go quickly, take this money and send us the food, May you and your men live long I"

Soon, with contributions from each house - hold of :"flour" and "dal", wooden stoves were lit and cooking begun in large pots.

Meanwhile, the waiting Sikhs finished of f all the carrots growing in a couple of near - by fields.

As soon as the hot food reached them, they sat down and hungrily ate their fill. Now, it was time for them to move onwards. With energy they cleared the temporary camp and climbing on to their horses rode off like the soft breeze of spring and were soon out of sight.

As the evening shadows began to lengthen, a company of Mughal soldiers rode into the village.

The commanding officer called the village ‘Panch’ and asked if a battalion of Sikhs had passed that way.

Panch: "Yes, sir! They stopped here, had food and water and left only a short while ago.

Officer: "Who supplied them the food?

Panch : "The Hindus of the village, sir."

Officer: "Any Muslims also?"

Panch : "No, sir. As you know, sir, the Muslims never help any ‘Kafir’ willingly. But these Hindus were delighted to see the Sikhs.

At this, the officer became thoroughly enraged, and ordered his soldiers to capture the Hindus and bring them to him. Without questioning them, or giving them a chance to talk, he ordered them to be brutally beaten up, with the result that many died on the spot.

One of those killed was a newly - married young man, and the order was given to perform the ‘nikah’ (Muslim wedding ceremony) of the bride with the officer.

The young woman beseeched the officer to let her die with her husband, but who was there to pay heed to her pleas! Frustrated and in a fury, she turned towards the officer1 and lashed out at his face. Her fist hit him in the eye so hard that he fainted and fell off his horse. Seeing his officer’s plight, one of the Mughal Soldiers rushed up with his sword drawn. off the girl’s head, but unfortunately before he could stop himself, the point of his sword pierced the officers breast.

A few days have passed since the above event. In one of the camps, in the heart of a deep forest, the Sikhs are moving about, doing various jobs, in an atmosphere of carefree joy. They seldom remember their homes and families. They are united in their love and devotion for Guru Gobind Singh Ji, and they are eager to spend their lives protecting their religion. This single-minded purpose gives them the courage to withstand all hardships, and to live in the deep jungles as fearlessly as the lions.

After the evening meal, they all gathered around Sardar Sham Singh, who was sitting with Balwant Singh and his sister.

Sham Singh :"So, Bibiji (politely turning to Saraswati), what do you want to do ?

Have you decided?"

Saraswati :"I would like to be guided by you."

Sham Singh: "You have to make the decision and we shall give all the help we can. If you like, we can bring your husband here. And if you want to go to him, we can escort you to his village. The only problem with the latter plan is that the Nawab will not let you live in peace, and you will be back in his clutches, So think carefully before you decide, You are our sister and we shall do everything to see that you are happy."

Saraswati : "Respected Bhraji, I have lost interest In my marriage as my husband has abandoned me. It was his duty to protect me, and he failed in his duty. Now, I don't want to get involved in a situation, from which my Guruji has liberated me. My only desire is to spend the rest of my life in the service of the Khalsa. If you allow me, I would like to live among my brothers. During peaceful days I can help with the cooking and other jobs, and when you set out to do battle, I would like to go along, so that I can help in taking care of the wounded. I can’t bear to sit idle, while my brave brothers face such ordeals for the sake of their religion. I, too want to be part of this struggle, and I beg you to teach me Gurbani, so that I can do the daily recitation, meditate en the Lords ‘name’ and be of service to everyone. I shall consider myself extremely lucky if you will let me lead such a life."

PART  VI

 Saraswati finished speaking and her simple and sincere words brought tears to Sham Singh's eyes. After thinking for a while, he said: "We lead very rough lives, and are constantly faced with danger. These days we cannot even go to our villages. How will you be able to cope with this life of daily strain and discomfort?" Saraswati: "Guruji will give me strength and l will be able to accept whatever happens. I know I want to spend my life here"

After another pause, Sham Singh said; "You are, not an ordinary woman, but an angel of mercy. You are truly blessed that you want to spend your life in service to your brothers. May Waheguru Ji grant you your wish, my dear sister! As for me, you can consider yourself free to do what ever makes you happy, and to lead a meaningful life. However you will have to develop manly qualities to last out here." Balwant Singh: "I too am very happy, my dear sister! You are truly Guruji's daughter, with the courage of a lion. May Waheguru protect you! May Mai Bhago bless you"

Saraswati: "My brother, since the body is perishable and one day it must die, why not let it die in a good cause?

"Remember how the beloved sons of our Guruji faced death with a smile on their faces, and Bhai Mani Singh Ji laughed in the face of his torturers as they cut his body at every single joint! When such holy men are sacrificing their lives: then why should we protect and save ourselves, and for what? I have seen with my own eyes that the love of parents, relatives and friends is short lived"

"When you saved me from the burning pyre, my; dear brother, you risked your life, unlike ordinary brothers. In your heart was devotion to your religion, love for Guru Ji, and a great degree of self respect which made you take pity on me. "I too want to follow a religious path and make truthful living my aim." "You are feeling hesitant because you feel that a woman is not only physically weak, but mentally and spiritually as well. Please believe me when i say that a woman's heart can be soft as butter, and yet hard and yet a rock too. "When she is filled with religious fervor, she can be so firm and determined that nothing can influence her. I say this, not out of empty boasting but with the confidence that Guru Ji will make, all this possible."

Sham Singh and Balwant Singh looked very happy and moved at these words and praised Saraswati for her firm faith and clear thinking.

In the morning, everyone gathered in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib ji for the morning prayers. After' the 'Ardaas' Sardar Sham Singh told the Sikhs about Saraswati's resolve to stay with them and spend her life in service to her religion and her brothers. "We have therefore resolved that she will be given 'Amrit’. it is our request that the whole Khalsa nation acccept her as the daughter of Mata Saheb DevaJi and Guru Gobind Singh Ji and treat her as their sister."

In a solemn atmosphere, Saraswati partook the holy 'Amrit' and when the ‘Shabad’ was read from Guru Granth Sahibji, she was given the name Sunder Kaur and became well known as Sundri

The camp’s atmosphere changed dramatically with Sundri’s presence. The young men had been long separated from their families and learnt to be tough and stoic.

Sundri brought a sense of warmth and affection, and it; is to the credit of the strong principles of the Sikhs that each was happy to see in her, the image of his sister, and mother. This purity of character was taught by Guruji. The whole community was united then, in their shared love for their religion, their willingness to do or die and their love for Gurbani and reciting Waheguruji's name. That too was 'Kalyug’ but the Sikhs were of a different calibre.

Sundri became absorbed into the camp life very soon and took on the Job of caring for her tough brothers, who in turn protected her. With the help of a couple of Sikhs she would prepare the meals and look after the daily needs of the camp. And all the while she would recite Gurbani, and remember Waheguru Ji's name.

Whenever the kitchen ran out of flour and other food stuffs, the Singhs would go and pluck fruits and dig up sweet roots from the nearby woods. Soon, Sundri also became an expert at this job, and would go wandering into the jungle in search of edible plants.

One day, she noticed a small hill at a distance and walked towards it. From the summit, she saw a village on the other side, surrounded by rich, green fields. The villagers were Hindus. They were short but strong in build and relied on their crops for sustenance. Sundri began to purchase vegetables and other items from them, at regular intervals. The villagers were happy to deal with her, but no one could understand where this graceful young girl came from and where she went.

One day all the rations were over in the camp and the money too was finished. Everyone was tired of eating roots and wild fruits. Sundri decided to take matters into her own hands. She had a gold ring studded with a diamond, which had been given to her at her wedding. She took this into the village and showed it to a couple of shop - keepers, hoping to sell it and use the money for buying rations.

No one could put a value on the ring. Disappointed, Sundri turned to go back to the camp. At the end of the street, she was stopped by a well-dressed man.

"Bibi , who are you, and why are you looking so sad ?" he asked.

Sundri: "I can't find a buyer for my diamond ring."

Man: "Let me see it."

Sundri gave him the ring

Man: "It is valuable and the gem is pure. You can easily get Rs. 700/- for it. Unfortunately, I can't help you as I am far from my place and have no money with me."

He heaved a sigh and with tears in his eyes he handed the ring back to Sundri and said, "Bibi, may Lord Shiva bless you. If you can take this ring to a town, you will get a much better price for it."

Sundri: "It will be as Guruji wishes. But tell me, why you, a man, have tears in your eyes?"

Man: "Bibi, you are a helpless woman and I am a weak man. Neither of us can help the other. It is no use reciting my troubles to you. I feel that you are not happy, that is why you are trying to sell your ring."

Sundri: "Oh brother, I am supremely happy. You may think that I am weak, but I know that I am a brave person and belong to a community of courageous warriors, who are putting the fear of the Lord into the hearts of the Mughals."

The man was surprised at Sundri's remarks and asked, "Who can face the Mughals? The Sikhs had managed to get together and gave stiff resistance a few times, but curses are on our brothers who are helping the Mughals in finishing off the Sikhs. Have you heard that Lakhpat is soon coming from Aimnabad with a large army? Oh my Lord Bholanath, what is going to happen"

PART  VII

 Sundri became very agitated when she heard about Lakhpat. But controlling herself, she said, "Tell me about yourself.

Man: "Since you are so interested I will tell you my sad tale. About twenty miles from here, there is a large Muslim village, with a number of Hindu families living in it. There is also a beautiful Shiva temple there. "I belong to a very old high caste Khatri family. During the days of Akbar, one of my ancestors served under Diwan Todar Mal. There was so much wealth in the family, that it has lasted till today." "A Mughal 'hakam' and his soldiers live in our village.

A few days ago I went to the Shiva temple to make an offering. My wife had washed her hair and was standing on the roof to dry them. The Mughal 'hakam' happened to pass that way and he saw her.

"The moment I returned from the village, his soldiers caught me and took me to him. In an arrogant tone he said, "The Emperor has received information that you are hiding jewels of Akbar’s treasury in your home. Return them at once, otherwise we shall lock you up." "I replied, 'Generations have passed since Akbar died, and since my ancestors also passed away. What proof have you got?"

Hakam: 'O Kafar, how dare you be rude to a Momin! Get out of my sight.' He signalled to his soldiers, who put me in the lock-up. A guard was placed outside my house.

"The next day, he sent me a message that he would set me free if I handed over my wife to him. The shock was too much for me and I fainted. When I regained my senses I managed to bribe the jailor with the gold. bracelets and rings which I was wearing, and rushed home To my horror I found my ,wife missing and soldiers standing guard. From the neighbors I learnt that she had been taken to the Nawab’s palace. I can't bear this humiliation and want to kill myself."

Sundri  "Oh you poor man: I know your suffering is great, but it is not correct to take your own life. If you want to rescue your wife come with me. My brothers will willingly help you."

Khatri: "Bibi, your sweet words are like balm to my troubled soul. I am so confused. What great evil have we done that such suffering has come to our country? Where have all the Gods gone? Why don't the holy men come to our aid? Oh, Shiv! Oh Vishnu? Help us, and save us from the invaders."

Sundri's tender heart was deeply touched to hear the pain in the man's words. She spoke in a soft voice, "O, good man, suffering comes because of our wrong actions. When we all put our efforts in loving Him, who is our creator and benevolent Father, we become united and strong. Then no one can harm us. By following separate paths we are becoming weak and this gives the invaders a chance to enter our country and rule us with tyranny and aggression.

Sundri reassured the Khatri that her brothers could help him, and they set off towards the camp. As soon as they neared the woods Sundri stopped.

"I will have to blind-fold you here. We live surrounded by danger, so we can't take a chance and reveal the where - abouts of our camp. I hope you will not mind," she said and quickly tied a piece of cloth across his eyes.

In a short time they reached the camp. Sundri was astonished to see the fires were lit and large pots were placed on them. Stopping one of the Singhs, who was busily doing the cooking, she asked, "Bhraji, what is all this?"

Singh: "Dear sister, this is maha prashad. When Sardar Sham Singhji saw that all rations were over he went hunting with Balwant SinghJi and managed to shoot some deer, and now we are cooking them. But where have you been all this time?"

Sundri laughed and said, "Virji, since you have been sitting idle for so long, I thought I'd find some work for you"

Singh: "And did you manage to find any?"

Sundri pointed towards the Khatri and said, "There it is."

Meanwhile Balwant Singh had come up and hearing Sundri’s words, he asked her to come to Sardar Sahib for advice. They took the Khatri along.

Sardar Sham Singh heard the whole story from Sundri. His eyes shone with pride and affection when he learnt of Sundri's efforts to sell off her ring for the sake of her brothers.

Smiling, he looked at Sundri and said, "You are truly an angel".

Then he turned to one of the Sikhs and told him to take the man to the kitchen, remove his blind - fold and give him food to eat.

He was worried in case this man was a spy, and had been sent to find tile location of their camp. So he instructed one man to stay with him all the time and keep an eye on him. A third Sikh was sent to the village, in disguise, to check out if the man’s story was correct and to find where his wife was being held captive.

Sundri was impatient to have the man’s wife rescued quickly. She remembered her own days in the Mughals lock-up and could imagine the suffering of the woman.

But hearing Sardar Sham Singh's words of caution, she realized how wise and far - sighted his thinking was. This was the reason that he was respected and accepted as their leader, not only by their group but the whole 'Panth'

In a short time the Sikh cane back from the village with the news that the man had indeed spoken the truth. Immediately Sardar Sham Singh began to discuss with the others what plan to make for the rescue of the Khatri's unfortunate wife.

PART  VIII

 In the village where the Khatri’s wife was held captive, the people were busy with their daily chores.

There was an air of festivity in the Nawab’s palace, where he sat in the 'Diwan Khana', surrounded by a number of minor officials and hangers - on. A variety of dishes were kept heaped with delicious snacks and foods, while whisky glasses were being passed around.

In the ladies section also there was the hub-bub of activity. Richly dressed and bejeweled wives of the Nawab were sitting on a beautiful Turkish carpet. The Nawab had a number of wives, each more beautiful than the other. While the whole group laughed and chatted, one of them sat quietly, looking extremely unhappy. Though she too was dressed in rich silks and Jewels, she looked like a scared mynah bird imprisoned in a golden cage. At times she cried quietly, the tears dripping down her cheeks, her body shaken by deep sobs. The others tried to make her talk but she refused to look up or respond in anyway. One of them, feeling some pity said, "Leave her alone. She is still new, but soon she too will get used to all this."

Just then the maids brought in silver and gold plates laden with a variety of foods. Spreading a cloth or ‘dastarkhan' on the carpet they placed all the platters on it. Saying 'Bis millah' the women began to eat. They tried to make the woman eat as well, but she refused and continued to weep. This infuriated the "Begums" who were ready to beat her when, one of them said 'Don’t get angry, sisters. She can't help herself. Remember when I was captured and brought here, how unhappy I was and look at me now," and she smiled contentedly.

The Begums forgot their anger but insisted that the woman must be made to eat something at least. Holding her downs they tried to pour some curry into her mouth. The woman resisted screaming, "Oh Lord Shiva, save me!"

Hearing the commotion the Nawab rushed upstairs stumbling a little as he had drunk quite a lot. He took in the situation at a glance. Roughly pushing his wives aside and cursing loudly he grabbed the weeping woman’s hand and pulled her out on to the terrace. His breath was reeking of liquor and the woman was sure that her modesty was about to be outraged. Desperately, he looked around for a way to escape even if it meant jumping off the roof.

The Nawab was enraged to see the fear and desperation on the woman's face. Catching her wrist in a fierce grip he began to speak, "Ah - a - ah" but only strangled sounds could be heard as a strong hand gripped his throat.

From the village came loud noises as of fierce fighting and in a short while more Sikhs rushed into the palace. They caught hold of the Nawab and tied him up. The women-folk sat around in shocked silence while the maid-servants quietly slipped away through the back door. The young woman was unaware of all this as with eyes tightly closed she kept repeating, "As you saved Draupadi, save me Lord!"

Just then a Hindu man and woman came in. Hearing their voices, the young woman opened her eyes, but as they came near her, she said, "Please don't come near me. I am no longer pure as I have lost my Hindu dharma!"

At this the woman asked, "Did you have physical relation with the Mughal ?" She replied, "No, no, its not that. But I have been forced to eat his food."

The woman looked relieved and said, "You are very good and strong. You have bravely faced the ordeal and retained your 'dharma' and marriage vows! You have nothing to be ashamed of. Come with us."

Quickly they descended to the ground floor along with the 'Jatha' of Singhs and the Nawab. Someone suggested taking some of the Jewels worn by the Begums. But Balwant Singh promptly stopped this with the words, "It is not part of the Sikh religion to terrorize women!" However the Nawab's treasury was emptied out and all the valuables loaded onto the horses.

Meanwhile the villagers had all collected in the courtyard. An old woman walking unsteadily with the help of a stick called out. "May the Lord give you greater power and strength, oh Singh brothers? Please get me Justice so I can die in peace."

Hearing this feeble voice, Sundri asked her, "Mother, what is the matter?"

Old woman: "See this man who sits here, tied up like a common thief! He put my son to death. One day my son was passing his palace and happened to look up. This villain got furious and beat my son to death."

The Nawab's face became ashen while the people looked grimly at him.

Just then a young Muslim woman came up. She was holding a small baby while two young children clung to her crying with hunger. Their clothes were dirty and torn. Sham Singh asked her — Bibi, what do you want ?"

Muslim woman: "I have heard you are good people. I too have come for Justice. My husband used to work for the Nawab and we were comfortably off. One day he got drunk and was rude to the Nawab, who immediately ordered him to be killed. Then he sent his soldiers who took away everything from our house and threw my children and me on the streets. Please save us from starving to death."

Many more came with similar tales of suffering. Sham Singh asked one of the Sikhs to bring some bags of gold coins they had taken from the Nawabs treasury and distributed the gold as per the loss suffered by each of them.

PART  IX

 When Sham Singh gave the gold coins to the Muslim woman, he heard someone muttering, "I knew these Sikhs have no common sense. Look, he has given money to one of our enemies!" Sham Singh turned to the Brahmin who had spoken these words, and said, "Pandit ji, we are not a biased people, nor do we have any enmity with anyone. Our Guruji have taught us All Gods creation is one whether Hindu or Muslim - all are the same in our eyes. Our fight is against the injustice and tyranny being meted out by the rulers. If we can put a check on them, we can ease the suffering of the people."

Thus silencing his critic, Sham Singh turned to the group of people, most of whom were Brahmins and Khatris.

"This young woman is brave and morally strong. The wicked Nawab tried to convert her to Islam by force. I request you to forgive her, even though no wrong has been done by her, and accept her back in your community." Sham Singh appealed forcefully.

But the Brahmins were adamant. "This can never be. The Hindu 'dharma' is like a thin thread, easily broken. You do realize that once a fruit has been taken from the tree, it cannot be re-attached."

Hearing these harsh words, Sundri, in turn, appealed to the people, "Don't turn away this poor woman. She is already very unhappy and needs your forgiveness and acceptance. It is a sin to turn away such a person."

But the Hindus refused to listen. Their belief that a Hindu is Hindu by birth only, and no-one can convert to the religion by any ritual or sacrifice, was firmly entrenched in their minds. For them, once the thread of Hindu religion was broken, willingly or by force, it was an irrevocable act, and pity, sympathy, love or forgiveness had no say in the matter.

Seeing the community’s reaction the