Sikh Itihaas: Naani Di Zubaani

Guru Nanak Dev Ji, along with Bhai Mardana Ji, undertook four major spiritual journeys. Today, this episode talks about his experience in cities like Depalpur, and Multan and how He enlightened those He encountered, with wisdom and knowledge. He always upheld the causes of the downtrodden and poor, and layed emphasis on life based on honest conduct and constant devotion. Tune into this episode to know more.

Born in 1469, in the humble village of Talwandi, Guru Nanak was an extraordinary child, distinguished by his divine grace. He spent his youth in Sultanpur Lodhi, while continuing to oppose several societal practice like casteism. This episode gives a brief about His youth years, the job He undertook, the people He encountered, His marriage, His relationship with Bebe Nanaki and much more. Tune in to know more.

Guru Ram Das ji was born in the Sodhi Household, to parents Bhai Hari Das and Mata Anup Devi Ji, with the birth name Jetha. This episode traces the journey of His life right from His childhood, to His marriage to when He was finally given Guruship. A quintessence of humility, he went on to make some significant contributions towards organizing the Sikh Society. Tune in to know more.

Guru Harkrishan Sahib Ji, also known as 'Bal Guru', was the eighth Guru, and the youngest son of the seventh Guru, Guru Har Rai Ji. He was transferred Guruship at the mere age of 5, which was followed by the demise of Guru Har Rai Ji. This week's episode explores why was Guru Harkrishan Sahib Ji chosen as the next Guru and how He firmly held the reigns of the Panth at such a tender age.

Today's episode explores two out of the ten historical gurudwaras situated in Delhi. These Gurudwaras not just provide a serenic environment to offer prayers, but also preserve the rich history of Sikhism. Tune into this episode and join us as we explore Gurdwara Nanak Piao Sahib and Gurdwara Majnu ka Tilla and know more about what makes these places an important part of Sikh heritage.

Born in a Muslim family, Bhagat Kabir Ji was a socials reformer and a spiritual poet. He is also one of the 15 Bhagats whose baani has been included in Guru Granth Sahib Ji. He was one who always challenged unfair practices like casteism and was against ritualism. Take a listen to this week's episode to know more about his life and his ideologies.

This episode talks about how the Third Guru- Guru Amar Das Ji chose and appointed Guru Ram Das Ji as the 4th incarnation of Nanak before his demise at the age of 95. Tune in to know more about Guru Amar Das Ji's Baani, His relation with Guru Ram Das Ji, the endless qualities in Guru Ram Das Ji, and much more.

In this week's episode we take the opportunity to explore an important event from Guru Nanak Dev Ji's life- His marriage to Mata Sulakhni Ji. With no belief in superstitions, Guru Ji rejected all traditions dictated by the Brahmins of the time. Tune into this episode and know more about how the marriage was fixed, where and how was the wedding ceremony held and the traditions that have continued till the modern day.

In this episode, we yet again dive into the journey of the making of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and trace back to when the initial version- the Aad Beed was installed at Sri Harmindar Sahib, Amritsar. Take a listen and know more about what went behind this Herculean task of compiling and organizing Gurbaani for the first time ever.

Sampooranta Divas of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is celebrated to commemorate the day when Guru Gobind Singh Ji finally completed the compilation of it's second version in 1706. This volume of the 'Living Guru' of the sikhs saw the addition of the Baani of the ninth guru. Where was it written? Who wrote it? And How was the Aad Beed acquired? Take a listen to this episode and discover the answers to the questions above!

Bhai Taru Singh Ji, another one of the Sikh Martyrs, was a deeply pious individual who lived frugally and followed the principles of Sikhism. He defied the orders of the Mughal Administration, only to help his Sikh brothers. This selfless act saw some grave repercussions in the form of Bhai Taru Singh Ji's arrest and eventual execution. Tune into this week's episode to know more about how events unfurled post his arrest which lead to the demise of the then Mughal Governor, Zakariya Khan.

Bhagat Puran Singh Ji was a Sikh hero who gave most of his life to the selfless sewa of mentally and physically ill patients. He provided a ray of hope to these desparate people whom the society had already rejected. Born in a Hindu family, he went on to establish Pingalwara, an institute dedicated to cater to the needs of the destitute and forlorn. Tune into this episode to know more about his life, what inspired him to adopt Sikhism and the person behind his humanitarian nature.

Born in Keeratpur Sahib, Guru Harkrishan Sahib Ji ascended the throne of Guruship at a tender age of 5 years. Despite his young age, he not only attained a supreme level of spirituality, but also changed lives of many commoners with his blessings amongst standing up against social issues like female foeticide. In his short period of existence, he made an everlasting impact on the lives of Sikhs. Tune into this episode to know more.

Hailing from a distinguished family of Sikh Warriors, Bhai Mani Singh Ji was a courageous leader. He acted as a scribe to Guru Gobind Singh Ji when Guru Sahib narrated Guru Granth Sahib. He, with his dynamic personality formulated policies and introduced new traditions to unite the Khalsa Panth. Tune into this episode and know what lead to Bhai Mani Singh's execution by dismemberment.

Akal Takht is not just the center of Sikh Administration, but is also symbolic of the revolutionary influence of our 6th Guru who trained Sikhs to be soldiers along with being saints. Tune into this week's episode and know how Guru Sahib defied the rules set by the Mughal Regime and founded the highest seat of authority for Khalsa.

History is witness to the secular, inclusive, just and clement rule of Shere-E-Punjab (Lion of Punjab), Maharaja Ranjit Singh, who despite facing adversities in his childhood, created the expansive Sikh Empire from the ground up. Tune into this week's episode as we talk about instances form his life which don't just reflect his great valor but also his humble nature.

In this episode, we trace the journey of Lachman Das, son of an ordinary farmer and an ascetic in his youth, who after meeting Guru Gobind Singh Ji became the most trusted Sikh General- Banda Singh Bahadur. He is revered as one of the most hallowed martyrs of Khalsa who sacked the Mughal Capital of Sirhind. Tune into this episode to know more about his life.

With the blessings of Baba Budha Ji, came into this world, a soul who was not just devoted to Guru Nanak's beliefs but, was also an epitome of bravery. In this episode we learn about Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and and how events unfurled when Mughal Emperor Jahangir commanded His presence in Delhi. Take a listen to know more!

The martyrdom of Bhai Subeg Singh and his son Shahbaz Singh, is a unique chapter from Sikh History. The duo possessed high morals, but were soon captured by the mughal governor, Zakariya Khan. Why were they captured? What lead to their death? And how were they martyred? Tune into this week's episode to find answers to the questions above, and much more!

414 years ago, our 5th Guru- Guru Arjan Dev Ji was brutally martyred on Jahangir's orders, making Him the first Shaheed in the history of Sikhism. On the occasion of Shaheedi Purab of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, we pay homage to His sacrifice by diving into history and knowing who all conspired against Him, leading to His unfortunate death. Tune in to know more!

In this episode, we commemorate the Gurta Gaddi Diwas of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji by knowing more about His life right from His birth to the time He was bestowed with Guruship by Baba Budha Ji. Tune into this episode to know how Guru Sahib revolutionised the traditional Sikh ideology of just attaining Spiritual power, by preaching importance of Political power too.

One of the most venerated figures in the history of Sikhism, and an epitome of piety, Baba Budha Ji served 6 Gurus during his lifetime of more than 120 years. He was an embodiment of dedication who devoted himself to Guru Nanak for all his life. He not only applied the tilak of Guruship to 5 Gurus, but also laid the foundation of Sri Akal Takhat Sahib. Want to know more? Tune into this episode!

In this episode, we know more about the life of Guru Amar Das ji who made Sewa his principle for life with his immense devotion. On the occasion of Prakash Purab of Guru Amar Das Ji, let's also know how he connected to Baani and ultimately went on to become our Third Guru at the age of 73.

In lieu of Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji, we talk about how from a mere son of a shopkeeper, 'Bhai Lehna Ji' went on to become the second Guru of the Sikhs by devoting himself to Guru Nanak's Seva. Tune into this episode to also know about an interesting incident that unfolded when Bhai Lehna, ie. Guru Angad Dev Ji met Guru Nanak Dev Ji for the first time.

In this episode, we delve into the meaning of the shabad- 'Sab Kichh Jeevat Ko Bivhaar' which is written by Guru Teg Bahadur Ji himself. We close the ongoing series by exploring and understanding the two fundamental teachings He conveys to humanity through his shlokas. Tune in to dive a little deeper into the sea of knowledge that Guru Ji's Baani has to offer.

In this penultimate episode of our series on Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, we talk about his shabad - "Mann Re Prabh Ki Saran Bicharo" and delve into a few examples stated by him where even the so-called "sinners" were absolved of their sins by the Almighty. How was that made possible? Let's listen to this episode to know Guru Sahib's perspective.

After Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's last rites in the city of Anandpur, Guru Gobind Rai ji gathered the Sangat and requested Bhai Jaita Ji to narrate the Shahidi of Guru Sahib to everyone. Tune into this episode of our series on Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's life to know how that narration shaped the future of the Sikhs, albeit 24 years hence.

Continuing with our series on Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's life, Bhai Jaita Ji moves ahead in his journey to Anandpur Sahib. Interestingly, Guru Gobind Rai Ji and the Sangat met Bhai Jaita Ji even before he reached Anandpur Sahib. Tune into this episode to know how that was possible and what happened when Guru Gobind Rai ji saw his martyred father's head.

Once Guru Gobind Singh ji gathered the Sangat at Anandpur Sahib and asked for 5 human sacrifices from amongst the Sangat. Even though the Sangat considered this a peculiar ask, eventually 5 Sikhs presented themselves for the sacrifice. Tune into this bonus episode to know what followed and how that ties back to the importance of Vaisakhi, a festival that we are celebrating today.

With an unwavering valour and a determined mind, Bhai Jaita Ji continues his journey towards Anandpur Sahib after spending his first night at Taraori. Dive into this episode as we near to end of the 'Shahidi Maarg' and explore where and how Bhai Jaita Ji spends his next few days.

In this episode we look back upon how three courageous sikhs, putting their own lives on the line were determined to take Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's Sis (Severed head) from Delhi to Anandpur Sahib for proper last rites in presence of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Tune into this episode to know more about how events unfolded at Taraori, their first stop in this journey.

After beheading Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, Aurangzeb ordered intricate security arrangements to not let anyone come near Guru Sahib's body. This was done to deliberately let the body perish on the ground without the last rites. Despite the stringent measures, a few Sikhs managed to get hold of Guru Sahib's body. Tune in to know how that happened and what transpired next!

While we continue to throw light on Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib ji's life and martyrdom, it's time to take a pause and look back. Tune into this episode to quickly recap the happenings so far and to get a sneak peak into what's coming in the future.

When the Mughal ruler Aurangzeb called upon Guru Tegh Bahadur ji to convert him to Islam, Guru Sahib, without a speck of hesitation marched towards Delhi. 5 Sikhs insisted to accompany him. Why did Guru Sahib agree to be challenged? Who were these 5 Sikhs? Why are they so important to our history? Tune into the next episode of our ongoing series on Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji to know more.

In this episode we learn that Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji met his son (Gobind Rai ji) for the first time when he was 5. Soon after, Guru Sahib decided to stand up for the rights of the persecuted Kashmiri Pandits and was eventually summoned by Aurangzeb Tune into this episode to learn about his journey from Punjab to Delhi and how he helped one of his dear devotees along the way.

In this episode, we hear about Bhai Faggu, who used to collect offerings from the locals and bestow them upon Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji regularly. Strangely, once someone offered their garbage to Bhai Faggu and even that eventually impressed Guru Sahib. Listen to this episode to know how. In our ongoing series on Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, today we explore how Guru Sahib visited each of his devotees who loved and craved for Guru Sahib's visit dearly and how he spread positivity and goodness wherever he went.

Tracing the steps of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, in this episode we talk about another interesting tale from his travels in which Guru Ji imparted an important lesson to the villagers struck with 'Tapali' disease.Tune into this episode and take a listen at what happened next in his journey through the famous cities of Agra and Banaras.

Tune into this episode as we explore yet another incident from Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's travels wherein he gets to know about Prithi Chand's Grandson- Har Ji and his attempt at meddling with Guru Sahib's Baani. We also dive into how Guru Ji established the city of Chakk Nanaki, presently known as Anandpur Sahib.

Before his untimely passing away, when asked by the sangat about who the next guru of the Sikhs will be, Guru Harkrishan Sahib ji just uttered "Baba Bakaale", indicating that the next guru is in the town of Bakaala. Tune in to the fourth part of our ongoing series on Guru Tegh Bahadur ji to know how Guru Sahib was discovered as the true guru amongst a host of self-proclaimed gurus, and how a Sikh trader developed an interesting litmus test to know the truth!

In this third part of our ongoing series on Guru Tegh Bahadur ji, we explore an interesting tale related to his marriage with Mata Gujri ji. We also shed spotlight on a shabad by Guru sahib ji that talks about his ideas related to impermanence, one of the central themes in Guru Sahib's literature.

At birth, Guru Tegh Bahadur ji was named Tyaag Mal due to his sacrificing and generous nature towards any needy he came across. Tune in to the second part of our series on Guru Tegh Bahadur ji to know more about his early childhood and about the incident that led to a change in his name from Tyaag Mal to Tegh Bahadur!

As we approach the 400th Prakash Purab of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, we plan to go through and learn from his life right from his birth to his Shaheedi. In this first episode of many more to come, we talk about Guru Sahib's birth. Tune in to know why Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji bowed down to Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji on the day of his birth, and what Guru Hargobind Sahib ji gave Mata Nanki ji - something that was a signal of times to come!

In this episode, we continue to explore Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji's life as his prakash purab draws close. One of the things that stands out is his contribution towards reforming the prevalent practices in Sikhism, especially the Langar, which he made more inclusive and hygienic through his policies. Tune in to also know more about how Guru Sahib was pivotal to initiating Gusikhi Prachaar at a massive scale, illustrated by a couple of interesting anecdotes!

Once Dara Shikoh, brother of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, became fatally ill. It is rather intriguing that Guru Har Rai ji came to his rescue and saved him despite the persecution of Sikh gurus by the Mughals in the past. On the upcoming occasion of his prakash purab, tune in to this episode to hear glimpses from the life of the seventh guru, who loved nature dearly and whose immense contribution to Sikh culture and values has led to an evergreen legacy.

The Mughals once surrounded the fort of Anandpur Sahib to capture Guru Gobind Singh Ji and other Sikhs. This siege continued for days. Consequently, food, water and other essentials were ultimately exhausted. In light of these extreme circumstances, 40 Sikhs decided to leave Guru Gobind Singh ji and head home. Tune in to this episode to know what happened after they left and how they ultimately came to be recognized among the most prominent Sikhs in our history.

Guru Gobind Singh ji's mission of making each Khalsa a true Sant-Sipahi (A saint as well as a soldier) was fulfilled by Baba Deep Singh Ji who was a selfless warrior and a dedicated saint On the occasion of Janam Divas of Amar Shaheed Baba Deep Singh ji, tune in to this episode to know how he grew up cleaning shastars (weapons) at Guru Sahib's darbar to eventually leading the Sikh military force to finally sacrificing himself while battling with great valor in order to protect the integrity of the Golden Temple.

If we pay a close look at our history, there is hardly anyone as versatile as Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji, who was a prolific writer, warrior, poet, linguist, philanthropist, philosopher, sportsman... (and the list could go on). On the occasion of Prakash Purab week of Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji, tune in to the first episode of our series to know some of the most interesting bits from his life - which are a treasure for people of all generations and walks of life.

"In our culture, grandmothers narrating stories to children was a common sight. And it is concerning that this practice is slowly disappearing. Therefore, this podcast is an earnest attempt to revive this priceless tradition, to revive our Virsa (culture)" In this episode, our host and "Naani", Harjeet Kaur Ji, talks about the need to start this series and what our listeners can expect from the upcoming episodes. Disclaimer: All Saakhis (tales) narrated in this series are a result of the common belief and hearsay that trickled down generation after generation and while every attempt has been made to be as accurate as possible, certain stories might not have a dedicated source. We hope that the Sangat and Guru Sahib will forgive us for all our mistakes due to our ignorance.