Baba Deep Singh Ji

Baba Deep Singh Ji – Shaheedi & Sacrifice

During his invasion of India, Ahmad Shah Durrani brought Punjab under Afghan control and appointed his son, Taimur Shah, as viceroy of Lahore, assisted by the experienced general Jahan Khan. In May 1757, Jahan Khan attacked Amritsar, desecrating Sri Harmandir Sahib and defiling the sacred sarovar.

At seventy-five years old, Baba Deep Singh Ji had the spirit and strength of a fearless warrior. He gathered a large band of Sikhs and marched toward Sri Harmandir Sahib. By Tarn Taran, their numbers had grown to around five thousand. Baba Deep Singh Ji drew a line with his khanda and declared that only those prepared to fight and die should cross it. Every Sikh stepped forward without hesitation.

Before advancing, Baba Deep Singh Ji recited:

“Jo to prem khelan ka chao, sir dhar tali gali meri aao.”

“Eith marag pair dharijai, sir deejai kaan na keejai.”

During battle, Baba Deep Singh Ji fought the Mughal commander Jamal Khan. Though grievously wounded, Baba Deep Singh Ji rose again, holding his severed head upright in one hand and his khanda in the other, continuing toward Sri Harmandir Sahib, sustained by the recitation of Japji Sahib.

The Mughal army fled in terror. Baba Deep Singh Ji reached Sri Harmandir Sahib, bowed, and attained martyrdom. The Sikh forces continued fighting until victory was achieved.

Baba Deep Singh Ji is remembered as a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering faith. A marble octagonal tile today marks the sacred spot of his shaheedi.