09/06/2026
BANDA SINGH BAHADUR
Banda Singh Bahadur stands among the most remarkable warrior-saints in Indian history. Born as Lachman Dev on 27 October 1670 at Rajauri in the Poonch region of present-day Jammu & Kashmir, he belonged to the brave Manhas Rajput (Kshatriya) lineage, renowned for its martial traditions and unwavering courage.
From a young age, Lachman Dev displayed the qualities of a warrior and was particularly fond of hunting. A turning point came when he witnessed the suffering of a pregnant deer he had hunted. Deeply affected by the incident, he renounced worldly pursuits and embraced the life of an ascetic, eventually becoming known as Madho Das Bairagi.
In 1708, his life took a historic turn when he met Guru Gobind Singh at Nanded. Inspired by the Guru's vision and the sacrifices made in defense of faith and justice, Madho Das dedicated himself to a greater cause. He was initiated into the Khalsa and came to be known as Banda Singh Bahadur.
Leading a determined campaign against Mughal oppression, Banda Singh Bahadur achieved a series of remarkable victories. His most famous triumph came at the Battle of Chappar Chiri in 1710, where the forces of Sirhind were defeated and Wazir Khan was slain. This victory marked a significant challenge to Mughal authority in northern India.
Following his successes, Banda Singh Bahadur established his authority across large parts of Punjab, stretching from the Sutlej to the Yamuna. He is remembered not only as a fearless military commander but also as a reformer who sought justice for cultivators and common people. He strengthened the fort of Lohgarh and made it a symbol of resistance against tyranny.
In 1715, after prolonged resistance, he was captured by the Mughals and taken to Delhi along with many of his companions. Despite immense pressure, torture, and the offer of life in exchange for conversion, Banda Singh Bahadur and his followers remained steadfast in their convictions.
On 9 June 1716, Banda Singh Bahadur attained martyrdom after enduring extraordinary suffering with unmatched courage and dignity. His sacrifice became a lasting symbol of resistance, honor, and devotion to righteousness.
Today, Banda Singh Bahadur is remembered as a great son of Bharat, whose life embodied the martial spirit, courage, and self-sacrifice associated with the Manhas Rajput Kshatriya tradition.
On his Balidan Diwas, we pay our humble tributes to the immortal Manhas Kshatriya warrior, Banda Singh Bahadur, whose courage and sacrifice continue to inspire generations.