In 1705, during a visit to Anandpur in Punjab, Bhai Kanhaiya Ji encountered a fierce battle. Anandpur was under siege by the Mughals and Hill Chiefs
Travelling in total darkness,
Hari's name will light the way.
- Guru Arjun Dev ji (Guru Granth Sahib, 264)
Who is Bhai Kanhaiya Ji?
Bhai Kanhaiya Ji came from a wealthy family, but he was not interested in material riches. Instead, he sought spiritual fulfilment and chose to leave home in search of it. He found solace in the company of Sadhus (Saints) and eventually met Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Under Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s guidance, Bhai Kanhaiya Ji dedicated himself to selfless service. He established a center in what is now Pakistan to assist people from all walks of life, regardless of their background.
Battle of Anandpur
In 1705, during a visit to Anandpur in Punjab, Bhai Kanhaiya Ji encountered a fierce battle. Anandpur was under siege by the Mughals and Hill Chiefs. Amidst the chaos of the battle, Bhai Kanhaiya Ji went around providing water to fallen and wounded soldiers, regardless of whether they were friends or foes. His compassion extended to all, including the enemy soldiers.
Guru's Approval
Some of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s followers were unhappy with Bhai Kanhaiya Ji’s actions and complained that he was helping the enemy. Guru Gobind Singh Ji summoned Bhai Kanhaiya Ji to explain his actions. Bhai Kanhaiya Ji replied that he saw no distinction between friends and enemies; he only saw the Divine presence in everyone and felt compelled to serve all. Impressed by his selflessness, Guru Gobind Singh Ji approved his actions and provided him with bandages to assist in his mission.
This story is depicted in a painting by artist Bhagat Singh Bedi, which shows Bhai Kanhaiya Ji amidst a violent battle, offering water to an injured Mughal soldier. The painting captures the contrast between the brutal surroundings and Bhai Kanhaiya Ji's compassionate act.
About the Bhagat Singh Bedi
Bhagat Singh Bedi has been painting Sikh History since he was just 11 years old. Even now, he uses his talent to create Sikh Art that both inspires and uplifts. His paintings bring our ancient heritage to life by depicting the stories of our ancestors in vibrant colours. Each piece is meticulously hand-painted, with Bhagat dedicating years to researching and detailing his work through deep reflection.
He says, “ My painting departs from the realism of a battlefield and instead depicts the spiritual experience of Bhai Kanhaiya ji, his internal state, where he is witnessing Waheguru alone, even inside the Mughal soldier. The soldier appears to him as Guru Gobind Singh ji, who is a physical representation of Waheguru.”
*Based on an article by Bhagat Singh Bedi, published on Sikharti.com on 24th June, 2016