Guru Gobind Singh, a revered spiritual master, warrior, poet, and philosopher, has left a profound impact on Sikhs and others through his teachings, which have inspired generations.
For Guru Gobind Singh, all religions, genders, and races were equal. He selected the Panj Pyaras (Five Beloved Ones) from various regions of India to form the Khalsa Panth. Remarkably, three of the five were from lower castes, reflecting his commitment to uplifting the marginalized. Throughout his life, Guru Gobind Singh kept the poor and oppressed in his heart, even as he waged battles. His guiding principle was: “Manas ki jaat ek hi pehchanbo” which means: "Recognize all humankind as one."
The Guru faced opposition from kings who refused to join his fight against the Mughals, citing the presence of Shudras (low-caste people) in his army. In response, Guru Gobind Singh declared: “You will be ruled by those whom you call Shudras today. I will be remembered as Din Bandhu (protector of the downtrodden) when power is transferred to them.”
With the birth of the Khalsa, caste and gender barriers were shattered. Women, traditionally seen as wives and mothers, were elevated to equal status with their brothers. They received the same Amrit (baptism), the same Five Ks, and were encouraged to live as Khalsa warriors. Guru Gobind Singh envisioned women not as meek housewives but as fearless, independent warriors. By encouraging women to keep shastars (weapons), he empowered them to participate in the world as equals.
The title Kaur given to women has a deep history. Derived from the word Kanwar, meaning Crown Prince, Kaur gave women an identity independent of their husbands, uplifting their spirits. It is said that Guru Gobind Singh referred to his brave daughters as Sahibzadey (sons) for their valor in battle.
Women played a crucial role in the Sikh tradition. Mata Saheb Kaur, the wife of Guru Gobind Singh, led the Khalsa Panth after his passing. Jathedar Sada Kaur, alongside Maharaja Ranjit Singh, played a pivotal role in establishing the Sikh Empire. Another notable woman in Sikh history is Mata Bhaag Kaur, also known as Mai Bhago, who fought alongside 40 Sikhs in the Battle of Muktsar in 1705 against Mughal forces. She is remembered as the first woman to raise the sword and lead the Khalsa Army against tyranny. After the battle, Guru Gobind Singh granted her wish to stay by his side as his bodyguard, and she accompanied him until his final days.
The bravery of women like Mata Bhaag Kaur, Mata Sahib Kaur, and Rani Sada Kaur remains an enduring symbol of Sikh women’s strength and leadership. Rani Sada Kaur, in particular, led Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s army in capturing the Lahore Fort, further cementing her legacy.
The legacy of Guru Gobind Singh is best captured by historian W. L. McGregor, who wrote:
“If we consider the work which Guru Gobind Singh accomplished, both in reforming his religion and instituting a new code of law for his followers, his personal bravery under all circumstances; his persevering endurance amidst difficulties, which would have disheartened others... we need not be surprised that the Sikhs venerate his memory. He was undoubtedly a great man.”
