Punjab: Rakhar Punia is a turning point in Punjab’s history as it was on this day in 1664 that Guru Tegh Bahadur was declared the Sikh Guru. Every year, thousands of devotees gather at Baba Bakala on this occasion. It was here that the true leadership of the Sikh Panth was established, which helped the community stay united during a period of uncertainty. “For the Sikh Panth, Rakhar Punia is more than just a remembrance of the past. It reaffirms an ideal of leadership that is still relevant today,” said Daya Singh, a lecturer at Bhai Gurdas Gurmat Sansthan. “It reminds us of the historic moment when Guru Tegh Bahadur was declared the true Guru.” The event took place in 1664, after the death of Guru Har Krishan.
No successor was declared and 22 people came forward at Baba Bakala claiming to be the Guru. They used money, influence and local support to advance their claims. It was then that a wealthy merchant, Makhan Shah Lubana, recognised Guru Tegh Bahadur as the true Guru. Historian Jagdeep Singh said, “This decision did more than settle a religious dispute. It ended a dangerous power struggle and united the Sikhs under the right leadership.” Guru Tegh Bahadur’s leadership later became a central point in resisting Mughal oppression and in leading the Sikhs on a spiritual and military path, which later resulted in the formation of the Khalsa Panth.
