Gurgaddi Diwas of Sri Guru Amar Das Sahib Ji

In Sikh history, the Gurgaddi Diwas (the day of assuming the Guru's throne) holds special significance. This sacred day is associated with the ascension of Sri Guru Amar Das Sahib Ji to the seat of Guruship. Before merging into the Divine Light, Sri Guru Angad Dev Sahib Ji declared Baba Amar Das Ji as his successor. Thus, Baba Amar Das Ji became Sri Guru Amar Das Sahib Ji and took on the responsibility of leading the Sikh community.

Historical Background

Sri Guru Amar Das Sahib Ji was born in 1479 CE to Baba Tej Bhan and Mata Lakshmi Ji in the village of Basarke, near Amritsar. From a young age, he exhibited deep devotion and a humble nature. He was married to Mata Mansa Devi Ji, and they were blessed with two sons, Baba Mohan Ji and Baba Mohri Ji, and two daughters, Bibi Dani Ji and Bibi Bhani Ji.

Before becoming the Guru, Baba Amar Das Ji was a devout follower of Sri Guru Angad Dev Sahib Ji. Despite being much older than Guru Angad, he served him with utmost dedication and humility for twelve years. He would fetch water from the Beas River for the Guru's bath, bring firewood, and perform other menial tasks. His selfless service (seva) and unwavering devotion became a model for Sikhs.

One incident that tested his devotion was when he was asked to rebuild a wall that had been built by other Sikhs but had collapsed. While others worked during the day, Baba Amar Das Ji continued to rebuild it at night, without complaint. This act of obedience and perseverance impressed Guru Angad Dev Ji deeply.

As Guru Angad Dev Ji's health declined, he decided to nominate his successor. He tested his sons and other Sikhs, but none matched the humility and devotion of Baba Amar Das Ji. In 1552 CE, Guru Angad Dev Ji installed Baba Amar Das Ji as the third Guru of the Sikhs. This event is celebrated as Gurgaddi Diwas.

Upon becoming Guru, Sri Guru Amar Das Sahib Ji continued the mission of the previous Gurus. He established a central place for Sikhs at Goindwal Sahib, where he dug a baoli (stepwell) and instituted the practice of langar (community kitchen) where all, regardless of caste or creed, could sit together and eat. He also appointed preachers (manjis) to spread the teachings of Sikhism across the Indian subcontinent.

Guru Amar Das Ji composed 907 hymns, including the Anand Sahib, which are included in the Guru Granth Sahib. He emphasized the importance of Naam Simran (meditation on God's name), seva (selfless service), and equality. He also advocated for the rights of women, opposing the practices of sati and purdah.

The Gurgaddi Diwas of Sri Guru Amar Das Sahib Ji is celebrated with great reverence by Sikhs around the world. It reminds them of the Guru's humility, devotion, and tireless service to humanity. The day is marked by Akhand Path (continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib), kirtan (devotional singing), and langar. It inspires Sikhs to follow the path of selfless service and devotion as exemplified by Guru Amar Das Ji.