Mata Gujri, the wife of the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, lived an extraordinary life that has left an indelible mark on Sikh history¹. Born in 1624 in the village of Chhab, Punjab, Mata Gujri’s life was a testament to the strength, resilience, and unwavering faith that defined the Sikh spirit during the Mughal era. As the mother of the tenth and last human Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, and the grandmother of the four Sahibzade, she played a crucial role in shaping the very foundation of the Sikh faith.

• Mata Gujri was the wife of the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, and the mother of the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh.
• She lived from 1624 to 1705 and attained martyrdom at the age of 81¹.
• Mata Gujri played a pivotal role in the development of the Sikh faith, supporting her husband’s endeavors and managing Sikh affairs as a single mother after his martyrdom².
• She inspired Khalsa armies during battles, including the Battle of Bhangani, and instilled Sikh values in her grandson, Guru Gobind Singh².
• Mata Gujri’s unwavering faith and spiritual guidance during her imprisonment and the martyrdom of her grandsons contributed significantly to the survival of Sikhism².

Mata Gujri, the revered wife of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, was born in 1624³ in the village of Chhab in Jhelum, Punjab. She was the daughter of Bhai Lal Chand Subhikkhi and Bishan Kaur, a pious couple from Kartarpur⁴. Gujri’s betrothal to Guru Tegh Bahadur had taken place four years earlier when he had come to Kartarpur in the marriage party of his elder brother, Suraj Mall⁴. Bishan Kaur, Gujri’s mother, had been charmed by the handsome face of the young Tegh Bahadur and she and her husband pledged the hand of their daughter to him⁴.

Mata Gujri was born into a devout Sikh family and was raised in an environment that instilled the values of Sikhism. From a young age, she was trained in the teachings of the Sikh Gurus and the rich Sikh history⁴. This upbringing would later prove instrumental in her role as the wife of Guru Tegh Bahadur and the mother of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru.

Mata Gujri was married to Guru Tegh Bahadur on 4 February 1633, when she was just 9 years old⁴. The union of Mata Gujri and Guru Tegh Bahadur was a pivotal moment in Sikh history, as it brought together two individuals who would play crucial roles in shaping the Sikh faith and its future.

Mata Gujri’s marriage to Guru Tegh Bahadur marked the beginning of her lifelong devotion to the Sikh cause and her unwavering support for her husband’s mission.

Mata Gujri, the beloved wife of Guru Tegh Bahadur, played a pivotal role in the Sikh faith⁵. Born in 1624 to Bhai Lal Chand Subulikka and Bishan Kaur in the Kapurthala district of Punjab, Mata Gujri was destined for greatness⁵. On February 4, 1633, she was married to Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru⁴⁵.

Following their marriage, Mata Gujri and Guru Tegh Bahadur came to reside in Amritsar⁴. Mata Gujri quickly won the appreciation of everyone, and the couple later moved to Kartarpur in the Sivalik foothills⁴. In 1644, they arrived in Bakala, now part of the Amritsar district, where Tegh Bahadur spent his days and nights in deep meditation while Mata Gujri fulfilled the duties of a pious and devoted housewife⁴.

After Tegh Bahadur was installed as the ninth Guru in 1664, the couple embarked on a visit to Amritsar and then to Makhoval, near Kiratpur, where a new settlement named Chakk Nanaki (later Anandpur Sahib) was founded in the middle of 1665⁴⁶.

In 1666, Mata Gujri gave birth to their son, Guru Gobind Singh, who would later become the tenth Sikh Guru⁵. Mata Gujri’s life was a testament to her unwavering devotion and strength, as she stood by her husband’s side through the most challenging times⁴⁵⁶.

“Mata Gujri Ji was the first Sikh Martyr lady in Sikh history. She was the wife of a martyr (Guru Tegh Bahadur) and grandmother of four martyr Sahibzadas.”

Mata Gujri, the wife of Guru Tegh Bahadur, played a pivotal role in the life of their son, the illustrious Guru Gobind Singh⁷. Born in 1624, Mata Gujri married Guru Tegh Bahadur in February 1633⁷. On December 22, 1666, at the age of 42, she gave birth to Guru Gobind Singh in Patna⁷. Mata Gujri’s devotion to Sikh values and her nurturing influence on her son had a profound impact on the character and beliefs of the tenth Guru of Sikhism.

As Guru Tegh Bahadur traveled extensively to preach the teachings of Guru Nanak⁸, Mata Gujri played a crucial role in shaping the young Guru Gobind Singh’s upbringing⁷. She arranged Guru Gobind Singh’s marriage to Mata Jito ji in July 1677, when he was just 11 years old⁷. In May 1685, at the age of 61, Mata Gujri organized the Maklaavaa ceremony for her 19-year-old son⁷.

Mata Gujri’s unwavering commitment to Sikh principles was reflected in her teachings and guidance to Guru Gobind Singh⁷. She instilled in him the core values of the Sikh faith, ensuring that he embodied the principles laid down by Guru Nanak⁸. Mata Gujri’s influence played a crucial role in shaping the character and leadership of the tenth Guru, who later emerged as a strong warrior and defender of the Sikh community.

“Mata Gujri’s instructions and teachings had a profound effect on the character and beliefs of Guru Gobind Singh, ensuring that he embodied the principles of Guru Nanak.”

Mata Gujri holds a revered place in Sikh history as the grandmother of the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh, known as the Sahibzadas¹⁰. Born in 1624 in the village of Chhab in Jhelum, Punjab¹⁰, Mata Gujri played a vital role in nurturing and protecting her grandchildren during the troubled times of the late 17th century, when the Sikh community faced intense religious persecution from the Mughal authorities¹⁰¹¹.,

Mata Gujri was married to Guru Tegh Bahadur on February 4, 1633¹¹. She gave birth to their son, Gobind Rai (later known as Guru Gobind Singh), on December 22, 1666, in Patna¹¹. As the mother of the Tenth Sikh Guru, Mata Gujri instilled in her grandchildren the values of the Sikh faith, including courage, devotion, and unwavering commitment to their principles¹⁰.

During the siege of Anandpur Sahib in 1704, which lasted for months¹⁰, Mata Gujri and her grandsons, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh, were arrested on December 8, 1705¹¹. Tragically, the two young Sahibzadas, aged 9 and 7 respectively, were later executed by the Mughal authorities¹⁰¹¹¹².,,

Mata Gujri’s unwavering faith and courage in the face of adversity have made her a revered figure in the Sikh community. Her story, intertwined with the sacrifices of her family, continues to inspire generations of Sikhs to stand firm in their beliefs and fight for justice, even in the face of the most daunting challenges¹².

“Mata Gujri’s legacy of resilience, faith, and commitment to Sikh ideals continues to inspire Sikhs worldwide, reminding us of the extraordinary sacrifices made for the preservation of the Sikh faith.”

Mata Gujri’s life was marked by a tumultuous period of Sikh persecution and Mughal tyranny¹³. After the martyrdom of her husband, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, she faced tremendous hardship alongside her younger son, Guru Gobind Singh Ji¹³. However, Mata Gujri’s unwavering faith and resilience shone through as she continued to nurture her children and spread the teachings of Sikhism, even in the face of adversity¹³.

Undeterred by the challenges they faced, Mata Gujri, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, and a small group of devoted Sikhs endured a life of hardship and persecution¹³. They found refuge in the fortified city of Anandpur Sahib, where they weathered the Mughal siege and continued to uphold the principles of their faith¹³. Mata Gujri’s unwavering spirit and her ability to inspire those around her served as a beacon of hope, ensuring that the Sikh community’s spirit remained unbroken despite the ongoing persecution¹³.

As the Mughal forces pressed their attack, Mata Gujri, along with her two younger grandsons, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji and Sahibzada Fateh Singh Ji, were captured and imprisoned at Sirhind¹³. This heart-wrenching episode stands as a poignant testament to the sacrifices made by Mata Gujri and her family in the face of Mughal tyranny¹³. Through it all, Mata Gujri’s faith and resilience continued to inspire generations of Sikhs, who draw strength from her unwavering commitment to the teachings of Sikhism¹³.

“Mata Gujri’s life continues to inspire generations of Sikhs with her unwavering commitment to Sikhism, role as a nurturing mother, and resilience in the face of persecution.”¹³

Mata Gujri’s story is a testament to the power of faith, courage, and unwavering dedication, even in the face of unimaginable hardship¹³. Her life and teachings continue to be a source of inspiration for Sikhs worldwide, reminding them of the importance of resilience, compassion, and the unwavering pursuit of justice in the face of oppression¹³.

One of the most difficult episodes in the life of Mata Gujri was the siege of Anandpur Sahib in 1704. Guru Gobind Singh and his followers were surrounded for months by an enormous Mughal force, enduring extreme hardship¹⁴. A Mohammadan soldier described the Guru as equal to one hundred twenty-five thousand men¹⁴. The chronicler noted that the Khalsa, with ten thousand Sikhs at Anandpur, faced an opposing army fifteen to twenty times larger in number¹⁴. The siege of Anandpur lasted eight months, involving one million soldiers from the Mughal Imperial Army and 10,000 Sikhs under the Guru’s control.

During this period, Mata Gujri showed remarkable courage and determination in ensuring that the spirit of the Sikh community remained intact, despite the difficult circumstances¹⁴. The Guru’s scheme to expose the enemy’s hypocrisy involved sending cartloads of useless articles while evacuating the city, leading to the enemy breaking their oaths and attacking the Sikhs, thinking they were carrying treasure¹⁴. The Guru received an autographed letter from the Emperor promising not to harm him if warfare ceased, accompanied by oaths from the hill Rajas for safe passage.

The resilience and determination of Mata Gujri during this time of crisis played a crucial role in sustaining the morale and faith of the Sikh community, even as they faced overwhelming odds. Her unwavering support and guidance helped the Guru and his followers navigate the treacherous circumstances with unwavering resolve.

Tragedy struck when Mata Gujri, along with her grandsons Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh, the young sons of Guru Gobind Singh, were captured by Mughal forces in 1704 and imprisoned in Sirhind Fort¹⁵. Despite the harsh conditions and the separation from her other grandchildren, Mata Gujri continued to provide spiritual guidance to the young Sahibzadas, ensuring that they remained firm in their faith.

While incarcerated in the Sirhind Fort, Mata Gujri drew upon her deep well of spiritual wisdom to inspire and nurture her grandsons. She imparted the teachings of the Sikh Gurus, instilling in them a steadfast commitment to their faith and a resolve to face their captors with unwavering courage¹⁵. Through her words and actions, Mata Gujri ensured that the young Sahibzadas remained steadfast in their beliefs, even in the face of immense adversity.

The Sirhind Fort, which had become a symbol of oppression and persecution, became a crucible for the spiritual growth of the Sahibzadas under the guidance of their grandmother, Mata Gujri¹⁵. Her unwavering faith and unwavering commitment to the Sikh teachings served as a beacon of hope, inspiring the young princes to face their captors with unwavering courage and unshakable conviction.

“In the face of adversity, the spirit of the Sikh faith must remain unbroken. Through our steadfast devotion and uncompromising principles, we will emerge victorious, no matter the cost.”

–Mata Gujri

The most heartbreaking chapter in Mata Gujri’s life was the martyrdom of her grandsons, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh¹⁶. The young Sahibzadas, aged just 9 and 7 respectively, were unjustly imprisoned by the Mughal forces and subjected to unimaginable cruelty¹⁶. Despite the immense challenges they faced, Mata Gujri’s strength and determination served as a source of inspiration, bolstering the Sahibzadas’ steadfast faith in the Sikh teachings¹⁶.

The stories of sacrifice and martyrdom of the Sahibzadas and Mata Gujri Ji inspire courage and faith within the Sikh community¹⁶. These tragic events highlight the dedication to faith and discipline among Sikhs, even in the face of severe hardships and persecution¹⁶. The legacy of martyrdom and unwavering devotion in Sikh history serves as a poignant reminder of the pursuit of truth and justice, even amidst the darkest of challenges and conflicts¹⁶.

Mata Gujri Ji’s life was marked by immense personal sacrifices, yet her unwavering spirit and commitment to the Sikh faith remained a guiding light for her family and the larger Sikh community¹⁷. Her story, intertwined with the martyrdom of her grandsons, continues to inspire generations of Sikhs to uphold the principles of courage, resilience, and love in the face of adversity¹⁶.

“The sacrifices of the Sahibzadas and Mata Gujri Ji exemplify the Sikh spirit of unwavering faith and devotion, even in the face of the greatest challenges.”

On the fateful night of December 27, 1705, Mata Gujri’s life came to a tragic end in the small and dirty cell of the Sirhind Fort¹⁸. Her passing marked the end of an era, as she was the last living link to the Nine Gurus of Sikhism. Mata Gujri’s sacrifice and unwavering devotion to Sikh principles left an indelible mark in Sikh legacy, and her life and death are reminders of the enduring power of the Sikh faith and the sacrifices of those who dedicate their lives to uphold its values.

At the tender age of six, Baba Fateh Singh made the decision to sacrifice his life for his religion¹⁸, standing firm in his beliefs alongside his brother, Baba Zorawar Singh, as they shouted the Sikh war cry, “Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh,” upon reaching Nawab Wazir Khan’s court¹⁸. Their unwavering courage and refusal to renounce their faith in the face of imminent death were a testament to the resilience and strength of the Sikh spirit.

The Sikh legacy of Mata Gujri and her grandsons continues to inspire generations of Sikhs, who draw strength from their unwavering commitment to their beliefs and their willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice for their faith. Mata Gujri’s martyrdom stands as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of the Sikh tradition and the sacrifices made to preserve its values.

“Why should we fear death?”¹⁸ – Baba Zorawar Singh to Baba Fateh Singh, as they faced the choice of embracing Islam or sacrificing their lives.

The legacy of Mata Gujri and her grandsons continues to shape the Sikh narrative, inspiring generations of devotees to uphold the principles of their faith with unwavering conviction and courage. Their sacrifice serves as a testament to the unbreakable spirit of the Sikh community and the enduring power of their Sikh legacy.

Mata Gujri’s legacy continues to inspire Sikhs and people from all walks of life. Her life exemplifies the core principles of Sikhism, including selflessness, courage, and unwavering faith in the divine¹⁹. Mata Gujri, the wife of Guru Tegh Bahadur, was an inspirational leader whose sacrifice and resilience in the face of adversity serve as a beacon for those confronting challenges in their own lives.

Mata Gujri’s story is a testament to the Sikh values of service, devotion, and resistance against oppression²⁰. She is portrayed as an ideal Sikh woman who demonstrated remarkable strength and courage, even in the face of immense hardship. Gurdwaras and Sikh institutions worldwide celebrate the life and sacrifices of Mata Gujri, ensuring that her story is passed down through generations.

Mata Gujri will forever be remembered as a defender of the Sikh faith and a symbol of steadfast dedication to the Sikh principles¹⁹. Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji, her husband, was known for his martyrdom in standing up for religious tolerance and being beheaded by Muslims. Mata Gujri’s unwavering support and guidance during this time of persecution solidified her place in Sikh history as a pillar of inspiration and resilience.

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15. Gurdwara Sri Bhora Sahib Fatehgarh – https://www.discoversikhism.com/sikh_gurdwaras/gurdwara_sri_bhora_sahib_fatehgarh.html
16. A History of Sacrifice, Remembrance, and Courage – https://stateofformation.org/2018/07/a-history-of-sacrifice-remembrance-and-courage/
17. The Courageous Legacy of Mata Gujri Ji: A Story of Sacrifice and Devotion – Blog – https://blog.barusahib.org/the-courageous-legacy-of-mata-gujri-ji-a-story-of-sacrifice-and-devotion/
18. Martyrdom of the sons of Guru Gobind Singh – https://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php/Martyrdom_of_the_sons_of_Guru_Gobind_Singh
19. Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji (9th Sikh Guru) – https://www.discoversikhism.com/sikh_gurus/sri_guru_tegh_bahadur_sahib_ji.html
20. sikhchic.com | The Art and Culture of the Diaspora – https://sikhchic.com/article-detail.php?id=412&cat=12