Mata Khivi, a revered figure in Sikh history, was the wife of the second Sikh Guru, Guru Angad Dev Ji. Born in 1506 to Karan Devi and Bhai Devi Chand Khatri in the town of Sanghar, now in the Sindh province of Pakistan¹, Mata Khivi’s life was a testament to her unwavering devotion to Sikhism and her role as a pillar of the Sikh community. At just 13 years old, she married Lahina, who would later become Guru Angad Dev, the second Guru of the Sikhs¹.

• Mata Khivi was born in 1506 in Sanghar, Sindh, Pakistan.
• She married Lahina (Guru Angad Dev) at the age of 13 in 1519.
• Mata Khivi had four children and lived to the age of 75, passing away in 1582.
• She managed the Langar (community kitchen) system with utmost dedication.
• Mata Khivi’s name is mentioned in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of the Sikhs.

Mata Khivi, also known as Bibi Khivi or Khivi Kaur, was a revered figure in Sikh history and the wife of the Second Sikh Guru, Guru Angad Dev Ji². Born in 1506 in Sangar Kot², Mata Khivi enjoyed a life of luxury and respect as the wife of one of the town’s wealthiest men. However, her life took a dramatic turn when she came under the influence of Mai Bhirai, who introduced her to the teachings of Guru Nanak³.

Around the same time, Mata Khivi’s husband, Lahina (later known as Guru Angad Dev Ji), also heard about the Guru through Bhai Jodha, one of Guru Nanak’s earliest disciples³. Lahina, a seeker of truth, was deeply intrigued and eager to learn more about Guru Nanak’s message³.

Mata Khivi and her husband, Lahina, devoted themselves to Guru Nanak’s mission and became his devoted followers³. Their lives were forever transformed, and they played a crucial role in the early days of Sikhism³.

“Mata Khivi was a trailblazer who exemplified the Sikh values of selfless service, compassion, and equality.”

As the wife of Guru Angad Dev Ji, Mata Khivi played a vital role in the development and expansion of the Sikh community⁴. She was instrumental in establishing the Sikh tradition of langar (community kitchen) and institutionalizing the service tradition in gurdwaras².

Mata Khivi’s unwavering dedication and commitment to the Sikh cause, as well as her role in nurturing the Sikh community, have cemented her place as a revered figure in Sikh history³. Her life and legacy continue to inspire Sikhs around the world⁴.

Mata Khivi, the beloved wife of Guru Angad Dev Ji, was born in 1506 to Karan Devi and Bhai Devi Chand Khatri in the town of Sanghar, now located in the Sindh province of Pakistan⁵. Her father was a respected shopkeeper and trader in the neighborhood⁵.

Mata Khivi was married in 1519 at the young age of 13 to Lahina, who would later become Guru Angad Dev Ji⁵. Together, Mata Khivi and Lahina had four children: Bhai Dasu (born in 1524), Bibi Amro (born in 1532), Bibi Anokhi (born in 1535), and Bhai Datu (born in 1537)⁶⁷⁵.

“Mata Khivi, the wife of Guru Angad Dev Ji, personally worked in the kitchen and served food to the community members and visitors.”⁷

Guru Angad Dev Ji was born on March 31, 1504, and passed away on April 16, 1552⁷. He was the second of the ten Sikh Gurus, succeeding Guru Nanak Dev Ji and preceding Guru Amar Das Ji⁵.

Mata Khivi’s life took a profound turn when she came under the influence of Mai Bhirai, who introduced her to the profound teachings of Guru Nanak⁸. Around the same time, her husband Lahina, a seeker of truth, also heard about the Guru through Bhai Jodha, one of Guru Nanak’s earliest disciples⁹. Lahina’s curiosity was piqued, and in 1532, shortly after the birth of their first daughter Bibi Amro, he set out to meet the Guru at Kartarpur⁹.

After listening to Guru Nanak speak, Lahina was captivated by the Guru’s message and begged to be allowed to stay and become his disciple⁹. Mata Khivi also embraced the new faith wholeheartedly, rejecting the oppressive social norms and harmful practices that had long plagued Indian society, such as female infanticide, dowry rituals, and the burning of widows on funeral pyres⁸.

Under the guidance of Guru Nanak, Mata Khivi and her husband Lahina, now known as Guru Angad Dev, actively participated in the spiritual and community-building activities of the Sikh faith¹⁰. They championed the principles of gender equality, empowering women to lead prayers and participate in Keertan (sacred music) as equal partners⁸.

Mata Khivi’s embrace of Sikhism marked a transformative chapter in her life, as she and her husband dedicated themselves to the propagation of Guru Nanak’s teachings and the establishment of a more just and equitable society¹⁰.

As Lahina became Guru Angad Dev, the second Guru of the Sikhs, Mata Khivi’s life took on a new and busy rhythm¹¹. People from all walks of life now came to their home to seek the guidance of the Guru. Mata Khivi embraced this new role with grace and dedication, taking on the significant responsibility of managing the Langar, the community kitchen established by Guru Angad Dev¹².

Mata Khivi ensured that only the finest ingredients were used and that all who came to the Langar were treated with the utmost hospitality¹². Her unwavering commitment to providing nourishment and welcoming guests has become a cornerstone of Sikh culture, emulated by generations of Sikhs¹². Alongside her husband, Mata Khivi played a vital role in strengthening the fledgling Sikh community, her selfless service a true testament to the principles of Sewa (service) and Langar (community kitchen)¹².

“Mata Khivi’s hospitality has been emulated over the centuries and has become the first cultural identity of the Sikhs.”

Through her tireless efforts in the Langar, Mata Khivi exemplified the Sikh values of equality, humility, and service to the community¹². Her dedication to ensuring that all who came to the Guru’s house were well-fed and cared for left an indelible mark on the Sikh tradition, solidifying her place as a revered figure in Sikh history¹².

Mata Khivi, the beloved wife of Guru Angad Dev Ji, played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Langar system, which has become a cornerstone of Sikh hospitality and community service¹³. As the Guru’s wife, Mata Khivi dedicated herself to looking after those who ate at the Langar and continued this devotion until she was 76 years old¹³.

Mata Khivi’s efforts to organize the arrangements of offering comfort and hospitality to the many devotees who came from far-off places to see the Guru helped to perfect the Langar system¹⁴. Under her guidance, the Langar became known as “Khivi ka Langar,” reflecting her unwavering commitment to this vital aspect of Sikh tradition¹³.

The Langar system promotes equality and brotherhood, as individuals from all walks of life sit together to share a meal without regard for caste or social status¹⁵. This ethos of inclusivity and community service has been a hallmark of Sikhism for over five hundred years, since the time of Guru Nanak¹⁵.

The Langar system has become a shining example of social service, recognized by institutions like Harvard University and ScoopWhoop¹³. The Sikh community worldwide is involved in philanthropic efforts, providing food to the needy and receiving appreciation for their noble acts¹³.

The Langar tradition instills humbleness and humility in Sikhs, helping them come together as a community¹³. Families even book slots in Gurdwaras months in advance to participate in the Langar Seva, showcasing the deep-rooted significance of this practice¹³.

Sikhs have continued to uphold the Langar tradition, providing meals during times of crisis, such as political turmoil, natural disasters, and the recent pandemic of COVID-19¹³. This unwavering commitment to community service has earned the Sikh community widespread appreciation, with governments often requesting their assistance for food distribution during critical situations¹³.

“Langar is being studied as a shining example of social service by institutions like Harvard University and ScoopWhoop.”¹³

The establishment of the Langar system by Mata Khivi and its enduring legacy in Sikhism stands as a testament to the community’s values of hospitality, humility, and service to humanity¹⁵.

Mata Khivi and Guru Angad Dev Ji were deeply devoted to the wellbeing of children within the Sikh community¹⁶. The Guru took great delight in spending time with the young ones, teaching them a modified version of the Punjabi script known as Gurmukhi, which was easier for the illiterate masses to learn¹⁶. Mata Khivi also played a crucial role in inspiring her daughters, Bibi Amro and Bibi Anokhi, to memorize Gurbani through her unwavering encouragement and guidance.

Recognizing the importance of education, Guru Angad Dev Ji opened numerous schools and promoted the teaching of the Gurmukhi script, which he had standardized to facilitate the singing of spiritual songs¹⁷. Under his leadership, the Sikh community witnessed a remarkable surge in literacy levels, as the Guru’s emphasis on learning empowered both children and adults alike.

Mata Khivi’s dedication to her own spiritual journey was mirrored in her efforts to nurture the faith of her daughters, Bibi Amro and Bibi Anokhi¹⁷. Through her guidance and example, these young women were inspired to delve deeply into the teachings of Gurbani, becoming well-versed in the Sikh scriptures and disseminating their knowledge within the community.

The unwavering commitment of Mata Khivi and Guru Angad Dev Ji to nurturing the Sikh community through education, spiritual guidance, and a steadfast emphasis on equality and service left an indelible mark on the Sikh tradition¹⁷.

“Mata Khivi’s dedication to her own spiritual journey was mirrored in her efforts to nurture the faith of her daughters, Bibi Amro and Bibi Anokhi.”

When Guru Angad Dev Ji passed the Guruship to Guru Amar Das, his son Bhai Datu was deeply disappointed¹⁸. Encouraged by some of his friends, Bhai Datu attempted to declare himself the rightful heir, much to the distress of Mata Khivi¹⁸. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Mata Khivi intervened, determined to resolve the succession dispute peacefully.

Mata Khivi skillfully persuaded Bhai Datu that the responsibility of Guruship was too much for him to bear¹⁹. She convinced him that the only way to alleviate his headaches was to return to the rightful Guru, Amar Das, and beg for forgiveness¹⁹. Mata Khivi’s wisdom and diplomacy played a crucial role in guiding her son back to the path of humility and acceptance.

Accompanied by his mother, Bhai Datu approached Guru Amar Das, who graciously forgave him¹⁸. Thanks to Mata Khivi’s intervention, Sikhism was spared another potential schism, and the smooth transition of Guruship was ensured¹⁹. Mata Khivi’s actions demonstrated her unwavering commitment to the unity and integrity of the Sikh community.

Sikh history features remarkable women like Mata Khivi who have shown wisdom and leadership in times of crisis¹⁹. Her role in resolving the succession dispute between Bhai Datu and Guru Amar Das exemplifies her profound understanding of Sikh principles and her dedication to preserving the unity of the faith.

After the passing of her husband, Mata Khivi continued to manage the Langar during the time of Guru Amar Das and did seva (community service) until the era of Guru Arjan Dev²⁰. The Langar became renowned as the “Khivi ka Langar” due to her unwavering dedication and tireless efforts²⁰.

Mata Khivi lived for 30 years after her husband’s demise and remained closely associated with the Guru’s house, steadfastly serving the Sikh community throughout this period²⁰. Her selfless service and nurturing presence were integral to the growth and development of the Sikh faith during these formative years.

Through her unwavering dedication and tireless efforts, Mata Khivi made an indelible mark on the Sikh community, solidifying the Langar as a cornerstone of Sikh values and principles. Her legacy as a pillar of service and compassion continues to inspire Sikhs to this day.

“Mata Khivi’s selfless service and nurturing presence were integral to the growth and development of the Sikh faith during these formative years.”

Mata Khivi, the beloved wife of Guru Angad Dev Ji, has left an indelible mark on Sikhism. Her contributions and legacy have been immortalized in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism²¹.

In the Guru Granth Sahib, Mata Khivi is described as a “noble woman, who gives soothing, leafy shade to all” and one who “distributes the bounty of the Guru’s Langar; the kheer – the rice pudding and ghee, is like sweet ambrosia.”²¹

Mata Khivi’s pioneering role in establishing the Langar system, a community kitchen that serves free meals to everyone regardless of caste or status, has cemented her legacy as a trailblazer for women’s empowerment²².

Alongside her husband, Guru Angad Dev Ji, Mata Khivi championed the principles of equality, promoting the idea of caste, class, and gender equality within the Sikh community²¹.

Guru Angad Dev Ji, under the guidance of Mata Khivi, developed the Sikh alphabet, creating the ‘Gurmukhi script,’ and started several schools to increase literacy rates among the people²³.

Mata Khivi’s contributions to the Sikh community, including her role in nurturing the Sikh faith and inspiring the spiritual growth of her daughters, have cemented her legacy as a revered figure in Sikhism²¹.

The fact that Mata Khivi is the only one of the Guru’s wives to be mentioned by name in the Guru Granth Sahib is a testament to her profound impact on the Sikh community²¹.

The Guru Granth Sahib’s depiction of Mata Khivi as a “noble woman” and her role in distributing the Guru’s Langar further emphasize her significance and the lasting impression she left on Sikhism²¹.

“Mata Khivi is the only one of the Guru’s wives to be mentioned by name in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism.”

Mata Khivi lived a remarkable life of unwavering devotion to the Sikh faith¹. From her early marriage to the second Guru, Guru Angad Dev Ji, to her interactions with five subsequent Gurus, Mata Khivi’s life was a testament to her selfless service and compassionate nature¹.

As the wife of Guru Angad Dev, Mata Khivi played a crucial role in establishing the Langar system, a practice of community dining that remains an integral part of Sikhism to this day²⁴. Her dedication to this institution continued until the time of Guru Arjan Dev, making her a beloved figure in the Sikh community¹.

Mata Khivi’s legacy extends far beyond her role as a wife and mother. She was a respected teacher, inspiring the spiritual growth of her own daughters as well as the children of the Sikh community¹. Her unwavering commitment to the principles of equality and collective good made her a role model for Sikh women, and her name is even mentioned in the revered Guru Granth Sahib, a testament to her significant contributions to the faith¹.

Mata Khivi’s devotion to Sikhism spanned over seven decades, as she had the privilege of meeting and serving under five successive Gurus¹. Her life story continues to inspire Sikhs around the world, reminding them of the important role women have played in shaping the history and traditions of the Sikh faith¹.

“Mata Khivi’s unwavering commitment to the Sikh community and her selfless service have left an indelible mark on the history of Sikhism.”

Mata Khivi’s life and achievements exemplify the important role that women played in the early days of Sikhism²⁵. As the wife of the second Sikh Guru, Guru Angad Dev, Mata Khivi made significant contributions to the establishment and growth of the Sikh community. Her dedication to the Langar system, her nurturing of the Sikh youth, and her resolute intervention in a succession dispute have cemented her place as a revered figure in Sikh history²⁵.

Mata Khivi’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the crucial contributions made by Sikh women in shaping the faith and its values of equality, service, and devotion²⁵. The evolution and significance of Sangat and Pangat, two important Sikh concepts introduced by Guru Nanak Dev, are explored in the study conducted by Manpreet Kaur, highlighting the inclusive nature of these traditions that Mata Khivi upheld²⁵.

As the weekly archives from 2007 to 2010 indicate, the growing number of featured articles on Sikh history and concepts reflects the increasing interest and awareness in preserving the legacy of influential Sikh figures like Mata Khivi²⁶. Her story serves as a shining example of the profound impact that Sikh women have had on the development and dissemination of the Sikh faith, inspiring future generations to continue their legacy of service, equality, and spiritual devotion.

1. Mata Khivi – SikhiWiki, free Sikh encyclopedia. – https://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php/Mata_Khivi
2. Khivi – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khivi
3. Mata khivi ji Wife of Guru Angad Dev ji – https://punjabibolo.wordpress.com/2013/10/01/mata-khivi-ji/
4. Guru Angad Dev Ji – 2nd Sikh Guru – Blog Post – https://www.basicsofsikhi.com/post/guru-angad-dev-ji
5. Sri Guru Angad Sahib Ji (2nd Sikh Guru) – https://www.discoversikhism.com/sikh_gurus/sri_guru_angad_sahib_ji.html
6. Guru Angad – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Angad
7. Guru Angad Dev – SikhiWiki, free Sikh encyclopedia. – https://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php/Guru_Angad_Dev
8. Sikhism and the Status of Women – Sikh Spirit – https://sikhspirit.com/sikhism-and-the-status-of-women/
9. Women – Great Women Of Sikhism – https://www.sikhphilosophy.net/threads/great-women-of-sikhism.18177/
10. History of Sikhism – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Sikhism
11. Microsoft Word – Jivan Guru Angad Dev Ji Complete Rev.2 050213.doc – http://139.59.95.78/gurunanakbidar/paath/21-04-2019-5022.pdf
12. Guru Angad Dev Ji – http://10sikhguru.blogspot.com/p/guru-angad-dev-ji.html
13. Guru Ka Langar is a revered institution in Sikhism, imbibes its philosophy and culture – https://www.newsintervention.com/guru-ka-langar-is-a-revered-institution-in-sikhism-imbibes-its-philosophy-and-culture/
14. Concept Of Langar In Sikhi – https://www.sikhphilosophy.net/threads/concept-of-langar-in-sikhi.49036/
15. The Sikh Institutions : Langar And Pangat – Gateway To Sikhism – https://www.allaboutsikhs.com/sikh-way-of-life/sikh-institutions/the-sikh-institutions-langar-and-pangat/
16. Sikh Gurdwara San Jose – Sikh Gurus – http://sjgurdwara.com/sikhism/sikh-gurus
17. Guru Angad Dev Ji: Inspirational and pious architect of the Sikh religion – Defence Info – https://defenceinfo.com/guru-angad-dev-ji-inspirational-and-pious-architect-of-the-sikh-religion/
18. 1-Editorial – https://sikhinstitute.org/pdf/april2004.pdf
19. Microsoft Word – title page – https://sksasc.somaiya.edu.in/media/pdf/UGC MR proj – SPIRITUAL WARRIORS.pdf
20. Guru Angad Dev- The Second Guru – https://www.indif.com/nri/sikhism/guru_angad_dev.asp
21. The Enlightened Path: Unveiling the Legacy of Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji – Daily Good Morning Kashmir – https://www.dailygoodmorningkashmir.com/the-enlightened-path-unveiling-the-legacy-of-sri-guru-angad-dev-ji/
22. Empowering Legacies: Ten Sikh Women You Should Know About – Blog – https://blog.barusahib.org/empowering-legacies-ten-sikh-women-you-should-know-about/
23. The Enlightened Path: Unveiling the Legacy of Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji – https://barta24.com/details/international-en/181200/enlightened-path-unveiling-legacy-sri-dev-ji
24. Women who enriched Sikh history ~ Part I – https://www.sikhnet.com/news/women-who-enriched-sikh-history-part-i
25. PDF – https://gurmatveechar.com/books/English_Books/English_Thesis_Papers/Historical.Sikh.Shrines.Of.Women.And.Their.Importance.In.Sikhism.(GurmatVeechar.com).pdf
26. SikhiWiki:Did you know – SikhiWiki, free Sikh encyclopedia. – https://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php/SikhiWiki:Did_you_know