Born in 1667, Mata Sundari Ji was the wife of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth guru of the Sikhs¹. Mata Sundari Ji was a remarkable personality who excelled in her diverse roles as a devoted wife, ideal mother, and confident guide of the Sikh community². After Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s passing in 1708, Mata Sundari Ji served as a spiritual leader, raising the morale of the Sikhs and guiding them through a difficult time of state terror and hardship². She was instrumental in collecting and compiling Guru Gobind Singh’s writings as the “Dasam Granth” and persuading Sikhs to prepare copies of holy hymns for the Adi Granth Sahib.

• Mata Sundari Ji was the wife of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru.
• She was a remarkable woman who excelled in various roles as a devoted wife, ideal mother, and spiritual leader.
• After Guru Gobind Singh’s passing, Mata Sundari Ji guided the Sikh community and helped preserve Sikh traditions.
• Mata Sundari Ji played a crucial role in collecting and compiling Guru Gobind Singh’s writings as the “Dasam Granth”.
• She was instrumental in persuading Sikhs to prepare copies of holy hymns for the Adi Granth Sahib.

Born in Lahore, the daughter of Bhai Ram Saran, a devout Kumarav Khatri of Bijvara in present-day Hoshiarpur district of the Punjab, Mata Sundari Ji was raised in a wealthy and pious family³. Her father, Bhai Ram Saran, was a dedicated follower of Guru Tegh Bahadur and had the privilege of witnessing Guru Gobind Rai (the future Guru Gobind Singh) during his visits to Anandpur⁴.

As a young girl, Mata Sundari Ji grew up in the vibrant city of Lahore, surrounded by a family deeply rooted in Sikh tradition and devotion⁴. Her upbringing in this prosperous and spiritually-inclined household laid the foundation for her future role as the beloved wife of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Bhai Ram Saran, Mata Sundari Ji’s father, was a devoted follower of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru⁴. His unwavering faith and dedication to the Guru’s teachings left a lasting impression on the young Mata Sundari, shaping her own spiritual journey and her eventual partnership with Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

“Mata Sundari Ji’s early life in Lahore and her family’s deep connection to Guru Tegh Bahadur laid the groundwork for her pivotal role as the wife of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.”

Bhai Ram Saran, a devout Sikh, recognized Guru Gobind Rai as a suitable match for his daughter Jito, who would later be known as Mata Sundari⁵. The engagement ceremony took place at the historic Anandpur Sahib, and the marriage was solemnized in 1684⁵.

Due to the political tensions between the Mughals and the Gurus, Guru Gobind Rai did not want to travel to Lahore for the wedding. Instead, he established a new city called Guru Ka Lahore, or New Lahore, near Anandpur Sahib, where the elaborate wedding ceremonies were held with a grand gathering⁵.

Mata Sundari married Guru Gobind Singh on 4 April 1684⁵, and she was the second wife of the Guru⁵. Together, they had one son, Baba Ajit Singh, born on 11 February 1687⁵.

To accommodate the grand wedding festivities, Guru Gobind Singh established the city of Guru Ka Lahore, or New Lahore, near Anandpur Sahib. This new city served as the venue for the elaborate wedding ceremonies, which were attended by a large gathering of devotees and followers⁵.

The marriage between Guru Gobind Singh and Mata Sundari marked a significant event in Sikh history, as they came together to serve the Sikh community and uphold the teachings of the Gurus⁶. Mata Sundari’s role as a devoted wife and partner to the Guru would continue to shape the Sikh faith in the years to come⁶.

The story of Mata Sundari’s marriage to Guru Gobind Singh highlights the cultural practices and beliefs surrounding marriage during that era, as well as the challenges faced by the Sikh Gurus due to the political tensions with the Mughal rulers⁵.

Mata Sundari was the beloved wife of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth guru of the Sikhs. She played a crucial role in the Sikh community and supported her husband’s mission throughout their marriage³.

Mata Sundari, also known as Mata Jito Ji, was married to Guru Gobind Singh on 4 April 1684, and their nuptials were held on 21 June 1684³. Together, they had four sons: Baba Ajit Singh, Baba Jujhar Singh, Baba Zorawar Singh, and Baba Fateh Singh³. Tragically, all four of their sons attained martyrdom at a young age, Baba Ajit Singh at 19 years old, Baba Jujhar Singh at 15 years old, Baba Zorawar Singh at 9 years old, and Baba Fateh Singh at 6 years old³.

Mata Sundari returned to Guru Gobind Singh in Talwandi Sabo in 1706 and remained by his side until his passing³. After Guru Gobind Singh’s death, Mata Sundari continued to guide the Sikh community, issuing hukamnamas (holy decrees) between 12 October 1717 and 10 August 1730³. She passed away in Delhi in 1747³.

The legacy of Mata Sundari is deeply intertwined with the history of Sikhism. She was a devoted wife, mother, and spiritual leader who played a vital role in preserving and guiding the Sikh tradition during a critical time in its development⁴. Her descendants, including Mata Murgai, Baba Harbhajan Singh, and Baba Nihal Singh, have continued to care for the Gurdwara Sahib associated with Mata Sundari in Bajwara, Hoshiarpur, Punjab, India⁴.

Mata Sundari’s life and legacy continue to inspire the Sikh community, and her contributions to the preservation and guidance of Sikhism remain highly revered⁴.

Mata Sundari stood by her husband, Guru Gobind Singh, as a devoted companion⁷. She witnessed his military training of his followers and was deeply impressed by his bravery and the loyalty of his soldiers⁷. Mata Sundari assisted Guru Gobind Singh in his literary works during their time at Paonta, on the banks of the River Yamuna⁷.

Mata Sundari played an active role in supporting Guru Gobind Singh’s mission. She accompanied him to Anandpur Sahib, where she continued to support her husband’s endeavors and prepare for the challenges that lay ahead⁷.

In 1687, Mata Sundari gave birth to Sahibzada Ajit Singh, the eldest son of Guru Gobind Singh, at Paonta⁷. The family later shifted to Anandpur Sahib, where Mata Sundari nurtured her children and guided them in the Sikh faith⁷.

“Mata Sundari exemplified the ideal of a Sikh woman – strong, devoted, and committed to the Guru’s mission. Her life and legacy continue to inspire generations of Sikhs.”

Mata Sundari’s role as a devoted wife and mother was crucial in shaping the lives of her children, including Sahibzada Ajit Singh, the eldest son of Guru Gobind Singh⁸. Her unwavering support and guidance played a vital part in the Guru’s mission and the evolution of the Sikh community⁷⁸.

After the passing of Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1708, Mata Sundari emerged as a guiding force for the Sikh community⁹. She issued hukamnamas (written orders) with her seal and authority between 1717 and 1730, providing spiritual leadership and direction to the Sikhs during a tumultuous period⁹. The Sikhs looked to her for guidance and respected her as a revered leader.

Mata Sundari’s hukamnamas were widely respected and followed by the Sikh community. These written orders carried her seal and authority, conveying spiritual guidance and directives to the faithful⁹. During a period of uncertainty and upheaval, the Sikhs turned to Mata Sundari for leadership and direction, recognizing her as a respected and influential figure within the community.

“Mata Sundari’s hukamnamas were instrumental in unifying and guiding the Sikh community during a critical time in their history.”

Through her hukamnamas, Mata Sundari played a pivotal role in preserving Sikh traditions and values, ensuring the continued growth and development of the community⁹. Her spiritual leadership and unwavering commitment to the Sikh cause earned her the admiration and reverence of the Sikh people.

The legacy of Mata Sundari’s hukamnamas and spiritual leadership continues to be celebrated and honored within the Sikh community to this day⁹. Her guiding influence and steadfast dedication to the Sikh faith left an indelible mark on the Sikh community, solidifying her place as a revered figure in Sikh history.

Mata Sundari played a crucial role in the preservation of Guru Gobind Singh’s literary works¹⁰. She commissioned Bhai Mani Singh to collect the writings of the Guru and compile them into the “Dasam Granth.”¹⁰ Mata Sundari also persuaded devout Sikhs to prepare copies of holy hymns to be included in the Adi Granth Sahib, ensuring the continuity of the Sikh scriptural tradition¹⁰.

Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, is renowned for his significant contributions to Sikh literature and theology¹¹. He is credited with finalizing and enshrining the Guru Granth Sahib as Sikhism’s primary holy religious scripture¹¹. Guru Gobind Singh’s own writings, including the Sikh national anthem, Deh Shiva Bar Mohe Eha, have also been preserved and revered by the Sikh community¹¹.

The preservation and dissemination of Guru Gobind Singh’s writings have been the subject of extensive scholarly efforts in recent decades¹². Educational institutions in Punjab have made primary sources related to the Guru’s period available in print form, preparing critical editions of texts like the Guru’s hukamname and writings on Sikh rahit¹². Efforts have also been made to translate relevant Farsi writings from around 1700, associated with the Sikhs, into Punjabi and English¹².

The historical significance of Guru Gobind Singh’s literary works and their compilation by Mata Sundari cannot be overstated¹¹. They have played a pivotal role in shaping the Sikh scriptural tradition and preserving the Guru’s legacy for generations to come¹¹.

“Guru Gobind Singh’s writings have become an integral part of the Sikh scriptural canon, preserving his teachings and inspiring the Sikh community for centuries.”

Mata Sundari, the devoted wife of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, was deeply committed to upholding the rich traditions and values of Sikhism¹³. She ensured that the sacred practice of “Langar,” the free community kitchen, continued to flourish under her guidance. This timeless tradition of sharing a common meal, regardless of social status or background, was an integral part of the Sikh way of life¹⁴.

As the first Khalsa woman¹⁴, Mata Sundari’s unwavering commitment to preserving Sikh heritage was evident in her actions. She oversaw the seamless continuation of the Langar, where people from all walks of life came together to partake in a communal dining experience, fostering a spirit of unity and equality¹³.

Mata Sundari’s leadership during this pivotal period in Sikh history ensured that the traditions and values established by the Sikh Gurus remained steadfast¹³. Her dedication to maintaining the integrity of Sikh practices, such as the Langar, played a crucial role in safeguarding the rich cultural tapestry of the Sikh community¹⁴.

Through her unwavering commitment, Mata Sundari left an indelible mark on the Sikh tradition, ensuring that the principles of selfless service, community, and harmony continued to thrive and flourish¹⁴. Her legacy as a devoted wife and guardian of Sikh traditions remains a testament to the enduring spirit of the Sikh faith¹³.

After Guru Gobind Singh’s departure to the Deccan, his beloved wife Mata Sundari came to Delhi and stayed at the haveli (house) of Bhai Jawahar Singh for some time¹⁵. Later, from 1727 onwards, she resided in a newly constructed building, which was then called Mata Sundri’s Haveli and is now known as Gurdwara Mata Sundri¹⁵. Mata Sundari also spent time in Mathura during her later years, showcasing her dynamic residences within the region¹⁵.

Mata Sundari’s presence in Delhi and Mathura during this period highlights the influential role she played in the Sikh community after the passing of her husband, Guru Gobind Singh. She not only provided spiritual guidance but also maintained strong ties with the Rajput rulers, such as Raja Sawai Jai Singh of Jaipur, who offered her patronage and support¹⁵.

Mata Sundari’s journey from Delhi to Mathura reflects the complex political and social dynamics of the time, as the Sikh Gurus and their families navigated the shifting alliances and power structures of the Mughal Empire and the emerging regional kingdoms¹⁵. Her ability to adapt and maintain her influence in these changing circumstances underscores the remarkable strength and resilience of this revered Sikh matriarch¹⁶.

“Mata Sundari’s life in Delhi and Mathura exemplifies the role of Sikh women in shaping the community’s history and spiritual legacy during a tumultuous period.”

The Gurdwara Mata Sundri in Delhi, constructed on the site of her former residence, stands as a testament to Mata Sundari’s enduring influence and the reverence with which she is remembered by the Sikh community¹⁵. Her life and legacy continue to inspire and guide the faithful, underscoring the critical role of women in the Sikh tradition¹⁶.

Mata Sundari, the beloved wife of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, faced a challenging situation with her adopted son, Ajit Singh¹⁷. Ajit Singh had been supported by the Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah, who declared him loyal to the Mughal Empire¹⁷. Initially, Ajit Singh had even preached against Banda Singh Bahadur, with Mata Sundari’s blessings¹⁷. However, Ajit Singh’s growing arrogance and haughty behavior towards Mata Sundari eventually led her to disown him¹⁸.

The Mughal records suggest that Ajit Singh’s support for the Mughals against Banda Singh Ji caused a division within the Sikh community¹⁷. Some Sikhs, including soldiers, defected and fought against their Sikh brothers for rewards from the Mughals¹⁷. Rumors even circulated that Mata Sundari and Mata Sahib Kaur were pressured to use their influence against Banda Singh¹⁷.

Despite the complex underlying reasons for this division, Mata Sundari’s decision to disown Ajit Singh was a testament to her unwavering commitment to the Sikh principles and the legacy of Guru Gobind Singh Ji¹⁷. Ajit Singh’s downfall, ultimately leading to his conviction and execution for murder in 1725, serves as a cautionary tale of the consequences of straying from the Sikh path¹⁷.

Mata Sundari’s relationship with Ajit Singh, her adopted son, highlights the challenges she faced in navigating the political and social complexities of the Mughal era¹⁷. Her decision to disown him, despite their familial bond, demonstrates her unwavering commitment to upholding the values and principles of Sikhism¹⁷.

The legacy and influence of Mata Sundari, the beloved wife of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, continue to inspire the Sikh community to this day. A testament to her unwavering dedication and spiritual guidance during a crucial period in Sikh history stands in the form of the Gurudwara Mata Sundri in New Delhi.

This revered shrine, located in the compound of Gurdwara Bala Sahib, serves as a poignant reminder of Mata Sundari’s profound impact on the Sikh faith¹⁹. After the passing of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Mata Sundari emerged as a pivotal figure, guiding the Sikh community through a challenging era marked by political turmoil and religious persecution.

With her unwavering commitment to the Guru’s teachings and her tireless efforts to preserve Sikh traditions, Mata Sundari left an indelible mark on the Sikh community²⁰. The Gurudwara Mata Sundri stands as a testament to her enduring legacy, honoring her steadfast leadership and her role in shaping the future of the Sikh faith.

Today, the Gurudwara Mata Sundri serves as a spiritual hub, where devotees gather to pay homage to Mata Sundari and seek her blessings²¹. The shrine’s serene ambiance and rich history inspire visitors to reflect on the profound impact of this remarkable woman, whose life was dedicated to the service of the Sikh community and the preservation of its sacred traditions.

Mata Sundari’s legacy continues to resonate, inspiring generations of Sikhs to emulate her devotion, resilience, and unwavering faith. The Gurudwara Mata Sundri stands as a testament to her enduring influence, a shining example of the power of love, sacrifice, and spiritual leadership.

Mata Sundari, the beloved wife of²² Guru Gobind Singh Ji, played a pivotal role in shaping the Sikh community during a time of immense challenge and turmoil. As the mother of Sahibzada Ajit Singh²² and one of Guru Gobind Singh’s three wives²², Mata Sundari’s unwavering commitment to the Sikh cause, her spiritual leadership, and her efforts to preserve the legacy of Guru Gobind Singh have cemented her place as a revered figure in²³ Sikh history.

Through her guidance, Mata Sundari helped the Sikh community navigate the tumultuous events that unfolded during the Seven Month Siege of Anandpur²² and the subsequent battles that resulted in the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh’s sons²². Her role as a spiritual leader, issuing²³ Hukamnamas and providing counsel to the Sikh faithful, ensured the continuity of Sikh traditions and the preservation of Guru Gobind Singh’s teachings.

Mata Sundari’s legacy continues to inspire Sikhs around the world, as evidenced by the Gurudwara Mata Sundri in Delhi, which stands as a testament to her enduring influence and the Sikh community’s reverence for her. As we reflect on the life and contributions of this remarkable woman, we are reminded of the pivotal role that Mata Sundari played in shaping the²³ Sikh faith and in guiding the Sikh community through a tumultuous period in its history.

1. Mata Sundari | Discover Sikhism – https://www.discoversikhism.com/sikhs/mata_sundari.html
2. Gurdwara Mata Sundri – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gurdwara_Mata_Sundri
3. Mata Sundari – SikhiWiki, free Sikh encyclopedia. – https://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php/Mata_Sundari
4. Gurdwara Sri Mata Sunder Kaur Bajwara – http://www.discoversikhism.com/sikh_gurdwaras/gurdwara_sri_mata_sunder_kaur_bajwara.html
5. Mata Sunder Kaur – SikhiWiki, free Sikh encyclopedia. – https://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php/Mata_Sunder_Kaur
6. Mata Sundari – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mata_Sundari
7. Guru Gobind Singh’s wife or wives – The encyclopedia of Sikhism – https://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php/Guru_Gobind_Singh’s_wife_or_wives_-_The_encyclopedia_of_Sikhism
8. Mothers Of The Panth – https://medium.com/@ithaas.thehistory/mothers-of-the-panth-ef798e137f24
9. Guru Gobind Singh Ji – 10th Sikh Guru – Blog Post – https://www.basicsofsikhi.com/post/guru-gobind-singh-ji
10. PDF – https://journals.pen2print.org/index.php/ijr/article/download/8589/8329
11. Guru Gobind Singh – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Gobind_Singh
12. Microsoft Word – Chapter 9 copy.doc – http://giss.org/pdf/GGS.pdf
13. Dedications of Revered Sikhs Towards Growth of Sikhism – https://www.sikhnet.com/news/dedications-revered-sikhs-towards-growth-sikhism
14. Who Was the First Wife of Guru Gobind Singh? – https://www.learnreligions.com/mata-jito-ji-ajit-kaur-2993590
15. Sikhs & Rajput State of Jaipur – https://www.sikhnet.com/news/sikhs-rajput-state-jaipur
16. The Last Commandment – https://academic.oup.com/book/36926/chapter/322209919
17. What Is Really In The Contents Of The Dasam Granth? – https://www.sikhphilosophy.net/threads/what-is-really-in-the-contents-of-the-dasam-granth.40046/page-4
18. Blue not to be worn? – https://gurmatbibek.com/forum/read.php?3,32109,32260
19. Negotiations with Aurangzeb (1705–7) – https://academic.oup.com/book/36926/chapter/322206530
20. PDF – https://gurmatveechar.com/books/English_Books/English_Thesis_Papers/Historical.Sikh.Shrines.Of.Women.And.Their.Importance.In.Sikhism.(GurmatVeechar.com).pdf
21. Mata Gujar Kaur, Mother of Guru Gobind Singh – https://www.learnreligions.com/mata-gujri-history-2993589
22. Martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh’s 4 Sons, Mother & Related Events – https://www.sikhnet.com/news/martyrdom-guru-gobind-singh’s-4-sons-mother-related-events
23. Sikhism – Guru Gobind Singh, Khalsa, Panth – https://www.britannica.com/topic/Sikhism/Guru-Gobind-Singh-and-the-founding-of-the-Khalsa