Bhai Mehtab Singh and Bhai Sukha Singh: The Lions Who Avenge the Desecration of Harmandir Sahib
During the 18th century, a dark period of intense persecution dawned upon the Sikh community. This was the time when Mughal and Afghan rulers, along with their local collaborators, launched brutal campaigns to suppress Sikhs. The Sikh homeland saw continuous attacks, massacres, and sacrilege. One of the most heartbreaking events of this era was the desecration of the sacred Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in Amritsar.
The Desecration of Harmandir Sahib
In the early 18th century, Zakaria Khan, the Mughal governor of Lahore, intensified his cruelty against Sikhs. To break their spirit, he appointed Massa Ranghar, a cruel official, as the caretaker of the Harmandir Sahib. Massa Ranghar desecrated the holy shrine by turning it into a personal entertainment house — bringing dancing girls and consuming alcohol within the sacred premises. This deliberate insult deeply wounded the hearts of the Sikhs.
The Pledge for Justice
When news of this sacrilege reached the Sikh warriors who had taken refuge in the jungles and deserts to evade Mughal atrocities, two brave Singhs — Bhai Mehtab Singh of Mirankot (Amritsar) and Bhai Sukha Singh of Mari Kamboke (now in Tarn Taran district) — resolved to punish Massa Ranghar for his unforgivable sin.
Both warriors took an oath in front of the Sikh congregation (Sangat) to restore the honour of the Guru’s house, even at the cost of their lives.
The Bold Assassination
To execute their plan, Mehtab Singh and Sukha Singh disguised themselves as revenue collectors (official tax officers) and rode on horseback toward Amritsar. They carried their weapons hidden in sacks of grain, pretending to carry tribute for Massa Ranghar.
Upon reaching the Harmandir Sahib, they found Massa Ranghar seated inside, enjoying dance and music. Mehtab Singh stepped forward and, without hesitation, beheaded Massa Ranghar with a swift blow of his sword. Sukha Singh immediately secured the severed head in a sack. Both then galloped away at high speed, returning safely to the Sikh jungle camps.
This daring act became a turning point in Sikh resistance — not only avenging the insult to their holiest shrine but also reviving the fighting spirit of the Sikh community.
Martyrdom
Later in life, Bhai Mehtab Singh was eventually captured by Mughal forces. He was subjected to brutal torture and ultimately martyred — but never betrayed his faith or his fellow warriors. Bhai Sukha Singh also continued to fight valiantly for the Khalsa Panth till the end of his days.
Legacy
The story of Bhai Mehtab Singh and Bhai Sukha Singh is not just a tale of vengeance — it is a timeless lesson in courage, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to the Guru and the sanctity of Sikh institutions. Their heroic deed is recited to this day in Sikh history, ardas (daily prayer), and ballads as an eternal symbol of resistance against tyranny and disrespect of the faith.
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