In the sacred history of Sikhism, Mai Bhago Ji, also revered as Mata Bhag Kaur, shines as an immortal symbol of courage, faith, and unwavering devotion to the Guru. Born in the village of Jhabal Kalan (present-day Punjab), she was raised in the disciplined spirit of Sikhi, where bravery and righteousness were considered divine virtues. From a young age, she was trained in Gatka, the traditional Sikh martial art, under the guidance of her father, preparing her not just for battle, but for a life of fearless seva.
During the turbulent times of Mughal oppression, when Guru Gobind Singh Ji was leading the Khalsa against tyranny, Mai Bhago Ji encountered a group of 40 Sikhs near Muktsar who had abandoned the battlefield, disheartened by the overwhelming Mughal forces. With powerful words rooted in Gurmat and deep spiritual conviction, she awakened their conscience, reminding them of their oath to the Guru and the honor of the Khalsa.
Breaking societal norms of 17th-century Punjab, Mai Bhago Ji donned a warrior’s attire and led these men back into battle—an extraordinary and revolutionary act for a woman of that era.
The Battle of Muktsar on 29 December 1705 was fought between approximately 250 Khalsa warriors and an estimated 20,000 Mughal soldiers. The battle was fierce and decisive. Though the 40 Sikhs attained martyrdom, their sacrifice inflicted massive losses on the Mughal army, with historical accounts noting thousands of Mughal casualties. Mai Bhago Ji emerged as the only surviving Sikh warrior from this group, wounded but unbroken.
Moved by her bravery and the ultimate sacrifice of the Forty Mukte (The Liberated Ones), Guru Gobind Singh Ji personally blessed them with liberation and tore the bedava (letter of renunciation). Mai Bhago Ji thereafter remained by the Guru’s side, serving him faithfully until his earthly departure at Nanded. She later lived as a spiritually elevated Sikh, dedicating her life to meditation, seva, and remembrance of Waheguru.
Mai Bhago Ji’s legacy is not merely of a warrior, but of a saint-soldier who embodied the true spirit of the Khalsa—fearless in battle, humble in faith, and absolute in devotion.
With the deepest respect and reverence, SikhHerós honors Mai Bhago Ji an eternal inspiration for generations to stand for truth, justice, and the Guru’s path. 🙏
