Bhai Kanhaiya Ji: A Symbol of Compassion and Selfless Service in the Sikh Community
Bhai Kanhaiya Ji, also known as Bhai Ghanaiya (1648–1718), was a devoted Sikh of Guru Tegh Bahadur and the founder of the Sevapanthi or Addanshahi order, dedicated to sewa (selfless service). His life embodies compassion, grace, love, and equality, inspiring Sikhs and humanity alike. The Sikh virtue of sewa in its purest form is best exemplified through Bhai Kanhaiya Ji’s actions, particularly when he served water to all during the battle of Anandpur, regardless of friend or foe.
Early Life: A Kind and Gentle Heart
Born in 1648 in Sodhara, near Wazirabad in present-day Pakistan, Bhai Kanhaiya Ji came from a prosperous Khatri family. His father, a wealthy trader, provided him with opportunities others in the village lacked. Yet, Kanhaiya Ji was driven by a desire to help those in need. From a young age, he carried coins to donate to the poor and volunteered to carry heavy burdens for villagers. Despite his mother’s concerns about the social stigma of a trader’s son doing such work, he remained undeterred, unable to ignore others’ suffering. His kindness laid the foundation for a life of selfless service, transcending background or religion.
Spiritual Awakening and Sikh Initiation
After his father’s passing, Bhai Kanhaiya Ji took over the family business. His life changed when he met Bhai Nanua Ji, a devoted Sikh of Guru Tegh Bahadur. Nanua’s recitations of Gurbani, including shabads from the Ninth Guru about detachment and meditation on the Lord, deeply moved Kanhaiya. The shabad, “The Naam remains; the Holy Saints remain; the Guru, the Lord of the Universe, remains,” ignited a spiritual yearning in him. Encouraged by Nanua, Kanhaiya met Guru Tegh Bahadur, received his blessings, and was initiated as a Sikh. He served the Guru’s sangat with devotion, carrying water, working in the langar, and tending to the Guru’s horses. One day, Guru Tegh Bahadur blessed him, foretelling a future dedicated to serving humanity.
The Mission of Selfless Service
Bhai Kanhaiya Ji established a dharmshala in Kavha village, turning it into a hub for spreading Sikh values of selfless service. His commitment shone during the 1704/5 siege of Anandpur, when Rajput and Mughal forces attacked the city. Carrying a goatskin water pouch, Kanhaiya offered water to wounded soldiers—Sikh, Hindu, and Mughal alike. His impartial service baffled some Sikhs, who were struggling under a blockade that limited their resources. They complained to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, believing Kanhaiya was aiding the enemy.
The Guru’s Blessing: A Lesson in Universal Love
When summoned by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Bhai Kanhaiya Ji explained, “Maharaj, I saw no Mughal or Sikh on the battlefield. I only saw human beings. And Guru Ji, they all have the same God’s Spirit.” His words echoed Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s shabad: “No one is my enemy, and no one is a stranger. I get along with everyone.” Guru Gobind Singh Ji was overjoyed, affirming that Kanhaiya had deeply understood Sikh teachings of compassion and equality. The Guru blessed him, provided medical balm to treat the wounded, and instructed him to continue his service. Before the sangat, Guru Ji praised Kanhaiya’s state of Sehaj-avastha (spiritual balance) and urged others to emulate his Nishkam sewa (selfless service without expectation).
Legacy of Bhai Kanhaiya Ji
Bhai Kanhaiya Ji’s life exemplifies Sikh values of sympathy, humility, and universal love. His actions during the battle of Anandpur demonstrate the power of seeing divinity in all. The Sevapanthi samparday he founded continues to inspire Sikhs to serve humanity without expecting rewards. His legacy reflects Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s words: “The One God is pervading in all. Gazing upon Him, beholding Him, Nanak blossoms forth in happiness.” Bhai Kanhaiya Ji’s example transcends cultural boundaries, encouraging heartfelt service and unity.