A native of Nihang, who entered the Babri Masjid in 1858, to prepare a langar in Ayodhya for the inauguration of the Ram Mandir
In November 1858, about 25 Nihang Singhs, led by Nihang Baba Fakir Singh Khalsa, entered the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya and performed havan there. Apart from this, the Nihangs also wrote ‘Ram Ram’ on the walls of the mosque and hoisted the saffron flag. Following this, a case was registered against Mr. Nihang Singh 25 who was then superintendent of police of Awadh on November 30, 1858, after the complaint of the Muezzin (head of the Masjid).
This incident caused a lot of attention on November 9, 2019, when the Supreme Court gave its decision in favor of the temple, based on the evidence on the matter. This was shared by Jathedar Baba Harjit Singh Rasulpur, the eighth descendant from the family of Nihang Baba Fakir Singh Khalsa, while addressing the media here on Sunday.
The SC judgment, referred to the report of Sheetal Dubey, Thanedar, of Oudh, in November 1858. The report says: “Today Mr. Nihang Singh Faqir Khalsa, a resident of Punjab, organized the Hawan and Puja of Guru Gobind Singh and built a house symbolizing Sri Bhagwan, inside of the Masjid premises. At the time of placing the sign, 25 Sikhs were placed there for protection. (Si)”
The report said that he (Dubey) called “to Faqir” and was advised, though he continued to say that “every place belongs to Nirankar.”
Baba Harjit Singh Rasulpur said he will carry forward his ancestors’ devotion to Lord Ram by holding a langar in Ayodhya. “Now when the Prana Prathishtha (consecration) of Lord Rama is taking place on January 22, 2024, how can I leave it,” said Baba Harjit Singh, adding that he and the Nihang Singhs will prepare a langar in Ayodhya on January 22. and will serve devotees from all countries and outside.
“I do not agree with any political party and I am a bearer of eternal traditions. I had to face opposition while maintaining harmony between Nihangs and Sanatan Dharma because on the one hand, I am an amritdhari (baptized) Sikh but on the other hand, I wear a rudraksha mala around my neck”, said Baba Harjit Singh.
© The Indian Express Pvt Ltd
Originally published on: 17-12-2023 at 21:52 IST
