Draft:Bhai Roop Chand

Bhai Roop Chand (Gurmukhi: ਭਾਈ ਰੂਪ ਚੰਦ 1614-1709) was named by the sixth guru, Shri Guru Hargobind ji. He and his family offered their devotion to the sixth through the tenth guru, Guru Gobind Singh, via sewa.

Early Life and Ancestry
Bhai Roop Chand belonged to the Khokhar Rajputs, a lineage that can be traced back to Raja Sultan of Tuklani. The Khokhar Rajputs are known for their bravery and resistance. In 799 Hizri, they converted to Hinduism and fought against Mahmud Ghazni, extending their influence across regions such as Kabul, Kandhar, and Macedonia.

Guru Hargobind’s Prophecy
Bhai Roop Chand’s father, Sidhu, was a disciple of Sakhi-Server, a Muslim pir. During a visit to their village by Guru Hargobind, Sidhu’s wife, Bibi Surti, was blessed by the Guru. He prophesied the birth of a son named Roop Chand, who would be honored by all. As foretold by the Guru, Roop Chand was born and led a life of devotion.

A Testament of Faith
On a particularly hot day, Sidhu and Roop Chand chose to dedicate their water as an offering to Guru Hargobind, refraining from drinking it themselves. Recognizing their unwavering faith, Guru Hargobind traveled 32 miles to partake of the water they had set aside. This event stands as a testament to their devotion and sacrifice.

Establishment of Bhai Rupa
In 1631, Bhai Roop Chand, along with his father Sidhu, founded a village under the guidance of Guru Hargobind. This village was named ‘Bhai Rupa’ in honor of Roop Chand. Guru Hargobind installed a wooden pillar to mark the foundation, leading to the village initially being named ‘Bhai Rupa Ka’. Presently known as Bhai Rupa, this village is situated 18 km north of Rampura Phul in the Bathinda district of Punjab. The wooden pillar installed by Guru Hargobind still stands and is housed at the Gurdwara Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Bhai Rupa. The founding of Bhai Rupa is a significant event in the life of Bhai Roop Chand and symbolizes his contributions to the Sikh community.

Legacy and Contributions
The legacy of Bhai Roop Chand extends beyond his lifetime. His family preserved a collection of holy relics related to the Sikh Gurus, including Hukamnamas (royal edicts from the Gurus) that recognized the family as their own. They also maintained the old rath (chariot) associated with Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, creating a sacred space for devotees. The collection of relics includes a Rabab (a musical instrument), wooden shoes of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, and paintings from the era of the Gurus. These relics continue to be revered by followers of the Sikh faith.

Also see


 * Bhai Rupa

References