Sikhism is known by all to have been started by Guru Nanak Dev ji and then the Guruship passing to 9 succeeding Gurus and finally to Guru Granth Sahib. Except once when Guru Teg Bahadur (The 9th Guru) became Guru, the rest of the journey is defined at most places as passing from Guru to another.
In Terms of leadership & political structure of Sikhism after Guru Gobind Singh ji (10th Guru) is recognized as being under Banda Bahadur, then chaos time of Ghallugharas, further down Misls, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, British & finally Indian Republic
However all this has been is too simplistic view and a linear view. There have been multiple players inside Sikhism who had their influence and lead to many Schisms. Then there were the external political forces especially the Mughals, who also interfered. This all lead to complex situations at various parts of the journey some of whom I try to highlight
Baba Sri Chand Ji
Baba Sri Chand Ji was the elder son of Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1st Sikh Guru). Guru Nanak Dev ji through his life traveled across the world on Udasis propagating the message of God. In later stages of his life he settled at Kartarpur Sahib. Before Guru Nanak Dev Ji passed to heavenly abode, he chose Guru Angad Dev Ji as his successor for Gurgadi instead of his two sons especially Baba Sri Chand
Baba Sri Chand did not believe in the path of his father but followed path of asceticism. Quite a significant numbers of the followers of Guru Nanak Dev ji did not accept Guru Angad Dev ji as Guru but rather followed Baba Sri Chand. It is due to this reason that Guru Angad Dev ji had to move out of Kartarpur Sahib and move and establish his center at Khadur Sahib.
Baba Sri Chand formed his sect known whose followers were known as Udasis. He propagated messages of Guru Nanak Dev ji. However despite some schism during succession, Baba Sri Chand had very good relations with Sikh Gurus. Guru Ramdas ji (4th Guru) & Guru Hargobind Ji (6th Guru) both met Baba Sri Chand. Baba Sri Chand is also have said to contributed towards sarovar at Harmandir Sahib and provided materials in his possession towards Granth during times of Guru Arjan Dev ji(5th Guru). Infact Guru Hargobind is said to have sent his son, Baba Gurditta on request of Baba Sri Chand to become the successor of the Udasi Sect. It was this relationship that enabled Udasis to to be made caretakers of Gurudwaras over the years (However if this story is true then would have made Baba Sri Chand age at 134 years. Another alternate version is that Guru Hargobind sent his favourite son & probable successor Baba Gurditta to Kartarpur to help consolidate one sect the Udasis in favour of Sikhism at time of other threats from other Sect like the Minas, Dhir Mal)
However as the time progressed the Udasis sect became more corrupt with Brahamincal practices coming in them which lead to the Singh Sabha & Akali movement to restore Gurudwaras from the control of Udasis and hence Schisms between Sikhs & Udasis
Baba Dattu Ji & Baba Dassu Ji
Like Guru Nanak Dev ji, Guru Angad Dev(2nd Guru) also chose a true disciple- Guru Amar Das ji as the third guru. Dattu(Younger) & Dassu(Elder) were the sons of Guru Angad Dev Ji. They were not happy that the Guruship did not remain in the family. While Baba Dassu realized his father's desire and reconciled, Dattu remained very aggressive towards the 3rd Guru throughout his life.
Guru Angad Dev ji (2nd Guru) had also asked Guru Amar Das ji to move to Goindwal Sahib from Khadur Sahib when he was anointed the guru as he expected sharp reactions from his sons. When he became guru he shifted from Khadur Sahib to Goindwal Sahib.
However Baba Dattu still remained aggressive. It is said Guru Amar Das while in Goindwal was kicked by Baba Dattu and to have overall peace left Goindwal for his native town of Basarke. It was only after some time on the urging of Baba Buddha ji that he returned back to Goindwal. Meanwhile Baba Dattu is said to have picked valuable from Goindwal but was looted on his way by Bandits and returned empty handed to Khadur Sahib
Baba Dattu had a desire to be the Guru but didn't have the qualities. Hence over the years his following dwindled very quickly. He remained dis grunted for many years. It was finally during the period of Guru Arjan Dev ji (5th Guru) that he realized his mistake and asked for forgiveness from the Guru
Baba Mohan
Baba Mohan ji was the elder son of Guru Amar Das ji (3rd Guru). He aspired to be the 4th Guru and was jealous of Bhai Jetha (Later Guru Ramdas) the son in law of the guru. However he sensed that Guru Ramdas would be chosen as the successor. He then picked up the 'pothis' of his father and walked off (Later known as Mohan Pothis). These were not available with Guru Ramdas during his life.
It was also due to hostile reactions of Baba Mohan & Baba Mohari, Guru Ramdas is said to found a new city of Ramdaspur now famously known as Amritsar
It was years later that Guru Arjan (5th Guru) first send Baba Buddha & Baba Gurdas but they failed to convince Baba Mohan. Finally the Guru himself was able to change heart of Baba Mohan who made the Mohan Pothis available to the guru for compilation of Adi Granth
Prithi Chand, Meharban & Harji (The Minas)
Prithi Chand turned out to be one of the most vicious enemies of the Sikhs. He was the eldest son of Guru Ram Das ji (4th Guru) and challenged the succession of 5th Guru Arjan Dev ji and founded his sect known as Minas (Meharbans as they call themselves. Mina is derogatory version) and declared himself as the rival Guru setting up a rival Guruship in which he was succeeded by his son Meharban and grandson Harji and the line still continues.
It is said during the life of the Guru Ramdas, Prithi continuously conspired against his brother & youngest son of Guru, Arjan Dev. He also took the middle son Maha Dev under his influence. However the Guru ultimately chose Guru Arjan Dev ji as his successor and publicly chastised him. After this Prithi left Amritsar & set up his Guruship at his wife's village at Hehar very near to Amritsar.
Prithi Chand continued to conspire against Guru Arjan Dev ji (5th Guru). He carried out parallel activities whatever the Guru undertook- like laying having his parallel Gur Gaddi (He had all the symbols of Guru Ram Das like Mala, Topi, Selhi of Guru Nanak), foundation of Temple & Tank when Guru Arjan Dev was laying foundation of Har Mandir sahib to rival the guru.
As Guru was without a child for long, he hoped that Guru would pass away childless and planned to have his son Meharban installed as successor of Guru Arjan Dev ji . When in 1595 a son was born to the guru, he was really jealous and even tried to poison him.
While in Hehar, he tried to promote distorted & fake hymns on the name of Guru Nanak Dev ji. His son Meharban started compiling and circulating his own Granth and under the pen name of 'Nanak' and added fake verses of Prithi Chand & himself. They also added Brahmanical features in their Granth showing themselves as incarnation of Vishnu. Many in Sikh community started getting influenced by him and regarding Prithi Chand as their guru. It is one of the main reasons which lead Guru Arjan Dev ji to compile the Adi Granth and remove any attempts for distortions in the future.
Prithi Chand continuously is said to have complained and conspired with the Mughals and other enemies. Akbar with his liberal policies, when visited the Guru found no threat. However ultimately, when Jahangir came to the throne, to prove a point to the Islamic clergy and establish himself as a leader, was pushed by the influence of Prithi & others. This lead to the martyrdom of the Guru by Emperor Jahangir.
Prithi Chand died in 1618 and he was succeeded by his son Meharban. Meharban during the life of Prithi had prepared their version of Granth in which they mixed teaching of Nanak with Puranas, Ramayana, Mahabharata and their own teachings. He also chose of more adherent & pro government policy of non violence as opposed to the policy of Miri Piri of Guru Hargobind chose. This was perhaps to be in good books of Mughal overlords and seek their patronage and an official government recognition & support. He continued to propagate his version of Granth.
In 1627 when Shah Jahan ascended to the throne, brought a more hostile policy by new king against Guru Hargobind. In 1628, he was forced to move out of Amritsar never to return and found the city of Kiratpur. Like his father, Meharban had a huge role of conspiring with the Mughals. Then in 1635 after the Guru had moved out after Battle of Kartarpur (1634) to far away Kiratpur, Meharban as Grandson of Guru Ramdas, laid claim to Harmandir Sahib and got control of it. The Mughals were happy to collude as they wanted a weaken the Sikh movement. It will be surprising for most to know that no Guru after that including Guru Hargobind himself during his balance life afterwords visited Amritsar. What was worse years later Meharban's son Harji the next fake guru, even denied entry to Guru Tegh Bahadur (9th Guru) when he went there for a visit. This control of Harmandir Sahib, brought in further legitimacy to Meharban & Mina sect and many started to believe him as their Guru.
In 1640, Meharban died and was succeeded by his son Harji. Like his father the biggest resource Harji had was Harmandir Sahib under his control and he made most of it. He used it to viciously promote their version of Sikhism and managed a good following especially among the upper castes as their teachings unlike the Guru's promoted the version of those in power rather than all human beings as equal which was exactly opposite to what Guru Nanak even though he preached in his name. He promoted that Guru Nanak to Meharban (Including Guru Arjan but not Guru Hargobind) as being incarnations of Vishnu.
Harji lived as Guru right up-till 1696 when he died. The sect had continued to challenge right upto Guru Gobind Singh ji (10th Guru). Finally after death of Harji and when his three sons were fighting for succession, was Guru Gobind Singh ji finally able to install Bhai Mani Singh as Granthi of Harmandir sahib while the 3 sons of Harji had moved out.
As per the Minas however, Prithi Chand accepted Guru Arjan Dev ji as the guru. However when Guru Arjan Dev ji was martyred, as per them the a select group installed the 11 yr old Guru Hargobind as successor and maligned Prithi Chand even though he had not deviated from path of Guru Nanak. To prove their point they point that all verses of Prithi Chand were as Mahala 6 and not 5 showing he accepted Guru Arjan Dev ji as a true Guru. However this is also said to have been ploy of Harji to build legitimacy of their sect.
Dhir Mal
Dhir Mal surely can be categorized as another big threat and enemy during critical times of Sikhism. To understand the level negative impact he had, we will have to understand the background.
Guru Hargobind ji (6th Guru) was the Guru for the longest period of all Gurus after Guru Nanak Devji. He became the guru in critical times when Guru Arjan Dev ji (5th Guru), his father was martyred. This was during the times when Jahangir has just come on the throne and wanted to establish his writ and carried out such actions. Also around the same time Prithi Chand is also said to have conspired with Mughals to get Guru Arjan martyred. He also declared himself the Guru and continue to challenge Guru Hargobind ji which was followed by his successors
Guru Hargobind during such times navigated Sikhism. He established Miri & Piri (Temporal Power & Spiritual Authority) and established the Akal Takht (Eternal Throne) right opposite Harmandir Sahib to show Sikh power and so that in future are not pushed so easily. In this delicate balance of power he had to spend few years in the Gwalior Fort as a prisoner. When Jahangir became more secure in his rule and with diplomatic efforts, lead to finally the Guru being released. It is for this occasion of his release that Sikhs celebrate Diwali.
When Shahjahan became emperor, the relations again became bitter. There were battles with the Mughals due to which Guru has to first shift to Kartarpur (As Amritsar was too near to Lahore) and too avoid further confrontations, the base was shifted to Kiratpur Sahib.
The Guru during these period which were very challenging was blessed with 6 Children- Baba Gurditta, Suraj Mal, Ani Rai, Atal Rai, Teg Bahadur & Bibi Biro. While Suraj Mal & Bibi Veero were involved in household duties and moved on with their lives (Suraj Mal's Grandson & all 5 sons of Bibi Veero participated in Battle of Anandpur and most attained martyrdom). They were not considered worthy to be Gurus. Teg Bahadur, Ani Rai were godly people who lived recluse lives. Teg Bahadur (Who became 9th Guru) settled in Bakala and Ani Rai passed away in Kiratpur only.
Baba Gurditta was esteemed highly by Guru Hargobind and was always groomed by him as the next Guru. It was during the times when Minas were constantly trying to undermine the Guru and alluding with the authorities of the day that Guru met Baba Sri Chand who requested one son to be given to him as successor of his sect the Udasis. In an strategic move Guru gave Baba Gurditta as son to Baba Sri Chand. Thus Baba Gurditta was now next in line of succession for both Sikhs and Udasis just helping to consolidate the sect back into Sikhism and ward of threats of Minas & Mughals. It is this relationship that led in times to come to make Udasis as the caretakers of Gurudwaras (It is other story how in later generations they became corrupt and away from Sikhism). Baba Gurditta made Kartarpur as his center where his two sons Dhir Mal & Har Rai were born.
When Guru Hargobind had to move to Kiratpur, Baba Gurditta moved with him but left his family at Kartarpur. The Guru also left the Adi Granth at Kartarpur . This was probably it was hoped that when things settle down, Guru could return back and make this as a center. Soon Amritsar was also occupied and claimed by Meharban as ancestor of Guru Ram Das. It was during these turbulent time that Baba Gurditta passed away at a young age of 25 only.
His son Dhir Mal did not even go to Kiratpur for last rights of his father. He remained in Kartarpur and refused to share the Adi Granth with Guru Hargobind. He started acting as a Guru designate and with the copy of Adi Granth strengthened his claim. He openly colluded with the Mughal authorities who granted him land adjacent to Kartarpur.
After Guru Hargobind (6th Guru) passed away, instead of Dhir Mal he appointed his younger brother- Guru Har Rai as the 7th Guru. Dhir Mal continued to preach himself as Guru and obstruct Gur Har Rai (7th Guru) & his young son Guru Har Kishan (8th Guru).
When Guru Harkishan (8th Guru) passed at a young age and directed next Guru (Teg Bahadur) was at Bakala, Dhir Mal moved his base there and proclaimed to be the Guru. When finally Guru Teg Bahadur (9th Guru) was recognized by Makhan Shah Lubana, Dhir Mal even tried to assassinate the Guru.
Having failed in all his efforts, he finally settled in Kartarpur. His successors still continue to proclaim themselves as Gurus and still hold the original Adi Granth known as Kartapuri Bir. When Guru Gobind Singh (10th Guru) requested the Adi Granth to be borrowed so that a copy could be made, Bahar Sodhi, son of Dhir Mal and fake Guru refused to share it. It was then Guru Gobind Singh (10th Guru) prepared it from the memory adding verses of his father and his one verse and is the Adi Granth (Now Guru Granth Sahib) which is used across the world.
The Dhir Malias now proclaim that after the attack on Guru Teg Bahadur (9th Guru), one Sikh managed to get the copy of Adi Granth. However Guru Teg Bahadur on finding out asked the Sikh to return the copy back and hence have the claim, citing which they don't share the copy to be kept as Amritsar and also that they have been forgiven by the Guru. This is highly unlikely as Dhir Mal was in a position of strength and highly likely that Bir could have been stolen. Also even post this said incident, Dhir Mal continued in his mislead ways. This whole is most likely a way to justify their claim to hold the Bir and also call themselves as Sikhs.
When Aurangzeb came in power and Dhir Mal (Who had lost much influence) was not of much use, put him in jail where he passed away. The Dhir Malias are now limited to Kartarpur and to the family of Sodhis outside which have minimal influence.
Ram Rai
Guru Har Rai (7th Guru) had two sons- Ram Rai & Har Kishan. He lived during one of the most tough times for the religion. The Minas lead by Harji was in control of Amritsar and proclaimed themselves as Guru's and had their own version of Granth. On other hand Dhir Mal was in Kartarpur and had the original granth and too proclaimed himself as Guru. Both has colluded with the Mughals. It is due to these threats that Guru Har Rai continued to stay in Kiratpur during his 17 years as Guru. He lead some visits in the Malwa region and tried to reform the Masands from the corruption but was always extremely challenged.
The challenges however did not abate. The sons of Shah Jahan- Aurangzeb & Dara Shikoh started a war of succession, there are some references that Guru had blessed Dara Shikoh (Most likely would not have been the case as no reference to the same is there in Mughal records). While the relationship were already bad, on coming of Aurangzeb and his fanatic ways, they further deteriorated.
In such times that Aurangzeb asked for the presence of the Guru in his court. The Guru instead sent his eldest son Ram Rai to the court. In the court when confronted by Aurangzeb on a reference to Muslims being shown in a bad way (Which is not the case), Ram Rai changed the verses. This infuriated the Guru, who excommunicated Ram Rai. Aurangzeb saw this as an golden opportunity to divide the Sikhs and granted Ram Rai with lands near Dehradun.
Thus during the life of Guru Har Rai (7th Guru) and next 3 Guru's, there was 3 rival claimants to Guru- Harji (Minas) in Amritsar, Dhir Mal at Kartarpur and Ram Rai at Dehradun. It is due to this reason that Guru Teg Bahadur built up his center at Anantpur near Kiratpur away from these 3 centers. Also with so much hostility in Punjab, he chose a wise step to go to East India. Here the Sikhs had not been visited after Guru Nanak (1st Guru). He could consolidate and meet with the sangats reassuring them that Guruship is in safe hands and avoid any hostility which could impact Sikhism. This was critical as Guru Harkishan had passed away in a very young stage and had just indicated where new Guru was and still the succession was challenged across.
Ram Rai continued to preach and have his following. He also stayed in Garhwal Srinagar and good relations with Raja Fateh Chand over whom had his influence and built some following in the region. He tried during the life of Guru Teg Bahadur (9th Guru) & Guru Gobind Sing (10th Guru) to build back relations. It is said in the end the Masands due to greed of his wealth (He had no offspring)burnt him when he was in deep slumber. His wife Punjab Kaur pleaded with Guru Gobind Singh (10th Guru) for help who is then said to have burnt the Masands alive.
His Dera continues to be run by nominated Masands till date and some following continues.
Gulab Rai
After Guru Gobind Singh ji moved out of Anandpur Sahib, it was confiscated by Mughals. Then Gulab Rai who was the grandson of Baba Suraj Mal (Son of 6th Guru Hargobind) bought Anandpur Sahib. He set up his manji and established himself as Guru. He began to initiate orders and have his own sect of Sikhs known as Gulab Rahis. As he had the seat of Anandpur Sahib under his control, gave way for him to have access to large amounts of funds.
The only credit that can be given to Gulab Rai is that he reconstructed the city of Anandpur Sahib. However since he had gained ground on flimsy and over time could not gain much support. Also there were opposition to him in Anandpur Sahib from Gurbakh Das an true follower of Gurus and an Udasi. These all factors kept the influence to the minimum and he was lost in history.
Ajit Singh & Hathi Singh
When Mata Sundari after death of Guru Gobind Singh (10th Guru) settled in Delhi, she adopted Ajit Singh as her son, as he reminded him of his son by the same name. However as Ajit Singh grew old, he turned out to be arrogant. Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah also tried to project him as a Sikh Guru to counter balance the influence of Banda Bahadur.
Ajit Singh under all these influences, encouraged by Mughals started to display himself as the Sikh Guru. This resulted in him being disowned by Mata Sundari who then moved out with his son (Hathi Singh) & his wife. Finally over time Ajit Singh behavior did not him any favour and lost all following. He was finally tried and sentenced to death for murder by Emperor Muhammad Shah
Hathi Singh also despite of living away from his father & with Mata Sundari also started to consider him as a Sikh Guru. He started to replace name of Guru Nanak (1st Guru) and put his name and propagate them as his hymns. This lead Mata Sundari to disown him too.
He finally moved to Burhanpur in MP where he built his dera and has a small following there. He passed without any heirs.
Tat Khalsa & Bandai Khalsa
Banda Bahadur after passing away of Guru Gobind Singh (10th Guru) took Punjab by storm. He defeated the Mughals in various battles including capture of Sirhind. He had an lasting impact. However in the second half of his conquests post attack on Lohgarh many started to leave him due to differences that had started to emerge. Baba Deep Singh could have been one of them as records show he participated till attack on Sirhind. Baaj Singh son of Baba Binod Singh left Banda Bahadur before the siege at Gurdas Nangal and Baba Binod Singh during the siege.
Why this schism was created has many sides of the story which has some elements of truth and knowing all helps in creating an balanced perspective. The more propagated version is that Baba Banda Bahadur started to diverge from the path of Guru. He started to seat himself higher than others, started to propagate his own salutation "Fateh Darshan" instead of "Waheguru ji ka Khalsa Waheguru ki Fateh", brought elements not in line with Sikhism and started to demonstrate himself as Guru. This lead to many Sikhs leaving him including Baba Binod Singh.
However this is surely not the complete picture. Mata Sundari after the death of Guru Gobind Singh (10th Guru) settled in Delhi. She started to issue Hukumnama's in her own name and were followed by many Sikhs. As the time progressed, Banda Singh Bahadur's movement started to have an radical and revolutionary impact. They finished the Zamindari system, empowered the masses in the regions where they were in power. This threatened the established order of the times. The political elite across religions hence doubled their efforts to oppose this and tried all things in their books. They tried to push Banda to the corner and tried to maximize all the schisms.
It is during this period of last stand, Mata Sundari on her own will or under pressure from Mughals (As she was in Delhi) issued Hukumnama against Banda Bahadur (Hukumnama could have been falsely created by Mughals too). Also Baaj Singh who had left Banda opened negotiations with Mughals. The Mughals agreed to give some land to Baba Binod Singh & Baba Kahn Singh. This lead to Baba Binod Singh and other Sikhs leaving. Further to add strength to this Baaj Singh was employed by Mughals (Even grandson of Baba Binod Singh was also employed by Mughals). This strongly points to Schism either being created or strengthened by Mughals allegedly with collusion with Mata Sundari (Or falsely using her name).
Banda cornered finally agree to surrender on certain agreed conditions. According to the terms of the settlement the Nawab promised to spare the lives of the Sikhs if they relinquished their hold over the fortress and that the Nawab would recommend their case to the Emperor and would mediate on their behalf. Probably these included assurance given to Baaj Singh & Baba Binod Singh. However finally how it ended we all know. Like most political elites, when things came out in their favour, they punished Banda Bahadur earlier and after him even did not spare Baba Binod Singh.
After the death the Khalsa split into Bandai Khalsa (Followers of Banda Bahadur) and Tat Khalsa. They both clashed and a ceasefire was agreed with both getting Bungas at Amritsar. Finally there was a clash where open fighting happened in the premises of Harmandir Sahib and victory of Tat Khalsa. Probably Tat Khalsa during these times had tactical support of Mughals.
This was a period of extreme challenges. However Sikhism produced some great leaders like Baba Deep Singh, Nawab Kapur Singh & later Jassa Singh Ahluwalia & Jassa Singh Ramgarhia who helped get over the schisms and reintegrate & strengthened the cause of Sikhism despite whatever their role was during the time of previous schisms. However what happened during those period is certainly much more complex with loads of intrigues than what is known to most people. The truth would be somewhere inbetween both the versions.
Namdharis
The schisms and people who proclaimed themselves as Guru's did not abate after passing away of Guru Gobind Singh (10th Guru) & his clear instructions of Guru Granth Sahib as being the eternal Guru. For all practical purposes the movement was started by Ram Singh.
Ram Singh was a soldier in the forces of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. After first Anglo Sikh war he was deeply disillusioned by the some of the practices that had crept in Khalsa. He left the army and went to another pious man Baba Balak Singh who then anointed him as his successor and he left Khalsa. He then in 1857 settled in Bhaini Sahib and started to preach his own version of Sikhism in which non veg & alcohol were shunned, killing cow were prohibited and own version of Sikh practices were created. They chose white as their colour, tie turbans in a different way. They played an important role against the British who severly repressed them. Ram Singh was even sent of exile in Rangoon. They also help stop influence of Christian & Dev Samaj proselytism.
What created the schism with Sikhism and Kukas or Namdharis not being accepted in Sikhism were the belief that Baba Balak Singh & then Ram Singh and further successors are Gurus of Sikhism. As per Kukas, Guru Gobind Singh ji did not die in Nanded but came to Punjab where he in secret helped the Sikhs. He then appointed Baba Balak Singh as the next guru and who then made Ram Singh as his successor. The Namdharis still have their line of Gurus and even though they consider themselves as Sikhs, most Sikhs do not consider them as Sikhs
Nirankaris
Nirankari movement was formed by Baba Dyal Singh during the rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. He opposed all the ritualism in Sikhism and propagated returning back to the teaching of Guru Nanak Dev ji and believed in the god in form of "Nirankar" or no form. According to him, the Sikhs were increasingly being seduced by the military glories and economic opportunities of Ranjit Singh's time, and were neglecting their duty to remember Akal Puralth through the practice of nam simaran.
Baba Dyal Singh left a brief manual of instructions known as Rahit Nama. He stressed a path which did not agree with Khalsa Path propagated by Guru Gobind Singh ji (10th Guru). Hence instead of "Waheguru ji ka Khalsa Waheguru ji ki fateh" they say "Dhan Dhan Nirankar" which brought them in conflict with mainstream Sikhism. Also Baba Dyal Singh was himself Sahajdhari (Without long hair) which is another main point of contention.
Whether Baba Dyal Singh wanted himself to be considered Guru is highly controversial. Baba Darbara Singh who took over from Baba Dyal Singh started to act like a Guru and since then there have been successive Gurus.
The Schism continued to grow as during the times of Singh Sabha Movement, most Nirankaris associated themselves with Sanatanis Sikhs who believed that there was no difference between Sikhism & Hinduism.
However Nirankaris do not question the 10 Sikh Gurus. They have supported Tat Khalsa during the times Anand Karaj was incorporated. The major reason for the schism with Sikhs is that they continue to believe in their own line of Guru's.
Thus as we can see, the journey of Sikh Gurus was not simple transfer from one Guru to another. There were various challenges from inside in form of Fake Gurus, from outside especially Mughals and at various points many Schisms were created. It is the faith and dedication of many who have helped us to continue to this day and we should never forget their sacrifices. However the tradition of the self proclaimed gurus continues to this day. We have recently seen Dera Sacha Sauda's Ram Rahim Singh trying to portray himself as Guru by dressing up as Guru Gobind Singh. Various other Deras and Babas still continue to flourish all over Punjab & surrounding states and a large number of Sikhs continue to follow them. It is perhaps that we don't read ourselves and look to external "Gurus" for guidance which has always prompted such Gurus and if we don't change ourselves will always continue with chain of such Gurus.
In Terms of leadership & political structure of Sikhism after Guru Gobind Singh ji (10th Guru) is recognized as being under Banda Bahadur, then chaos time of Ghallugharas, further down Misls, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, British & finally Indian Republic
However all this has been is too simplistic view and a linear view. There have been multiple players inside Sikhism who had their influence and lead to many Schisms. Then there were the external political forces especially the Mughals, who also interfered. This all lead to complex situations at various parts of the journey some of whom I try to highlight
Baba Sri Chand Ji
Baba Sri Chand Ji was the elder son of Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1st Sikh Guru). Guru Nanak Dev ji through his life traveled across the world on Udasis propagating the message of God. In later stages of his life he settled at Kartarpur Sahib. Before Guru Nanak Dev Ji passed to heavenly abode, he chose Guru Angad Dev Ji as his successor for Gurgadi instead of his two sons especially Baba Sri Chand
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| An Udasi Village in Nepal |
Baba Sri Chand formed his sect known whose followers were known as Udasis. He propagated messages of Guru Nanak Dev ji. However despite some schism during succession, Baba Sri Chand had very good relations with Sikh Gurus. Guru Ramdas ji (4th Guru) & Guru Hargobind Ji (6th Guru) both met Baba Sri Chand. Baba Sri Chand is also have said to contributed towards sarovar at Harmandir Sahib and provided materials in his possession towards Granth during times of Guru Arjan Dev ji(5th Guru). Infact Guru Hargobind is said to have sent his son, Baba Gurditta on request of Baba Sri Chand to become the successor of the Udasi Sect. It was this relationship that enabled Udasis to to be made caretakers of Gurudwaras over the years (However if this story is true then would have made Baba Sri Chand age at 134 years. Another alternate version is that Guru Hargobind sent his favourite son & probable successor Baba Gurditta to Kartarpur to help consolidate one sect the Udasis in favour of Sikhism at time of other threats from other Sect like the Minas, Dhir Mal)
However as the time progressed the Udasis sect became more corrupt with Brahamincal practices coming in them which lead to the Singh Sabha & Akali movement to restore Gurudwaras from the control of Udasis and hence Schisms between Sikhs & Udasis
Baba Dattu Ji & Baba Dassu Ji
Like Guru Nanak Dev ji, Guru Angad Dev(2nd Guru) also chose a true disciple- Guru Amar Das ji as the third guru. Dattu(Younger) & Dassu(Elder) were the sons of Guru Angad Dev Ji. They were not happy that the Guruship did not remain in the family. While Baba Dassu realized his father's desire and reconciled, Dattu remained very aggressive towards the 3rd Guru throughout his life.
Guru Angad Dev ji (2nd Guru) had also asked Guru Amar Das ji to move to Goindwal Sahib from Khadur Sahib when he was anointed the guru as he expected sharp reactions from his sons. When he became guru he shifted from Khadur Sahib to Goindwal Sahib.
However Baba Dattu still remained aggressive. It is said Guru Amar Das while in Goindwal was kicked by Baba Dattu and to have overall peace left Goindwal for his native town of Basarke. It was only after some time on the urging of Baba Buddha ji that he returned back to Goindwal. Meanwhile Baba Dattu is said to have picked valuable from Goindwal but was looted on his way by Bandits and returned empty handed to Khadur Sahib
Baba Dattu had a desire to be the Guru but didn't have the qualities. Hence over the years his following dwindled very quickly. He remained dis grunted for many years. It was finally during the period of Guru Arjan Dev ji (5th Guru) that he realized his mistake and asked for forgiveness from the Guru
Baba Mohan
Baba Mohan ji was the elder son of Guru Amar Das ji (3rd Guru). He aspired to be the 4th Guru and was jealous of Bhai Jetha (Later Guru Ramdas) the son in law of the guru. However he sensed that Guru Ramdas would be chosen as the successor. He then picked up the 'pothis' of his father and walked off (Later known as Mohan Pothis). These were not available with Guru Ramdas during his life.
It was also due to hostile reactions of Baba Mohan & Baba Mohari, Guru Ramdas is said to found a new city of Ramdaspur now famously known as Amritsar
It was years later that Guru Arjan (5th Guru) first send Baba Buddha & Baba Gurdas but they failed to convince Baba Mohan. Finally the Guru himself was able to change heart of Baba Mohan who made the Mohan Pothis available to the guru for compilation of Adi Granth
Prithi Chand, Meharban & Harji (The Minas)
Prithi Chand turned out to be one of the most vicious enemies of the Sikhs. He was the eldest son of Guru Ram Das ji (4th Guru) and challenged the succession of 5th Guru Arjan Dev ji and founded his sect known as Minas (Meharbans as they call themselves. Mina is derogatory version) and declared himself as the rival Guru setting up a rival Guruship in which he was succeeded by his son Meharban and grandson Harji and the line still continues.
It is said during the life of the Guru Ramdas, Prithi continuously conspired against his brother & youngest son of Guru, Arjan Dev. He also took the middle son Maha Dev under his influence. However the Guru ultimately chose Guru Arjan Dev ji as his successor and publicly chastised him. After this Prithi left Amritsar & set up his Guruship at his wife's village at Hehar very near to Amritsar.
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| The Family Tree of Guru Ramdas. The biggest 3 threats to Sikhism (Minas, Dhir Malias & Ram Raias) came from the family who set themselves as fake gurus against the legitimate successors |
Prithi Chand continued to conspire against Guru Arjan Dev ji (5th Guru). He carried out parallel activities whatever the Guru undertook- like laying having his parallel Gur Gaddi (He had all the symbols of Guru Ram Das like Mala, Topi, Selhi of Guru Nanak), foundation of Temple & Tank when Guru Arjan Dev was laying foundation of Har Mandir sahib to rival the guru.
As Guru was without a child for long, he hoped that Guru would pass away childless and planned to have his son Meharban installed as successor of Guru Arjan Dev ji . When in 1595 a son was born to the guru, he was really jealous and even tried to poison him.
While in Hehar, he tried to promote distorted & fake hymns on the name of Guru Nanak Dev ji. His son Meharban started compiling and circulating his own Granth and under the pen name of 'Nanak' and added fake verses of Prithi Chand & himself. They also added Brahmanical features in their Granth showing themselves as incarnation of Vishnu. Many in Sikh community started getting influenced by him and regarding Prithi Chand as their guru. It is one of the main reasons which lead Guru Arjan Dev ji to compile the Adi Granth and remove any attempts for distortions in the future.
Prithi Chand continuously is said to have complained and conspired with the Mughals and other enemies. Akbar with his liberal policies, when visited the Guru found no threat. However ultimately, when Jahangir came to the throne, to prove a point to the Islamic clergy and establish himself as a leader, was pushed by the influence of Prithi & others. This lead to the martyrdom of the Guru by Emperor Jahangir.
Prithi Chand died in 1618 and he was succeeded by his son Meharban. Meharban during the life of Prithi had prepared their version of Granth in which they mixed teaching of Nanak with Puranas, Ramayana, Mahabharata and their own teachings. He also chose of more adherent & pro government policy of non violence as opposed to the policy of Miri Piri of Guru Hargobind chose. This was perhaps to be in good books of Mughal overlords and seek their patronage and an official government recognition & support. He continued to propagate his version of Granth.
In 1627 when Shah Jahan ascended to the throne, brought a more hostile policy by new king against Guru Hargobind. In 1628, he was forced to move out of Amritsar never to return and found the city of Kiratpur. Like his father, Meharban had a huge role of conspiring with the Mughals. Then in 1635 after the Guru had moved out after Battle of Kartarpur (1634) to far away Kiratpur, Meharban as Grandson of Guru Ramdas, laid claim to Harmandir Sahib and got control of it. The Mughals were happy to collude as they wanted a weaken the Sikh movement. It will be surprising for most to know that no Guru after that including Guru Hargobind himself during his balance life afterwords visited Amritsar. What was worse years later Meharban's son Harji the next fake guru, even denied entry to Guru Tegh Bahadur (9th Guru) when he went there for a visit. This control of Harmandir Sahib, brought in further legitimacy to Meharban & Mina sect and many started to believe him as their Guru.
In 1640, Meharban died and was succeeded by his son Harji. Like his father the biggest resource Harji had was Harmandir Sahib under his control and he made most of it. He used it to viciously promote their version of Sikhism and managed a good following especially among the upper castes as their teachings unlike the Guru's promoted the version of those in power rather than all human beings as equal which was exactly opposite to what Guru Nanak even though he preached in his name. He promoted that Guru Nanak to Meharban (Including Guru Arjan but not Guru Hargobind) as being incarnations of Vishnu.
Harji lived as Guru right up-till 1696 when he died. The sect had continued to challenge right upto Guru Gobind Singh ji (10th Guru). Finally after death of Harji and when his three sons were fighting for succession, was Guru Gobind Singh ji finally able to install Bhai Mani Singh as Granthi of Harmandir sahib while the 3 sons of Harji had moved out.
As per the Minas however, Prithi Chand accepted Guru Arjan Dev ji as the guru. However when Guru Arjan Dev ji was martyred, as per them the a select group installed the 11 yr old Guru Hargobind as successor and maligned Prithi Chand even though he had not deviated from path of Guru Nanak. To prove their point they point that all verses of Prithi Chand were as Mahala 6 and not 5 showing he accepted Guru Arjan Dev ji as a true Guru. However this is also said to have been ploy of Harji to build legitimacy of their sect.
Dhir Mal
Dhir Mal surely can be categorized as another big threat and enemy during critical times of Sikhism. To understand the level negative impact he had, we will have to understand the background.
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| Sikh Gurus (6th Guru Onwards) timelines along with contemporary Mughal Emperors and Fake Gurus of 3 major threat lines (Minas, Dhir Malias & Ram Raias) |
Guru Hargobind during such times navigated Sikhism. He established Miri & Piri (Temporal Power & Spiritual Authority) and established the Akal Takht (Eternal Throne) right opposite Harmandir Sahib to show Sikh power and so that in future are not pushed so easily. In this delicate balance of power he had to spend few years in the Gwalior Fort as a prisoner. When Jahangir became more secure in his rule and with diplomatic efforts, lead to finally the Guru being released. It is for this occasion of his release that Sikhs celebrate Diwali.
When Shahjahan became emperor, the relations again became bitter. There were battles with the Mughals due to which Guru has to first shift to Kartarpur (As Amritsar was too near to Lahore) and too avoid further confrontations, the base was shifted to Kiratpur Sahib.
The Guru during these period which were very challenging was blessed with 6 Children- Baba Gurditta, Suraj Mal, Ani Rai, Atal Rai, Teg Bahadur & Bibi Biro. While Suraj Mal & Bibi Veero were involved in household duties and moved on with their lives (Suraj Mal's Grandson & all 5 sons of Bibi Veero participated in Battle of Anandpur and most attained martyrdom). They were not considered worthy to be Gurus. Teg Bahadur, Ani Rai were godly people who lived recluse lives. Teg Bahadur (Who became 9th Guru) settled in Bakala and Ani Rai passed away in Kiratpur only.
Baba Gurditta was esteemed highly by Guru Hargobind and was always groomed by him as the next Guru. It was during the times when Minas were constantly trying to undermine the Guru and alluding with the authorities of the day that Guru met Baba Sri Chand who requested one son to be given to him as successor of his sect the Udasis. In an strategic move Guru gave Baba Gurditta as son to Baba Sri Chand. Thus Baba Gurditta was now next in line of succession for both Sikhs and Udasis just helping to consolidate the sect back into Sikhism and ward of threats of Minas & Mughals. It is this relationship that led in times to come to make Udasis as the caretakers of Gurudwaras (It is other story how in later generations they became corrupt and away from Sikhism). Baba Gurditta made Kartarpur as his center where his two sons Dhir Mal & Har Rai were born.
When Guru Hargobind had to move to Kiratpur, Baba Gurditta moved with him but left his family at Kartarpur. The Guru also left the Adi Granth at Kartarpur . This was probably it was hoped that when things settle down, Guru could return back and make this as a center. Soon Amritsar was also occupied and claimed by Meharban as ancestor of Guru Ram Das. It was during these turbulent time that Baba Gurditta passed away at a young age of 25 only.
His son Dhir Mal did not even go to Kiratpur for last rights of his father. He remained in Kartarpur and refused to share the Adi Granth with Guru Hargobind. He started acting as a Guru designate and with the copy of Adi Granth strengthened his claim. He openly colluded with the Mughal authorities who granted him land adjacent to Kartarpur.
After Guru Hargobind (6th Guru) passed away, instead of Dhir Mal he appointed his younger brother- Guru Har Rai as the 7th Guru. Dhir Mal continued to preach himself as Guru and obstruct Gur Har Rai (7th Guru) & his young son Guru Har Kishan (8th Guru).
When Guru Harkishan (8th Guru) passed at a young age and directed next Guru (Teg Bahadur) was at Bakala, Dhir Mal moved his base there and proclaimed to be the Guru. When finally Guru Teg Bahadur (9th Guru) was recognized by Makhan Shah Lubana, Dhir Mal even tried to assassinate the Guru.
Having failed in all his efforts, he finally settled in Kartarpur. His successors still continue to proclaim themselves as Gurus and still hold the original Adi Granth known as Kartapuri Bir. When Guru Gobind Singh (10th Guru) requested the Adi Granth to be borrowed so that a copy could be made, Bahar Sodhi, son of Dhir Mal and fake Guru refused to share it. It was then Guru Gobind Singh (10th Guru) prepared it from the memory adding verses of his father and his one verse and is the Adi Granth (Now Guru Granth Sahib) which is used across the world.
The Dhir Malias now proclaim that after the attack on Guru Teg Bahadur (9th Guru), one Sikh managed to get the copy of Adi Granth. However Guru Teg Bahadur on finding out asked the Sikh to return the copy back and hence have the claim, citing which they don't share the copy to be kept as Amritsar and also that they have been forgiven by the Guru. This is highly unlikely as Dhir Mal was in a position of strength and highly likely that Bir could have been stolen. Also even post this said incident, Dhir Mal continued in his mislead ways. This whole is most likely a way to justify their claim to hold the Bir and also call themselves as Sikhs.
When Aurangzeb came in power and Dhir Mal (Who had lost much influence) was not of much use, put him in jail where he passed away. The Dhir Malias are now limited to Kartarpur and to the family of Sodhis outside which have minimal influence.
Ram Rai
Guru Har Rai (7th Guru) had two sons- Ram Rai & Har Kishan. He lived during one of the most tough times for the religion. The Minas lead by Harji was in control of Amritsar and proclaimed themselves as Guru's and had their own version of Granth. On other hand Dhir Mal was in Kartarpur and had the original granth and too proclaimed himself as Guru. Both has colluded with the Mughals. It is due to these threats that Guru Har Rai continued to stay in Kiratpur during his 17 years as Guru. He lead some visits in the Malwa region and tried to reform the Masands from the corruption but was always extremely challenged.
The challenges however did not abate. The sons of Shah Jahan- Aurangzeb & Dara Shikoh started a war of succession, there are some references that Guru had blessed Dara Shikoh (Most likely would not have been the case as no reference to the same is there in Mughal records). While the relationship were already bad, on coming of Aurangzeb and his fanatic ways, they further deteriorated.
In such times that Aurangzeb asked for the presence of the Guru in his court. The Guru instead sent his eldest son Ram Rai to the court. In the court when confronted by Aurangzeb on a reference to Muslims being shown in a bad way (Which is not the case), Ram Rai changed the verses. This infuriated the Guru, who excommunicated Ram Rai. Aurangzeb saw this as an golden opportunity to divide the Sikhs and granted Ram Rai with lands near Dehradun.
Thus during the life of Guru Har Rai (7th Guru) and next 3 Guru's, there was 3 rival claimants to Guru- Harji (Minas) in Amritsar, Dhir Mal at Kartarpur and Ram Rai at Dehradun. It is due to this reason that Guru Teg Bahadur built up his center at Anantpur near Kiratpur away from these 3 centers. Also with so much hostility in Punjab, he chose a wise step to go to East India. Here the Sikhs had not been visited after Guru Nanak (1st Guru). He could consolidate and meet with the sangats reassuring them that Guruship is in safe hands and avoid any hostility which could impact Sikhism. This was critical as Guru Harkishan had passed away in a very young stage and had just indicated where new Guru was and still the succession was challenged across.
Ram Rai continued to preach and have his following. He also stayed in Garhwal Srinagar and good relations with Raja Fateh Chand over whom had his influence and built some following in the region. He tried during the life of Guru Teg Bahadur (9th Guru) & Guru Gobind Sing (10th Guru) to build back relations. It is said in the end the Masands due to greed of his wealth (He had no offspring)burnt him when he was in deep slumber. His wife Punjab Kaur pleaded with Guru Gobind Singh (10th Guru) for help who is then said to have burnt the Masands alive.
His Dera continues to be run by nominated Masands till date and some following continues.
Gulab Rai
After Guru Gobind Singh ji moved out of Anandpur Sahib, it was confiscated by Mughals. Then Gulab Rai who was the grandson of Baba Suraj Mal (Son of 6th Guru Hargobind) bought Anandpur Sahib. He set up his manji and established himself as Guru. He began to initiate orders and have his own sect of Sikhs known as Gulab Rahis. As he had the seat of Anandpur Sahib under his control, gave way for him to have access to large amounts of funds.
The only credit that can be given to Gulab Rai is that he reconstructed the city of Anandpur Sahib. However since he had gained ground on flimsy and over time could not gain much support. Also there were opposition to him in Anandpur Sahib from Gurbakh Das an true follower of Gurus and an Udasi. These all factors kept the influence to the minimum and he was lost in history.
Ajit Singh & Hathi Singh
When Mata Sundari after death of Guru Gobind Singh (10th Guru) settled in Delhi, she adopted Ajit Singh as her son, as he reminded him of his son by the same name. However as Ajit Singh grew old, he turned out to be arrogant. Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah also tried to project him as a Sikh Guru to counter balance the influence of Banda Bahadur.
Ajit Singh under all these influences, encouraged by Mughals started to display himself as the Sikh Guru. This resulted in him being disowned by Mata Sundari who then moved out with his son (Hathi Singh) & his wife. Finally over time Ajit Singh behavior did not him any favour and lost all following. He was finally tried and sentenced to death for murder by Emperor Muhammad Shah
Hathi Singh also despite of living away from his father & with Mata Sundari also started to consider him as a Sikh Guru. He started to replace name of Guru Nanak (1st Guru) and put his name and propagate them as his hymns. This lead Mata Sundari to disown him too.
He finally moved to Burhanpur in MP where he built his dera and has a small following there. He passed without any heirs.
Tat Khalsa & Bandai Khalsa
Banda Bahadur after passing away of Guru Gobind Singh (10th Guru) took Punjab by storm. He defeated the Mughals in various battles including capture of Sirhind. He had an lasting impact. However in the second half of his conquests post attack on Lohgarh many started to leave him due to differences that had started to emerge. Baba Deep Singh could have been one of them as records show he participated till attack on Sirhind. Baaj Singh son of Baba Binod Singh left Banda Bahadur before the siege at Gurdas Nangal and Baba Binod Singh during the siege.
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| Banda Singh Bahadur |
Why this schism was created has many sides of the story which has some elements of truth and knowing all helps in creating an balanced perspective. The more propagated version is that Baba Banda Bahadur started to diverge from the path of Guru. He started to seat himself higher than others, started to propagate his own salutation "Fateh Darshan" instead of "Waheguru ji ka Khalsa Waheguru ki Fateh", brought elements not in line with Sikhism and started to demonstrate himself as Guru. This lead to many Sikhs leaving him including Baba Binod Singh.
However this is surely not the complete picture. Mata Sundari after the death of Guru Gobind Singh (10th Guru) settled in Delhi. She started to issue Hukumnama's in her own name and were followed by many Sikhs. As the time progressed, Banda Singh Bahadur's movement started to have an radical and revolutionary impact. They finished the Zamindari system, empowered the masses in the regions where they were in power. This threatened the established order of the times. The political elite across religions hence doubled their efforts to oppose this and tried all things in their books. They tried to push Banda to the corner and tried to maximize all the schisms.
It is during this period of last stand, Mata Sundari on her own will or under pressure from Mughals (As she was in Delhi) issued Hukumnama against Banda Bahadur (Hukumnama could have been falsely created by Mughals too). Also Baaj Singh who had left Banda opened negotiations with Mughals. The Mughals agreed to give some land to Baba Binod Singh & Baba Kahn Singh. This lead to Baba Binod Singh and other Sikhs leaving. Further to add strength to this Baaj Singh was employed by Mughals (Even grandson of Baba Binod Singh was also employed by Mughals). This strongly points to Schism either being created or strengthened by Mughals allegedly with collusion with Mata Sundari (Or falsely using her name).
Banda cornered finally agree to surrender on certain agreed conditions. According to the terms of the settlement the Nawab promised to spare the lives of the Sikhs if they relinquished their hold over the fortress and that the Nawab would recommend their case to the Emperor and would mediate on their behalf. Probably these included assurance given to Baaj Singh & Baba Binod Singh. However finally how it ended we all know. Like most political elites, when things came out in their favour, they punished Banda Bahadur earlier and after him even did not spare Baba Binod Singh.
After the death the Khalsa split into Bandai Khalsa (Followers of Banda Bahadur) and Tat Khalsa. They both clashed and a ceasefire was agreed with both getting Bungas at Amritsar. Finally there was a clash where open fighting happened in the premises of Harmandir Sahib and victory of Tat Khalsa. Probably Tat Khalsa during these times had tactical support of Mughals.
This was a period of extreme challenges. However Sikhism produced some great leaders like Baba Deep Singh, Nawab Kapur Singh & later Jassa Singh Ahluwalia & Jassa Singh Ramgarhia who helped get over the schisms and reintegrate & strengthened the cause of Sikhism despite whatever their role was during the time of previous schisms. However what happened during those period is certainly much more complex with loads of intrigues than what is known to most people. The truth would be somewhere inbetween both the versions.
Namdharis
The schisms and people who proclaimed themselves as Guru's did not abate after passing away of Guru Gobind Singh (10th Guru) & his clear instructions of Guru Granth Sahib as being the eternal Guru. For all practical purposes the movement was started by Ram Singh.
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| Ram Singh |
Ram Singh was a soldier in the forces of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. After first Anglo Sikh war he was deeply disillusioned by the some of the practices that had crept in Khalsa. He left the army and went to another pious man Baba Balak Singh who then anointed him as his successor and he left Khalsa. He then in 1857 settled in Bhaini Sahib and started to preach his own version of Sikhism in which non veg & alcohol were shunned, killing cow were prohibited and own version of Sikh practices were created. They chose white as their colour, tie turbans in a different way. They played an important role against the British who severly repressed them. Ram Singh was even sent of exile in Rangoon. They also help stop influence of Christian & Dev Samaj proselytism.
What created the schism with Sikhism and Kukas or Namdharis not being accepted in Sikhism were the belief that Baba Balak Singh & then Ram Singh and further successors are Gurus of Sikhism. As per Kukas, Guru Gobind Singh ji did not die in Nanded but came to Punjab where he in secret helped the Sikhs. He then appointed Baba Balak Singh as the next guru and who then made Ram Singh as his successor. The Namdharis still have their line of Gurus and even though they consider themselves as Sikhs, most Sikhs do not consider them as Sikhs
Nirankaris
Nirankari movement was formed by Baba Dyal Singh during the rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. He opposed all the ritualism in Sikhism and propagated returning back to the teaching of Guru Nanak Dev ji and believed in the god in form of "Nirankar" or no form. According to him, the Sikhs were increasingly being seduced by the military glories and economic opportunities of Ranjit Singh's time, and were neglecting their duty to remember Akal Puralth through the practice of nam simaran.
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| Baba Dyal Singh |
Baba Dyal Singh left a brief manual of instructions known as Rahit Nama. He stressed a path which did not agree with Khalsa Path propagated by Guru Gobind Singh ji (10th Guru). Hence instead of "Waheguru ji ka Khalsa Waheguru ji ki fateh" they say "Dhan Dhan Nirankar" which brought them in conflict with mainstream Sikhism. Also Baba Dyal Singh was himself Sahajdhari (Without long hair) which is another main point of contention.
Whether Baba Dyal Singh wanted himself to be considered Guru is highly controversial. Baba Darbara Singh who took over from Baba Dyal Singh started to act like a Guru and since then there have been successive Gurus.
The Schism continued to grow as during the times of Singh Sabha Movement, most Nirankaris associated themselves with Sanatanis Sikhs who believed that there was no difference between Sikhism & Hinduism.
However Nirankaris do not question the 10 Sikh Gurus. They have supported Tat Khalsa during the times Anand Karaj was incorporated. The major reason for the schism with Sikhs is that they continue to believe in their own line of Guru's.
Thus as we can see, the journey of Sikh Gurus was not simple transfer from one Guru to another. There were various challenges from inside in form of Fake Gurus, from outside especially Mughals and at various points many Schisms were created. It is the faith and dedication of many who have helped us to continue to this day and we should never forget their sacrifices. However the tradition of the self proclaimed gurus continues to this day. We have recently seen Dera Sacha Sauda's Ram Rahim Singh trying to portray himself as Guru by dressing up as Guru Gobind Singh. Various other Deras and Babas still continue to flourish all over Punjab & surrounding states and a large number of Sikhs continue to follow them. It is perhaps that we don't read ourselves and look to external "Gurus" for guidance which has always prompted such Gurus and if we don't change ourselves will always continue with chain of such Gurus.
Very interesting and new.
ReplyDeleteListening and trying to understand Sikh history, this is somewhat the trend of occurrence in Sikh history based on past evidence.
ReplyDelete