Baba Naga’s ‘intervention’ saved town during 1971 conflict

The residents of Bhikhiwind are known for their rich religious traditions. It is believed that during the time of Partition in 1947, only a few families resided in the area, which was then known as Adda Bhikhiwind.

A saint known as Baba Naga, easily recognised by his unique attire, attracted many followers due to his kind-hearted nature and spiritual aura. The locals, moved by his teachings and presence, donated one marla of land where a kutia (hut) was constructed for him.

A significant moment in the town’s history is associated with the 1971 Indo-Pak War. According to local accounts, a high-powered bomb was dropped by the Pakistani Army near the locality. Baba Naga, emerging from his hut, prayed fervently for the safety of the residents. Miraculously, the bomb veered off course and landed in nearby fields, sparing the town. This incident deepened the reverence people held for Baba Naga.

In his memory, Mandir Baba Naga stands at the original kutia site in Adda Bhikhiwind. Not far from there, locals have also built Gurdwara Baba Naga, Bhikhiwind. Every year on October 30, a grand mela (fair) is held where hundreds of devotees gather to pay their respects.

Religious diversity thrives in Bhikhiwind. On Patti Road, Gurdwara Dhan Dhan Baba Deep Singh Ji Shaheed is a prominent place of worship, attracting devotees throughout the day. Managed by the local sangat, it has a large and devoted following.

The Radha Krishna Mandir in Bhikhiwind is also a significant spiritual centre. Festivals like Janmashtami, Shivratri and others are celebrated with great devotion and traditional fervour by the devotees. Locals also maintain a gaushala (cow shelter), where over 200 cows are cared for with charitable zeal and devotion.

The spirit of religious inclusiveness is further reflected in Corpus Christi Catholic Church, where members of the Christian community gather daily for prayers.

A few kilometres from Bhikhiwind lies Pahuwind, the birthplace of Shaheed Baba Deep Singh Ji. Nearby is Dal village, home to the revered Mata Da Mandir, which also holds deep spiritual significance for the surrounding communities.