Faith, religious fervour galore at Mela Bir Baba Budha Sahib

Manmeet Singh Gill

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Tribune News Service

Amritsar, October 8

The annual fair dedicated to the memory of one of the most venerated and primal figures of Sikhism, Baba Budha Ji, concluded at Bir Baba Budha Sahib, Thatha, near here on Tuesday.

The first head priest of Darbar Sahib, (Golden Temple), he remained in close association with six Sikh gurus and bestowed ‘Gurgaddi’ upon Five Gurus; Guru Angad Dev, Guru Amardas, Guru Ramdas, Guru Arjan Dev, and Guru Hargobind Sahib.

Thousands of people from across the state throng to the place every year during the ‘mela’ to pay homage to Baba Budha, who is also known as ‘Puttra De Dani’ (giver of sons). A large number of newly married couples also visit the place to pray for children.

Apart from many nagar kirtans which visited the place from different parts, matches of kabaddi were also organised in the evening in which prominent players from different parts participated. The mela is celebrated with fervour by all residents as delicious ‘langars’ are organised by each village en route to ‘Bir Baba Budha Sahib’ for devotees coming from far off places.

The Chehharta, Tarn Taran, Chabal and Bhikhiwind roads witnessed heavy traffic leading to the place. “Devotees from Malwa also visit and stay at place for two-three days. Even as paddy harvesting is round the corner, such is the respect of Baba Budha that each and every road is chock-o-block with traffic,” said Sikh preacher with SGPC, Sarabjit Singh Dhotia.

He is also known for overseeing the work of Darbar Sahib and then Akal Takht. In history he is remembered for living true to the teachings of religion. Once he refused blessing Mata Ganga ji, mother of Guru Hargobind Sahib, he visited his ‘Bir’ near Thatha along with a large entourage. Later on advice from Guru Arjan Dev she visited the place again on foot as a humble Sikh and it is said that Guru Hargobind was born with Baba Budha’s blessing.