Unforgotten valour: Battle of Guler’s enduring legacy of unity & triumph

To mark 330 years of the historic Battle of Guler, an impressive commemorative event was organised at Nandpur Fort, the last fort built by the Rajas of Guler, located in Kangra district. This initiative, led by the SGPC’s Kangra unit, drew a large gathering of devotees from across the state. The event brought renewed attention to the long-forgotten battle, a significant moment in history when a hill Raja and the 10th Sikh Master, Guru Gobind Singh, joined forces to defeat the Mughal invader, Hussain Khan, who had marched from Lahore to collect taxes.

The event featured ballad singers, popularly known as ‘Panth Dhadi,’ along with ‘Ragi Jathas’ and storytellers from the Golden Temple, who captivated the audience with their performances. Sikh religious leaders from Anandpur Sahib and Takht Shri Kesgarh Sahib, as well as Daljit Singh Bhinder, the sole SGPC member from the state, addressed the gathering. Each speaker emphasised the historical significance of the battle and its victorious outcome. Devotees were served ‘Guru ka langar’ and expressed their appreciation for visiting this historic site overlooking Pong Lake.

A historic triumph

The battle, fought in 1695, saw Raja Gopal of Guler standing firm against the heavy tribute imposed upon him by the Mughal authorities. He was supported by Raja Ram Singh of Jaswan and, significantly, by Guru Gobind Singh, who recognised the unjust imposition and extended invaluable military support.

Raja Gopal, known for his chivalry and horsemanship, had initially received seven Sikh emissaries who came as a peace delegation. However, when war became inevitable, they too participated in the battle. On February 20, 1695, fierce combat ensued, leading to the death of Mughal commander Hussain Khan. Raja Gopal and his allies secured a decisive victory, solidifying the alliance between the hill Rajput rulers and Guru Gobind Singh’s forces. The victory was celebrated with offerings to Guru Gobind Singh in gratitude.

CUHP artists recreate battle scene

To commemorate this milestone, students from the Visual Arts Department of the Central University of Himachal Pradesh (CUHP) recreated scenes from the battle after extensive research. Ten students painted dedicated spaces around the historic pond just outside the fort complex at Nandpur. Their artwork, inspired by Kangra Miniature Painting traditions, was widely appreciated as a lasting tribute to this historic event.

Additionally, the students presented a commemorative painting depicting the battle, intended to serve as a lasting symbol for future generations. Nirupama Singh, the Dean of the Visual Arts Department, along with Ujjawal, the Head of the Department, played a crucial role in guiding this initiative. Their contributions ensured that the legacy of the Battle of Guler remains preserved in art and memory, honouring the valour and unity displayed in 1695.