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THE OTHER SIKHS – A VIEW FROM EASTERN INDIA
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Bengalis’ early interest, including one by Jatindra Mohan Chatterjee
who in old age embraced Sikhism. Sukhmani Sahib, Adi Granth, Dasam
Granth have all been studied by Bengalis. In fact in 1873, Tagore after
his sacred thread ceremony along with his father Debendranath went
to the Golden Temple, Amritsar, and stayed there for a month.
Haranchandra Chakladar’s translation of Adi Granth is a landmark
achievement. Brahmos were the pioneers of Sikh studies. They
appreciated the spirit of martyrdom and self-sacrifice. However,
Tagore’s criticism of Guru Gobind Singh gave rise to bitter reaction in
Punjab, understandably. His article ‘Sikh Swadhinata’ glorified Banda
Bahadur’s Sikh tradition of martyrdom. The poem Bandibir
immortalised this hero. Valour of young Nehal Singh, who at the time
of execution thunders, “I am a Sikh” is highlighted by Tagore in his
poem. Valour of Mani Singh, Mehtab Singh, Haqiqat Rai and Taru
Singh is brought out. Bhai Mani Singh’s martyrdom in a biography
Sikher Balidan by Kumudini Bose is remarkable. Prinsep’s stance
against Maharaja Ranjit Singh is mentioned. Lepil Griffins’ Ranjit Singh
mentions the treaty of Amritsar (1809). Maharaja bashers are also
mentioned in passing. Even Tagore obliquely blames Maharaja for
Sikh decline.
Also included are Manmohan Bose’s drama Duleen and,
Kaliprasanna’s novel Samrat O Sater Shap which discusses Maharani
Jindan.
In fact the two chapters on studies in Bengal are full of dramas,
essays and poems about Sikhs, concentrating on their love for
martyrdom. I really marvel at author’s in-depth and analytical study. I
spent many midnight hours to go through this illuminating, educating
and entertaining book. Lesser price of the book will encourage larger
readership.
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