Jathedar Akali Baba Hanuman Singh was a prominent Sikh leader and warrior in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. As the 7th Jathedar of the Budha Dal and the Akal Takht, he played a crucial role during a turbulent period in Sikh history.
Early Life
Akali Baba Hanuman Singh was born in November 1755 in Naurang Singh Wala, Firozpur, Punjab, into a devout Sikh family. His parents, Baba Garja Singh and Mata Harnam Kaur, instilled in him a strong sense of discipline, martial training, and devotion to Sikh principles from an early age. Growing up in a turbulent era marked by external invasions and internal Sikh struggles, he quickly developed exceptional combat skills and a deep-rooted commitment to defending the Sikh faith.
From his childhood, he trained in Gatka (Sikh martial arts), horsemanship, and weaponry, excelling in traditional Sikh warfare. Alongside his martial training, he deeply studied Gurbani (Sikh scriptures) and adhered to the strict spiritual and warrior traditions of the Akali Nihangs. This combination of spiritual depth and military expertise laid the foundation for his future leadership within the Budha Dal and the Sikh Panth.
Rise to Leadership
Baba Hanuman Singh's dedication and courage led him to serve under two of the most revered Akali Nihang leaders—Akali Baba Naina Singh Ji and Akali Baba Phula Singh Ji, the 5th and 6th Jathedars of the Budha Dal. Under their mentorship, he participated in numerous battles, gaining a reputation as a fearless warrior and a disciplined leader.
His greatest test came in 1823, when Akali Baba Phula Singh Ji achieved martyrdom at the Battle of Naushera while leading Sikh forces against the Afghan general, Azim Khan. Following this significant loss, Baba Hanuman Singh was chosen as the next Jathedar of both the Budha Dal and the Akal Takht at the age of 68.
As the supreme leader of the Nihang warriors, he took on the responsibility of upholding Sikh sovereignty, preserving martial traditions, and protecting Sikh religious institutions. His leadership came at a critical time when the Sikh Empire, under Maharaja Ranjit Singh, faced internal conflicts and growing British influence. With his strategic mind and unwavering commitment, he ensured that the Akali Nihangs remained a formidable force in Punjab.
Challenges During Leadership
Baba Hanuman Singh's tenure as Jathedar of the Budha Dal and the Akal Takht coincided with one of the most turbulent periods in Sikh history. Following the death of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1839, Punjab descended into political chaos, with successive rulers falling victim to assassinations, conspiracies, and internal power struggles. The once unified Sikh Empire was weakened by infighting among nobles and military leaders, creating an opportunity for the British East India Company to advance its colonial ambitions in Punjab.
As the British increased their interference in Sikh affairs, the Lahore Darbar grew unstable, unable to resist the growing external pressures. This instability deeply affected the Nihang forces, who had long served as guardians of Sikh sovereignty. With the empire’s leadership fragmented, Baba Hanuman Singh took on the responsibility of maintaining Sikh martial traditions and preparing for the growing British threat.
Recognizing the deteriorating situation, Baba Hanuman Singh strengthened the Budha Dal, ensuring that the Nihang warriors remained ready to defend Sikh principles and territorial integrity. His leadership became a pillar of stability for the Sikh Panth, ensuring that despite political turmoil, Sikh martial traditions and religious institutions remained intact.
Alliance with Sardar Sham Singh Attariwala
As the British continued their advance into Punjab, several Sikh leaders recognized the need for unity to defend their homeland. Among them was Sardar Sham Singh Attariwala, a respected general who remained loyal to Sikh sovereignty even as many others at the Lahore Darbar turned to British alliances for personal gain.
Understanding the urgency of the situation, Sham Singh Attariwala sought assistance from Baba Hanuman Singh. Their historic meeting at the Akal Takht symbolized the unity between Sikh political and religious leadership, reaffirming the commitment to resist British domination.
During this meeting, Baba Hanuman Singh pledged full support from the Akali Nihangs, recognizing the collective duty of all Sikhs to protect their nation. He emphasized the role of the Budha Dal as defenders of Sikh sovereignty and assured that the Nihangs would fight alongside Sikh forces in the impending battle against the British.
This alliance strengthened Sikh morale, as it brought together traditional Sikh warriors and experienced military strategists in a common cause. Their unity would soon be tested on the battlefield at Sobraon in 1846, in what would become one of the most defining battles in Sikh history.
Battle of Sobraon
The alliance between Baba Hanuman Singh and Sardar Sham Singh Attariwala reached its climax at the Battle of Sobraon on February 10, 1846—a decisive confrontation of the First Anglo-Sikh War. This battle marked the final stand of Sikh forces against the British East India Company, as they fought to defend Punjab’s sovereignty.
The Sikh army, including the Akali Nihangs, fought with unmatched valor, determined to repel the British invasion. Baba Hanuman Singh and his Nihang warriors, known for their fearless combat style and deep faith in Guru Gobind Singh’s teachings, engaged the enemy with traditional weapons, including swords, spears, and matchlock guns. Despite their fierce resistance, the battle turned against the Sikhs due to internal betrayals within the Lahore Darbar. Some Sikh generals, including Tej Singh, allegedly collaborated with the British, ordering strategic withdrawals at crucial moments, which weakened the Sikh defenses.
Sardar Sham Singh Attariwala, refusing to retreat, led his troops into battle wearing white attire, signifying his readiness for martyrdom. Alongside thousands of Sikh warriors, he attained martyrdom on the battlefield, but not before inflicting heavy losses on the British army. The British forces, despite their numerical superiority and advanced artillery, faced one of the toughest battles of their Indian campaigns.
With the defeat at Sobraon, the Sikh forces were left weakened, and the path was cleared for the British annexation of Punjab. However, Baba Hanuman Singh and his Nihang warriors refused to surrender, preparing for their final stand against British rule.
Final Stand and Martyrdom
Following the loss at Sobraon, Baba Hanuman Singh and his surviving Nihang warriors retreated to regroup. Seeking temporary refuge, they arrived in the princely state of Patiala, ruled by Maharaja Karam Singh. However, fearing British retaliation for his past political dealings, Karam Singh betrayed them by revealing their location to the British authorities.
Soon after, British forces launched a brutal assault on the Nihangs. Despite being heavily outnumbered and facing relentless cannon fire, Baba Hanuman Singh and around 500 Nihang warriors fought back with traditional weapons in an unequal battle. True to their martial traditions, they refused to surrender, choosing to embrace martyrdom rather than submit to British rule.
The battle was one of the last displays of Nihang resistance against British colonial rule. As their resources dwindled and thousands of Sikh warriors fell, Baba Hanuman Singh attained martyrdom at the age of 90 in 1846, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering defiance, sacrifice, and devotion to the Sikh cause. His martyrdom marked the end of a significant chapter in Sikh military resistance, but his spirit continued to inspire future Sikh struggles for justice and sovereignty.
Impact on Sikh Resistance After His Martyrdom
The martyrdom of Jathedar Akali Baba Hanuman Singh in 1846 marked the end of an era for the Nihang warriors as an organized military force, but his sacrifice continued to inspire Sikh resistance against British rule. His steadfast commitment to Sikh sovereignty and martial traditions became a guiding force for future Sikh revolutionaries and freedom fighters.
After Punjab was annexed by the British in 1849, the colonial administration sought to dismantle Sikh military institutions, including the Budha Dal and the Nihang tradition. However, inspired by Baba Hanuman Singh’s unyielding spirit, many Nihangs refused to submit and secretly continued their martial practices. They played a crucial role in:
Preserving Sikh martial arts and warrior traditions despite British suppression.
Participating in uprisings like the 1857 Indian Rebellion, where many Sikhs fought against British forces.
Serving as spiritual warriors, ensuring that Sikh values of freedom, self-rule, and defiance against oppression remained alive.
His sacrifice also fueled Sikh resistance movements, including the Babbar Akali Movement (1920s), which opposed British rule and aimed to restore Sikh sovereignty. Even in the Ghadar Movement and India’s freedom struggle, Sikh revolutionaries drew strength from Nihang traditions of selfless sacrifice and Baba Hanuman Singh’s fearless defiance.
Legacy
The sacrifice of Jathedar Akali Baba Hanuman Singh is commemorated at Gurdwara Sohana Sahib Ji in the Mohali district of Punjab, established at the site of his martyrdom. His unwavering commitment to Sikh sovereignty and principles continues to inspire generations, embodying the spirit of resilience and devotion inherent in Sikhism.
In summary, Jathedar Akali Baba Hanuman Singh's life exemplified steadfast dedication to the Sikh faith and its defense against external threats. His leadership during one of the most challenging periods in Sikh history underscores the enduring strength and unity of the Sikh community.
Today, his legacy endures within the Nihang tradition, as they continue to safeguard Sikh values, uphold their distinct identity, and embody the martial spirit of the Khalsa. His martyrdom remains a symbol of Sikh resilience, reminding future generations that defending faith, justice, and sovereignty is an eternal duty of the Khalsa.
Conclusion
Jathedar Akali Baba Hanuman Singh’s life was a testament to unwavering faith, fearless leadership, and selfless sacrifice. At a time of political turmoil and colonial aggression, he upheld Sikh sovereignty and martial traditions, leading his warriors with unmatched courage. His martyrdom in 1846 marked the last great stand of the Akali Nihangs against British rule, symbolizing the indomitable spirit of the Khalsa. His legacy continues to inspire generations, reminding Sikhs of their duty to uphold justice, righteousness, and the values of their faith.
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