The historic Maghi Mela, an annual event held every January in Muktsar, Punjab, has recently garnered attention due to the unusual absence of political conferences for the first time in several decades. The Mela falls in the month of Magh as per the Nanakshahi calendar, a system devised by Sikh scholar Pal Singh Purewal to replace the previous Bikrami calendar. This new method is used to determine the dates of festivals and religious observances, like gurpurab.
Understanding the Importance of Maghi
Maghi holds profound significance among the Sikh community. It serves as a remembrance of the sacrifice made by forty Sikhs, who courageously fought for Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Coincidentally, the eve of Maghi is also marked by the common Indian festival Lohri. Celebrated primarily in Hindu households, Lohri involves lighting bonfires to extol the arrival of new male offspring and the customary distribution of alms.
The Day of Maghi: Honouring the Brave
On the day of Maghi itself, Sikhs pay homage to the valorous Chali Mukte, or the Forty Liberated Ones. These brave men laid down their own lives to protect Guru Gobind Singh from the pursuing Mughal imperial army. In commemorating this historical event, Sikhs observe both joyous and sorrowful anniversaries equally.
A Glimpse into History: The Battle of Khidrane di Dhab
The battle that led to the commemoration of Maghi took place near a pool of water known as Khidrane di Dhab on 29th December 1705. The subsequent cremation of the bodies took place on the following day, which was the first day of Magh. This date usually aligns with the 13th of January in the modern Gregorian calendar.
How Sikhs Celebrate Maghi
The observance of Maghi is marked by uninterrupted recitals of the Guru Granth Sahib and hosting of religious divans (assemblies) in nearly all gurdwaras. By doing so, Sikhs reaffirm their spiritual affinity with their history and culture, ensuring that the sacrifices of the Chali Mukte continue to inspire generations.
Source: IE