The Saka Nankana Sahib, also known as the Nankana massacre, is a significant event in Sikh history that occurred in 1921. This tragic incident involved the massacre of over 260 Sikhs, including children, and took place at the sacred Nankana Sahib Gurudwara, which is now located in Pakistan. The event is notable as it represents the first major effort by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to reclaim control of gurudwaras from mahants who were supported by the British colonial authorities. As the centenary of this solemn occasion approached on February 21st, 2021, plans were made to commemorate this pivotal moment in Sikh history.
Background of the Nankana Massacre
The roots of the massacre lie in the early 20th century when the British colonial government in India granted control of various Sikh shrines to mahants, who were often aligned with the British. Many of these mahants were viewed as corrupt and accused of mismanaging the gurudwaras’ affairs, leading to widespread discontent among the Sikh community. This dissatisfaction gave rise to the Gurdwara Reform Movement, spearheaded by the SGPC, which aimed to transfer the management of Sikh shrines from these mahants to the community itself.
The Incident at Nankana Sahib
On the fateful day of the massacre, a large group of Sikhs led by Lachman Singh Dharowali peacefully gathered at the Nankana Sahib Gurudwara to assert their right to manage the shrine. However, the mahant of the gurudwara, Narain Das, perceived the peaceful protest as a threat to his authority. In response, he ordered his armed followers to attack the gathered devotees. The ensuing violence led to the death of over 260 Sikhs, including women and children.
Aftermath and Impact
The Nankana massacre shocked the Sikh community and further fueled the Gurdwara Reform Movement. The brutality of the incident drew sharp criticism from various quarters, including the Indian National Congress and the British government. The public outcry eventually led to the British colonial administration taking action against the mahant, and this event significantly hastened the process of gurudwara reform.
The massacre also had a profound effect on the national movement for India’s independence. It highlighted the religious and political struggles against the colonial government and underscored the need for communities to have control over their places of worship and cultural institutions. The SGPC’s efforts were eventually successful, leading to the passage of the Sikh Gurdwaras Act in 1925, which placed the gurudwaras under the control of the elected body of the SGPC.
Centenary Commemoration
As the centenary of the Nankana massacre approached, the Sikh community planned events to remember those who lost their lives in the struggle for religious freedom and self-governance. The remembrance serves not only as a tribute to the martyrs but also as a reminder of the resilience and unity of the Sikh community in the face of oppression. It is a time for reflection on the past sacrifices and a reaffirmation of the values that continue to guide the community today.
Legacy of the Saka Nankana Sahib
The legacy of the Saka Nankana Sahib remains significant in Sikh history. It is remembered as a turning point in the fight for control over Sikh religious institutions and has become a symbol of resistance and sacrifice. The event is ingrained in the collective memory of the Sikh community and continues to inspire future generations to uphold the principles of justice, equality, and faith. The centenary serves as an opportunity to educate people about this chapter of history and to honor the memory of those who laid down their lives for a cause they believed in deeply.
