Guru Angad Sahib was the second Guru of Sikhs. His previous name was Bhai Lehna. While giving the responsibility of Gurgadi, his name was changed by Guru Nanak Sahib from Lehna to Angad. He was born in village Mate Ki Sran (Ferozpur) on 18th April 1504. His father Pheru Mal was a truthful and kindhearted man. Bhai Lehna was married to the daughter of Devi Chand Marwaha in 1519, who later on became famous in Sikh history as Bibi Kheevi.
His father was a follower of Vaishno Devi and used to take group of followers to Vaishno Devi near Jammu. Later on the same practice was continued by Bhai Lehna Ji. Though he was famous in his locality and was having a good business, but still he was not having internal peace of mind. He was always searching for truth.
Once Bhai Lehna happened to listen Gurbani from Jodh Ji who was a follower of Guru Nanak Sahib and was staying in Khandoor. This created a permanent impression on his mind and he decided to meet Guru Nanak. Though Bhai Lehna had earlier met Guru Nanak Sahib regarding his father’s business but this time it was a spiritual meeting as he had decided to become his follower.
It was a strange co-incidence that Bhai Lehna happened to see Guru Nanak on the way and asked him the way where he could meet Guru Nanak Sahib. Bhai Lehna was riding on the horse and Guru Nanak Sahib was on his foot to show him the way. On knowing the reality that the person who showed him the way was none other than Guru Nanak himself. Bhai Lehna was embarrassed but Guru Nanak Sahib told him humbly that he need not feel embarrassed because according to his name he is a taker (person who takes) and the taker always comes riding on a horse. Such sweet words won Bhai Lehna’s heart and he decided to stay permanently with Guru Nanak.
Bhai Lehna served Guru Nanak for about seven years. He set an example in Sikh history by obeying each and every order of the Guru. In this way he attained a state of mind in which he became one with the Guru. He could achieve this position by his faith in Guru’s preaching, determination, selfless service and devotion to the Guru.
Guru Nanak tested Bhai Lehna from time to time and finally decided that Bhai Lehna should succeed him. While giving the Gurgadi his name was changed from Lehna to Angad (a part of body). Guru Nanak Sahib neither followed the democracy rule nor the dynasty rule while giving Gurgadi. The criteria for selection was the capability to follow and spread the basic principles of Sikh religion, which are Earning ones own livelihood, Remembering the Akal Purkh and Sharing one’s own earnings.
His wife Mata Kheevi used to prepare Kheer and serve to the Sangat with great devotion and love. She was the first lady whose services have been mentioned in Guru Granth Sahib.
Guru Angad Sahib has written 63 Shalokas, which are present in Guru Granth Sahib. He took special interest for the propagation of Gurmukhi and used to teach the children. He knew that a strong mind can exist in a healthy and strong body. So, he took special care for good food, good habits, cleanliness, daily bath and exercise for his followers. He started the tradition of wrestling known as Mal Akhara in Khandoor Sahib
On his way to Kabul, King Hamazoo also came to take the blessings from Guru Angad Sahib after he was defeated by Sher Shah Suri.
Guru Angad Sahib also developed the city of Goindwal Sahib through his follower Amar Das. The untiring service of Baba Amar Das helped him to get the blessings of Guru and he was appointed as the third Guru of Sikhs.
Dr. Sarbjit Singh
Navi Mumbai