The Saka Nankana Sahib of 1921 was the most tragic event of the Gurdwara Reform Movement, in which peaceful Sikh reformers were fired upon at Gurdwara Janam Asthan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji in Nankana Sahib, resulting in numerous martyrdoms.
Historical Background
In Sikh history, the Saka Nankana Sahib is remembered as an extremely painful and martyrdom-filled episode. This event took place on 20 February 1921 at Nankana Sahib (now in Pakistan), in connection with the Gurdwara Janam Asthan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and the struggle of the Gurdwara Reform Movement against the control of the mahants (hereditary custodians). At that time, the Gurdwara Sahib was under the control of Mahant Narain Das. The Sikh community launched a peaceful campaign for the reform and proper service of the Gurdwara Sahib.
Details of the Event
Under the leadership of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and the Akali movement, Sikh volunteers (Akalis) organized a peaceful morcha (protest) to liberate the Gurdwara Sahib from the mahant's control and to restore it to the Panth. The mahant, fearing the loss of his authority and income, conspired with hired armed men. On the morning of 20 February 1921, when a large group of peaceful Sikh protesters, including men, women, and children, entered the Gurdwara complex, the mahant's men opened fire on them without provocation. The unarmed protesters were mercilessly shot at, and many were also hacked with swords and other weapons. According to historical accounts, around 130 to 150 Sikhs were martyred, and many more were injured. The martyrs included prominent Sikh leaders such as Bhai Lachhman Singh Ji Dharowal, Bhai Dalip Singh Ji, and Bhai Jivan Singh Ji, among others. The news of this massacre sent shockwaves throughout the Sikh world and beyond.
Aftermath and Significance
The Saka Nankana Sahib became a turning point in the Gurdwara Reform Movement. It exposed the brutality of the mahant system and galvanized Sikhs across Punjab to intensify their struggle for the liberation of Gurdwaras. The sacrifices of the martyrs are commemorated annually, and the event is remembered as a symbol of the Sikh community's resolve to uphold the sanctity of their sacred places. The Gurdwara Janam Asthan Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji was eventually brought under the control of the SGPC, and the mahant was arrested and tried. The Saka Nankana Sahib remains a poignant reminder of the price paid for religious freedom and the reform of Sikh institutions. It is a day of solemn remembrance, honoring the courage and sacrifice of those who laid down their lives for the cause of the Guru's house.