Sunday Special-History of Nihang Sikhs!

 The history of Nihang Sikhs

Nihang Sikhs originated as the most beloved warriors of the 10th Sikh Guru Gobind Singh. "Nihang" or 'Akali' is an armed Sikh warrior. Meaning of Akali in Sikhism is Immortal Army of Akaal(God).(Kaal means Time and Akaal means Beyond time).The term came to be associated with Commitment, Fearlessness, Boldness, Struggle& Justice. The outlook of the Nihang Sikhs was influenced by the youngest son of Guru Gobind Singh, Fateh Singh.

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Nihang Sikhs are one of the most famous warriors' creeds and an order of the Sikh nation, who are bound by duty to be at the forefront of the battle for righteousness, against tyranny and to protect the holy places, Gurdwaras (Sikh Temples).

They are characterized by striking blue attire, high turbans with chakram (circular weapon with a sharpened outer edge), and the possession of medieval weapons like swords or spears. They dedicate their life serving the Sikh Panth (path) through their battle skills, unpaid and without the desire of material gain. Nihangs follow the Sikh Rehat Maryada (Sikh way of life) and keep a high moral character. They serve to protect the Gurdwaras and the Sikh community. They are given respect and acknowledged as the Guru’s Beloved army.

Nihang is actually a Persian word which means crocodile. 17th and 18th century Mughal historians of the era have also documented about Niha​ngs fighting like crocodile and the reason behind this was because it's stated that:

When a Nihang lays an eye on their enemy, they would not let go, even if it means to get to the enemy through suicidal mission.
Once they get a hold of enemy in their arms, they won’t let the grab go till the enemy takes last breath, no matter how many times they are stabbed or shot at.

Nihang means fearless.

At page 392 ,In the Sikh holy book Guru Granth Sahib, its stated:

"Nirbhou hoio bhaiaa Niha(n)gaa."
(Being fearless ,he becomes unrestrained)(bold and daring person).

Also, historical text Panth Prakash states:

A person who has forsaken the fear of death and is always ready to embrace martyrdom is called a Nihang.


A Nihang in the 1860s with a characteristically elaborate turban.

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