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Symbolizing the supreme power!

The Sikh martial tradition that emerged in 16th century to defend  the society against persecution, is philosophically based on unity of God. The infinite formless is also seen in the finite, through names of weapons that symbolize the Supreme power.

 

Since the days of 10th Guru of the Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh, the Nihangs (martial community of Sikh faith) have been known for their valor on the battle field, in many instances being out numbered. It was believed that a single Nihang was equal to hundred and twenty five thousand warriors.

 

At Anandpur Sahib, I had the opportunity to photograph a group of young students who still take pride in maintaining the martial form of Nihangs.

 

Bahadur Singh, a Research Scholar at the Department of Anthropolgy, University of Chandigarh, who is photographed in the first picture of this series is a living example of progress with changing times but yet grounded in tradition.

 

As I photographed the young Nihangs, these verses of Guru Gobind Singh, resonated deep in my Consciounsness.

 

The sword, the sabre, the scimitar, the axe, the musket, the shaft.

The rapier, the dagger, the spear: these indeed are our saints.

Nihangs, Anandpur Sahib

Photo : Young Nihangs practicing the martial tradition.

Nihangs, Anandpur Sahib

Photo : Young Nihangs practicing the martial tradition.

Nihangs, Anandpur Sahib

Photo : Young Nihangs practicing the martial tradition.

Nihangs, Anandpur Sahib

Photo : Young Nihangs practicing the martial tradition.

Nihangs, Anandpur Sahib

Photo : Young Nihangs practicing the martial tradition.

Nihangs, Anandpur Sahib

Photo : Young Nihangs practicing the martial tradition.

Comments(15)

  1. Reply
    mandeep says:

    wow…. amazing bhaiya…. lovely shots…. \m/

  2. Reply
    Sandhya says:

    I love the first frame Amar, it’s brimming with energy!
    I am happy there are a few in this generation who still find meaning in the lost art/traditions.

  3. Reply
    Bahadur singh says:

    thanx bhai sahib ji, you mentioned my name 🙂 great shots !!

  4. Reply
    amarjeet kaur says:

    Wow!!!!!! Very good timing to take between shots. Movements of palm is clearly showing the accuracy and strength of the Nihang. Wah ………….⛳

  5. Reply
    Geetali says:

    Amazing shots, as usual! I particularly love the first one which draws my eye towards the sky.
    I would love to see you shoot the Qila Raipur games. Cannot think of an event with more colour or zest.

  6. Reply
    Gurusharan Singh says:

    Sublime photography

  7. Reply
    Amit says:

    Amazing shots , as always. And great timing with overcast skies..

  8. Reply
    kishore kumar biswas says:

    A philosophy that preaches to recognize the ” weapons” in different light. To feel that the weapon is not the mere ” tools “. it is the shape of human imagination to face and fight against the evil .
    Here we see the realization of a great Saint. He gave us an heritage , a symbolic heritage to stand against the evil that are ready to destroy the humanity , the human soul.
    The brilliance of a philosophy presented by Amardeep through his magnificent photograph.

  9. Reply
    Surupa Chatterjee says:

    Great pictures with great insight into the Philosophy….Also wonderful coming together of man and nature viewing the photographs…

  10. Reply
    Karamjeet Singh says:

    Nice depiction of Martial art Traditions of the Khalsa and of Nihangs in particular.While the Khalsa has evolved into modernity the Nihangs still carry on the traditions of carrying arms & munitions and their skills could still be seen at the Holla-Mohalla festival at Anandpur Sahib, close to Hindu festival of Holi(festival of colors).This symbolises Guru’s worship of Martial Arts and quoted in your reference to the Guru’s sacred text above.
    Self-defence proved successful and till this day Khalsa Order persists.Photos are truly nice and could be connected to your photos of Nihangs done earlier.Good going..

  11. Reply
    rajdeep singh sabharwal says:

    Sikh belongs to khalsa
    Khalsa belongs to God

  12. Reply
    Rajinder singh says:

    Dear Amardeep,

    I appericiate your dedication and commitment to the Arts and Community.

    Salute to your PASSION.

    Warm Wishes

    Rajinder Singh

  13. Reply
    Racchit Thapliyal says:

    I have been intrigued by the Nihangs for a long time! It’s amazing how they have still managed to preserve history in a living form. A very beautiful, rich cultural tradition!!

  14. Reply
    Mustafa says:

    The first pic is brilliant!

  15. Reply
    Jagtar Singh says:

    Veer ji amazing pics.
    Veer ji I need to discuss something with you, so plz reply in my mail id.
    Thanks

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