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.
Photo : Young Nihangs practicing the martial tradition.
Photo : Young Nihangs practicing the martial tradition.
Photo : Young Nihangs practicing the martial tradition.
Photo : Young Nihangs practicing the martial tradition.
Photo : Young Nihangs practicing the martial tradition.
Photo : Young Nihangs practicing the martial tradition.
Comments(15)
mandeep says:
April 2, 2013 at 11:57 PMwow…. amazing bhaiya…. lovely shots…. \m/
Sandhya says:
April 3, 2013 at 3:31 PMI 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.
Bahadur singh says:
April 4, 2013 at 12:12 PMthanx bhai sahib ji, you mentioned my name 🙂 great shots !!
amarjeet kaur says:
August 5, 2014 at 1:33 PMWow!!!!!! Very good timing to take between shots. Movements of palm is clearly showing the accuracy and strength of the Nihang. Wah ………….⛳
Geetali says:
August 5, 2014 at 3:09 PMAmazing 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.
Gurusharan Singh says:
August 5, 2014 at 3:25 PMSublime photography
Amit says:
August 5, 2014 at 4:15 PMAmazing shots , as always. And great timing with overcast skies..
kishore kumar biswas says:
August 6, 2014 at 2:19 AMA 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.
Surupa Chatterjee says:
August 6, 2014 at 1:49 PMGreat pictures with great insight into the Philosophy….Also wonderful coming together of man and nature viewing the photographs…
Karamjeet Singh says:
August 6, 2014 at 7:36 PMNice 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..
rajdeep singh sabharwal says:
August 13, 2014 at 6:52 PMSikh belongs to khalsa
Khalsa belongs to God
Rajinder singh says:
August 18, 2014 at 8:36 PMDear Amardeep,
I appericiate your dedication and commitment to the Arts and Community.
Salute to your PASSION.
Warm Wishes
Rajinder Singh
Racchit Thapliyal says:
October 1, 2014 at 11:15 AMI 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!!
Mustafa says:
December 29, 2014 at 3:28 AMThe first pic is brilliant!
Jagtar Singh says:
October 7, 2015 at 12:32 AMVeer ji amazing pics.
Veer ji I need to discuss something with you, so plz reply in my mail id.
Thanks