Bhai Mati Das was one of the most revered martyrs in Sikh history, known for his unwavering faith and unparalleled sacrifice. He, along with Bhai Sati Das and Bhai Dayal Das, was executed in 1675 under the orders of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, for refusing to renounce his beliefs and convert to Islam. His execution, where he was sawed alive, remains one of the most horrific yet inspiring incidents in Indian history.

Who Was Bhai Mati Das?

Bhai Mati Das belonged to a Hindu Chhibber Brahmin family from Karyala (now in Pakistan) and was a devoted Sikh. He served as the diwan (chief minister) of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the ninth Guru of the Sikhs. He played a crucial role in managing the affairs of the Guru’s court and was deeply committed to the Sikh cause. His loyalty and dedication to Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji were unparalleled, and he was among the Guru’s closest followers.

The Context of His Martyrdom

During Aurangzeb’s reign, the Mughal Empire intensified its policy of religious conversion, particularly targeting Hindus. The Kashmiri Pandits, facing forced conversions, sought refuge with Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji in Anandpur Sahib. Moved by their plight, the Guru decided to stand against Aurangzeb’s oppression and challenged the Mughal authorities.

Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, along with Bhai Mati Das, Bhai Sati Das, and Bhai Dayal Das, was arrested in July 1675 and taken to Delhi, where they were tortured and pressured to convert to Islam. However, all of them refused to betray their faith, leading to their brutal executions.

The Horrific Execution of Bhai Mati Das

Aurangzeb’s soldiers tried to persuade Bhai Mati Das to accept Islam, promising him wealth and power. However, Bhai Mati Das remained steadfast, declaring that he would rather die than forsake his Guru and his beliefs. Enraged by his defiance, the Mughal authorities decided to execute him in an extremely cruel manner.

Bhai Mati Das was tied between two wooden planks, standing upright. A saw was placed on his head, and he was slowly cut vertically from head to torso while he continuously chanted the Japji Sahib, a sacred Sikh prayer. Witnesses described how, despite the unbearable pain, Bhai Mati Das remained calm and resolute, reciting the name of Waheguru (God) till his last breath.

His execution was meant to instill fear, but instead, it inspired countless Sikhs and Hindus to resist religious oppression.

Impact of His Martyrdom

The martyrdom of Bhai Mati Das had far-reaching consequences:

1. Strengthened Sikh Resistance: His sacrifice, along with the execution of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and other martyrs, galvanized the Sikh community against Mughal oppression. This later led to the rise of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s Khalsa Panth, which became a formidable force against tyranny.
2. Symbol of Religious Freedom: Bhai Mati Das’s execution was not just a Sikh event but a defining moment in India’s fight for religious freedom. His unwavering faith serves as an example of standing against injustice.
3. Inspired Future Generations: His martyrdom continues to inspire millions, and his sacrifice is commemorated annually by Sikhs and Hindus alike.

Legacy and Commemoration

Bhai Mati Das is remembered as one of the greatest martyrs in Indian history. The Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib in Delhi, built at the site of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s execution, stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made by him and his companions. Every year, Sikhs across the world honor his memory and draw inspiration from his courage.

His story is a powerful testament to the values of righteousness, faith, and resistance against injustice. In an era where religious persecution was rampant, Bhai Mati Das chose to embrace death rather than compromise his beliefs, making him an eternal symbol of bravery and devotion.

Conclusion

The execution of Bhai Mati Das remains one of the most chilling yet awe-inspiring events in history. His unflinching faith and supreme sacrifice continue to inspire millions across generations. His life is a reminder that true courage lies in standing for one’s principles, even in the face of death.

His martyrdom, along with those of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, Bhai Sati Das, and Bhai Dayal Das, paved the way for a stronger Sikh movement, ultimately shaping the course of Indian history. His sacrifice is a beacon of light, urging humanity to uphold the ideals of freedom, righteousness, and unwavering faith in the face of oppression.