About Baba Lakhi Shah Ji Vanjara

Baba Lakhi Shah Ji Vanjara is remembered in Sikh history for his fearless devotion, courage, and selfless service (seva). He belonged to the Banjara (trader) community and was a devoted Sikh of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the Ninth Guru of the Sikhs.

Service during a critical moment in Sikh history

In 1675, after Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji attained martyrdom in Delhi while standing for religious freedom and human rights, the authorities attempted to prevent the Guru's last rites and warned people not to claim the sacred body.

Despite the danger, Baba Lakhi Shah Ji, along with his sons, recovered the sacred body and brought it to his home in the Raisina area of Delhi. To ensure the last rites could be carried out with dignity, he set his own house on fire so the cremation could take place discreetly and honorably.

Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib

The site connected with this act of seva is commemorated today by Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib in Delhi—one of the important Sikh historical Gurdwaras.

Why our society is named after Baba Lakhi Shah Ji

Our society exists to honor the legacy of Baba Lakhi Shah Ji—his courage, devotion, and seva—and to inspire the same values in our community in the United States. Through diwans, kirtan, education, and charitable service, we strive to support the sangat and live the Sikh principle of Sarbat da Bhala (welfare of all).