Who was Bibi Sharan Kaur Ji?

Bibi Sharan Kaur Ji — The Fearless Daughter of the Khalsa

Bibi Sharan Kaur Ji occupies a special place in Sikh history as a symbol of unmatched courage, devotion, and selfless service. Her bravery during the aftermath of the Battle of Chamkaur (1705) reflects the spirit of the Khalsa — standing for truth, honor, and humanity even in the face of death.

A Brave Soul in a Time of Turmoil

After the historic battle at Chamkaur Sahib, the battlefield was filled with the bodies of Sikh warriors who had fought valiantly, including the elder Sahibzadas —

Sahibzada Ajit Singh Ji and Sahibzada Jujhar Singh Ji.

Although the Mughal forces were still in the area and danger remained high, the Sikhs needed someone who could courageously perform the final rites of the martyrs. This sacred duty was undertaken by Bibi Sharan Kaur Ji, a young woman from the nearby village of Raipur.

Performing the Final Rites of the Martyrs

With unwavering courage, Bibi Ji gathered the bodies of around forty Sikh martyrs, including:

Sahibzada Ajit Singh Ji

Sahibzada Jujhar Singh Ji

Three beloved Sikhs (Panj Piare-like devoted warriors)

Numerous devoted Khalsa soldiers

Her own husband

Despite the threat of Mughal soldiers returning, she ensured that each martyr received a dignified cremation. She lit the funeral pyre with full honor and devotion — an act that required both bravery and profound spiritual strength.

Her Own Martyrdom

When the Mughal soldiers discovered that the Sikh martyrs had been cremated, they attempted to attack and capture Bibi Sharan Kaur Ji. Rather than fall into enemy hands, she chose martyrdom.

Different historical sources mention two possibilities:

She jumped into the burning pyre to protect her honor,

or

She was killed by the enemy forces during their assault.

Regardless of the version, her sacrifice stands as a timeless example of Khalsa bravery and dignity.

Legacy and Memorial

To honor her extraordinary service and sacrifice, a gurdwara has been established in her village: Gurdwara Bibi Sharan Kaur Ji, Raipur

This sacred site commemorates:

Her courageous cremation of the Chamkaur martyrs

Her devotion to the Khalsa Panth

Her willingness to sacrifice her life to preserve the dignity of Sikh warriors

Devotees visit this gurdwara to remember her bravery and offer prayers.

Why Bibi Sharan Kaur Ji’s Story Matters Today

Her life teaches us:

Courage is not limited by gender

Duty towards the community is sacred

Standing up in difficult times defines true character

Selfless service is the highest form of devotion

In a world facing fear and uncertainty, Bibi Sharan Kaur Ji’s example reminds us that ordinary individuals can perform extraordinary actions when driven by faith and principles.