Chapter 23

Raja Ratan Rai's Time in Anandpur Sahib: Amrit and Departure

As the first light of dawn peeks over the horizon, Guru Gobind Singh, the embodiment of the Divine, awakens, bathes, and immerses himself in deep meditation, filling the air with serenity.

In the previous two chapters, we embarked on a journey alongside Raja Ratan Rai, a king from Assam with a heart as vast as the mountains. He tirelessly gathered the finest weapons and gifts for the Anandpur Guru. These were not just ordinary weapons; they were masterpieces! Gleaming swords with edges as sharp as a whisper, a wondrous gun that roared like thunder, and a spear capable of piercing through a hundred enemies!

Ratan Rai, without a shadow of doubt, recognises Guru Gobind Singh as the Supreme Being. To honour him, he brings treasures so rare that even the Gods and Goddesses envy them. Among these treasures is Prasaadi, a magnificent elephant. Prasaadi is not just an elephant; it embodies sheer marvel. It is a battle-ready beast capable of serving the Guru in numerous, glorious ways.

Time flows like a serene river as days turn into weeks, and weeks into months. The Raja of Assam, Ratan Rai, his beloved mother, and their loyal ministers savour every moment with the Guru. They learn, laugh, and grow in wisdom under his guidance.

As the time to depart draws near, Ratan Rai's heart swells with gratitude. Guru Sahib, the 10th light of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, blesses them with Bhagti, Gyaan, and Gursikhi – gifts of devotion, Divine wisdom, and the teachings of the Guru. He also confers upon them the sacred Charan Pahul, cementing a bond of eternal grace.

But as they prepare to bid farewell, they pay homage to Mata Gujari Ji and Mata Nanaki Ji, who have been a source of love and wisdom during their stay. Tears flow down Ratan Rai's cheeks as he takes his leave; his heart heavy yet knowing he is blessed beyond measure in this life and, surely, in the next.

With a bowed head and a heart brimming with love, he embarks on his journey home, carrying the Guru's blessings and teachings like a lantern lighting his way.