18th February 2023
Gurdwara Bhai Lalu Ji, located in the village of Tatliali in the Gujranwala district, holds a significant place of worship for Sikhs. This village lies along the westward road from Kamoke, and at its heart stands the majestic Gurdwara dedicated to Bhai Lalu Ji. The construction of this Gurdwara took place in 1939 AD, thanks to the dedicated efforts of Bhai Lal Singh Ji and the financial contributions of the Sikh Sangats settled in Africa. The building itself is a three-story structure adorned with elegant domes. Presently, it houses a Government Primary School, but unfortunately, due to a lack of maintenance, its condition is deteriorating.
Bhai Lalo, born in 1452 in the village of Saidpur (now known as Eminabad) in present-day Pakistan, holds a special place in Sikh history. His father, Bhai Jagat Ram, belonged to the Ghataura clan, associated with the carpenter profession. Guru Nanak, the revered founder of Sikhism, had the privilege of staying with Bhai Lalo on multiple occasions. Bhai Lalo's humble abode became a dharmsala, a place of gathering and spiritual discussions for local followers of Guru Nanak. Over time, this house was transformed into a Gurdwara, named after the khuhi (narrow well) that remained intact even after the original house had crumbled.
Bhai Lalo is renowned for a particular incident that occurred during Guru Nanak's visit. Malik Bhago, an influential government official of the city, had arranged a grand feast for all the religious holy men and extended an invitation to Guru Nanak Sahib as well. However, Guru Nanak respectfully declined the invitation. When summoned a second time by official command, Guru Nanak Sahib took Bhai Lalo along and visited Malik Bhago's house. Malik Bhago, filled with anger, confronted Guru Nanak, saying, "By eating dry chapatis in the house of a carpenter, you dishonor the Kshatriyas. I am offering you a feast with delicious food. Why do you refuse to partake in it?"
In response, Guru Nanak Sahib took buttered bread from Malik Bhago's house in his left hand and plain bread from Bhai Lalo's humble dwelling in his right hand. Astonishingly, when Guru Nanak squeezed his left hand, the one holding Malik Bhago's bread, blood trickled from it, leaving everyone in awe. Conversely, when he squeezed his right hand, the one holding Bhai Lalo's bread, drops of milk dripped from it, further captivating the onlookers. The silence that followed engulfed Malik Bhago.
Guru Nanak proceeded to explain the profound significance behind his actions. He revealed that Malik Bhago's wealth was amassed by exploiting and oppressing the poor, symbolized by the blood-stained bread. In contrast, Bhai Lalo's modest earnings were the result of his honest labor, symbolized by the milk-filled bread. The Guru emphasized that his rejection of the opulent feast was a reflection of his preference for the simple sustenance earned through hard work and righteousness.
This powerful episode involving Bhai Lalo serves as a poignant reminder of the values upheld in Sikhism, highlighting the importance of integrity, compassion, and the rejection of ill-gotten wealth. The Gurdwara Bhai Lalu Ji stands as a testament to this profound historical event and continues to inspire devotees who visit the sacred site, offering them a glimpse into the transformative teachings and actions of Guru Nanak Sahib.
