ALLAYAR

ALLAYAR, a wealthy Muslim horse dealer of Delhi, who turned a preacher of Sikhism, first came to Guru Amar Das at Goindval escorted by Bhai Paro, a prominent Sikh of Dalla, a village in present day Kapurthala district of the Punjab. It is said that returning from Kabul once with 500 newly purchased horses, he was held up near Goindval owing to the River Beas being in spate. He had not been there long before he saw someone tearing across the swollen river on horseback from the opposite bank. This was Bhai Paro coming to make his daily obeisance to Guru Amar Das.

Allayar was still wondering at the man’s daring when Bhai Paro was again seen emerging from Goindval and preparing to plunge into the river on his way back. Allayar beckoned him to come near him and asked him what made him run such a great risk. Bhai Paro replied that he had his Guru\’s protection and felt no risk of any kind. The intrigued merchant begged him to take him to the Guru who inspired such faith and confidence in the heart of his disciple. He was led into the Guru\’s presence and was converted at first sight.

Guru Amar Das remarked to him: “It is difficult to become a yar (friend) of Allah (God), but I shall make God thy Master and thee His servant.” Allayar became a disciple. He left his trade to his son, and devoted himself whole heartedly to the Guru’s service. Guru Amar Das appointed him head of a manji or diocese to preach the word of Guru Nanak. In later life, Allayar came to reside near his friend Bhai Paro, at village Dalla, where a shrine in honour of his memory still exists.

References :

1. Santokh Singh, Bhai, Sri Gur Pratap Suraj Granth. Amritsar. 1926-37
2. Gian Singh, Giani, Twarikh Guru Khalsa [Reprint]. Patiala, 1970