SANGAT RAI

SANGAT RAI (d. 1696), also referred to in Sikh chronicles as Sangatia Singh, was, according to Guru Gobind Singh`s autobiographical Bachitra Natak, sent on an embassy of peace to the court of Raja Gopal of Guler. At that time a Mughal commander, Husain Khan marching upon Anandpur was extorting along the way heavy tribute from the hill chiefs. While the rulers of Bilaspur and Kangra submitted to and aided Husain Khan, Raja Gopal of Guler expressed his inability to pay the excessive levy.

This led to a battle in which Sangat Rai and his seven companions took the part of Raja Gopal. Both Husain Khan and his ally from Kangra were killed in battle and the ruler of Guler won a decisive victory. Sangat Rai and his tiny Sikh contingent, which according to Bhatt sources, also included Sangat Rai`s brother, Hanumant, also fell in this action. According to the Bhatt Vahis, this battle took place on 20 February 1696.

References :

1. Bhangu, Ratan Singh, Prachih Panth Prakash. Amritsar, 1914
2. Gian Singh Giani, Twarikh Guru Khalsa [Reprint]. Patiala, 1970