GOPAL, RAJA

GOPAL, RAJA (Raj Singh according to some sources), of Guler, mentioned in Sikh chronicles as well as in Guru Gobind Singh`s Bachitra Ndtak, was one of the hill chieftains who fought against the Guru in the battle of Bharigam in 1688. After the defeat of the rajas, Gopal seems to have sought peace and friendship with Guru Gobind Singh. When Husain Khan was despatched in 1696 by Dilawar Khan, the Mughal chief, towards the hills to chastise the recalcitrant princes, Raja Gopal, not being able to pay the heavy tribute levied upon him, prepared to fight.

He was helped by his ally, Raja Ram Singh of Jasvan. Sarigatia and seven other Sikhs who had come as an embassy of peace to the court of Raja Gopal also took part in the battle. In the fierce action (20 February 1696) that ensued, Husain Khan was slain and Raja Gopal and his allies won a decisive victory. Sarigatia and his seven Sikhs fell fighting the Mughals. Raja Gopal celebrated the triumph by making offerings to Guru Gobind Singh and rendering him gratitude.

References :

1. Bachitra Ndtak
2. Kuir Singh, Gurbilas Palshdht 10. Patiala, 1968
3. Harbans Singh, Guru Gobind Singh. Chandigarh, 1966