RANJIT NAGARA, literally “the drum of victory in the battlefield,” was the name given to the kettledrum installed by Guru Gobind Singh at Anandpur in 1684. Nagara, Punjabi for the Persian naqqarah, meaning a kettledrum, was a symbol of royalty. As well as fulfilling his spiritual office, Guru Gobind Singh, like his grandfather Guru Hargobind, adopted the emblems of worldly dignity. He wore an aigrette and arms, sat under a canopy, and went out riding in state. Adding another sign of authority, in 1684, his diwan, Nand Chand, had a kettledrum installed at his bidding.
The massive drum with a metallic hemispheric body was called by Guru Gobind Singh “Ranjit Nagara.” According to Kuir Singh’s Gurbilas Patshahi 10, the masands became afraid lest the beating of the drum should arouse the envy of the local chieftain and begged the Guru’s mother, Mata Gujari, to plead with him not to offend the raja. Guru Gobind Singh, as stated by Bhai Santokh Singh in Sri Gur Pratap Suraj Granth, spoke to his mother, “Why should anyone resort to antagonism? I am not going to seize anyone’s territory.” The Ranjit Nagara was usually beaten when Guru Gobind Singh went out for the chase.
The thunderous roll of Ranjit Nagara made Raja Bhim Chand, the Raja of Kahlur, who was already jealous of the growing influence of Guru Gobind Singh, panicky. He and later his son, Ajmer Chand, supported by other hill monarchs, attacked Anandpur and continued hostilities until Guru Gobind Singh, under the pressure of a prolonged siege, was forced to evacuate the fort in December 1705. History provides no clue, but in all probability, the Ranjit Nagara was left behind in Anandpur. However, the kettledrum as such had become part of Sikh tradition, and it continues to be so to this day. Almost every gurudwara now maintains a large kettledrum called dhaunsa or nagara, which is beaten during ardas (the supplicatory prayer) to punctuate certain lines and as a call for meals in the Guru ka Langar.
References :
- Santokh Singh, Bhai, Sri Gur Pratap Suraj Granth. Amritsar, 1927–35.
- Kuir Singh, Gurbilas Patshahi 10, ed. Shamsher Singh Ashok. Patiala, 1968.
The Relevance of Ranjit Nagara in Sikhism
The Ranjit Nagara, or “Victory Drum,” is an iconic symbol in Sikh tradition, embodying the principles of courage, sovereignty, and divine justice. First introduced by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, the Ranjit Nagara holds profound spiritual and historical significance. It was more than just an instrument of sound; it was a declaration of independence, an assertion of sovereignty, and a call to action for the Sikh community. Its relevance in Sikhism spans across the spiritual, cultural, and sociopolitical dimensions of the faith, symbolizing the unshakable resolve of the Sikhs to uphold righteousness and resist tyranny.
Historical Origins of the Ranjit Nagara
The Ranjit Nagara was established during the era of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, a time marked by intense persecution of Sikhs under Mughal rule. In the face of oppression, Guru Gobind Singh Ji transformed the Sikh community into the Khalsa—a collective of saint-soldiers committed to defending justice and truth. The Ranjit Nagara was installed at the fort of Anandpur Sahib as an emblem of sovereignty and spiritual power.
Traditionally, the beating of drums in royal courts was a privilege reserved for ruling authorities. By introducing the Ranjit Nagara, Guru Gobind Singh Ji proclaimed the Khalsa’s independence and divine authority, challenging the dominance of oppressive regimes. The sound of the drum resonated not just as a call to battle but also as an assertion of the Khalsa’s unwavering faith in divine justice.
Spiritual and Symbolic Significance
The Ranjit Nagara serves as a powerful spiritual symbol within Sikhism. Its name, meaning “drum of victory,” is a reminder of the triumph of truth and righteousness over falsehood and injustice. The drum represents the Sikh belief that ultimate sovereignty belongs to God alone, and that the Khalsa acts as an instrument of divine will (hukam).
The drum’s resonance embodies the Sikh spirit of fearlessness and unity. It is a call to rise above ego (haumai) and embrace the principles of selflessness, courage, and devotion. For the Khalsa, the Ranjit Nagara is not merely a physical object but a representation of their divine mission to uphold justice and protect the oppressed.
Cultural and Communal Dimensions
Culturally, the Ranjit Nagara has been a unifying force within the Sikh community. Its presence at Anandpur Sahib became a rallying point for the Sikhs, symbolizing their collective identity and shared mission. The sound of the drum inspired courage and solidarity, reinforcing the values of the Khalsa and strengthening the community’s resolve in times of adversity.
The Ranjit Nagara also played a ceremonial role, marking significant occasions and mobilizing the community for action. Its rhythmic beats signified readiness and determination, reminding Sikhs of their duty to stand against injustice and uphold the principles of equality and service (seva).
Relevance in Contemporary Times
In the modern era, the Ranjit Nagara continues to hold relevance as a symbol of Sikh resilience and spiritual sovereignty. While the physical drum may no longer be in use, its legacy resonates in the Sikh community’s commitment to justice, equality, and spiritual freedom. The values embodied by the Ranjit Nagara inspire Sikhs to engage actively in the pursuit of social justice and to stand against oppression in all forms.
The drum’s message transcends its historical context, serving as a timeless reminder of the Sikh mission to balance spirituality with active engagement in the world. It challenges Sikhs to live fearlessly, uphold righteousness, and remain steadfast in their faith, even in the face of challenges.
Conclusion
The Ranjit Nagara is far more than an instrument of sound; it is a profound symbol of Sikh spirituality, sovereignty, and resilience. Its relevance lies in its ability to inspire the Sikh community to uphold the principles of justice, equality, and divine truth. Rooted in the teachings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the Ranjit Nagara continues to resonate as a powerful reminder of the Sikh ethos, guiding the community in its spiritual and social mission. As a beacon of hope and courage, the Ranjit Nagara remains an enduring emblem of the Sikh faith and its unwavering commitment to righteousness.
