TOTA, BHAI, received initiation at the hands of Guru Arjan. He was trained in the martial art in the time of Guru Hargobind and became a skilled swordsman. He laid down his life in the battle of Amritsar in 1629. His name is included in Bhai Gurdas, Varan, XI. 18.
References :
1. Mani Singh, Bhai, Sikhan di Bhagat Mala. Amritsar, 1955
2. Santokh Singh, Bhai, SrJ Gur Pratap Suraj Granth. Amritsar, 1927-35
Tota Bhai was a valiant Sikh warrior who played a significant role in the Battle of Amritsar in 1629. This battle, led by Guru Hargobind, marked a pivotal moment in Sikh history as it showcased the community’s transition to a more martial stance in response to Mughal oppression.
Tota Bhai’s exceptional swordsmanship and unwavering courage were instrumental in defending the Sikh cause against the Mughal forces. Despite being outnumbered, the Sikhs, under Guru Hargobind’s leadership, displayed remarkable resilience and determination. Tota Bhai’s heroics in the battlefield became a symbol of bravery and devotion to the Sikh faith.