VASTI RAM, BHAI (1708–1802)
Bhai Vasti Ram, the son of Bhai Bulaka Singh, is said to have accompanied Guru Gobind Singh to the South in 1707, returning with the Guru’s blessings to settle in Lahore. Bhai Vasti Ram lived through the challenging period of Sikh persecution as well as their eventual rise to political power in Punjab.
He dedicated himself to the study of medicine and gained fame for his expertise in using indigenous herbs. Deeply religious and God-fearing, Bhai Vasti Ram treated his patients free of charge. Stories of his healing abilities and piety spread far and wide, leading many to credit him with supernatural powers. His renown attracted not only common people but also prominent Sikh leaders who sought his blessings.
Among his regular visitors were Jassa Singh Ahluvalia and the Bhangi Sardars—Lahina Singh, Gujar Singh, Ganda Singh, and Jhanda Singh. Maharaja Ranjit Singh became one of Bhai Vasti Ram’s ardent devotees early in his career. Maharaja Ranjit Singh frequently expressed gratitude, attributing his success in the Battle of Bhasin (1800), which solidified his control over Lahore, to Bhai Vasti Ram’s blessings.
Bhai Vasti Ram passed away in 1802 at the remarkable age of 94. A marble samadh was erected near the Lahore Fort at the site of his cremation. Maharaja Ranjit Singh used to visit this memorial annually on the anniversary of Bhai Vasti Ram’s death.
References :
- Suri, Sohan Lal, `Umdat ut-Twarikh. Lahore, 1885-89
- Kirpal Singh, Bhai Vasti Ram and Bhai Ram Singh. Amritsar, n.d
- Chopra, Barkat Rai, Kingdom of the Punjab. Hoshiarpur, 1969
More information
Bhai Vasti Ram (1708-1802) was a revered figure in Sikh history and a remarkable personality in his own right. Born as the distinguished son of Bhai Bulaka Singh, who is believed to have accompanied Guru Gobind Singh on his journey to the South in 1707, Bhai Vasti Ram carried forward his family’s legacy of devotion and service to the Sikh community. After being blessed by Guru Gobind Singh, Bhai Bulaka Singh returned to Lahore, where Vasti Ram was raised and came of age.
Living during a tumultuous era marked by persecution of the Sikhs, Vasti Ram witnessed the trials and tribulations faced by his community. However, he also witnessed their eventual rise to power in Punjab. Inspired by his faith and a desire to alleviate the suffering of others, he dedicated himself to the study of medicine. He became renowned for his expertise in utilizing native herbs and remedies for healing purposes. What set him apart was not just his medical knowledge, but his selfless approach to providing care. Bhai Vasti Ram treated his patients without any charges, embodying the principles of compassion and service.
News of Bhai Vasti Ram’s miraculous healing abilities and his unwavering faith spread far and wide, elevating his status to that of a saintly figure. Esteemed Sikh chiefs, including Jassa Singh Ahluwalia and the Bharigi sardars Lahina Singh, Gujjar Singh, Ganda Singh, and Jhanda Singh, sought his blessings, recognizing his spiritual eminence. Even Maharaja Ranjit Singh, in the early years of his career, became a devout follower of Bhai Vasti Ram and attributed his victory in the Battle of Bhasin (1800) to the blessings bestowed upon him by the revered saint.
At the age of 94, in 1802, Bhai Vasti Ram passed away, leaving behind a legacy of spiritual guidance and healing. As a mark of reverence, a marble samadhi (memorial) was erected near the Lahore Fort, where his cremation took place. Maharaja Ranjit Singh himself would visit the samadhi annually to commemorate the death anniversary of his beloved spiritual guide.
Tragically, in the aftermath of the unsettling Babri Mosque incident in 1992, the samadhi of Bhai Vasti Ram, along with other historical structures like the Jain Mandir, fell victim to the destructive rage of an angry mob. This act of wanton destruction deprived future generations of the opportunity to witness and appreciate the architectural and historical significance of the samadhi.
The architectural composition of Samadhi Bhai Vasti Ram beautifully exemplified the fusion of Hindu and Muslim influences, reflective of the vibrant Sikh milieu of the time. Though modest compared to the grandeur of the nearby Lahore Fort, the samadhi’s exterior was adorned with intricate white marble carvings, capturing the eye with its captivating details. Once adorned with semi-precious multicolored stones arranged in elaborate floral patterns, it exuded an exquisite elegance. The main entrance, facing north, was situated on a square podium, and a previously existing tank with enchanting fountains added to the charm of the surroundings, although regrettably, it no longer exists today.
