“Why only two Mohars after pledging to offer five hundred?” Those words changed everything for Makhan Shah. Right here we stand at Peer Baba Makhan Shah Sthal a place honoring a remarkable man. Peer Baba Makhan Shah Labana was a devout Sikh and a wealthy trader. He is best known for his discovery of Guru Tegh Bahadur the ninth Guru of the Sikhs.
Peer Baba Makhan Shah Labana was born on July 7 1619. His father Bhai Dasa was a devout Sikh of Guru Hargobind. Makhan Shah was a merchant. He traded valuable goods across India and even abroad. His trade routes stretched from Gujarat and Punjab to the Mediterranean. He dealt in spices Bengali silk and Kashmir shawls.
The story of Peer Baba Makhan Shah’s discovery is fascinating. Once his ship was caught in a terrible storm. Facing imminent disaster Makhan Shah prayed to Guru Nanak. He vowed to donate 500 gold Mohars if he survived. His prayer was answered and the ship reached shore safely.
To fulfill his vow Makhan Shah traveled to Bakala. He had heard that the next Guru would be found there. Upon arriving he found many self-proclaimed gurus. Each claimed to be the true successor. Makhan Shah devised a clever plan to find the real Guru. He would offer two gold Mohars to each claimant. The true Guru would know about the promised 500.
He visited each self-proclaimed guru and offered two Mohars. None of them mentioned the original vow. Disappointed Makhan Shah asked if there were any other Sodhis in Bakala. He was told about Tegh Bahadur son of Guru Hargobind. Tegh Bahadur lived a quiet life of meditation.
Makhan Shah went to meet Tegh Bahadur. He placed two gold Mohars before him. Then Guru Tegh Bahadur spoke those remarkable words. “Why only two Mohars after pledging to offer five hundred?” Makhan Shah was overwhelmed. He had found the true Guru.
He rushed to the rooftop and shouted “Guru Ladho Re Guru Ladho Re” This means “I have found the Guru I have found the Guru”. People gathered to see Guru Tegh Bahadur. Makhan Shah presented the promised 500 gold Mohars. Guru Tegh Bahadur was then formally installed as the ninth Guru.
Peer Baba Makhan Shah’s devotion didn’t stop there. He also preached Sikhism in West Punjab and abroad. He helped Guru Tegh Bahadur settle in Anandpur Sahib. Makhan Shah made significant contributions to the development of Anandpur Sahib. He helped acquire land for the city.
Peer Baba Makhan Shah Labana died in 1674. He left behind a legacy of faith devotion and service. This Sthal stands as a reminder of his unwavering commitment to his Guru. His story continues to inspire Sikhs and others. It reminds us of the importance of keeping our promises. It also highlights the power of faith. Remember Peer Baba Makhan Shah when you face challenges. May his story inspire you.