Who was Baba Buddha Ji

Baba Buddha Ji is one of the most important and respected figures in Sikhism. He dedicated his entire life, spanning over a century, to the service of Sikhism and its Gurus, living for nearly 124 years. He was also the first Gran (priest) of Harimandir Sahib, Amritsar.

Early Life

Baba Buddha Ji was born on October 6, 1506, in Kathu Nangal, a small town near Amritsar. His birth name was Bura, and he was the son of Bhai Suggha Ji, a Jatt from the Randhawa clan. His mother, Mai Garan, came from the Sandhu family. The family later moved to the Dhalla hamlet near the River Ravi, where Baba Buddha Ji grew up surrounded by the rich culture and spirituality that would shape his life.

Meeting Guru Nanak Dev Ji

One fateful day, while herding his animals, young Bura encountered Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who was passing through his village. This meeting would forever change his life. According to Bhai Mani Singh’s “Sikhan Di Bhagat Mala,” Bura approached the Guru with a humble heart, bowed before him, and offered a glass of milk. He prayed earnestly, “O protector of the poor! I am fortunate to have seen you today. Please free me from the cycle of birth and death.”


Guru Nanak Dev Ji, impressed by his maturity and devotion at such a young age, remarked, “Though you are young, you possess the wisdom of an old man.” This profound acknowledgment inspired Bura to devote his life to the teachings of Sikhism. From that day on, he was given the name Bhai Buddha Ji, which eventually evolved into Baba Buddha Ji. His journey as a devoted follower of Guru Nanak Dev Ji had just begun.

Meeting Guru Angad Dev Ji

Baba Buddha Ji’s unwavering devotion to the Sikh Gurus continued even after he married at the age of 17 in Baba Bakala. Following his marriage, he returned to Kartarpur to serve Guru Nanak Dev Ji during his final years. The Guru held Baba Buddha Ji in such high regard that he designated him to apply the ceremonial Tilak to Bhai Lehna Ji, who would become Guru Angad Dev Ji, the second Guru of Sikhism. This moment not only deepened Baba Buddha Ji’s commitment but also solidified his role in Sikh history.

Guru Amar Das Ji and Guru Ram Das Ji

Baba Buddha Ji earned immense respect from Guru Amar Das Ji, who entrusted him with overseeing significant projects, such as the construction of the Baoli Sahib at Sri Goindwal Sahib and the creation of the Amrit Sarovar in Amritsar. This area, which later became known as Ramdaspur and eventually Sri Amritsar Sahib, holds deep spiritual significance for Sikhs. A historic banyan tree still stands at the Golden Temple, under which Baba Buddha Ji would sit while supervising the construction of the Sarovar, reflecting his dedication and involvement.


He was also pivotal during the appointment of Bhai Jetha Ji as Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Guru of Sikhism, performing the essential ceremonial rites.

Guru Arjan Dev Ji and Guru Hargobind Ji

Baba Buddha Ji played a crucial role in the lives of Guru Arjan Dev Ji and Guru Hargobind Ji. After the unfortunate passing of Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s first wife, he remarried Mata Ganga Ji. It was Baba Buddha Ji who blessed the couple, and shortly after, Mata Ganga Ji gave birth to their son, Hargobind. Showing deep trust, Guru Arjan Dev Ji entrusted Baba Buddha Ji with the responsibility of overseeing young Hargobind’s upbringing and spiritual education, nurturing him to be a leader in the Sikh community.

In 1604, when the Adi Granth was installed at the Golden Temple, Guru Arjan Dev Ji appointed Baba Buddha Ji as the first Head Granthi. After Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s martyrdom, Baba Buddha Ji, together with Bhai Gurdas Ji, performed the ceremonial rites to bestow Guruship upon Guru Hargobind Ji in the newly constructed Akal Takht. This marked a significant moment for the Sikh community, and Baba Buddha Ji’s presence emphasized his loyalty and commitment.

Final Days of Baba Buddha Ji

Baba Buddha Ji spent his last days in Jhanda Ramdas, a village founded by his son, Bhai Bhana Ji. When the time came for him to leave this earthly realm, he passed away on September 8, 1631. Guru Hargobind Ji was by his side, performing the final rites and reciting sacred verses from the Adi Granth Sahib in his honor. This poignant moment marked the beginning of a traditional Sikh ritual that many still practice today, reflecting his lasting impact on Sikh spirituality.

Throughout his life, Baba Buddha Ji exemplified devotion, humility, and service, traits that continue to inspire Sikhs and others worldwide. His story is a testament to his unwavering faith and the profound influence one individual can have on a community and its traditions.