Bedawa: The Covenant Renounced and Restored
The story of the Bedawa illustrates the boundless grace of Guru Gobind Singh, who preserved the document not to condemn his disciples, but to tear it when their true devotion shone forth.
The Deed of Renunciation and the Restoration of Grace
The Bedawa refers to the historic waiver of allegiance signed under extreme hardship during the siege of Anandpur Sahib by forty Sikhs. Preserved by Guru Gobind Singh Ji and ultimately torn up upon the dying plea of Bhai Maha Singh at Muktsar, it represents the supreme theological principle of divine forgiveness.
The story of the Bedawa illustrates the boundless grace of Guru Gobind Singh, who preserved the document not to condemn his disciples, but to tear it when their true devotion shone forth.
More from History
The Chali Mukte (Forty Liberated Ones) were Sikh warriors who disowned Guru Gobind Singh Ji under prolonged siege starvation at Anandpur Sahib by signing a formal disclaimer (Bedawa). Spurred by warrior Mai Bhago, they redeemed their pledge by engaging the Mughal army at Khidrana, sacrificing their lives as the Guru tore the disclaimer in compassionate reconciliation.
Gurdwara Sri Tuti Gandi Sahib is the principal historic gurdwara at Muktsar where Guru Gobind Singh Ji tore the Bedawa upon the petition of Bhai Maha Singh. Housing a vast sacred Sarovar, the shrine is the focal point of the annual Maghi gathering.
Gurdwara Tibbi Sahib is situated atop the elevated sand dune from which Guru Gobind Singh Ji unleashed volleys of arrows during the Battle of Muktsar, providing decisive tactical cover to the forty Sikhs defending Khidrana pool.