SUNDRI by Bhai Sahib Bhai Vir Singh

Translation by Bimal Kaur

PART XIII
Sundri became very agitated when she heard about Lakhpat. But controlling herself, she said, "Tell me about yourself.

Man: "Since you are so interested I will tell you my sad tale. About twenty miles from here, there is a large Muslim village, with a number of Hindu families living in it. There is also a beautiful Shiva temple there. "I belong to a very old high caste Khatri family. During the days of Akbar, one of my ancestors served under Diwan Todar Mal. There was so much wealth in the family, that it has lasted till today." "A Mughal 'hakam' and his soldiers live in our village.

A few days ago I went to the Shiva temple to make an offering. My wife had washed her hair and was standing on the roof to dry them. The Mughal 'hakam' happened to pass that way and he saw her.

"The moment I returned from the village, his soldiers caught me and took me to him. In an arrogant tone he said, "The Emperor has received information that you are hiding jewels of Akbar’s treasury in your home. Return them at once, otherwise we shall lock you up." "I replied, 'Generations have passed since Akbar died, and since my ancestors also passed away. What proof have you got?"

Hakam: 'O Kafar, how dare you be rude to a Momin! Get out of my sight.' He signalled to his soldiers, who put me in the lock-up. A guard was placed outside my house.

"The next day, he sent me a message that he would set me free if I handed over my wife to him. The shock was too much for me and I fainted. When I regained my senses I managed to bribe the jailor with the gold. bracelets and rings which I was wearing, and rushed home To my horror I found my ,wife missing and soldiers standing guard. From the neighbors I learnt that she had been taken to the Nawab’s palace. I can't bear this humiliation and want to kill myself."

Sundri  "Oh you poor man: I know your suffering is great, but it is not correct to take your own life. If you want to rescue your wife come with me. My brothers will willingly help you."

Khatri: "Bibi, your sweet words are like balm to my troubled soul. I am so confused. What great evil have we done that such suffering has come to our country? Where have all the Gods gone? Why don't the holy men come to our aid? Oh, Shiv! Oh Vishnu? Help us, and save us from the invaders."

Sundri's tender heart was deeply touched to hear the pain in the man's words. She spoke in a soft voice, "O, good man, suffering comes because of our wrong actions. When we all put our efforts in loving Him, who is our creator and benevolent Father, we become united and strong. Then no one can harm us. By following separate paths we are becoming weak and this gives the invaders a chance to enter our country and rule us with tyranny and aggression.

. . . Continued to Part 14 .

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