Aurangabad and Ahmednagar should be given recognition based on their historical identity – Daya Singh

Pune – Recently, I visited Aurangabad for a program. Now, the city has been renamed Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Ahmednagar has been renamed Ahilyabai Nagar. This move by the government suggests that it is taking steps toward erasing Mughal history. However, while doing so, it is important for the government to also recognize that in the process of erasing the Mughal legacy, there seems to be an inadvertent attempt to erase Sikh history as well. Whenever we speak about the history of these cities, the mention of Sikhism is equally important. Therefore, while narrating historical events, these cities should continue to be referred to as Aurangabad and Ahmednagar, demanded Daya Singh, National President of the All India Peace Mission, during a press conference.

“When I visited Aurangabad, I met some local people there. There is a Gurudwara at the location, which is associated with Bhai Daya Singh and Dharam Singh. These two were among the Panj Pyare – the Five Beloved Ones – chosen by Guru Gobind Singh. Guru Gobind Singh had sent the Zafarnama (the Epistle of Victory) to Aurangzeb from Dina Kangar in Punjab. That letter described the hardships and betrayals he and his followers had endured.”

“The letter recounted how two of his elder sons were martyred at Chamkaur Garhi, while his younger sons and mother were executed by the Subedar of Sirhind. The letter asked, ‘Is this truly what Islam stands for?’ At the time the letter was delivered to Aurangzeb, he was in Aurangabad, and his army was stationed at Ahmednagar. Bhai Daya Singh and Dharam Singh delivered the Zafarnama directly to Aurangzeb in Aurangabad, and it was read to him. The stark truths of the letter were so impactful that Aurangzeb was said to have been deeply ashamed, and soon after, he died.”

“Learning all this left me shocked. Aurangabad and Ahmednagar hold such profound significance in Sikh history. Then why is this history being removed from our textbooks?”

“In the zeal to erase the Mughal era, there is a real risk of the legacy of the Sikh Gurus being forgotten. This is deeply concerning. The Maharashtra government should establish a dedicated department to document, research, and preserve this historical heritage.”

“On one hand, respected Prime Minister Modi shows genuine affection toward the Sikh community, yet on the other hand, their contributions are being erased from history. I urge the Maharashtra government to take firm steps immediately and give Aurangabad and Ahmednagar their rightful place based on their historical identities.”