Perspectives on Guru Arjan Dev (Contribution and Martyrdom)

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Foreword

With martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev there began a qualitative change both in the Sikh movement and history. It was bound to influence the socio-cultural and political developments in the Indian sub-continent. This single event proved potentially significant to the extent that its repercussions are equally visible in the contemporary socio-political environment.

Guru Arjan Dev-s personality is unique in terms of his contributions to humanity, especially to the Sikhs, in the form of compilation of Sri Adi Granth. While there is no controversy on this latter aspect of Guru-s personality; the circumstances and pressures leading to his sacrifice remain debatable among the scholars. The commemoration of the 400th year of Guru-s martyrdom provided ample opportunity to the scholars and historians to re-visit this situation.

Consequently, Punjab Historical Studies Department organised a one-day seminar on 25 January 2007; Several eminent scholars participated in its deliberations and meaningful re-evaluation resulted in re-locating the issues involved in Guru-s martyrdom. Availability of new source material and interpretations contributed much in this direction.

Publication of these research papers will add to our knowledge of Guru Arjan Dev and the issues related to His personality. Dr Navtej Singh, Head, Punjab Historical Studies Department, his colleagues and staff deserve congratulations for their hard work in bringing out this volume.