Mata Kaulan: The Radiance of Devotion and Guru Hargobind Sahib’s Eternal Grace

Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib’s intervention not only rescued a devoted disciple but also upheld the honour of womankind, ensuring that Mata Kaulan’s unwavering faith were immortalized in Sikh history.

Mata Kaulan: Introduction: A Timeless Legacy of Devotion

Mata Kaulan Ji’s life is a remarkable testament to spiritual resilience, courage, and the transformative power of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib’s grace. A woman of profound faith, she defied religious persecution to embrace Sikhi and found sanctuary under the divine protection of the sixth Guru. In honouring her, we also celebrate the unparalleled wisdom and benevolence of Guru Hargobind Sahib, whose actions not only safeguarded her but also immortalized her legacy through the sacred Kaulsar Sarovar.

Early Life and Persecution

From Birth to Captivity (Early 1600s)

Mata Kaulan was born to Hindu parents in Lahore but was adopted (abducted as per some accounts) as a child and raised by Qazi Rustam Khan, a powerful Muslim cleric. She was given an Islamic education under the guidance of the revered Sufi saint Hazrat Mian Mir, a known admirer of the Sikh Gurus.

Spiritual Awakening and Persecution

Despite her imposed religious upbringing, Mata Kaulan was deeply drawn to Sikh teachings. Under the guidance of Mian Mir, she discovered the spiritual enlightenment of Guru Nanak’s path. Her admiration for Sikhism, however, enraged Qazi Rustam Khan, who viewed her devotion as apostasy. She faced imprisonment, torture, and threats of execution.

Guru Hargobind Sahib: The Divine Protector

Rescue from Lahore (1620)

Mata Kaulan’s suffering reached Guru Hargobind Sahib through a secret message she sent via a devoted maid. The Guru, embodying the Sikh principle of standing against oppression, vowed to protect her. He did not launch an armed attack but instead advised her to escape on her own, emphasizing the power of self-liberation.

With the help of her maid, Mata Kaulan fled Lahore at night, escaping through a window. Guru Hargobind Sahib, ever the divine protector, personally received her at a pre-arranged location and escorted her to Amritsar, where she was granted refuge near Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple).

A Sanctuary of Spiritual Bliss

Under the Guru’s guidance, Mata Kaulan spent her days in deep meditation, reciting Gurbani and immersing herself in sewa (selfless service). Unlike a mere escapee, she was honoured as a spiritually enlightened soul whose journey epitomized true devotion.

Kaulsar Sarovar: An Eternal Legacy (1624–1627)

The Guru’s Gift to Mata Kaulan

To honour Mata Kaulan’s name, Guru Hargobind Sahib commissioned the excavation of Kaulsar Sarovar between 1624 and 1627, transforming a small natural lotus-filled pond (kaul/kamal in Punjabi) into a sacred water body. Under the supervision of Baba Buddha Ji, the modest pond was meticulously expanded into a grand sarovar, blending natural beauty with spiritual significance. Upon its completion, the Guru declared Kaulsar to be Mata Kaulan’s "eternal son", ensuring that her devotion would be forever enshrined in Sikh history. This sacred sarovar remains a symbol of purity, faith, and Guru Hargobind Sahib’s boundless compassion.

A Sacred Pilgrimage Site

Guru Hargobind Sahib is said to have decreed that pilgrims must bathe in Kaulsar Sarovar before entering Harmandir Sahib, elevating its spiritual significance. It became one of Amritsar’s five holy Sarovars and the first Sikh sacred pool to be named after a woman, emphasizing Sikhism’s inclusivity and reverence for female devotion.

Final Years and Passing (1630)

The Guru’s Final Blessing

Three years after the completion of Kaulsar Sarovar, Mata Kaulan fell gravely ill. As her final moments approached, Guru Hargobind Sahib personally guided her in meditation, urging her to merge her consciousness with Waheguru. She passed away in 1630, immersed in devotion.

Cremation and Samadhi

Mata Kaulan was cremated near Kaulsar Sarovar, as per Sikh traditions. A samadhi (memorial shrine) was built at the site, ensuring that her legacy remained enshrined in the heart of Sikh devotion¹.

Gurdwara Mata Kaulan Sahib and Its Significance

Architectural Splendor

Adjacent to Kaulsar Sarovar, the Gurdwara Mata Kaulan Sahib stands as a tribute to her unwavering faith. The marble-lined structure and gilded dome reflect the architectural elegance of Sikh heritage.

A Symbol of Interfaith Harmony

Mata Kaulan’s association with both Mian Mir (a Sufi saint) and Guru Hargobind Sahib makes her story a powerful symbol of interfaith harmony. The Gurdwara remains a place of deep spiritual reverence, where devotees honor her memory through kirtan and ardaas.

The Mughal Retaliation and the Battle of Amritsar (1634)

Mughal Outrage

The rescue of Mata Kaulan infuriated Qazi Rustam Khan, who sought retribution and continued his efforts for over a decade. His influence over the Mughal court led to Emperor Shah Jahan’s eventual intervention, resulting in a military campaign against Guru Hargobind Sahib, triggered immediately by a skirmish between his hunting party and the Sikh soldiers.

The Sikh Resistance and Counter-attack

In 1634, Mukhlis Khan, the then Governor of Lahore, led a 7,000-strong Mughal force to attack Amritsar. On the first day, the Mughals looted the sacred city, and also ransacked Guru Sahib’s residential quarters, but the Guru’s army regrouped and launched a powerful counter-offensive on the following day. The battle ended in a decisive Sikh victory, with Mukhlis Khan slain.

Guru Hargobind Sahib’s Decisive Duel with Mukhlis Khan

The Battle of Amritsar in 1634 reached its climax in a dramatic duel between Guru Hargobind Sahib and Mukhlis Khan, the Mughal commander. In a display of supreme martial skill and composure, the Guru allowed Mukhlis Khan to strike twice, effortlessly parrying both blows. Then, with a single, powerful strike, Guru Hargobind cut Mukhlis Khan’s body cleanly into two, marking a definitive victory for the Sikhs. This momentous act not only shattered Mughal morale but also reinforced the Guru’s vision of a militarized Sikh Panth, proving that spiritual strength must be safeguarded by armed resistance against tyranny.

This conflict marked a turning point in Sikh military history, demonstrating Guru Hargobind Sahib’s commitment to both spiritual and martial sovereignty (Miri-Piri).

Mata Kaulan’s Enduring Influence

A Beacon of Courage

Mata Kaulan’s story is a powerful reminder that faith transcends religious persecution. Her journey from captivity to spiritual liberation reflects Sikhism’s core values of fearlessness and devotion.

The Guru’s Eternal Grace

Guru Hargobind Sahib’s intervention not only rescued a devoted disciple but also upheld the honour of womankind, ensuring that Mata Kaulan’s unwavering faith and sacrifice were immortalized in Sikh history. Through his profound vision, he transformed her ordeal into a lasting testament of spiritual resilience and divine grace, ensuring that her name would be revered for generations to come.

The Legacy of Kaulsar Sarovar

Even today, many devotees bathe in Kaulsar before visiting Harmandir Sahib, a practice encouraged by the Guru himself. The Sarovar stands as an everlasting tribute to Mata Kaulan’s faith and Guru Hargobind Sahib’s divine grace and benevolence.

In Summary: The Eternal Devotion of Mata Kaulan

Mata Kaulan’s life is not merely a historical episode—it is a sacred testament to unwavering devotion and the divine grace of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib. From her escape from tyranny to her spiritual sanctuary in Amritsar, from the Guru’s protection to the enduring sanctity of Kaulsar Sarovar, every aspect of her story glorifies the indomitable spirit of Sikhism.

Her name lives on, eternally enshrined in the sacred waters of Kaulsar, in the hearts of devotees, and in the divine vision of Guru Hargobind Sahib, the protector of faith

Mata Kaulan’s Enduring Legacy: Beyond Kaulsar Sarovar

While Kaulsar Sarovar remains the most prominent tribute to Mata Kaulan’s faith and devotion, her legacy extends far beyond this sacred site. Over the centuries, institutions dedicated to healthcare, education, and social welfare have been established in her honor, reflecting the enduring impact of her spiritual journey.

Institutions of Service and Welfare

Mata Kaulan’s commitment to sewa (selfless service) is carried forward by the Mata Kaulan Ji Mission Hospital, which was founded over four decades ago by the Sri Sukhmani Sahib Sewa Society. Initially established as a small outpatient dispensary, it has since grown into a multi-specialty healthcare center, providing essential medical services to underprivileged communities in Amritsar. Similarly, the Bibi Kaulan Ji Bhalai Kender Trust upholds her spirit of compassion by supporting various charitable initiatives.

Impact on Sikh Education and Heritage

Her devotion to Gurbani and Sikh teachings also influenced Giani Samparda, a scholarly tradition dedicated to Sikh scriptural exegesis. Furthermore, recognizing her historical and spiritual significance, Amritsar Heritage Walks have included Gurdwara Mata Kaulan Sahib as an essential stop, ensuring that visitors and devotees continue to learn about her inspiring life.

A Global Inspiration

Though institutions bearing her name outside India are rare, Mata Kaulan’s story resonates worldwide, inspiring Sikhs and interfaith communities alike. Her life remains a powerful symbol of spiritual resilience, courage, and Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib’s boundless compassion, ensuring that her name is cherished across

1. Some accounts mention that she was buried near Kartarpur Sahib as per Muslim rites, but we have chosen to narrate the widely accepted version.