Bhai Jagta Ji

The Sewa Panthi Tradition

Bhai Jagta Ji was one of the most influential saints of the Sewa Panthi order, a unique humanitarian institution that can be seen as a forerunner of the Red Cross Society. The Sewa Panthi tradition was founded by Bhai Kanhaiya, a devout Sikh who served humanity selflessly under the guidance of Guru Gobind Singh. Bhai Jagta Ji followed in this noble lineage as the successor to Bhai Bhalla Ram, continuing the mission of compassion and service.

Early Life and Spiritual Awakening

Bhai Jagta Ji was born in Maghiana, in the district of Jhang (now in Pakistan). He came from humble beginnings and worked as a labourer in the local market. Though simple in nature and pure at heart, he once faced a grave injustice when he was falsely accused of theft. Although honourably acquitted, this episode deeply affected him and awakened him to the destructive power of human greed and suffering.

This realization led him to understand that true freedom from greed could only be achieved through dedication to God and service to humanity. Along with his elder stepbrother Bhai Channa, he sought spiritual refuge under Bhai Bhalla Ram, a revered saint of the time, at Noorpur, where a Dharamsala was being established.

Life in the Sewa Panthi Fold

Bhai Jagta Ji’s unwavering devotion, humility and tireless service soon earned him the complete trust of Bhai Bhalla Ram. He was formally admitted into the Sewa Panthi order, after which his life became one of meditation, social service and boundless love for humanity. In recognition of his spiritual stature and selfless conduct, he was eventually anointed as the successor to Bhai Bhalla Ram.

Compassion and Selfless Service

Numerous anecdotes highlight Bhai Jagta Ji’s extraordinary generosity, compassion and self-effacement. To him, every individual was a manifestation of the Divine. He served all without discrimination, even those who insulted or mistreated him. His life exemplified the highest ideals of humility, forgiveness and unconditional service.

Legacy and the Sewa Panthi Centre

After the Partition of 1947, the historic Tikana Noorpur Thal was re-established at Goniana Mandi in the Bhatinda district of Punjab, and came to be known as Tikana Bhai Jagta Sahib. This centre continues to serve as the heart of the Sewa Panthi Mission, widely regarded as a shining beacon of selfless service and humanitarian values.

Commemorative Postage Stamp

The Department of Posts is honoured to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on Bhai Jagta Ji, paying tribute to a saint who symbolized compassion, humility and the noblest virtues of the Sewa Panthi order.