Belief goes a long way in building faith. The unique story of Baba Harbhajan Singh, is one such instance of extraordinary legends that abound the travellers repository in India. It is known all over India having spread mainly through the tradition of travellers' tales but it has almost become a part of history in the state of Sikkim. So much so that a shrine was built at Baba harbhajan Singh's 'samadhi' near Nathula at an elevation of around 4,000 metres (13,123 ft).
MAJOR "Baba" Harbhajan Singh was an indian army officer who died on October 4, 1968 but he is still revered by the soldiers in the belief that he protects people in hostile conditions whenever required. He had joined the army in 1956 and was serving the 18 Rajput regiment at the time of his death. Major Harbhajan Singh was engulfed by a glacier (some say he was carried by a fast flowing stream) following the Indo-China War while escorting a column of mules to a far away outpost. His body was discovered days later supposedly through directions from the Major himself. Later, he induced a dream in one of his colleagues instructing a shrine to be built after him.
Years after his death, Major Harbhajan Singh still draws salary for his duties and is entitled to take an annual leave. Every year in September, his personal belongings are officially sent to his village in the Kapurthala district of Punjab. A bed is kept ready for him every night and his uniform and personal belongings are kept in order. It is reported that the bed has evidence of having been slept in every night and the Major's boots are soiled by evening as if after regular use.
The Major it is believed, helps Indian soldiers in the Sikkim region in a number of ways. He warns days in advance before a war is about to begin. The 'Baba' is duly respected by even the Chinese soldiers on the other side of the wire fencing. Many people have confirmed that they have seen a man riding a horse all alone, as if inspecting the border. Baba Harbhajan Singh has been made Honorary Captain and his resting place is converted into a mandir at the junction of Kupup Gnathang road and the pathway leading to Menmoichu Lake in Sikkim.
Preetu is a contributed writer for Batchmates.com the largest Alumni portal in India. With her research work and articles she has added an additional edge to the entertainment e-magazine BM Times. Her articles reach to millions of readers every day which are varied in subjects.
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