“An Soldier is never off duty”, a famous verse which is beeing practiced in real. It is beyond imagination that a soldier martyred in India- China War is still on duty in Sikkiom’s Capital Gangktok.
Yes! Baba Harbhajan Singh, legendary Indian Army soldier who is believed to still protect the India-China border, we remember his unparalleled courage, sacrifice, and the extraordinary tale of his posthumous duty. Baba Harbhajan Singh, who died in 1968, is not just remembered for his service during his lifetime but also for the unusual belief that his spirit continues to serve along the strategically important Sikkim-Tibet border. This day offers a moment to reflect on his legacy, his courage, and the mysterious story that surrounds his martyrdom.
79th Birth Anniversary
On the 79th birth anniversary of Baba Harbhajan Singh, we remember his unparalleled courage, sacrifice, and the extraordinary tale of his posthumous duty. Baba Harbhajan Singh, who died in 1968, is not just remembered for his service during his lifetime but also for the unusual belief that his spirit continues to serve along the strategically important Sikkim-Tibet border. This day offers a moment to reflect on his legacy, his courage, and the mysterious story that surrounds his martyrdom.
Baba Harbhajan Singh, born on August 3, 1946, in Punjab, was a sepoy in the Indian Army, posted to the 23rd Punjab Regiment. He was stationed in the challenging terrain of Sikkim in 1965, where the harsh conditions of the Himalayan border tested the soldiers’ endurance. Despite the difficult environment, Harbhajan Singh became known for his dedication to duty and leadership. His comrades recall his commitment to the welfare of his team and his willingness to push through any challenge, whether physical or mental.
The Tragic Incident and His Martyrdom
Harbhajan Singh met with a tragic death in 1968. The official account suggests that he fell off a mountain while on his way to deliver supplies to the troops. His body was not recovered immediately, but the Army organized a search operation to locate him. It is said that he once came in a on duty soldier’s dream amid nap showed him where was his body covered with thick snow. However, what followed is where the story takes a mystical turn.
The Mysterious Legend: Baba Harbhajan Singh’s Soul Still on Duty
Soon after his death, tales began to circulate that the spirit of Baba Harbhajan Singh continued to guard the India-China border. Soldiers posted along the same stretch of border where he had served began experiencing unusual occurrences: sounds of footsteps, sightings of a figure in uniform, and even reports of him warning them about Chinese activities. According to some accounts, Baba Harbhajan’s soul reportedly leads soldiers to safety during ambushes or storms, watching over them as if still performing his duties.
The legend gained further popularity when it was said that Baba Harbhajan’s ghost made regular visits to the nearby town of Tsomgo in Sikkim. He allegedly communicated with soldiers in dreams, giving them vital information about their missions and even offering guidance to those in distress. This powerful belief spread throughout the army ranks, earning Baba Harbhajan Singh a revered place among the soldiers.
The Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple: A Spiritual Tribute
As the belief in Baba Harbhajan Singh’s continued presence gained strength, a temple was constructed in his honor at the base of the Nathu La Pass on the India-China border. The temple, built in 1982, is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the bond between the Indian Army and the mystical legacy of Baba Harbhajan Singh. The shrine houses a portrait of Baba Harbhajan Singh, and his belongings, including his uniform, are displayed. Soldiers and civilians alike visit the temple to pay their respects.
Visitors to the temple and the border area often speak of a feeling of peace and protection, reinforcing the belief that Baba Harbhajan Singh’s soul is always watching over the area. The temple has become an important pilgrimage site for Indian Army personnel, and many take a detour to seek blessings before being posted to high-altitude military positions along the India-China border.
The Ongoing Role of Baba Harbhajan Singh in the Indian Army
To this day, Baba Harbhajan Singh’s name is invoked by soldiers stationed at the border. It is said that every soldier posted to the area receives a set of ceremonial instructions in honor of Baba’s spirit. It is believed that the soldier must keep his picture in their pockets as a gesture of respect and protection, further cementing the soldier’s place in this mystical narrative.
Swastika Sruti is a Senior Sub Editor at NewsX Digital with 5 years of experience shaping stories that matter. She loves tracking politics- national and global trends, and never misses a chance to dig deeper into policies and developments. Passionate about what’s happening around us, she brings sharp insight and clarity to every piece she works on. When not curating news, she’s busy exploring what’s next in the world of public interest. You can reach her at [swastika.newsx@gmail.com]
