Baba Bhay Singh - A Forgotten Warrior of History
Some great individuals leave an indelible mark on history, yet their names fade into obscurity. The Jat community has been known for its warrior spirit.
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Some great individuals leave an indelible mark on history, yet their names fade into obscurity. The Jat community has been known for its warrior spirit, but its lack of focus on recording history has led to the erasure of many heroic tales that deserved to be etched in golden letters.
Today, we delve into the story of Baba Bhay Singh. Born as Bhor Singh in Deegal village, Jhajjar district, Haryana, he became the inspiration for the naming of Bhainsi village in Muzaffarnagar. Initially called "Bhay Singh Ki Dhani," the village's name was later distorted by the British to "Bhainsi." While some considered Baba Bhay Singh a fearsome bandit, he was, in fact, a Robin Hood-like figure who looted wealthy traders to distribute their wealth among the poor.
In 1761, Baba Bhay Singh, along with fellow Jats from nearby villages, raided the convoy of Ahmad Shah Durrani. He later crossed the Yamuna with his followers, establishing several villages in the process. These settlements included members of the Ahlawat, Dalal, and other Jat clans. Some Ahlawat Jats stayed in Kandera village (Baghpat), while others founded villages like Daurala (Meerut). A few crossed the Ganga River to settle in Bijnor, establishing new communities.
Baba Bhay Singh and his family eventually settled in Anupshahar (modern-day Bhainsi, Muzaffarnagar), an ancient and large village predominantly inhabited by Banias, Julahas, and Pathans. Over time, the fear of Baba Bhay Singh and his followers led many traders and other communities to abandon the village. Today, only one Bania and one Pathan family remain.
The village's antiquity is evident from archaeological findings like wells, skeletons, and bangles uncovered during construction. Bhainsi is now one of the largest Jat villages, with over 60% of the population belonging to the Jat community. Around 6,200 Ahlawat Jats and 400 Dalal Jats, whose ancestors were connected to Baba Bhay Singh, reside here. Baba's sister, married into the Dalal clan, was also settled here under his guidance.
Baba Bhay Singh’s courage and leadership led to the establishment of over 20 Jat villages, a significant feat in itself. Unfortunately, due to the community’s neglect in documenting its history, his contributions remain largely forgotten.
It is crucial to remember the great individuals who shaped our existence. In future articles, we will highlight other Jat heroes whose courage and vision redefined the geography and history of their time, yet remain unsung heroes in history’s annals.
हिंदी में पढ़ें : बाबा भय सिंह - इतिहास के पन्नों में खोये हुए योद्धा
