LAL SINGH, GIANI

Giani Lal Singh (1887 – 1975), son of Bhai Khazan Singh, was born at village Kanech (district Ludhiana). After passing his eighth grade he had to abandon his studies due to poverty. In 1907, he went to Hong Kong for a better fortune but returned after two years. In 1909, he joined Punch Khalsa Diwan and served for some time as a Granthi and a clerk. For some time he also worked as the sub-editor of some weekly journals, including Kirpan Bahadur. During this period, he visited the Far East countries in connection with his missionary activities. Later, due to ideological differences, he parted association with Babu Teja Singh Bhasaur. After the death of Babu Teja Singh Bhasaur, in 1933, he rejoined Punch Khalsa Diwan. In 1965, he became the Chief of the Diwan. Giani Lal Singh did not have enough wealth; he aways remained in poor economic conditions. He wrote several books including: Gurmat Martand, Sikh Kanoon, Sikhan Nen Raj Kiven Liya, Sikhan Da Raj Kiven Giya, Khalsa Darbar, Suraj Parkash De Gapaure, Kes Philosophy, Sikh Itihas Di Parchol, Das Guru Sahiban Da Jiwan and his biography Neelee Dastar Di Daastan etc.

(Dr Harjinder Singh Dilgeer)