Chardi Kala and Bhana: The Two-Word Sikh Saying That Defines Way of Life
When people accept life as it comes and keep working to do good, they live in Chardi Kala.
‘Chardi Kala’ is one of the core teachings in Sikhism, and it translates to ‘high spirits’. This two-word Punjabi saying is a way of life. It is more than just saying, stay positive. It is the strength to remain hopeful and fearless no matter what happens.
The Sikh prayer, Ardas, ends with the words, "Nanak Naam Chardi Kala, Tere Bhane Sarbat Da Bhala." Almost everyone who has been to a gurudwara and stood in front of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji with folded hands during ardas must have heard it. And those who do their prayers daily must have read it in the deep and meaningful verses of the last and thankful Sikh prayer, ardas. It means, "Repeat the name of Guru Nanak in high spirits. May all be blessed under His care." These words are simple, but they carry great wisdom. Chardi Kala means to keep growing and rising in spirit. It also means to accept everything that happens as part of God’s will, or Bhana.
The Roots of Chardi Kala and Bhana in Sikh Teachings
As per the Sikhism belief system, accepting God’s will is of great importance. In the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, there are many hymns that talk about Hukam, or Divine Order. Since most Sikhs believe that everything happens according to Hukam, they also learn to be more accepting and not get upset when things go wrong. Instead, they try to stay in Chardi Kala. This is possible only when a person accepts Bhana with full faith.
In his teachings, Guru Nanak taught that pain and pleasure are both gifts from God. He said that we should not only accept them but also stay connected to the Name of God during both. Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Guru, was tortured and killed, but he did not complain. His last words were, "Tera Bhana Meetha Lage," meaning, "I accept Your Will as sweet."
The Battle of Chamkaur is another example of the high spirits with which Sikhs continue to live. The tenth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s four sons were martyred during the warfare. Guru Ji said, “Chaar muye to kya hua, jeevat kai hazaar,” meaning, “So what if four have died, thousands still live.”
Living in Chardi Kala
Chardi Kala means staying cheerful even in hard times. It means believing that everything will work out in the end. This belief comes from deep faith in God’s justice. Someone who lives in Chardi Kala does not fear suffering or setbacks. They stay devoted to prayer and continue helping others with a steady heart.
This mindset brings calmness, allowing the person to stay committed to doing good instead of being caught up in fear or doubt. Those in Chardi Kala do not lose heart; they move ahead with courage and faith.
Bhana: Accepting God’s Will
Bhana means accepting everything that happens as God’s choice. It is not always easy. When someone loses a loved one or faces sickness, it is hard to smile. However, Sikhism teaches that such moments are tests of faith. Accepting Bhana does not mean giving up. It means staying calm and strong.
Many Sikhs say "Waheguru" (Wonderful Lord) in both happy and sad times. This helps them stay connected to God. It reminds them that everything comes from the same source.
Examples from Sikh History
There are many examples of Chardi Kala and Bhana in Sikh history. Bhai Mardana, the close companion of Guru Nanak, died peacefully while singing praises of God. Guru Nanak told people to respect his passing as a part of life, not as a reason for sorrow.
The stories of Sikh martyrs always show Chardi Kala. Even when they were facing pain and death, they did not complain. They smiled and prayed. They believed that God’s Will was always kind, even if it was hard to understand.
Chardi Kala in Daily Life
Chardi Kala is not just for saints or martyrs. It is for everyone. In daily life, people face many problems. They may lose jobs, face sickness, or go through family troubles. Sikhs are taught to face all these things with high spirits.
Every Sikh prayer ends with a hope for the welfare of all. This shows that a person in Chardi Kala not only thinks of their happiness. Based on this philosophy, the Sikh community gives ample time for seva or selfless services. Almost every Sikh contributes their time in community kitchens, offers free aid during disasters and supports those in need.
Conclusion
Believing in Chardi Kala and Bhana helps a person stay strong, hopeful, and peaceful. When people accept life as it comes and keep working to do good, they live in Chardi Kala. When they see God’s Will in everything and remain thankful, they accept Bhana. Together, these teachings help Sikhs lead a life full of courage, kindness, and joy. They are not just ideas. They are a way to live every day with a strong and smiling heart. So, next time someone asks about your well-being, just give a hearty smile and say ‘Sab Chardi Kala’.
Reference Links:
Baru Sahib - Chardi Kala, the art of living in High Spirits & Eternal optimism
https://barusahib.org/general/chardi-kala-art-living-high-spirits-eternal-optimism/
Explores Chardi Kala as a core Sikh principle of living in high spirits and unwavering optimism, emphasising resilience, divine trust, and joyful service even in adversity
Wikipedia - Bhai Mardana
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhai_Mardana
An overview of Bhai Mardana’s life as a close companion of Guru Nanak, highlighting his musical contributions and his role in spreading Sikh teachings through devotional music. It gives an essence of Chardi Kala.
The Indian Panorama - Guru Arjan Dev’s Martyrdom Day
An account of Guru Arjan Dev’s martyrdom as a defining moment in Sikh history, emphasising his unwavering commitment to righteousness and Chardi Kala.