Description
Prachin Panth Parkash, also known as Sri Gur Panth Parkash, is one of the most important classical works on Sikh history. Authored by Rattan Singh Bhangu and edited by Bhai Vir Singh, this historic volume preserves an early Sikh historical narrative that continues to be widely studied by scholars, researchers, and readers of Sikh literature.
Rattan Singh Bhangu, the grandson of the renowned Sikh martyr Sardar Mehtab Singh Mirankotia and the maternal grandson of Sardar Sham Singh of the Karor Singhia Misl, wrote this work drawing upon historical traditions and accounts that were still remembered within the Sikh community. The book was originally titled Panth Parkash. When Bhai Vir Singh published the edited edition in 1914, he prefixed the word “Prachin” (Ancient) to distinguish it from later works bearing similar titles.
The book narrates the history of the Khalsa Panth from the time of Guru Nanak Dev Ji through the lives of the Sikh Gurus and the major events that shaped the Panth, culminating in the establishment of the Sikh Misls. Because it was written relatively close to many of the events it describes, Prachin Panth Parkash remains an important historical source, although, like other historical texts of its period, it is best studied alongside other contemporary sources.
This edition, edited by Bhai Vir Singh, makes this significant work available to modern readers while preserving its historical and literary value. It is an essential reference for students of Sikh history, Punjabi literature, Sikh studies, and anyone interested in the evolution of the Khalsa Panth.
