Dr. Ganda Singh (November 15, 1900 – December 27, 1987) was a distinguished Sikh historian whose impact on historical research is profound. Dr. Ganda Singh’s books are popular among readers and researchers of the Sikh history.
Early Life and Education
Born to Hukam Devi and Jawala Singh in Hariana, Hoshiarpur District, De. Ganda Singh exhibited an early passion for learning. He completed his primary education at a village school and graduated from Government High School in Hoshiarpur in 1919.
Military Service and Early Career
After finishing school, Dr. Ganda Singh enrolled at F.C. College in Lahore. However, his academic pursuits took a turn when he enlisted in the Indian Army, serving in locations such as Rawalpindi, Peshawar, and Iraq. He left the Army in 1921 and subsequently joined the Anglo-Persian Oil Company in Abadan, Iran. During his time there from 1921 to 1930, he collaborated with Sir Arnold Wilson, a noted scholar and the company’s manager, assisting in the compilation of a bibliography on Iran. This experience, along with his travels in Europe, significantly sharpened his scholarly interests.
Return to India and Academic Flourishing
Returning to India in 1930, Dr. Ganda Singh began contributing to Giani Hira Singh’s journal, Phulwari, in Lahore. His academic career blossomed in 1931 when he took on the role of head of the Sikh History Research Department at Khalsa College, Amritsar. He devoted nearly two decades to this position, meticulously copying rare texts and manuscripts from libraries in Rampur, Bankipur, Patna, Kolkata, and Delhi, thereby enhancing the college library with priceless resources.
Directorship and Ph.D. Achievement
In 1949, Dr. Ganda Singh became the director of the Archives Department of PEPSU (Patiala and East Punjab States Union). In this role, he collected significant works and vital documents from eight princely states, furthering the preservation of Punjab’s historical legacy. He obtained his Ph.D. from Panjab University in 1952, focusing his thesis on Ahmad Shah Durrani, which reinforced his standing as a serious academic. His scholarly achievements continued with the honorary degrees of D.Litt from Aligarh Muslim University in 1969 and Punjabi University, Patiala, in 1978.
Contributions to Punjab Historical Studies
In 1962, Dr. Ganda Singh was appointed the founding head of the Punjab Historical Studies Department at Punjabi University, Patiala. He initiated and envisioned various research projects centered on Punjab’s history and edited the bi-annual journal *Punjab Past and Present*. His efforts in establishing the annual Punjab History Conference created a vital platform for the exchange of progressive ideas in Punjab historiography.
Proficiency in Persian and Historical Writings
Proficient in Persian, Dr. Ganda Singh was able to incorporate numerous original sources into the study of Sikh history. His writings, deeply imbued with the Khalsa spirit, were characterized by a commitment to reliable historical evidence. He clarified many misconceptions in Sikh history, providing an objective narrative that has proven invaluable for future scholars.
Recognition and Legacy
Over his esteemed career, Dr. Ganda Singh received numerous accolades for his contributions to history, including awards from the Punjab Government in 1963 and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) in 1964. In 1983, he was honored with the Padma Bhushan by the Indian Government, which he later returned in protest against Indian Army’s attack on Darbar Sahib, Akal Takht Sahib and other Sikh Gurdwaras across Punjab adjoining states in Juen 1984, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his principles.
Dr. Ganda Singh’s legacy as a scholar and historian continues to inspire future generations, making him a foundational figure in Sikh historical research. His life’s work has established a robust basis for a deeper understanding of Punjab’s rich history and culture.
