Guru Angad Dev

Category: Indian History | Sikhism | Art and Culture

UPSC Notes

Guru Angad Dev Ji was the second Sikh Guru, succeeding Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He played a significant role in institutionalising the early Sikh community and strengthening the transmission of Sikh teachings.

He is particularly associated with the development and promotion of the Gurmukhi script, which became central to the written expression of Punjabi and Sikh religious literature.

Key Pointers

  • Birth name: Lehna.

  • Born: 1504.

  • Birthplace: Matte-di-Sarai, traditionally identified with the Muktsar region of present-day Punjab.

  • Became Sikh Guru: 1539, succeeding Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

  • Period of Guruship: 1539–1552.

  • Major contribution: Standardisation and promotion of the Gurmukhi script.

  • Community development: Strengthened Sikh institutions and the practice of community service.

  • Langar: Continued and reinforced the tradition of the community kitchen, emphasising equality and shared meals.

  • Legacy: Helped preserve and communicate Sikh teachings across generations.

Historical Significance

Guru Angad Dev Ji's work contributed to the growth of Sikh religious identity, literacy and community organisation. The promotion of Gurmukhi was especially important for recording and transmitting religious teachings in a language accessible to local communities.

UPSC focus: Bhakti and Sikh traditions, medieval Indian religious movements, regional languages and scripts, and the social ideas of equality and service.