historyof
sanatanhindusikh
shastarvidiya

Sanatan Hindu Sikh Shastar Vidiya comprises 3 elements, each representing a different stage in the development of the perfect warrior.

These are:

1. 'Akal Mantra'
2. 'Brahm Kavach'
3. 'Ayudh Hunar'

The first, 'Akal Mantra', is the sacred martial chant of 'Akal Purkh' - to be contemplated in the spectacle of life and death on the battlefield.

The second is 'Brahm Kavach' - the warrior's eulogy to the transcendental 'Maha Vishnu'. The manifested form - 'Adi Deva Shiv'/'Mahakal' and his 'Shakti' known as 'Chandi'/'Kalika', is represented respectively by the swords 'Assu Devta'/'Kharag Devta' (twelve fist-long double edged Khanda) and a 'Talwar'.

Akali Baba Buddha (1506–1631), an old 'Sidhki (proven) Sikh of Guru Nanak, enunciated the merit of reciting Brahma Kavach thus:

“The Shatri (Kyshatriya - Hindu of warrior caste) who reads this Kavach of Brahma of 32 (praises of 'Asu Devta'/'Mahakaal' and 'Chandi') daily - that warrior will remain fearless, conquer the battlefield and attain the 'Ridh Sidh' (miraculous Yogic powers). A Brahmin (Hindu of priestly caste) who reads this will know the secret of the Vedas and a 'Vaish' (Hindu of worker caste) who reads it will attain comfort of wealth and family. Wealth, home, and a body without ailments [all] of beautiful unswerving comfort [is attained through contemplating this mantra]. This is the 'Bola' of Hargobind - listen O Khalsa warriors. Attain victory on the battle field holding a 'Shamshir'.”
('Brahm Kavach', Sampooran Nitnem Gutka, published by Buddha Dal, Pa. 369)