Lioness of Punjab

Words By: Anita Jari Kharbhanda | Cover Art By: Anantjeet Kaur

Sikh history as illuminated through the voice of the warrior-saint Mai Bhago

“We will fight here,” I commanded the warriors. “We are strong. We will have no fear. As Sikhs, we are ready to fight for justice. Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa! Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!”

It is the winter of 1705, and the tenth Guru of the Sikhs is under attack by the armies of the mighty Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb. Under siege and isolated, Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s men are exhausted beyond measure and forty soldiers decide to head home. Back in the villages of Punjab, these forty men are met by a fiery Sikh woman—a warrior who has been preparing all her life for this very moment—who leads the deserters back to the Guru. This is the story of that warrior, the fierce Mai Bhago, who chose the sword to symbolize her unwavering loyalty and devotion to her people and her faith.

This energetic coming-of-age young adult novel brings us closer to Mai Bhago, a warrior revered in the Sikh community and beyond. Readers are invited to witness her courage and sacrifice in the face of tyranny, making her a shining inspiration for young activists everywhere.

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A Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People (2023) 


"…Bhag Bhari’s strong Sikh faith and courage shine throughout… An illuminating look at Sikh history."—Kirkus Reviews

"...a riveting historical tale...the narrative’s careful focus on Bhag’s development of her vocation; her relationship with her husband; and her community’s willingness to grow and change with her that proves thought-provoking and inspiring."—Publishers Weekly

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Themes:
Historical Fiction, Biography, First Person, Coming of Age, Courage, Asia, Grief and Loss, Religions, Siblings, Strong Female Protagonist, War, Women's Studies, World History, Sikhism