About Us

Baba Makhan Shah Lubana Sikh Society

The primary goal of the organization is to unite members of the Lobana community residing in British Columbia and collaborate to assist not only fellow community members within Canada and internationally but also Canadians as a whole.

Our community members encompass professionals such as doctors, engineers, accountants, as well as entrepreneurs. Together, we are dedicated to enhancing the welfare of newly arrived Lobanas and supporting those already established within Canada and abroad. Additionally, our mission extends to leveraging our collective resources to address social issues affecting the broader Canadian community.

About Bhai Makhan Shah Lubana

Bhai Makhan Shah hailed from the Lobana tribe, born on July 7, 1619 A.D., in the village of Tanda, located in the Jhelum District (now in Pakistan). His lineage traces back to Bhai Das and Pota of Artha, with W. Crooke providing detailed accounts of his heritage in his book “Tribes and Castes of North West India.” Bhai Makhan Shah belonged to the Pelia caste and hailed from the village of Tanda in Pargana Muzaffrabad, Kashmir. Over time, various settlements of the Lobana tribe emerged, identified by appending the nearest village’s name, such as Tanda Urmar, Tanda Mari, and Tanda Mota.

Historical records from 1891 and 1901 census data indicate Lobanas’ semi-permanent presence in Bahawalpur State, numbering around 56,000 individuals, with a significant portion identifying as Lobana Sikhs. Primarily traders, some Lobanas also engaged in professions like clerks or munshis, with significant trade links extending to Arab countries. As the 19th century progressed, Lobanas expanded their involvement in agriculture and armed forces due to declining trade opportunities, particularly with the advent of new railway lines in British India.

Bakala, a village in the Amritsar district, holds historical significance in Sikh lore. Bhai Mehra, a devout disciple of Sri Guru Hargobind, constructed a house, later inviting Sri Guru Hargobind and his mother, Mata Ganga, to bless it. Sri Guru Hargobind’s promise that one of his successors would reside there materialized when Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur stayed in Bakala for nearly 20 years.

Following Sri Guru Har Krishan’s passing in 1664, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur was declared his successor in Bakala. Amidst multiple claimants to the Guruship, Bhai Makhan Shah’s arrival marked a turning point. Initially encountering impostor gurus, he eventually discovered Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur through divine guidance.

Subsequently, Bhai Makhan Shah played a pivotal role in resolving conflicts and defending Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur against adversaries like Dhir Mal. His unwavering loyalty and contributions extended to the establishment of Anandpur Sahib, where he actively participated in land acquisition and construction. Bhai Makhan Shah’s legacy encompasses his dedication to Sikhism, tireless efforts in defending truth, and instrumental role in shaping significant events in Sikh history. His commitment to serving humanity, guided by the principles of his beloved Guru, resonates through his enduring contributions.