Baba Harbhajan Singh was an Indian Army soldier who served in the Punjab Regiment. Born on August 30, 1946, in Punjab, he tragically lost his life at the young age of 22 in 1968 while stationed near the Nathu La Pass, on the India-China border in Sikkim. According to legend, he drowned in a glacier while escorting a mule caravan, but what makes his story extraordinary is what happened after his death.
The Legend of the Hero of NathuLa
The story goes that Harbhajan Singh’s spirit appeared in a fellow soldier’s dream, instructing him to build a shrine in his memory. Since then, it is believed that his soul has continued to guard the border. Soldiers report that Baba warns them of impending dangers, and his presence is so deeply felt that he is treated as an active member of the Indian Army — with a rank, uniform, and even a salary.
Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple
The Baba Mandir, located near Nathu La Pass, is dedicated to him. It’s a major spiritual and tourist attraction in Sikkim, where soldiers and civilians alike pay their respects. Visitors leave water bottles in the temple, believing that drinking this water after three days brings good health and protection.
Continuing Service
What’s even more intriguing is that until recently, Baba Harbhajan Singh’s name was included in the Indian Army’s payroll, and a berth was booked for him on trains when soldiers traveled on leave — reflecting the profound belief that he’s still serving, protecting his fellow soldiers and the country.