Fields, Folklore, and Fauj: Remembering Jat Mehar Singh Dahiya

Some people leave a strong and influential impact on society but get very little credit. One such name is of Jat Mehar Singh Dahiya. Today’s generation may not be quite aware of him. This is the reason why we are here to remind our dearest readers that it is because of people like Mehar Singh that our culture has become rich and whose legacy deserves more recognition. The article brings anecdotes from his life, showcasing his early struggles, his passion for raginis, and his defiance of societal norms. 

Born on February 15, 1915, in Baroana village in Nandram's house, Mehar Singh was the eldest among Bhoop Singh, Mangeram, Kanwar Singh, and sister Sahjo. Despite being a bright student, he was only able to complete third class because of his family's financial situation. After quitting school, he began assisting with agricultural work and livestock grazing. He used to sing Ragni whenever and wherever he got the chance because it was forbidden at home. Singing ragnis would captivate him to the point where he would lose track of time and work.

One fine day, Bhoop Singh, the brother of Mehar Singh, saw that the residents were occupied with listening to ragnis of Mehar Singh. Mehar Singh's father was outraged when he heard about the incident because he thought that ‘Dooms’, not ‘Jats’, were the ones who sang ragnis. Mehar Singh's father, fed up with his ragni singing, arranged his wedding with Prem Kaur, the daughter of Lakhiram from Samspur. The practice of writing and singing ragnis persisted in spite of this. Even after joining the Jat Regiment against his will, he used raginis to express himself: 

“देश नगर घर गाम छूटग्या,कित का गाणा गाया रै।

कहै जाट तै डूम हो लिया, बाप मेरा बहकाया रै”

The pen-wielding hands of Mehar Singh were unable to support the rifle. Maybe that's why he had a hard time going back after his vacation. These phrases amply show the weight on his mind: 

“छुट्टीके दिन पूरे होगे, फिकर करेण लगा मन में। 

बांध बिस्तरा चाल पड़ा, के बाकि रहगी तन में।“

He might have known that he was about to die. This tune sprung from his pen at that moment: 

“साथ रहणियां संग के साथी, दया मेरे पै फेर दियो। 

देश के ऊपर जान झौंक दी, लिख चिट्ठी में गेर दियो”

Mehar Singh created 450 compositions in his life. Out of which, 13 are complete like Padmavat, Anjana Pawan, Satyawaan Savitri, Veer Hakikat Rai. Around 60 creative works are related to patriotism. Most of his poetry is particularly striking, offering a glimpse into his soul and the societal context of his times. Embracing everything from the hardships endured by farmers to the beauty of rural life. He wrote about the sorrows of droughts, the joys of harvest, and the cyclical nature of the seasons. Additionally, he addresses social themes in his poems, fighting against caste prejudice and promoting harmony and justice. 

Mehar Singh is known for his easy-going and straightforward poetry. He wrote in the vernacular, allowing ordinary people to relate to his work. His music has a poetic character and a beat that is reminiscent of Haryana's traditional folk tunes. His poems and music blended together to create a composition that resonated especially well during festivals and village meetings.

Jat Mehar Singh continues to be an influential figure in Haryana's literary and cultural history. His poetry, which has its roots in the rural experience, never fails to strike a chord with listeners and readers. His poetry serves as an enduring legacy to the spirit of Haryana since it not only captured the essence of his day but also provided a voice to the voiceless.