Sri Guru Angad Dev Ji, the embodiment of service and remembrance of God (Seva and Simran), was born in 1504 CE to Bhai Pheru Mall Ji and Mata Ramo Ji (Mata Daya Kaur) in the village of Matte Di Sarai, district Ferozepur (present-day Sri Muktsar Sahib). His childhood name was Lehna. This was the period of Mughal rule in India. His father was a kind-hearted, calm, and religious person. His father was a devotee of the goddess and used to visit the shrine every year with a group of devotees. He was also a knowledgeable man skilled in accounting and trade. Guru Angad Dev Ji received education from his father and became proficient in accounting, Sanskrit, and Gurmukhi. He also assisted his father in business. He was married to Mata Khivi Ji, who was known for her gentle nature and kindness. They had two sons, Datu Ji and Dasu Ji, and two daughters, Bibi Amro Ji and Bibi Anokhi Ji. In 1526, when Babur invaded India, their village was also attacked and destroyed. After it was rebuilt, the village was renamed Nage Di Sarai. One day, the Sikhs of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Bhai Jodha Ji and Bhai Firna Ji, passed by Lehna Ji’s shop while reciting Asa Di Vaar. When Lehna Ji asked about it, they told him that it was the sacred hymn of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who was then living in Kartarpur guiding people toward spiritual enlightenment. Hearing this awakened a deep desire in Lehna Ji to meet the Guru. Later, while traveling with a group for a pilgrimage, he stopped at Kartarpur and met Guru Nanak Dev Ji. After meeting the Guru, he was deeply inspired and became devoted to him. He served Guru Nanak Dev Ji with great dedication for several years. Pleased with his humility, devotion, and service, Guru Nanak Dev Ji bestowed the GurGaddi upon him in 1539 CE by placing five coins and a coconut before him and naming him “Guru Angad Dev.” Guru Angad Dev Ji further developed and promoted the Gurmukhi script and prepared educational material called Bal Bodh to teach children. He also established a wrestling arena (Akhara) in Khadoor Sahib to encourage physical fitness among the youth. He composed several Shaloks, which are included in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
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