The passing of Sardar Niranjan Singh, affectionately known to generations of students as "Nanji Bhaji," marks the end of an unforgettable chapter in the living history of Khalsa College, Amritsar. There is hardly an alumnus of the college, irrespective of age, profession, or nationality, who does not remember the gentle, compassionate figure behind the modest Niranjan Tea Stall situated opposite the main gate of the historic institution.
To describe Nanji Bhaji merely as the proprietor of a tea stall would be a profound understatement. For several decades, he became an inseparable part of the social and emotional fabric of Khalsa College. His small establishment evolved into an informal meeting place where students gathered to exchange ideas, debate contemporary issues, celebrate achievements, and seek solace during difficult moments. Countless hours were spent over cups of tea, where friendships were forged, dreams were nurtured, and life lessons were learned. In his quiet and unassuming manner, Nanji Bhaji became a silent mentor to thousands.
What distinguished him above all was his extraordinary humanity. The students of Khalsa College were never simply customers in his eyes; they were members of his extended family. Whenever a student encountered an accident, illness, or any unforeseen crisis, Nanji Bhaji would often be the first person to leave his business and rush to provide assistance. At moments when anxious parents could not immediately reach Amritsar, he stood beside their sons and daughters with affection, reassurance, and practical help. His compassion transcended social, regional, religious, and economic boundaries. Every student found a place within his protective embrace.
The alumni of Khalsa College today occupy distinguished positions across the world as politicians, military officers, sportspersons, administrators, scholars, writers, educators, entrepreneurs, and leaders in numerous other fields. Irrespective of their achievements, many carried with them cherished memories of Nanji Bhaji , whose warmth remained unchanged through the decades. His tea stall became a repository of collective memory where successive generations returned, not merely for tea, but to reconnect with their youth and with the enduring spirit of their alma mater.
I too remain indebted to his affection. On 12 November 2022, when I was invited by the Khalsa College Amritsar Alumni Association to receive the Khalsa College Heritage Award, my first destination before entering the college campus was not the ceremonial venue but Nanji Bhaji's tea stall. Initially, after nearly four decades, he found it difficult to recognise me.
However, the moment I introduced myself as having come from Kashmir, his face lit up instantly. Smiling warmly, he affectionately exclaimed, "Sarna," embraced me with genuine emotion, and welcomed me as though no time had passed between us. He then prepared a cup of tea with the same unique flavour that had delighted countless students over the years. As we shared tea, our conversation naturally turned to old memories and to Kashmir, recalling a bond that neither time nor distance had diminished.
Such encounters remind us that institutions are remembered not only for their magnificent buildings, eminent teachers, or distinguished alumni, but also for those humble individuals whose selfless service nurtures the emotional life of the institution. Nanji Bhaji belonged to this rare category of silent custodians whose contribution cannot be measured in material terms. Through kindness, generosity, and unwavering concern for students, he enriched the heritage of Khalsa College in a manner that deserves lasting recognition.
The memory of Sardar Niranjan Singh will continue to live in the hearts of thousands of Khalsa College alumni scattered across the globe. His life stands as a testimony to the Sikh ideals of seva (selfless service), humility, compassion, and human fellowship. While his physical presence is no longer among us, the fragrance of his hospitality and the warmth of his affection will forever remain woven into the collective memory of Khalsa College, Amritsar.
May Waheguru grant eternal peace to his noble soul and bestow strength upon his bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss. His services to generations of students constitute a lasting legacy, and Khalsa College, Amritsar, shall remember him with profound gratitude and abiding respect.
