Chandi Di Var

It is based on an episode from the Sanskrit work Markandeya Purana, and describes the conflict between the Gods and the Demons. The total work is 55 cantos In sequence, the text follows the Chandi Charitar II and is itself followed by the Gian Prabodh. Language The work was composed in Punjabi. It is the only oeuvre contained within the Dasam Granth composed and written in pure Punjabi, aside from the sixth hymn of Shabad Hazare P. 10 (also composed in Punjabi). ==Nomenclature==

The text has historically been referred to by several names. These include: • Var Durga Ki (IAST: Vāra Durgā Kī), meaning the "Ballad of Durga" • Var Sri Bhagauti Ji Ki (Vāra Srī Bhagautī Jī Kī), meaning the "Ballad of Revered Bhagauti" • Chandi Di Var (Chandī Dī Vāra), meaning the "Ballad of Chandi" Var Durga Ki is the title of the work in the oldest extant manuscripts of the Dasam Granth. ==Authorship==

According to early Sikh historians such as Bhai Koer Singh Kalal, as mentioned in Gurbilas Patshahi 10 (1751), Chandi Di Var was written by Guru Gobind Singh at Anandpur Sahib. Various other Sikh historians and scholars like Giani Ditt Singh, Professor Sahib Singh, Giani Gian Singh, Ratan Singh Bhangu, Kavi Santokh Singh also support this. == Legacy ==

The composition has been a significant part of Sikh culture, state Pashaura Singh and Louis Fenech, with its opening verses being a part of the "frequently recited ardas prayer or petition". It remains part of the daily Nitnem of the Nihang sikhs. == Translation ==

An English translation of the ballad, alongside an accompanying commentary and glossary, authored by Jvala Singh, is due to be fully published by Vaisakhi of 2026. ==See also==