Mirza Sahiba

Love Legends In History of Punjab

Mirza–Sahiba, a love-lore is a treasure of Punjabi literature.
It is a romantic tragedy. Sahiba was another love-Torn soul.

Mirza and Sahiba who were cousins and childhood playmates, fell in love with each other. But when this beauty is about to be wedded forcibly to Tahar Khan by her parents, without any hesitation she sends a taunting message to Mirza, whom she loves, to his village Danabad, through a Brahmin called Kammu.

"You must come and decorate Sahiba’s hand with the marriage henna."

This is the time you have to protect your self respect and love, keep your promises, and sacrifice your life for truth.

Mirza who was a young full-blooded man, makes Sahiba sit on his horse and rides away with her. But on the way, as he lies under the shade of a tree to rest for a few moments, the people who were following them on horseback with swords in their hands catch up with them.

Sahiba was a virtuous and a beautiful soul who did not desire any bloodshed to mar the one she loved. She did not want her hands drenched in blood instead of henna.

She knew Mirza was a marksman, and would not miss his target, and if he strikes, her brothers would surely die.

Whilst Mirza was fast asleep, Sahiba hid his quiver on the tree he slept under.

Sahiba presumed on seeing her, her brothers would feel sorry and forgive Mirza and take him in their arms. But the brothers attack Mirza and kill him.

Sahiba takes a sword and slaughters herself and thus bids farewell to this world.

Shayar Pillo raves about her beauty and says," As Sahiba stepped out with a lungi tied around her waist, the nine angels died on seeing her beauty and God started counting his last breath…"

Ps: However, there are some other versions floating around.

Phoolon Ka Kya Hai ...

Phoolon Ka Kya Hai,
Yahan Khilthein Hein, Aur Bikhar Jathai Hein.
Log Duniya Mein Milthe’ Hein, Aur Bichar Jathe’ Hein.
Mushkil Hotha Hai Bhulana Unlogo’ Ko,
Jho Ahkar Rishte Se Jho Dil Mein Uthar Jathe’Hein.