A Devout Sikh Studies in England
Born on June 6, 1903, in Joiya village, Punjab, British India, Bakht Singh was raised in a devout Sikh family. His early education at a Christian missionary school and subsequent graduation from Punjab University shaped his academic pursuits, but he remained deeply rooted in Sikh traditions.
A Dramatic Conversion Transforms His Life
In 1926, Bakht Singh traveled to England to study Agricultural Engineering, embracing the British lifestyle with its freedoms, yet finding it unfulfilling. It was during his time in Canada, at the University of Manitoba in 1929, that his life took a transformative turn.
Befriended by John and Edith Hayward, Bakht Singh was invited to live with them. Through their hospitality and the introduction to the New Testament, seeds of curiosity were planted in his heart. Reflecting on his interactions, Bakht Singh stated, "I have never yet failed to get a hearing if I talk to them about forgiveness of sins and peace and rest in your heart." It was here that he encountered Jesus for the first time, leading to his conversion in 1929 and his baptism in Vancouver in 1932.
His newfound faith was not without challenge. Upon declaring his transformation to his father, Bakht Singh was met with rejection from his family. However, this did not deter his commitment. He returned to India in 1933, initially preaching in the streets of Mumbai, spreading the message of hope and salvation. By 1937, his ministry expanded significantly with a revival in Martinpur.
Bakht Singh's devotion to Jesus was evident in his ministry's growth, establishing Hebron Ministries and founding the Jehovah Shammah church in Madras on July 12, 1941. His move to Hyderabad in 1950 marked further expansion of his work. Known for his deep understanding of the Bible and complete reliance on God, Bakht Singh often said, "I have never asked any man for anything, but the Lord is richly supplying all my needs." His life was a testament to divine provision and guidance.
Until his death on September 17, 2000, in Hyderabad, Bakht Singh remained a passionate preacher, planting thousands of churches across India. His story is a powerful reminder of Jesus's transformative power and the profound peace found in surrendering to His call.
