Mirza–Sahiban, a love-lore is a treasure of Punjabi literature. About Sahiban, Shayer Pillo raves about her beauty and says,” As Sahiban stepped out with a lungi tied around her waist, the nine angels died on seeing her beauty and God started counting his last breath…”
Mirza and Sahiban were cousins and childhood playmates. With time they grew fond of each other and fell in love. One day when Sahiban was about to be wedded forcibly to Tahar Khan by her parents, she sent a taunting message to Mirza, whom she loved, to his village Danabad, through a Brahmin called Kammu.
“You must come and decorate Sahiban’s hand with the marriage henna.”
This is the time to protect your self respect and love, keep your promises, and sacrifice your life for truth. Mirza, who was a young full-blooded man, took his horse and galloped to reach her house against the wishes of his sister.
Mirza made Sahiban sit on his horse and rode away with her. When her family got information of this escapade they followed the couple.
On the way, tired of the journey, as Mirza lay under the shade of a tree to rest for a few moments, he fell asleep. The people along with Sahiban’s Brothers who were following them on horseback with swords in their hands caught up with them.
Sahiba being a virtuous and beautiful soul did not desire any bloodshed to mar the one she loved. She did not want her hands drenched in blood instead of henna. She thought that Mirza does not miss his target, and if he strikes, her brothers would surely die. Before waking up Mirza, Sahiban put away his quiver on the tree. She presumed that on seeing her, her brothers would feel sorry and forgive Mirza and take him in their arms. But the brothers attacked Mirza and killed him. Seeing her lover dying in front of her eyes, Sahiban took a sword and stabbed herself in front of her brothers. Thus giving away her life for love. Such true love will never be seen again..
