The Cremation of Mardana, from a manuscript of the Janam Sakhi (Life Stories)

Two of Guru Nanak’s closest followers throughout his ministry were Bala, born a Hindu, and Mardana, born a Muslim. These companions are appropriate to the synthesis of Hindu and Muslim ideals that Nanak espoused in his teachings. Mardana is often described as Nanak’s closest companion and disciple, who accompanied him for nearly thirty years and whose religious music and poetry inspired devotees and converts throughout Punjab and beyond. Mardana, who was about ten years older than Nanak, is said to have died at age sixty-one.

This painting depicts the cremation of Mardana, an event symbolic of the syncretic nature of the guru’s teachings. Muslims are typically buried, whereas Hindus are traditionally cremated. As the funeral pyre burns in the background, Nanak appears to sit meditatively, his halo suggesting his saintly status and authority. His companion may be Bala.