Naina Singh, also known as Narayan Singh, was a Nihang warrior and fifth Jathedar of Budha Dal and a chief of the Shaheedan Misl during the late 18th century.
Jathedar Akali Baba Naina Singh Nihang
Fresco of Kharag Singh (left) and Naina Singh (right) from Gurdwara Baba Atal
Fresco of Akali Naina Singh from Gurdwara Akalgarh Sahib, Dina, Punjab
The Nihang or Akali, also known as Dal Khalsa, is an armed Sikh warrior order originating in the Indian subcontinent. Nihangs are believed to have originated either from Fateh Singh and the attire he wore or from the "Akal Sena" started by Guru Hargobind. Early Sikh military history was dominated by the Nihang, known for their victories where they were heavily outnumbered. Traditionally known for their bravery and ruthlessness in the battlefield, the Nihang once formed the irregular guerrilla squads of the armed forces of the Sikh Empire, the Sikh Khalsa Army.
Nihang Singh Flag
Photograph of a Nihang bodyguard serving in the Nizam of Hyderabad's irregular Sikh army, c. 1865
Akalis at the Fatehgarh Sahib Sarovar
Nihang Abchal Nagar (Nihangs from Hazur Sahib), 1844. Shows turban-wearing Sikh soldiers with chakrams.