FREMONT, CALIFORNIA / SAN JOSE : A significant contribution to the study of ancient Indian and Punjabi history was formally introduced to readers on June 7, 2026, at Gurdwara Sahib Fremont, California, when noted author and researcher Dr. Tarlochan Singh Nahal dedicated his latest book to the public during a special gathering attended by members of the Sikh community, scholars, and history enthusiasts.
The book, titled “Alexander the Great’s Innovations in India and the Battles Along the Hydaspes in India and Punjab Resistance,” is an extensive 504-page English-language work featuring more than 120 photographs, maps, and historical illustrations. The publication examines the famous confrontation between King Porus and Alexander the Great at Jhelum in ancient Punjab, while also documenting approximately fifteen additional battles fought by Alexander’s forces across Punjab and various regions of India.
According to organizers, the book received an enthusiastic response from readers and members of the Sangat who gathered in large numbers to witness the first public presentation of the publication. The work is the culmination of fourteen years of dedicated research by Dr. Nahal and seeks to shed light on historical events that, according to the author, have received limited attention in conventional narratives of ancient Indian history.
Addressing the congregation, Bhai Davinder Singh, Stage Secretary of Gurdwara Sahib Fremont, provided an overview of Dr. Nahal’s academic and literary contributions. He highlighted the extensive research that formed the foundation of the book and emphasized its importance in understanding the military campaigns of Alexander the Great in the Indian subcontinent and the resistance mounted by local rulers and communities.
Bhai Davinder Singh also informed the Sangat that this publication marks Dr. Nahal’s second major scholarly work. His earlier book, “Religion and Politics in the Sikhs’ Perspective,” a comprehensive 600-page study on Miri-Piri and the contemporary Sikh struggle, was published by Singh Brothers in 2011 and was widely appreciated within academic and Sikh circles.
During the special ceremony, several distinguished members of the Sangat, Gurdwara Committee representatives, and dedicated Sewadars participated in formally presenting the book to the congregation in a packed Diwan Hall. Those participating in the unveiling included Bhai Dilbagh Singh, Bhai Rajeshwar Singh, Bhai Dalbir Singh, Bhai Jaswinder Singh Jandi, Bhai Bhupinder Singh Parmar, Bhai Kuldeep Singh, and Bhai Davinder Singh.
In recognition of his extensive research and contribution to historical scholarship, Dr. Tarlochan Singh Nahal was honored with a Siropa by Gurdwara Sahib Fremont. The congregation applauded his efforts in documenting an important chapter of ancient Punjab and Indian history and preserving it for future generations.
Community members expressed hope that the book would encourage further discussion and research into the historical encounters between Alexander the Great and the rulers of ancient India, particularly King Porus, whose resistance continues to occupy a prominent place in the historical memory of Punjab.
The successful launch event underscored the growing interest among the Punjabi diaspora in exploring and preserving historical narratives that highlight the rich heritage, courage, and resilience of the people of Punjab and India.