Scouts & Guides Prayer Song: History, Meaning, and Significance

The Scouts & Guides Prayer Song is one of the most cherished spiritual compositions in the Bharat Scouts and Guides (BSG) movement. It is a prayer that embodies the core values of Scouting and Guiding—service, purity, dedication, and love for the nation. The song is sung at various Scouting and Guiding events, including camps, jamborees, daily gatherings, and special ceremonies, and it plays a pivotal role in instilling moral values and unity among Scouts and Guides of all ages.

Authorship and Historical Background

The exact authorship of the Scouts & Guides Prayer Song has traditionally been attributed to early Indian Scouting leaders who were deeply inspired by the principles laid down by Lord Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the worldwide Scouting movement, and Lady Olave Baden-Powell, the World Chief Guide. While official documentation is limited, several sources from Bharat Scouts and Guides archives suggest that the song was formalized in the mid-20th century, during the expansion of Scouting in independent India.

Milestones in the Song’s Adoption

1. Pre-Independence Era (1920s–1940s): During this period, Scouting in India primarily followed British traditions. Short prayers and devotional songs were used in camps, but a uniquely Indian Scouts & Guides prayer was not formalized yet.
2. Post-Independence Integration (1950s–1960s): With the unification of Scouts and Guides organizations in India into the Bharat Scouts and Guides in 1950, there was a conscious effort to develop a distinctly Indian spiritual song reflecting devotion to God, service to humanity, and patriotism.
3. Formal Recognition (1970s–1980s): The prayer song was officially recommended for regular use during daily flag ceremonies and Scout & Guide gatherings. It was included in official manuals and songbooks distributed by the National Headquarters of Bharat Scouts and Guides.
4. Modern Usage (1990s–Present): Today, the song is sung in schools, Scouting units, national and regional jamborees, and various camps across India. It is considered an essential part of the spiritual routine of Scouts and Guides.

Lyrics of the Scouts & Guides Prayer Song

The lyrics, as sung across BSG units, are:

Daya kar dann Bhakti ka
Hamain Paramatma Dena
Daya Karna Hamari Atma main
Shudhata Dena
Hamare Dyan main Auvo
Prabhu Ankho main Bas Jao
Andhere Dil main aakar Ke
Param Jyoti Jaga Dena
Bahado Prem Ki Ganga
Dilo main Prem Ka Sagar
Hamain Aapas main miljul Kar
Prabhu Rahana Sikha Dena
Hamara Karma Ho Seva
Hamara Dharma Ho Seva
Sada Eeman Ho Seva
Va Sevak Char Bana Dena
Vatan Kay Vaste Jeena
Vatan Kay Vaste Marna
Vatan Par Jaan Fida Karna
Prabhu Ham Ko Sikha Dena
Daya kar dann Bhakti ka
Hamain Paramatam Dena
Daya Karna Hamari Atma main
Shudhata Dena

Song Duration

The typical singing duration of this prayer song is approximately 3 to 4 minutes, depending on the pace and style of singing. In many units, the song is accompanied by soft instrumental music using keyboards, flutes, or traditional Indian instruments, which enhances its devotional and calming effect.

Meaning and Explanation of the Song

The Scouts & Guides Prayer Song is not just a song; it is a spiritual and moral guide for young Scouts and Guides. Each verse carries a profound meaning:

1. “Daya kar dann Bhakti ka, Hamain Paramatma Dena”
   Meaning: “Bestow upon us the gift of devotion, O Lord.” This line requests divine guidance in nurturing faith, devotion, and a spiritual heart in Scouts and Guides.
2. “Daya Karna Hamari Atma main, Shudhata Dena”
   Meaning: “Grant purity and compassion in our soul.” It encourages moral integrity and kindness, which are the foundations of good character.
3. “Hamare Dyan main Auvo, Prabhu Ankho main Bas Jao”
   Meaning: “Enter our thoughts and reside in our eyes, O Lord.” This verse signifies mindfulness of divine presence in every action and thought.
4. “Andhere Dil main aakar Ke, Param Jyoti Jaga Dena”
   Meaning: “Illuminate the darkness in our hearts with supreme light.” It emphasizes overcoming ignorance, negativity, and selfishness through inner spiritual awakening.
5. “Bahado Prem Ki Ganga, Dilo main Prem Ka Sagar”
   Meaning: “Flow the river of love within the brave, and fill hearts with an ocean of love.” Scouts and Guides are encouraged to spread love, empathy, and compassion.
6. “Hamain Aapas main miljul Kar, Prabhu Rahana Sikha Dena”
   Meaning: “Teach us to live harmoniously with one another, O Lord.” Teamwork, fellowship, and unity are key values emphasized in Scouting.
7. “Hamara Karma Ho Seva, Hamara Dharma Ho Seva”
   Meaning: “Let our deeds and duties be devoted to service.” Selfless service is the core of Scouting principles.
8. “Sada Eeman Ho Seva, Va Sevak Char Bana Dena”
   Meaning: “May our faith and dedication always guide our service; make us true servants.” Scouts are trained to become morally upright and spiritually committed citizens.
9. “Vatan Kay Vaste Jeena, Vatan Kay Vaste Marna, Vatan Par Jaan Fida Karna”
   Meaning: “Live for the nation, die for the nation, sacrifice life for the country.” Patriotism and love for the country are instilled through these lines.
10. Repeating the opening lines reinforces devotion, purity, and guidance in daily life.

Significance in Scouting and Guiding

The song serves multiple purposes in the life of a Scout or Guide:

1. Spiritual Development: It fosters a connection with a higher power and promotes inner reflection.
2. Moral Education: Each verse teaches virtues such as compassion, honesty, teamwork, and patriotism.
3. Unity and Fellowship: Singing together strengthens the sense of community and belonging.
4. Daily Routine and Discipline: Used during morning or evening assemblies, it helps instill discipline and structure.
5. Nationalism and Service: Lines emphasizing service and love for the country remind young members of their civic responsibilities.

Cultural and Educational Relevance

The Scouts & Guides Prayer Song holds an educational role in schools and training units:

• Youth Character Building: It is included in Scout and Guide manuals to teach ethics and values.
• Scouting Camps: Often sung at sunrise or sunset, creating a sense of reflection and camaraderie.
• National Events: During jamborees, rallies, and national celebrations, this song represents the spiritual backbone of the Bharat Scouts and Guides.
• Music Education: In some units, the song is accompanied by choral training, helping young Scouts and Guides develop musical abilities and confidence in public singing.

Conclusion

The Scouts & Guides Prayer Song is far more than a musical composition—it is a moral and spiritual compass for millions of young Indians in the Scouting and Guiding movement. Through its evocative lyrics, rhythmic structure, and inspiring meaning, it nurtures devotion, compassion, patriotism, and service. Its history, dating back to the consolidation of Bharat Scouts and Guides in independent India, reflects a thoughtful integration of Indian values with the universal principles of Scouting.

Singing this prayer daily strengthens not just the spiritual awareness of Scouts and Guides but also their sense of responsibility toward family, community, and nation. Whether sung in a quiet campfire setting, a morning assembly, or a grand jamboree, the song continues to light the inner flame of duty, service, and love in the hearts of young Scouts and Guides across India.