SMI 24: Trishul
Date: Late 19thC Nabha, Punjab.
Location: Kedleston Hall, Derbyshire. Object number: NT 107239

Steel trident with koftgari work in gold and inscriptions in Gurmukhi and English.

A Trishul, also known as trident, is a traditional weapon and symbol in Hinduism. As the name suggests, a trishul consists of three prongs or tines that converge to form a single point. The trishul holds great symbolic significance and is associated with deities like Chandi in Hindu mythology. Trishul style battle standards have been seen in the Sikh faith and so this may have formed part of ceremonial processions. 

Inscriptions
The inscription states the words, ‘Even the vultures will not touch the flesh of him/ When my last moment cometh, I may die fighting a very mighty battle/ Who forsaketh his master in battle/ Maghar Badi 6,S.N.435./ NABHA STATE’. ( ਜਬ ਆਵ ਕੀ ਅਉਧ ਨਿਦਾਨ ਬਨੈ ਅਤਿ ਹੀ ਰਨ ਮੈ ਤਬ ਜੂਝ ਮਰੋ ॥੨੩੧॥)

These verses are derived from the scripture, Sri Dasam Granth Sahib written by Guru Gobind Singh and appears in the composition Chandi Charitra Ukti bilas. 

The Trishul came from Nabha, Punjab and was probably gifted to George Nathaniel Curzon better known as Lord Curzon. The Trishul was bought from his nephew Francis Curzon, 3rd Viscount Scarsdale. 

The Trishul and other Arms and Armour can be seen in the Eastern Museum (Kedleston Hall), more information at the National Trust website