Mirza, a brave and skilled archer from Punjab, falls in love with Sahiban. They grow up together in the same village and develop a deep bond. When Sahiban is set to marry another man, she sends a message to Mirza, asking him to rescue her.
Mirza arrives on his horse and elopes with Sahiban. As they flee, Sahiban becomes conflicted. Fearing that Mirza might kill her brothers in the ensuing battle, she breaks his arrows while he rests under a tree. When her brothers catch up to them, Mirza is left defenseless and is killed. Overcome with guilt, Sahiban sacrifices herself, leading to the tragic end of both lovers.
The story is often seen as a tale of love, honour, and betrayal.