Commemoration of 350th Year of Martyrdom of SRI GURU TEGH BAHADUR JI

The Government of Punjab is commemorating the 350th Year of Martyrdom of SRI GURU TEGH BAHADUR SAHIB JI. The Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs is the Nodal Department for organizing this event.This sacred occasion is not only a tribute to the unparalleled sacrifice of the Ninth Guru, who laid down his life to uphold the principles of faith, freedom and human dignity, but also an opportunity to s[read his timeless message of courage, compassion, and universal brotherhood. The Government of Punjab, with deep reverence and humility, extends a warm welcome to all devotees, scholars, and visitors as we commemorate the 350th Year of the Martyrdom of SRI GURU TEGH BAHADUR JI. Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji: Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the ninth Guru of the Sikhs, is remembered as Hind-di-Chadar—the Shield of India—for his unparalleled sacrifice in defence of religious freedom. His life was a beacon of courage, compassion, and unwavering faith, culminating in a martyrdom that continues to inspire humanity across faiths and generations. Early Life and Spiritual Foundation: 1. Born (Parkash) on 1 April 1621 in Amritsar to Sri Guru Hargobind Ji and Mata Nanaki Ji, he was originally named Tyag Mal, meaning “Embodiment of Detachment.” 2. From a young age, he displayed deep spirituality, humility, and valor. His father renamed him Tegh Bahadur (“Master of the Sword”) after witnessing his courage in the Battle of Kartarpur. 3. Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji contributed 59 hymns (Shabads) and 57 Saloka’s to Sri Guru Granth Sahib, emphasizing detachment, meditation, and the pursuit of truth. Guru of the People 1. In 1664, when Sri Guru Harkrishan Ji left for heavenly abode, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was appointed as the Ninth Guru. 2. He founded Sri Anandpur Sahib, which became a spiritual and cultural center for Sikhs. 3. His travelled extensively in entire Punjab especially in the Malwa region and northern eastern states of India to spread the message of universal brotherhood, equality and service. 4. His widespread travel to spread these vital messages are just next to the travels of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Legacy of Courage 1. His sacrifice is immortalized at Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib (site of execution) and Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib (site of cremation) in Delhi. 2. Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom set the stage for the creation of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, ensuring that Sikhs would forever stand as defenders of justice and righteousness. Message for Humanity: Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s life and sacrifice embody the highest ideals of humanity—freedom of conscience, defence of the oppressed, and courage in the face of tyranny. His martyrdom was not the end, but the beginning of a legacy that continues to inspire Sikhs, Hindus, and all seekers of truth.