In a solemn tribute, President Murmu commemorated Guru Tegh Bahadur on his martyrdom day, acknowledging the profound sacrifice the ninth Sikh guru made for human rights and religious freedom. The president called upon citizens to draw inspiration from Guru Tegh Bahadur’s teachings, recognizing him as a symbol of bravery and sacrifice.
Guru Tegh Bahadur: A Principled Leader
Born on 1 April 1621, in Amritsar, Punjab, India, Guru Tegh Bahadur emerged as a principled and fearless warrior who played a pivotal role in shaping Sikhism. The youngest son of Guru Hargobind, the sixth Sikh guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur assumed leadership in 1665 and became a spiritual guide for Sikhs across the Indian subcontinent.
Guru Tegh Bahadur’s legacy extends beyond his martial prowess; he was a learned spiritual scholar and a poet whose 115 hymns are enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib, the main scripture of Sikhism. His teachings emphasize principles of justice, equality, and devotion to a higher purpose.
The Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur
Guru Tegh Bahadur’s life took a tragic turn when he was executed on the orders of Aurangzeb, the sixth Mughal emperor, in Delhi, India. His unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of all, regardless of their faith, led to his beheading in 1675. The Sikh holy premises of Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib and Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib in Delhi stand as solemn reminders of the places where Guru Tegh Bahadur was executed and cremated.
Every year on 24 November, Sikhs across India commemorate Guru Tegh Bahadur’s Shaheedi Divas, remembering his sacrifice and the values he stood for. The day serves as a moment of reflection on the enduring principles of justice, religious freedom, and the indomitable spirit of sacrifice.
President’s Call to Action
President Murmu’s tribute to Guru Tegh Bahadur goes beyond acknowledging historical events; it is a call to action. The president urges citizens to take inspiration from the life and teachings of Guru Tegh Bahadur and commit to working for the welfare of the people. In a world where challenges to human rights and religious freedom persist, the president sees Guru Tegh Bahadur’s legacy as a guiding light toward a more just and compassionate society.
