Martyrdom Day of Guru Tegh Bahadur is observed on November 24th, also referred to as Shaheedi Diwas. This day holds the status of a public holiday in certain regions of India.

Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh guru, is commemorated for laying down his life to safeguard the freedom of the oppressed to practice their religion. Recognized as Hind ki Chadar, or Shield of India, his legacy resonates as a symbol of selfless sacrifice and protection of religious liberties.

Historical Background

• Guru Tegh Bahadur was born on April 1, 1621, in Amritsar, Punjab, India, and became the ninth Sikh Guru in 1665. He was the youngest son of Guru Hargobind, the sixth Sikh Guru, and he grew up in a family known for its military and spiritual leadership.

• Aurangzeb's Religious Policies: Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, who ruled from 1658 to 1707, implemented policies that aimed to convert non-Muslims, particularly Hindus, to Islam. He imposed jizya (a tax on non-Muslims) and forcefully converted many people. This caused widespread fear and resentment among Hindus, especially in Kashmir, where Brahmins were being persecuted.

• Guru Tegh Bahadur's Stand: When Kashmiri Pandits approached Guru Tegh Bahadur for help, he took a bold and unprecedented step by deciding to defend their right to religious freedom, even though he was not a Hindu himself. He told the Pandits to inform Aurangzeb that if the Guru was converted to Islam, they would follow, but if not, they should be left alone.

Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur

• Arrest and Imprisonment: When Aurangzeb received this message, he saw Guru Tegh Bahadur as a threat to his campaign and ordered the Guru’s arrest. The Guru, along with his three companions Bhai Sati Das, Bhai Mati Das, and Bhai Dayala, was arrested in July 1675.

• Torture and Execution: The Guru and his companions were tortured in prison to force them to convert to Islam. However, Guru Tegh Bahadur remained steadfast in his belief in the right to religious freedom and refused to convert. As a result, on November 24, 1675, he was publicly beheaded in Chandni Chowk, Delhi. His companions were also executed in brutal ways—Bhai Mati Das was sawn in half, Bhai Sati Das was wrapped in cotton and set on fire, and Bhai Dayala was boiled alive.

• Legacy of Martyrdom: Guru Tegh Bahadur’s martyrdom is considered one of the most significant events in Sikh history. He is often referred to as Hind Di Chadar (the shield of India) because he gave his life to protect the religious rights of Hindus and others who were oppressed, demonstrating the Sikh principle of standing up for justice and the freedom of all people, regardless of their faith.

Significance of Guru Tegh Bahadur's Martyrdom

1. Religious Freedom: Guru Tegh Bahadur’s sacrifice is seen as a historic stand for religious freedom. He gave his life to uphold the fundamental right of individuals to practice their faith freely, without fear of persecution.

2. Universal Human Rights: His martyrdom is not only significant for Sikhs but also for all people who value human rights and freedom of belief. His act of bravery highlights the Sikh philosophy of defending the rights of the oppressed, even at great personal cost.

3. Spiritual and Ethical Leadership: Guru Tegh Bahadur’s martyrdom is remembered as a powerful message of moral courage and ethical leadership. He refused to bow to tyranny, exemplifying the Sikh principle of standing up against injustice, regardless of the consequences.

4. Foundation for Khalsa: Guru Tegh Bahadur’s martyrdom laid the foundation for the establishment of the Khalsa by his son, Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. The creation of the Khalsa in 1699 was a response to continued persecution, and it marked the formalization of the Sikh community as both a spiritual and martial force prepared to defend the rights and freedoms of all.

Commemoration of Guru Tegh Bahadur's Martyrdom Day

The martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur is commemorated with great reverence by Sikhs and others across India and the world. Various events and activities are organized to remember his sacrifice and promote the values of religious tolerance and freedom.

1. Gurdwara Prayers and Kirtan:

   • Kirtan (devotional singing): Special prayers and Kirtan (the singing of hymns) from the Guru Granth Sahib are performed in Gurdwaras (Sikh temples) to honor Guru Tegh Bahadur’s martyrdom. The hymns focus on themes of sacrifice, courage, and devotion to God.
   • Recitation of Gurbani: Verses from the Guru Granth Sahib, particularly those written by Guru Tegh Bahadur, are recited. These teachings emphasize spiritual wisdom, moral integrity, and resilience in the face of adversity.

2. Processions (Nagar Kirtans):

   • Nagar Kirtans (religious processions) are organized in cities and towns, where devotees sing hymns and distribute prasad (blessed food). These processions often depict scenes from the life of Guru Tegh Bahadur and highlight his commitment to defending human rights.

3. Langar (Community Kitchen):

   • In keeping with the Sikh tradition of seva (selfless service), langar (free community meals) is served in Gurdwaras and public spaces. The practice of langar promotes the principles of equality and sharing, which are central to Sikh teachings.

4. Educational and Cultural Programs:

   • Schools, colleges, and cultural organizations often hold special programs, lectures, and seminars to educate people about the life and teachings of Guru Tegh Bahadur. These programs highlight the importance of standing up for justice, religious freedom, and human dignity.

5. Visits to Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib:

   • Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib in Chandni Chowk, Delhi, marks the site where Guru Tegh Bahadur was martyred. It is a major pilgrimage destination for Sikhs, particularly on the occasion of his martyrdom anniversary. Special services and prayers are held here, and devotees gather to pay homage to the Guru’s sacrifice.

6. Martyrdom Day in Punjab:

   • In Punjab, the home of Sikhism, large-scale commemorations take place, particularly in cities like Amritsar, Anandpur Sahib, and Patiala. Gurdwaras across the state hold special services, and religious gatherings see large participation from devotees.

Guru Tegh Bahadur’s Teachings and Philosophy

Guru Tegh Bahadur’s teachings are recorded in the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture, and emphasize core Sikh values such as humility, tolerance, and service to humanity. Some key aspects of his philosophy include:

1. Oneness of God: Guru Tegh Bahadur taught that there is only One God, and that devotion to this universal being is the path to spiritual liberation. His teachings encourage inner reflection and meditation on God's name (Naam Simran).

2. Equality: He preached the equality of all people, regardless of caste, religion, or social status. This principle is reflected in the langar system, where everyone, regardless of background, eats together in the Gurdwara.

3. Detachment and Contentment: Guru Tegh Bahadur emphasized living a life of detachment from material possessions and desires. He taught that contentment comes from a focus on spiritual growth rather than worldly gains.

4. Courage and Sacrifice: His martyrdom is the ultimate example of his teaching on self-sacrifice and the willingness to lay down one’s life to uphold righteousness and justice.

5. Religious Tolerance: Guru Tegh Bahadur believed in the freedom of every individual to practice their faith without fear of persecution. His stand for the Kashmiri Pandits is one of the greatest examples of his belief in religious tolerance and human dignity.

Conclusion

Guru Tegh Bahadur’s Martyrdom Day is a poignant reminder of the Guru’s sacrifice for the cause of religious freedom, human rights, and justice. His martyrdom resonates beyond Sikhism and is a powerful message of standing up against oppression and defending the rights of others. The values of courage, compassion, and equality that he embodied continue to inspire people today, making his martyrdom an essential part of India’s religious and cultural heritage.