Guru Tegh Bahadur’s Martyrdom Day, observed on November 24, commemorates the sacrifice of the ninth Sikh Guru who laid down his life for the principles of religious freedom and human rights. Guru Tegh Bahadur, born Tyag Mal, assumed the Guruship in 1664, and his tenure as Guru is marked by a profound commitment to defending the rights of all individuals to practice their faith freely.
The martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur holds immense significance in Sikh history. In 1675, during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, religious intolerance was rampant. Hindu Pandits sought refuge with Guru Tegh Bahadur, pleading for his intervention to protect their right to practice their religion without coercion.
The Guru, recognizing the need to uphold the principles of justice and religious tolerance, confronted the oppressive regime. Guru Tegh Bahadur’s refusal to convert to Islam and his steadfast defense of religious freedom led to his arrest. Despite facing brutal torture and the promise of reprieve upon conversion, he remained resolute.
On November 24, 1675, Guru Tegh Bahadur made the ultimate sacrifice, being beheaded in Delhi’s Chandni Chowk. His martyrdom serves as a powerful symbol of resistance against tyranny and the unwavering commitment to the fundamental rights of religious expression.
Legacy:
Guru Tegh Bahadur’s legacy echoes in the Sikh community’s ethos, inspiring generations to stand against injustice and champion the cause of religious liberty. The martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur also played a pivotal role in shaping the Sikh identity.
His son, Guru Gobind Singh, who succeeded him as the tenth Guru, further crystallized the Sikh principles of equality, justice, and the defense of the oppressed. Guru Tegh Bahadur’s sacrifice laid the foundation for the values that define Sikhism today.
On Martyrdom Day, Sikhs worldwide pay homage to Guru Tegh Bahadur, reflecting on his courage and the enduring principles he stood for. The day is marked by prayer meetings, kirtans (devotional songs), and discussions on the significance of religious freedom and human rights. It serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for these principles globally and the responsibility to uphold them in the face of adversity.