Guru Tegh Bahadur’s Martyrdom Day: Remembering the Sacrifice for Faith and Freedom
Guru Tegh Bahadur who was the ninth Sikh Guru played a very crucial role in shaping the Sikh community. He became the guru of Sikhs from 1665 till his martyrdom at the end of 1675. He was very intelligent in spiritual matters and is also famous for his poetry. A great poet and a brave warrior, 115 of his poems are included in the Sikh holy scripture, Sri Guru Granth Sahib. Let’s take a look into the life and legacy of Guru Tegh Bahadur and why it is important to observe Guru Tegh Bahadur’s Martyrdom Day in detail.
Who Was Guru Tegh Bahadur?
Guru Hargobind who was the sixth Sikh Guru of the Sikh community, is the father of Guru Tegh Bahadur. Guru Tegh Bahadur’s birthplace was Amritsar, Punjab, India. Being the youngest child in his family he was very clever and kind. Later, he was known as Tyag Mal because of his biggest sacrifices. He learned the art of defense in Sikh teachings. In the year 1665, he became the ninth Sikh Guru and spent much of his life speaking to people about acts of goodwill, charity, and devotion to God.
History
Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb was ruling India in the 17th century and was forcing everyone to convert to Islam. They had to face penalties if they refused to convert to Islam. Hindus had only two options at that time, either they had to convert their religion or face torture. Most of the Hindu temples were destroyed by him. The Kashmiri Pandits- who were Hindu scholars and priests then went to Guru Tegh Bahadur Singh seeking help. Guru Tegh Bahadur listened to their problem and was greatly moved so he decided to help them. Since it was a dangerous decision, he chose to stand up against the emperor for the right to freely follow their religion. He announced that if the Mughal Emperor could convert him to Islam, then the rest of the Hindus would also accept Islam. He knew this act was going to be tough and could cost him his life.
Guru Tegh Bahadur with his three followers whose names were Sati Das, Mati Das, and Bhai Dayal Das spent 4 months in jail, which was in Delhi. They tortured him and his followers too, hoping he would give up and accept Islam as his religion.
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The Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur
Three of his followers were beheaded in front of him and he still didn’t accept Islam as his religion. Realizing that Guru Tegh Bahadur was not going to change his beliefs, Aurangzeb ordered his followers to behead Guru Tegh Bahadur in front of everyone in Chandni Chowk, which took place on 24 November 1675.
The area where he was beheaded is now the Gurdwara named Sis Ganj Sahib in Delhi. Sikhs and others come here to pay their respect to Guru Tegh Bahadur’s sacrifice. The martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur stands out as one of the finest examples of Sikhism’s very values of self-sacrifice and protecting the oppressed.
The Importance of Guru Tegh Bahadur's Martyrdom Day in India
Sikh history would be incomplete without mentioning the sacrificial act of Guru Tegh Bahadur, who has inspired generations to fight for justice and what is right. His martyrdom proved that every human being should have the freedom to go about with his or her beliefs, not in fear or under pressure.
His sacrifice did not save merely the Kashmiri Pandits but also saved the fundamental right to religious freedom for all. Guru Tegh Bahadur’s stand teaches Sikhs and other people that protecting others’ rights is a duty, even at the cost of one’s life. So many temples were built to pay tribute to the sacrifices done by Guru Tegh Bahadur. Not only that, several schools, hospitals, and institutes were built in his name.
How Guru Tegh Bahadur’s Martyrdom Day is Observed
This year in 2024, we will be observing the 349th anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur. On November 24, Sikhs around the world pray and hold special gatherings at gurdwaras as a way of remembering the sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur. The holy scriptures and hymns that contain Guru Tegh Bahadur’s teachings are read to remind people of his strength in standing by the truth.
Hymns singing, sharing food, and serving meals for others are done while remembering the selfless and kind service of Guru Tegh Bahadur. Some communities arrange camps for blood donation or participate in charity drives on this day. This is the time not only to cry for his loss but to celebrate his spirit and the values he stood for.
Conclusion
Now, on Guru Tegh Bahadur’s Martyrdom Day, let’s remember him by reminding ourselves that true spirituality is about standing up for what is right and protecting the dignity and freedom of all humanity. Guru Tegh Bahadur’s deeds remind us of the need for justice and compassion for every religion. His example guides other people that no matter how hard your life may be, always walk towards the path of faith, kindness, peace, and justice.
