A large and solemn religious gathering was held in Yamunanagar, Haryana, to commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of the ninth Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. The event took place at Gurdwara Sahib Gobindpura in Bhambholi and saw the presence of Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, who offered profound tributes to the revered Guru.
CM Saini's Tribute and Announcements
Addressing the congregation after the Ardas, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini expressed his deep honour at standing on sacred ground that embodies courage, sacrifice, and the defence of faith. He described Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji as a towering spiritual figure who protected India's civilisational ethos, demonstrating that religion is inseparable from freedom and truth.
The CM announced a significant grant of Rs 31 lakh for the Gurdwara trust. In recognition, the trust honoured him with a Siropa, a portrait of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, and a ceremonial sword. He praised the spiritual atmosphere created by Kirtan Jathas and preachers, stating it would inspire the youth.
He also commended a large blood donation camp organised alongside the event, calling it a true reflection of the Sikh principle of 'Sarbat da Bhala' (welfare for all). "A single unit of donated blood can save a precious life," he remarked, applauding the enthusiastic participation of young people.
Remembering the Supreme Sacrifices
CM Saini dedicated the programme not only to Guru Tegh Bahadur but also to the martyrdom of Mata Gujar Kaur Ji and the four Sahibzadas of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. He described the sacrifice of the Guru's family as unparalleled in world history.
Recalling the week of December 20 to 27, 1704, he noted that every member of the Guru's family laid down their lives to protect religion and common people. He spoke emotionally about the bravery of the younger Sahibzadas, Baba Zorawar Singh Ji (9) and Baba Fateh Singh Ji (6), who chose to be bricked alive rather than renounce their faith.
"History offers no parallel to such a sacrifice by children," the Chief Minister stated. He also highlighted the inspirational role of Mata Gujar Kaur Ji, who instilled unwavering courage in her grandsons while imprisoned, and remembered the valour of the elder Sahibzadas, Ajit Singh Ji (17) and Jujhar Singh Ji (15), in the Battle of Chamkaur.
Government Initiatives and Concluding Message
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's declaration of December 26 as Veer Bal Diwas, CM Saini said the nation collectively honours the Sahibzadas' courage. On Guru Tegh Bahadur's sacrifice for protecting the rights of Kashmiri Pandits, he said it remains a timeless example of defending religious freedom.
The Chief Minister outlined several state government initiatives to honour Sikh heritage:
- Naming the upcoming Yamunanagar Medical College after "Hind di Chadar Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji".
- Renaming Government Polytechnic College, Ambala, after the Guru.
- Establishing a research chair in his name at Chaudhary Devi Lal University, Sirsa.
- Forming the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee.
- Providing jobs to families affected by the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and allotting land to historic Gurdwaras.
- Launching the Swarna Jayanti Guru Darshan Yatra Yojana for pilgrims.
In his concluding remarks, CM Saini urged people to pledge themselves to the protection of the nation and righteous values, calling it the truest tribute to the martyrs. The event was attended by several ministers, public representatives, senior officials, and a large number of devotees.
