Haryana Pays Tribute to Ninth Sikh Guru with Statewide Initiatives
The government of Haryana has launched a comprehensive series of initiatives to commemorate the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh guru. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, the state administration organized numerous events starting from November 1 to honor the spiritual leader's legacy and sacrifice.
Statewide Commemorative Events and Spiritual Programs
Throughout Haryana, devotional processions filled the streets as communities came together to remember Guru Tegh Bahadur's martyrdom. The air resonated with Gurbani, kirtans, and satsangs across villages and towns, creating an atmosphere of reverence and spiritual reflection. These gatherings served as powerful reminders of the guru's teachings and his ultimate sacrifice for religious freedom.
Permanent Memorials and Educational Tributes
The state government has established several lasting memorials to ensure Guru Tegh Bahadur's legacy continues to inspire future generations. Among the key initiatives announced are:
Establishment of the Guru Tegh Bahadur Chair at Chaudhary Devi Lal University in Sirsa, which will promote academic research and studies related to the guru's teachings and Sikh philosophy.
Renaming of Ambala Polytechnic College in honor of Guru Tegh Bahadur, giving the institution a new identity connected to the spiritual leader's values of education and service.
Designation of the Tohana–Jind–Narwana route as "Guru Tegh Bahadur Marg," creating a permanent geographical marker of the guru's influence in the region.
Development of "Guru Tegh Bahadur Van" in the Kalesar region, establishing a natural sanctuary that reflects the guru's connection to environmental harmony.
Proposal for establishing "G.T.B. Agriculture College" at Kishanpur in Yamunanagar, extending the guru's legacy into agricultural education.
Additionally, the government organized a marathon in Karnal that brought together participants from across the state in a celebration of health and community spirit aligned with the guru's teachings.
National Recognition and Historical Significance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined in paying tribute to Guru Tegh Bahadur, expressing reverence for the spiritual leader's sacrifice. In a post on social media platform X, the Prime Minister stated: "On the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji, we bow in reverence to his unmatched courage and sacrifice. His martyrdom for the protection of faith and humanity will forever illuminate our society."
Guru Tegh Bahadur, born on April 1, 1621 in Guru Ke Mehal, Amritsar, was the youngest child of Guru Hargobind and the ninth Sikh guru. His life ended in martyrdom when he was beheaded on November 24, 1675 in Delhi under the orders of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. His sacrifice is particularly remembered for his stand protecting religious freedom and his refusal to abandon his principles under pressure.
The comprehensive initiatives by the Haryana government represent a significant commitment to preserving the memory and teachings of Guru Tegh Bahadur, ensuring that his message of courage, sacrifice, and religious tolerance continues to inspire citizens across the state and beyond.
