Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur: Guru Tegh Bahadur’s martyrdom on 24 November 1675 stands as a defining moment in India’s battle for religious freedom. At a time when Mughal emperor Aurangzeb intensified pressure to convert, the ninth Sikh Guru emerged as the protector of the oppressed. His belief that “Fear not, and frighten not others” became the guiding principle behind his decision to intervene. His stand went beyond religion, it was about defending the universal right to faith.
The unexpected moment that pulled him into history
Known for his calm wisdom, detachment, and courage, Guru Tegh Bahadur embodied Sikh ideals of justice. When Kashmiri Pandits approached him seeking protection, he saw their plea not as a religious question, but a human one. Accepting their cause meant challenging tyranny at its core, a step only a leader with deep spiritual conviction could take.
A journey from courage to captivity
Standing up to the empire meant surrendering to captivity. Guru Tegh Bahadur and his companions: Bhai Mati Das, Bhai Sati Das, and Bhai Dyal Das were arrested and brutally tortured. Even as they witnessed unimaginable violence, their resolve remained unshaken. The Guru reminded followers that “True realisation of God comes to the person who surrenders himself completely.” Their steadfastness transformed their suffering into a message of fearless resistance.
Where a guru’s death turned into a national turning point
On 24 November, at Chandni Chowk, Guru Tegh Bahadur was executed for refusing to convert or bow to imperial authority. His final act embodied his belief that “One who is not affected by pleasures or pain, greed or attachment… such a person is called a true sage.” Today, Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib marks the site of his martyrdom, a reminder of the moment when moral courage triumphed over oppression.
How one sacrifice redefined freedom in India
Guru Tegh Bahadur is honoured as Hind-di-Chadar, the Shield of India because he gave his life to protect another community’s right to worship freely.
His martyrdom reshaped India’s spiritual and cultural history, showing that defending justice for others is the highest form of bravery. His legacy continues to inspire generations to stand for truth with the same fearless clarity he preached.