Vaidehi Bhargava
Shaheedi Diwas of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, observed on 24th November, commemorates the martyrdom of the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. His sacrifice stands as a symbol of resistance against religious oppression and the protection of human rights.
Backstory
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji (1621–1675) became the ninth Guru of the Sikhs in 1664. Known as the “Shield of Humanity,” he stood for justice, equality, and religious freedom. His martyrdom stemmed from his opposition to the forced conversion of Hindus and other non-Muslims to Islam during the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
In 1675, Aurangzeb imposed stringent policies, including forced conversions and the destruction of non-Islamic places of worship. The Kashmiri Pandits, who were under immense pressure to convert, approached Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji for help. Moved by their plight, Guru Ji declared that their freedom of faith could only be safeguarded if a great leader sacrificed their life. He took it upon himself to defend their rights.
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji openly opposed Aurangzeb’s policies, leading to his arrest. Along with three devoted Sikhs—Bhai Mati Das, Bhai Sati Das, and Bhai Dayala—he was imprisoned, tortured, and asked to embrace Islam. When he refused, he was executed on 24th November 1675 in Delhi. The site of his martyrdom, Chandni Chowk, is marked by the Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib.
Significance
- Protection of Religious Freedom: Guru Ji’s martyrdom is a landmark in the defense of individual rights to practice one’s religion without fear. It emphasized the Sikh principle of Sarbat da Bhala (welfare for all).
- Beacon of Sacrifice: His supreme sacrifice reinforced the Sikh belief in standing against injustice and protecting the oppressed, regardless of their faith.
- Legacy in Sikhism: Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s son, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, drew inspiration from this act, which later shaped the foundation of the Khalsa.
- Message of Unity: His martyrdom sends a universal message of unity and tolerance, urging humanity to rise above religious divisions.
Observances
On this day, Sikhs and others across the globe pay tribute through prayers, kirtans (hymn singing), and langars (community meals). The Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib hosts special programs recounting Guru Ji’s teachings and sacrifice.
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s Shaheedi Diwas is not merely a religious occasion but a reminder of the courage required to uphold human dignity and the timeless value of standing against tyranny. His sacrifice continues to inspire countless people to champion justice and equality.