Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Guru of the Sikh faith, is a revered figure known for his sacrifice and spiritual contributions. Born into a lineage of spiritual leaders, he continued the legacy of his predecessors by guiding the Sikh community through a period marked by religious persecution.
Early Life and Background
Born on April 1, 1621, in Amritsar, Guru Tegh Bahadur was the youngest son of Guru Hargobind, the sixth Guru of the Sikhs. His birth name was Tyaga Mal, but after displaying remarkable courage in a battle against the Mughals, his father gave him the name Tegh Bahadur, which translates to “Mighty of the Sword.”
Martyrdom and Legacy
Guru Tegh Bahadur’s tenure as Guru lasted from 1665 until his martyrdom in 1675. He is particularly remembered for his ultimate sacrifice in defense of religious freedom. In 1675, he was executed on the orders of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb for refusing to convert to Islam and for standing up for the rights of Hindus and Sikhs to practice their religion freely. This event is commemorated every year on November 24 as ‘Shaheedi Divas of Guru Tegh Bahadur.’
The Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib in Delhi marks the place where Guru Tegh Bahadur was beheaded, and Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib is where his cremation took place. These sites are significant pilgrimage destinations for Sikhs around the world.
Spiritual Contributions
Guru Tegh Bahadur’s contributions to Sikhism extend beyond his martyrdom. He added numerous hymns to the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of the Sikhs, enriching its spiritual depth. Due to his protective stance towards all people of India, irrespective of their faith, he earned the title ‘Hind di Chaadar,’ meaning ‘Shield of India.’ His teachings continue to inspire Sikhs and others to live a life of courage, sacrifice, and devotion.
Founding of Anandpur Sahib
Among Guru Tegh Bahadur’s notable achievements is the founding of the city of Anandpur Sahib. This city, which translates to “City of Bliss,” became an important center of Sikhism and remains so to this day. It is the site where his son and successor, Guru Gobind Singh, later established the Khalsa Panth, the collective body of initiated Sikhs.
Observance of Martyrdom Day in 2020
The Martyrdom Day of Guru Tegh Bahadur is observed solemnly by Sikhs each year. On November 24, 2020, the day was marked by tributes from various dignitaries, including the President of India, Ram Nath Kovind. Leaders across the nation paid homage to the Guru, recognizing his enduring impact on Indian society and his message of unity, peace, and resistance against oppression.
The life and teachings of Guru Tegh Bahadur are integral to understanding the principles upon which Sikhism is built. His commitment to protecting the rights of all individuals to practice their faith without fear serves as a timeless example of moral courage and selflessness.
