Guru Tegh Bahadur was the ninth Sikh Guru, playing a pivotal role in shaping the Sikh faith. Born in 1621 in Amritsar, India, he was the youngest son of Guru Hargobind.
His 115 poems are featured in the revered Sri Adi Guru Granth Sahib. He led the Sikh community from 1665 until his execution in 1675.
Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Day is commemorated annually on 24 November. Known as the “Shield of India”, he was the ninth Sikh Guru who made the ultimate sacrifice for the rights of others, regardless of their faith.
Aurangzeb’s forced conversions of Hindus to Islam led a delegation of Kashmir Hindus to seek Guru Tegh Bahadur’s help. The Guru boldly declared that if he could be converted, others would follow suit.
However, he refused to convert to Islam, even after being imprisoned for four months and witnessing the brutal killing of three of his followers.
Guru Tegh Bahadur’s bravery ultimately led to his execution by being beheaded in Chandni Chowk, Delhi, on 24th November 1675, cementing his legacy as a champion of justice and tolerance.
The Gurudwara Sis Ganj, stands at the site of his execution, honouring his sacrifice and bravery.
This day signifies the importance of standing up against oppression and injustice and promotes the values of courage, conviction and compassion. It inspires people to fight for their rights and freedom and to uphold the principles of equality and justice.
His son Guru Gobind Singh established the Brotherhood of Khalsa to fight the tyranny and injustice of Aurangzeb’s Islamic rule and brought an end to the tyrannical regime in India.
We pay homage to the sacrifice of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur ji.
