Delhi has declared November 25 as a public holiday to mark Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s 350th martyrdom anniversary, also known as Shaheedi Diwas. Large-scale events are planned at the Red Fort from November 23 to 25. But did you know about the day’s history and significance? Today, we talk about all of it in detail.
History Behind Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s Martyrdom Day
The day honours Shaheedi Diwas for the ninth Sikh Guru. This year, the Delhi government has planned major events at the Red Fort until November 25. The three-day programme will include a special kirtan darbar, a light-and-sound show, and many cultural events. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom day represents sacrifice, courage, and religious freedom.
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, also known as ‘Hind Di Chadar’, saved many people from forced religious conversion during the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. It is said that a group of Kashmiri Pandits sought Guru Ji’s help when Aurangzeb’s oppressive policies forced them to give up their faith and religion. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji took a stand and offered to challenge the rule on their behalf. He was arrested in 1675 and taken to Delhi.
There, he was also asked to give up his religion. He refused and chose death instead. He was publicly beheaded in Chandni Chowk in 1675 on Aurangzeb’s orders. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was beheaded at the site where the revered Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib stands today. He was cremated at Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Sahib, also in Delhi.
Also Read: Delhi To Host 3-Day ‘Kirtan Darbar’ At Red Fort Marking 350th Death Anniversary Of Guru Tegh Bahadur
Why Is He Called ‘Hind Di Chadar’?
‘Hind Di Chadar’ or ‘Shield of India’ was the name given to him as he stood for humanity and protected the human rights of many. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s Shaheedi Diwas is significant not just for Sikhs but for many people across India. He is also known as one of the earliest advocates of human rights. He sacrificed his life not only for his own community but also for others.
To honour this sacrifice, the Delhi government has announced a public holiday. Here’s what stays closed and open as per a report by Times Now.
What stays closed:
- All Delhi government schools will remain closed.
- Private schools and institutions are also expected to declare a holiday.
- Government offices will remain closed.
- Administrative offices and non-essential public departments will remain closed.
What stays open:
- Private offices will run normally.
- Public transport, like the Delhi Metro, DTC buses, autos, and taxis, will run normally.
- All emergency and health services will remain fully operational.
Gurudwaras You Can Visit In Delhi
If you want to pay respect on Shaheedi Diwas, here are the gurudwaras you can visit in Delhi:
- Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, Chandni Chowk
- Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Sahib, Pandit Pant Marg
- Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Connaught Place
Also Read: 10 Iconic Temple Prasad In India, And Why Devotees Queue For Them
So, tell us, did you know about the history of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom day?
Cover Image Courtesy: @ghaziabad_amit and @mysteriouskudi/ X