Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Day 2024: Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Guru of Sikhism, played a crucial role in shaping the religion’s principles. Born in 1621 in Amritsar, India, he was the youngest son of Guru Hargobind. Renowned as a spiritual scholar and poet, 115 of his hymns are part of the sacred Sri Guru Granth Sahib.
He led the Sikh community from 1665 until his martyrdom in 1675, earning admiration for his courage, steadfast values, and deep devotion to his faith. His Martyrdom Day, or Shaheedi Diwas, is observed annually on November 24, 2024.
Read all the key details about this significant Sikh observance below.
Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Day 2024
The martyrdom day of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the 9th Sikh Guru, is observed on November 24. Born on April 21, 1621, in Amritsar to Mata Nanaki and Guru Hargobind, the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur stands as a symbol of courage and sacrifice in Indian history.
Like many great revolutionaries, he gave his life to uphold his faith, culture, and values. Known as the Chadar of Hind (Shield of India), Guru Tegh Bahadur directly opposed the Mughal ruler Aurangzeb, sacrificing his life to protect religious freedom and uphold his ideals.
About Guru Tegh Bahadur
Guru Tegh Bahadur is revered for his unwavering stand against the forced conversion of non-Muslims to Islam during the rule of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. His steadfastness led to his martyrdom in 1675, when he was publicly executed on Aurangzeb’s orders in Delhi. Today, Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib marks the site of his execution, while Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Sahib stands at the site of his cremation.
Serving as the Sikh Guru from 1665 to 1675, Guru Tegh Bahadur made significant contributions to the Sikh faith. The Guru Granth Sahib includes 115 of his hymns, reflecting his deep spirituality and wisdom. He is also remembered for his selfless service, traveling across India to spread the teachings of Guru Nanak, the first Sikh Guru. Along the way, he established community kitchens and wells to support local communities.
Guru Tegh Bahadur also founded the sacred city of Anandpur Sahib, located in the Himalayan foothills, which is now a prominent pilgrimage and tourist destination worldwide. His legacy continues to inspire millions as a symbol of courage, compassion, and commitment to justice.
Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Day 2024 Date
Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Day is observed every year on November 24 to honor the ninth Sikh Guru, revered as the “Shield of India.” He is celebrated for his unparalleled sacrifice in defending the rights and religious freedom of all, irrespective of their faith.
In 1675, he was executed by beheading in Chandni Chowk, Delhi, on the orders of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. This act of ultimate bravery and selflessness established Guru Tegh Bahadur as a symbol of justice, tolerance, and unwavering commitment to human rights.
Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Day 2024 History
Aurangzeb’s forced conversions of Hindus to Islam led a delegation of Kashmir Pandits 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 beheading in Chandni Chowk, Delhi, on 11 November 1675. His martyrdom is still commemorated today, and a gurudwara, Gurudwara Sis Ganj, stands at the site of his execution, honouring his sacrifice and bravery.
Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Day 2024 Significance
In Delhi, two prominent gurudwaras honor the legacy of Guru Tegh Bahadur. Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib stands at the site of his martyrdom, while Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Sahib marks the place of his cremation. Guru Tegh Bahadur’s unwavering stand against oppression preserved the dignity of the Indian community during Mughal rule, and his spiritual teachings enriched the Guru Granth Sahib.
Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Day is a tribute to his ultimate sacrifice to protect the rights and freedom of others. This day serves as a reminder to oppose injustice and uphold the values of courage, compassion, and equality. It inspires individuals to defend their principles and promote justice for all, keeping alive the Guru’s timeless message of selflessness and resilience.
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Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Day 2024 FAQs
Q.1. Who was Guru Tegh Bahadur?
Ans. Guru Tegh Bahadur was the ninth Sikh Guru, renowned for his sacrifice to protect religious freedom and his contributions to the Sikh faith through teachings and hymns.
Q.2. Why is Guru Tegh Bahadur’s Martyrdom Day observed?
Ans. It is observed to honor his ultimate sacrifice in defending the rights and religious freedom of people, symbolizing courage, equality, and justice.
Q.3. When is Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Day 2024?
Ans. Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Day 2024 will be commemorated on November 24.
Q.4. What is the significance of Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib?
Ans. Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib marks the site in Chandni Chowk, Delhi, where Guru Tegh Bahadur was martyred in 1675.
Q.5. How did Guru Tegh Bahadur contribute to Sikhism?
Ans. He composed 115 hymns in the Guru Granth Sahib, spread Guru Nanak’s teachings, and founded Anandpur Sahib, fostering spirituality and community service.
