Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Anniversary in Hyderabad

Why in the news?

Telangana will mark the 349th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur with a mass congregation and procession on December 8, honoring his sacrifices for religious freedom.

Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Anniversary in Hyderabad

Event Details:

  • The 349th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur will be observed in Hyderabad on December 8.
  • The Prabhandak Committee of Gurudwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Sitafalmandi, Secunderabad, has organized a “Vishaal Kirtan Darbar” (mass congregation), followed by a “Nagar Keertan” (holy procession) .
  • The event will take place at the Municipal Grounds, Chilkalguda, Sitafalmandi, and is expected to witness participation from Sikh devotees and people of other faiths.

Significance of the Martyrdom:

  • Guru Tegh Bahadur is remembered for his supreme sacrifices in defending Dharma (religion) against forced conversions during the Mughal rule.
  • His martyrdom is a symbol of courage and resilience in the face of religious oppression.

Program Highlights:

  • Renowned Ragi Jathas (religious preachers) from across the country will recite “Gurbani Keertans” (holy hymns) during the congregation.
  • Bhai Binder Singh from Takhat Sri Damdama Sahib, Bhatinda, and Giani Nishan Singh, head Granthi of Baba Buddha Sahib, will lead the devotional singing and discourses.
  • In the evening, a vibrant “Nagar Keertan” procession will begin at 5 pm from Gurudwara Saheb Sitafalmandi, passing through significant city landmarks, including GRB Bhavan, Deep Lifestyle, and Pee Pee Traders, before returning to the Gurudwara Saheb.

Key Facts about  Guru Tegh Bahadur:

  • Birth & Early Life: Born in 1621 at Guru Ke Mahal, Amritsar.
  • Training: Received schooling, music, and military training, including horsemanship and swordsmanship.
  • Contributions: Resisted forced conversions during Aurangzeb’s reign, contributed hymns to the Guru Granth Sahib, set up community kitchens and wells, and founded Chak-Nanki.
  • Martyrdom: Executed in 1675 by Aurangzeb for opposing religious persecution.
  • Consequences: His martyrdom led to the rise of the Khalsa and a militant Sikh identity.
  • Honors: The “All India Guru Tegh Bahadur Gold Cup” hockey tournament is named in his honor.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times