Introduction
Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Martyrdom Day is observed to honor the ninth Sikh Guru’s supreme sacrifice in 1675. He gave his life defending the right to religious freedom, standing against forced conversions under the Mughal regime. His martyrdom remains a global symbol of spiritual courage and justice.
Historical Background
During the reign of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, religious persecution grew severe. Hindus, Sikhs, and other non-Muslims faced pressure to convert to Islam. A group of Kashmiri Pandits, under threat of forced conversion, approached Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji for protection. In a courageous act, the Guru declared:
"If you can convert me, they will convert. If not, let them be."
This challenge led to his arrest, along with his devoted companions Bhai Mati Das, Bhai Sati Das, and Bhai Dayala.
Arrest, Torture, and Martyrdom
Guru Ji and his companions were imprisoned in Delhi. To pressure him into conversion, Aurangzeb ordered horrifying executions of his disciples:
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Bhai Mati Das was sawed in half from head to waist while reciting Japji Sahib.
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Bhai Dayala was boiled alive in a cauldron of water.
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Bhai Sati Das was wrapped in cotton and burned alive.
Despite witnessing these brutal acts, Guru Ji remained unshaken.
On November 24, 1675, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was beheaded in Chandni Chowk, Delhi, for refusing to accept Islam. His severed head (sis) was secretly taken to Anandpur Sahib by Bhai Jaita Ji, and his body was cremated by Bhai Lakhi Shah Vanjara, who set fire to his own house to hide the act — sites now commemorated by Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib and Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib.
Philosophy and Teachings
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji preached:
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Religious freedom for all
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Compassion, righteousness, and equality
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Detachment from materialism and steadfastness in truth
He upheld the belief that every human has the right to practice their own faith, and his teachings became the spiritual foundation for the Khalsa movement under Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Legacy and Remembrance
Guru Ji’s sacrifice is remembered as an act of unmatched bravery and human dignity. His martyrdom is the first in history where someone gave their life not for their own faith, but for the protection of another’s.
He is rightly called "Hind di Chadar" — "The Shield of India".
Gurdwaras like Sis Ganj Sahib and Rakab Ganj Sahib are living memorials of his supreme sacrifice. Sikhs and spiritual seekers across the world remember him through prayers, service, and reflection.
Observance and Celebrations
On this sacred day, devotees:
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Visit gurdwaras for kirtan, ardas, and langar
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Organize spiritual discourses and nagar kirtan processions
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Reflect on the values of freedom, tolerance, and sacrifice
Conclusion
Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's martyrdom is more than a Sikh event — it is a universal message of resistance against tyranny, protection of faith, and the triumph of truth over fear. His life continues to inspire generations to stand up for justice and righteousness.