Why is it in the news?

• On November 24th, the Sikh community observes ‘Martyrdom Day’ in remembrance of Guru Teg Bahadur.

More about Guru Tegh Bahadur

• Guru Tegh Bahadur was the ninth Sikh Guru and a prominent figure in Sikh history.
• He was born in 1621 in Amritsar and became Guru at the age of 43 in 1664.
• His hymns are included in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism.
• Guru Tegh Bahadur advocated for the right to practice one’s religion freely.
• He was executed in 1675 in Delhi by Aurangzeb for refusing to convert to Islam.
• His martyrdom is commemorated annually as Shaheedi Divas or ‘Martyrdom Day.’
• His sacrifice symbolizes resistance against religious oppression.
• The site of his martyrdom in Delhi is now the Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib.
• His spiritual teachings emphasized the universality of God, the oneness of humanity, meditation, selfless service, and devotion to God.
• Guru Tegh Bahadur promoted principles of equality, humility, and compassion in Sikhism.