Why in news?
Sikhs around the world celebrated Parkash Purab, the birth anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, on 7 April 2026 (25 Chet in the Nanakshahi calendar). India’s Prime Minister paid homage to the Guru, lauding his fearlessness and sacrifice for religious freedom.
Background
Guru Tegh Bahadur (1621–1675) was born Tyaga Mal in Amritsar to Guru Hargobind, the sixth Sikh Guru. He gained the title “Tegh Bahadur,” meaning “brave swordsman,” after demonstrating valour in battle. In 1664 he became the ninth Sikh Guru, succeeding his nephew Guru Har Krishan. He founded the town of Anandpur Sahib and contributed 116 hymns to the Guru Granth Sahib, emphasising detachment, humility and service.
Life and legacy
- Spiritual leadership: Guru Tegh Bahadur travelled widely, preaching equality and devotion to God. He urged Sikhs to live honestly, help the needy and maintain integrity in adversity.
- Champion of religious freedom: During Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s rule, Hindus and Sikhs faced pressure to convert to Islam. When Kashmiri Pandits sought his protection, Guru Tegh Bahadur refused to convert and offered himself as a sacrifice. He was arrested, tortured and beheaded in Delhi on 11 November 1675.
- Martyrdom and impact: His execution shocked the subcontinent and galvanised Sikhs to defend religious rights. He is honoured as Hind di Chadar, the “Shield of India,” for laying down his life to protect the oppressed.
- Succession: Before his arrest, he appointed his young son Gobind Rai—later Guru Gobind Singh—as the tenth Guru. Guru Gobind Singh eventually founded the Khalsa in 1699, institutionalising the Sikh identity.
Commemorations
Parkash Purab celebrates the Guru’s birth and teachings, while his martyrdom is observed as Shaheedi Diwas in December. Gurdwaras across India and abroad hold kirtans, processions and community kitchens (langars) to mark these occasions. Political leaders often invoke his legacy to promote communal harmony.
Source: Encyclopaedia Britannica, Prime Minister’s Office, SikhNet
