The Punjab government has declared November 25 a public holiday across the state in honour of the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib the ninth Sikh Guru. The decision forms part of an extensive series of commemorative programmes that the state has planned to mark this historic occasion.
November has been designated as Shaheedi Smaran Maah a remembrance month dedicated to Guru Tegh Bahadur’s supreme sacrifice for the protection of religious freedom and human rights. As part of these month-long observances, the state will host major events from November 23 to November 25 at Sri Anandpur Sahib, a place closely associated with the Guru’s life. The commemorations will begin with an Akhand Path Sahib, followed by interfaith gatherings, cultural programmes, and a large congregation on November 25, the day of the martyrdom anniversary itself.
A significant highlight of the celebrations is the proposed special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha at Anandpur Sahib on November 24 marking a historic moment as the Assembly has never convened outside Chandigarh before. The government has also planned exhibitions, religious processions, a large-scale drone show, and the establishment of temporary tent cities capable of hosting thousands of visitors each day, anticipating a massive footfall of devotees from across the country and abroad.
Educational institutions in Punjab have been instructed to run a 15-day module on Guru Tegh Bahadur’s life and teachings, ensuring that students understand the ideals of sacrifice, tolerance, and justice that defined his legacy. Universities and colleges will conduct seminars and discussions, while the state will also run social initiatives such as blood-donation camps and plantation drives to symbolically connect public service with the Guru’s message.
Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib was beheaded on November 24, 1675, in Chandni Chowk, Delhi, under the orders of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The Guru had stood up against the forced conversions of Kashmiri Pandits and defended the right of every individual to practise their faith freely. When he refused to abandon his principles and embrace Islam, he was arrested along with his companions.