In a moment of immense pride for the global Sikh community, New York City has officially co-named the intersection of 114th Street and 101st Avenue in South Richmond Hill, Queens, as “Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Marg Way.” The move honors the Ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, who is revered across the world for his unparalleled sacrifice to uphold the right to freedom of religion and human dignity.
The announcement marks a major recognition of Sikh identity and values in one of the world’s most diverse cities. The location of the newly named street — in the heart of South Richmond Hill — carries special significance, as the area is home to thousands of Sikh and Punjabi families and several prominent gurdwaras, including the Baba Makhan Shah Lubana Sikh Center, where the ceremony was held. The gurdwara has for decades served as a spiritual anchor for the Sikh diaspora in the United States.
The co-naming initiative was led by New York State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, the first Punjabi-American woman elected to New York State office, who has been a consistent advocate for minority communities and interfaith harmony. The proposal was unanimously approved by Community Board 9 earlier this year, reflecting broad civic support across the borough.
Unveiling the new street sign amid traditional Sikh hymns and cultural performances, Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar called the co-naming a powerful symbol of unity. “Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji stood for justice, truth, and the protection of all faiths. His message transcends religion and time,” she said. “With this co-naming, we affirm that New York City stands with those values — equality, compassion, and the courage to defend what is right. To our Sikh family, we say: we see you, we honor you, and we celebrate you.”
The ceremony drew hundreds of attendees, including city officials, community elders, interfaith leaders, and young Sikh Americans who came together in colorful turbans and traditional attire to witness what many described as a “once-in-a-generation” moment. For many in attendance, the new “Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Way” was more than a civic gesture — it was a profound acknowledgment of the Sikh community’s contribution to the cultural and moral fabric of New York City.
This is a matter of great pride, not just for Sikhs, but for everyone who believes in humanity,” said one community leader from the Baba Makhan Shah Lubana Sikh Center. “Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji gave his life so that others could live freely. His sacrifice was not limited to one faith — it was a stand for universal human rights. To see his name on a New York street is deeply moving.”
The timing of the dedication carries special meaning. The street naming comes ahead of the 350th anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom, which will be observed on November 23 this year by Sikhs across the world. The ninth Guru was executed in 1675 in Delhi after refusing to renounce his faith and opposing forced conversions under Mughal rule. His martyrdom is considered one of history’s most selfless acts of resistance against tyranny — a defining moment that established the Sikh faith’s commitment to protecting the oppressed, regardless of religion.
Historians often describe Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji as the “Hind Di Chadar” — the Shield of India — for his defense of religious freedom. His teachings of courage, humility, and compassion are immortalized in Sikh scripture and continue to inspire millions globally.
"The addition of “Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Way” to New York’s landscape is part of a growing movement in the United States to recognize Sikh contributions and values. In recent years, several American cities have hosted Sikh Awareness events, installed memorial plaques, and introduced educational programs to promote understanding of Sikh identity, which has often been misunderstood or overlooked in mainstream narratives", said Harbhajan Singh, a Chandigarh-based Historian.
For South Richmond Hill — affectionately called “Little Punjab” — the new street sign is more than just a nameplate; it’s a symbol of visibility, belonging, and legacy. Residents say it will serve as a reminder to future generations about the importance of standing up for justice and truth, no matter the cost.
“This street will now carry a story,” said a young Sikh Anshpreet. “When people walk past ‘Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Way,’ they’ll see more than a name — they’ll see a message. A message that faith, freedom, and courage still matter.”
