Public holiday in Punjab on Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s martyrdom—Check date

The Punjab government has declared a statewide public holiday on Thursday, May 30, 2025. This is being done to commemorate Shaheedi Diwas (martyrdom day) of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Guru of the Sikhs.

All government offices, educational institutions, state colleges, and state-run schools will be closed for the martyrdom day of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. The holiday is intended to pay their respects to the Guru,’ contemplate the teachings, and reflect throughout the region of Punjab. 

Significance of the day

Guru Arjan Dev Ji is the fifth Guru of Sikhs. His unflinching belief and extraordinary courage in the face of adversity are remembered today in Sikh history. In 1606, He was the first Sikh Guru of Mughal emperor Jahangir to become martyred, suffering excessive persecution.

His sacrifice is considered to be the turning point for over the years to come, the people giving life to dying concepts of resisting injustice, ready to receive God's grace and will, and upholding beliefs peaceably and forcefully.

Observance of this festival is not merely time out of school or from work, but rather a time of contemplation for the Sikh nation and Punjabis on the teachings of Guru Arjan Dev Ji of patience, humility, self-control, and courage in the face of oppression.