In a significant move to honour one of the most revered spiritual leaders in Indian history, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann will spearhead a high-level Group of Ministers (GoM) to ensure the grand and dignified commemoration of the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji. A special meeting held at the Chief Minister’s official residence marked the formal beginning of the preparations for what is poised to be a monumental state-wide tribute to the ninth Sikh Guru’s unparalleled legacy.
Recognizing Guru Teg Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom as a landmark moment in the annals of global human rights, Chief Minister Mann underlined the unparalleled sacrifice the Guru made in defending the fundamental freedom to worship and upholding human dignity in the face of tyranny. He stated that Guru Sahib’s supreme sacrifice was not only a cornerstone of Sikh history but also a testament to India’s civilizational ethos of tolerance and pluralism. With this milestone year, the Punjab Government intends to etch that legacy deeper into the hearts of millions.
The state government, under the leadership of Bhagwant Mann, has resolved to organize an expansive series of commemorative events across Punjab. These include cultural festivals, religious gatherings, academic seminars, kirtan darbars, light and sound shows, and special publications—all designed to celebrate Guru Sahib’s life and teachings. In line with this vision, an Executive Committee chaired by the Chief Secretary will monitor the planning and execution of the events on a daily basis, ensuring seamless coordination among various departments including Sports, Higher Education, Tourism and Culture, and Information and Public Relations.
The commemorative activities will not be limited to events alone but will also see a significant focus on heritage preservation and infrastructure development. The Punjab government has identified 63 sites across various districts—such as Roopnagar, Amritsar, Sri Fatehgarh Sahib, Mansa, Bathinda, Patiala, and Sri Muktsar Sahib—that bear the sacred footprints of Guru Teg Bahadur Ji. These historically important locations will undergo a transformative facelift, with the government planning to restore, beautify and develop these sites into permanent tributes that reflect their spiritual and historical significance.
Chief Minister Mann also revealed that the Punjab government has formally requested the Government of India to contribute to these efforts by establishing a state-of-the-art convention centre in Mohali, a medical college and hospital in Sri Anandpur Sahib, and a degree college in Baba Bakala, Amritsar, all dedicated to the memory of the Guru. In addition, the state has asked for the issuance of a commemorative postal stamp to immortalize the legacy of Guru Teg Bahadur Ji at the national level.
With these multidimensional efforts, the Punjab government aims to inspire not just the Sikh community but all Indians and global citizens to reflect on the values of selflessness, secularism, and unwavering courage that defined the life of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji. As the first global proponent of human rights, his message resonates beyond borders and faiths, making this commemoration a moment of national pride.
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