Central Idea

• PM paid homage to Guru Teg Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, on his martyrdom day, highlighting his bravery, moral integrity, and teachings that foster unity and peace.
• His sacrifice, especially his defence of Kashmiri Pandits against Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s forced religious conversions in the 17th century, stands as a pivotal moment in Indian history.

Guru Teg Bahadur’s Life and Contributions

• Extensive Travels: Guru Teg Bahadur, born on April 1, 1621, was known for his extensive travels across India, akin to Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism.
• Reviving Sikh Centers: His journeys were instrumental in revitalizing Sikh centers beyond Punjab, setting the stage for the formation of the Khalsa by his son, Guru Gobind Singh, in 1699.
• Poetic Legacy: A prolific poet, Guru Teg Bahadur’s hymns are an integral part of the Guru Granth Sahib, the central religious scripture of Sikhism.
• Founder of Anandpur Sahib: He founded Anandpur Sahib in 1665, a city of great religious and historical significance for Sikhs.

Execution by Aurangzeb

• Protection of Kashmiri Pandits: In 1675, Kashmiri Pandits approached Guru Teg Bahadur for protection against Aurangzeb’s religious persecution.
• Arrest and Martyrdom: Guru Teg Bahadur was arrested and later executed in Delhi on November 24, 1675, in Chandni Chowk, for refusing to convert to Islam and standing up for religious freedom.
• Memorials in Delhi: Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib marks the place of his execution, and Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Sahib commemorates the site where his body was cremated.

Try this PYQ:

Q.Consider the following Bhakti Saints:

1. Dadu Dayal
2. Guru Nanak
3. Tyagaraja

Who among the above was/were preaching when the Lodi dynasty fell and Babur took over?

(a) 1 and 3

(b) 2 only

(c) 2 and 3

(d) 1 and 2

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