A Timeless Symbol of Religious Freedom, Tolerance, and Humanity: Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib

Mumbai, Jan 2026 : When reflecting on religious freedom, tolerance, and the values of humanity in Indian history, the name of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib stands with great pride. The ninth Guru of the Sikh tradition, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, was born in Amritsar in April 1621. Originally named Tyag Mal, he displayed courage, renunciation, and spiritual maturity from a young age. For his unparalleled bravery in a battle, he was conferred the title “Tegh Bahadur,” meaning “Sword of Courage.” In 1664, he ascended to the position of Sikh Guru, spreading a message of truth, compassion, restraint, and fearlessness across regions from Assam to Kashmir. His 116 hymns are included in the Guru Granth Sahib, standing timelessly as the voice of humanity.

On the 350th martyrdom anniversary, the Maharashtra government has launched a state-level initiative called “Hind Di Chadar.” The purpose of this initiative is to present the life, teachings, and sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib not merely as a religious story but as a source of social, cultural, and national inspiration accessible to all. The core values of the program include promoting religious freedom, tolerance, unity in diversity, and respect for humanity among today’s youth. The initiative involves participation from the Sikligar, Banjara, Labana, Sindhi, Mohyal, Valmiki, Bhagat Namdev, and Udasi communities, ensuring the historical legacy of the Guru reaches a broad audience. This effort seeks to ensure that this luminous chapter of history is not just remembered but imbibed in public consciousness.

Under this initiative, various programs are being organized across the state. To commemorate Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, special postal stamps and commemorative coins have been issued, helping bring his teachings into homes. Exhibitions showcasing historical weapons, documents, and cultural heritage are being held to provide a living experience of history. Schools, colleges, social organizations, and community groups are hosting educational programs, discussions, workshops, and cultural performances, allowing people to understand his philosophy rather than just hear about it.

The initiative began with a grand event in Nagpur on December 7, 2025, which received an overwhelming response from citizens. The presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, along with active participation from various communities, made it not only a religious event but also a symbol of social unity. The disciplined attendance, devotional spirit, and historical awareness established Nagpur as a key milestone in the “Hind Di Chadar” initiative.

Next, a major event is scheduled in Nanded on January 24–25, 2026, historically significant as the land of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. The two-day program will include Gurubani recitations, cultural performances, intellectual discussions, and social unity initiatives, attracting devotees, social activists, and students from Maharashtra and other states.

Finally, New Mumbai will host a grand program on February 18–19, 2026, bringing together diverse communities from the Mumbai metropolitan area and western Maharashtra. The event will emphasize the broad impact of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib’s teachings through Gurubani, kirtan, social harmony initiatives, langar, and cultural programs, effectively promoting a message of national unity.

The combined effect of these initiatives will ensure that Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib’s legacy is not confined to books but is woven into everyday life, reaching students, youth, and various sections of society. The Maharashtra government’s efforts aim to make him a timeless symbol of religious freedom, tolerance, and humanity for all Indians, honoring his supreme sacrifice in the truest sense.