Delhi Celebrates 350th Martyrdom Anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur

Delhi commemorated the **350th martyrdom anniversary** of **Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji** with a grand celebration, which was hailed as a significant event for the city. Chief Minister **Rekha Gupta** emphasized the immense participation of devotees from across the nation, calling the occasion a “historical festival.” Speaking to ANI on **March 24, 2024**, she stated, “This will always be remembered as a historical festival in Delhi. I thank all the devotees who came from different corners of the country. We will organise many such programmes throughout the year.”

The event was marked by an impressive turnout, with thousands gathering at the **Red Fort** in Delhi. Gupta expressed confidence that the festival would remain a cherished memory and serve as an inspiration for future commemorations.

In a heartfelt address, Minister **Manjinder Singh Sirsa** referred to the gathering as the “final day of commemoration,” labeling it a “historic and emotional moment for all of us.” He highlighted the importance of remembrance, noting that **Prime Minister Narendra Modi** paid tribute to Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji during his visit to Haryana the same day. “Today is the final day of commemoration. This is a historic and emotional moment for all of us,” Sirsa remarked to reporters.

Minister **Kapil Mishra** echoed the sentiments of gratitude and celebration, noting the overwhelming response from the public. “Lakhs of people are gathered here. The President herself was present here. We are fortunate to have had the chance to organise this. I congratulate everyone,” Mishra added.

The program, organized by the Delhi government, included the presence of **President Droupadi Murmu**, who participated alongside Chief Minister Gupta. The event aimed to honor the legacy of **Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji**, the ninth Sikh Guru, who is revered for his sacrifice in the name of freedom of belief and pluralism.

Prime Minister Modi, participating in a special program commemorating the **350th Shaheedi Diwas**, remarked, “On his 350th Shaheedi Diwas, we bow to Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. His unparalleled courage and supreme sacrifice inspire millions.” Guru Tegh Bahadur, often referred to as “Hind di Chadar,” sacrificed his life in **1675** to uphold the rights of individuals to practice their faith freely. His martyrdom is deeply woven into **India’s** socio-religious fabric, symbolizing the defense of pluralism and civil liberties.

The Delhi government emphasized that this observance serves to raise awareness of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s teachings, which promote compassion, equality, and resilience. The occasion provides an opportunity to honor and preserve the legacy of the ninth Sikh Guru while respecting the sentiments of the diverse communities in the region.

Across the country, Sikhs marked this significant day with special prayers in **Gurdwaras**, reinforcing the collective remembrance of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s enduring impact on Indian society and culture.