Sikhs Celebrate 350th Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur in Hyderabad

Gurudwaras in Hyderabad commemorated the 350th Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur on March 28, 2023, with vibrant celebrations that included a large-scale Nagar Keertan, or holy procession. This event, which highlighted the teachings and sacrifices of the Ninth Sikh Guru, showcased the rich cultural heritage and community spirit of the Sikh faith.

The Nagar Keertan commenced at Gurudwara Saheb Secunderabad and featured a beautifully adorned vehicle carrying the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Following this, participants included Nishan Sahebans, who are the religious flag-bearers, and a group of Sikh youths performing impressive Gatka, a form of traditional martial arts. The procession made its way through several key locations, including the Clock Tower, Sangeet X Roads, and Chilkalguda, before concluding at Gurudwara Saheb Sitafalmandi later in the evening.

Guru Tegh Bahadur is revered for his commitment to advocating for human dignity and religious freedom. His life and teachings were central to the celebrations, which included additional events such as Vishal Kirtan Darbars and various commemorative programs organized by the Prabandhak Committee at Gurudwara Saheb Sitafalmandi. These gatherings aimed to educate both the younger generation and the wider community about the significance of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s sacrifice.

Throughout the Nagar Keertan, attendees enjoyed Kada Prasad, tea, and snacks offered to all devotees and visitors. LED-fitted vehicles displayed visual representations of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s life and teachings, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of the event. A notable highlight was the presence of the Panj Pyaras, or the Five Beloved Ones, who donned traditional attire and added to the cultural richness of the procession.

In recognition of this significant milestone, the community organized month-long programs that included talks by international speakers, charitable activities, and discussions focused on the teachings of Guru Nanak as well as the life and martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur. These initiatives underscore the importance of faith and its relevance in contemporary society, fostering a sense of connection and understanding among participants.

The Nagar Keertan and associated events not only served as a powerful reminder of the values championed by Guru Tegh Bahadur but also strengthened community bonds through shared experiences and collective remembrance.