New Delhi, 25 November (H.S.): Government offices, schools, and colleges across Delhi will remain closed on Tuesday in observance of the 350th martyrdom day of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru. The Delhi government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has declared a public holiday to allow citizens to pay homage to the revered spiritual leader.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced the holiday, stating that Guru Tegh Bahadur's life is a symbol of enduring resistance against tyranny and injustice. She emphasized that the Guru was not only a spiritual leader for the Sikh faith but also a guardian of humanity who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect religious freedom.

A Legacy of Sacrifice

Guru Tegh Bahadur was executed in Delhi's Chandni Chowk in 1675 under the orders of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. He is honored as 'Hind di Chadar' or the Protector of India for his courageous stand against the forced religious conversion of Kashmiri Pandits. His sacrifice is remembered as a pivotal moment in the defense of human dignity and the freedom of conscience.

Regional Commemorations

The observance of Guru Tegh Bahadur's martyrdom is not limited to the capital. Neighboring states, including Punjab and Haryana, also marked the solemn occasion, with schools remaining closed on November 24 to honor the Guru's memory.

The Delhi government has organized large-scale commemorative events at the Red Fort from November 23 to 25, including a light-and-sound show and kirtan darbars.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar