Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Jun 15: Maharashtra is set to commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, with a year-long series of events beginning this November. The initiative aims to celebrate his legacy of sacrifice, religious freedom, and national unity across the state.
The decision was finalized during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday. The meeting included representatives of the Sikh community and senior government officials, with prominent Sikh leader Sant Gyani Harnam Singh Khalsa, Pradahan of Sant Samaj, in attendance.
“This event is a tribute to religious tolerance and national consciousness, and it holds profound significance for the country,” said Khalsa, expressing appreciation for the government’s proactive role.
Major commemorative events are scheduled to take place in Nanded, Nagpur, and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath are expected to participate in the key gatherings, underscoring the national importance of the initiative.
Bal Malkit Singh, Convenor of the Maharashtra Sikh Association and Director of the state-level organising committee, highlighted the broader goals of the celebrations. “These events are not only about paying homage to Guru Tegh Bahadur ji, but also about spreading his message of peace, sacrifice, and communal harmony,” he said. “They will reinforce Maharashtra’s image as a beacon of cultural and religious inclusivity.”
As part of the initiative, the state government will publish a special booklet on Guru Tegh Bahadur’s life, teachings, and values. The booklet will be made available in Hindi, Punjabi, and Marathi to ensure accessibility and outreach across diverse communities, especially targeting younger generations.
CM Fadnavis emphasized that the Guru’s legacy is a source of inspiration for unity and justice. “This tribute is not just an event, but a movement to connect people with our shared values and rich history,” he said.