Introduction
The execution of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Guru of Sikhism, on 24 November 1675, at Chandni Chowk in Delhi, stands as one of the most extraordinary acts of self-sacrifice for religious freedom in world history. His martyrdom irreversibly altered the Sikh community’s identity and became a defining moment for the defense of the right to religious practice, not only for Sikhs but for all faiths in India.
Historical Background
By the late 17th century, the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb had intensified policies of religious persecution and efforts to forcibly convert non-Muslims, especially Hindus, to Islam. In Kashmir, Hindu Brahmins (Pandits), threatened by mass conversion and violence, sought protection and guidance. In May 1675, led by Pandit Kirpa Ram, they turned to Guru Tegh Bahadur at Anandpur Sahib (Punjab), appealing for his intervention.
Guru Tegh Bahadur promised to stand as a shield for their faith. He told the Pandits to declare to the emperor that they would accept Islam only if the Guru first converted—a direct and peaceful challenge to Aurangzeb’s authority.
Events Leading to Martyrdom
Determined to protect the right to religious freedom, Guru Tegh Bahadur, accompanied by key followers, set out for Delhi in July 1675. He was arrested en route at Ropar, first imprisoned at Sirhind, then transferred to Delhi, where he was brought before Aurangzeb and the imperial court.
Aurangzeb demanded that Guru Tegh Bahadur either:
- Convert to Islam,
- Perform a miracle to prove divine status,
- Or face death.
Guru Tegh Bahadur resolutely refused to renounce his faith, perform any miracles, or submit to imperial power, maintaining that true spirituality lies in accepting the Divine Will without fear or compromise.
The Execution
To frighten the Guru and his followers into submission, Aurangzeb ordered the torture and killing of his closest companions before him:
- Bhai Mati Das: Sawn alive.
- Bhai Dayal Das: Boiled in a cauldron.
- Bhai Sati Das: Burned alive, wrapped in cotton.
Finally, Guru Tegh Bahadur was publicly beheaded at Chandni Chowk, Delhi, on 24 November 1675, for “being a stumbling block” to the emperor’s campaign of forced conversions. The spot is now marked by Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib.
Two devoted Sikhs ensured the Guru’s remains were honored: Bhai Lakhi Shah removed his body under cover of night and cremated it at his Delhi home (now Gurdwara Rakab Ganj), while Bhai Jaita carried the severed head to Anandpur Sahib to his son, Gobind Rai.
Historical Significance and Impact
- Protection of Religious Freedom: Guru Tegh Bahadur’s martyrdom is unique: He sacrificed his life to defend the faith and freedom of others, specifically to save Hindus from forced conversion—a principle celebrated across Indian and global conscience.
- Transformation of Sikhism: The tragedy deeply impacted his nine-year-old son, Guru Gobind Singh, who succeeded him as the tenth Sikh Guru. Inspired by his father’s supreme sacrifice, Guru Gobind Singh militarized the community, founding the Khalsa in 1699—a brotherhood dedicated to resisting oppression and championing justice.
- Challenge to Imperial Power: The public beheading of a revered spiritual leader in the Mughal capital galvanized resistance to Aurangzeb’s policies. It gave rallied courage to not only Sikhs but also Hindus and others under Mughal rule.
Legacy and Remembrance
- Title of “Hind-di-Chadar”: Guru Tegh Bahadur became known as the “Shield of India” (Hind-di-Chadar), celebrated for laying down his life for the spiritual rights of anyone, not just his own community.
- Commemoration: Shaheedi Divas is observed annually (24 November) by Sikhs and others in honor of his sacrifice. Gurdwaras Sis Ganj Sahib and Rakab Ganj Sahib in Delhi stand as testaments to his martyrdom.
- Cultural Echoes: His death is recounted in Sikh scriptures and remembered as a clarion call for resistance to religious coercion and for the sanctity of conscience.
Interesting Facts
- Guru Tegh Bahadur wrote profound hymns on fearlessness and devotion, included in the Guru Granth Sahib.
- He founded Anandpur Sahib, which became central to Sikh life and resistance.
- The Kashmiri Pandits’ appeal and his sacrifice are described in detail in Sikh and some Hindu traditions; in contrast, some Persian-Mughal records attempt to justify the execution on political grounds.
- His martyrdom created momentum that, within decades, led to the rise of armed Sikh power under Banda Singh Bahadur and, later, Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Conclusion
The martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur in 1675 is a pivotal chapter in Indian history—an unparalleled act of selfless defense of religious liberty and the rights of others in the face of imperial tyranny. His legacy empowered Sikhism to rise from a spiritual movement into a force for justice and inspired countless individuals—across communities—to uphold the values of freedom, sacrifice, and human dignity.
Related
What was the significance of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s sacrifice for religious freedom
How did Guru Tegh Bahadur’s martyrdom influence Sikh and Indian history
Why did Aurangzeb order Guru Tegh Bahadur’s execution in 1675
How did Guru Tegh Bahadur’s death impact Sikh identity and resistance
In what ways did Guru Tegh Bahadur’s martyrdom affect Hindu-Mughal relations
