Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday paid tribute to Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at a ceremony marking the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of the ninth Sikh Guru in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra. The event was attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar, along with other dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, HM Shah said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had decided to commemorate the 350th Shaheedi Diwas at the national level, calling it a matter of great fortune for the country. He lauded the Maharashtra government for organising programmes across the state to familiarise youth with the life and teachings of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
HM Shah described the Guru’s martyrdom in 1675 as a defining moment in Indian history, stating that his sacrifice to protect faith and culture continues to inspire generations. He said Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji stood as a shield against oppression and defended the rights of Kashmiri Pandits facing persecution during the Mughal era.
The Home Minister said the Sikh tradition is rooted in unity, brotherhood, inclusivity and bravery, values enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib. He highlighted that the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, included the hymns of several saints such as Namdev, Narsinh Mehta, Kabir and Ravidas in the holy scripture, reflecting the inclusive spirit of the faith.
Referring to the teachings of Guru Nanak, HM Shah said the principles of “Naam Japo, Kirat Karo, and Vand Chhako” laid the foundation for a society based on devotion, honest labour and sharing. He noted that this tradition later evolved into the institution of langar, which strengthened communities during difficult times.
HM Shah said that from Guru Nanak Dev Ji to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, each of the ten Gurus contributed in unique ways to strengthen society and safeguard faith. He outlined their roles in promoting education, social harmony, equality, institutional development and resistance to oppression, culminating in the establishment of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
The Union Minister emphasised the deep historical ties between Maharashtra and Punjab, noting that the land of Maharashtra holds special significance in Sikh history. He said the legacy of the ten Gurus is not only an inspiration for India but for the entire world.
Calling upon citizens to draw inspiration from the Gurus’ lives, HM Shah urged unity and collective resolve to preserve cultural and spiritual values.
