Exhibition on rare relics of Guru Teg Bahadur opens in Delhi

An exhibition showcasing rare relics associated with the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Teg Bahadur, was inaugurated in the national capital on Tuesday to mark the 68th death anniversary of revered Sikh poet and scholar Bhai Vir Singh.

Born on December 5, 1872, in Amritsar, Bhai Vir Singh was a towering figure in Sikh religious and literary circles. A multifaceted personality, he played a pivotal role in the Sikh renaissance, making lasting contributions to the preservation and promotion of Sikh heritage, literature, education and culture.

To commemorate his legacy, a Bhog Sehaj Paath and kirtan were held at the Bhai Vir Singh Sahitya Sadan in New Delhi. During the event, Punjab Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan released new publications of the House, including books on the Akali movement and biographies of the Sikh Gurus, under the “Navi Paneeri (new generation)” series.

The event was also attended by Gursharan Kaur, wife of late Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh. She unveiled a special commemorative issue of Khalsa Samachar and presented the first copy to Bhai Vir Singh’s descendants — Dr Punita Kaur and Bibi Kanchan.

A major highlight of the day was the display of sacred relics belonging to Guru Teg Bahadur, carefully preserved by the family of Bhai Boota Singh, a descendant of Guru Sahib’s devoted follower, Bhai Roop Chand. The exhibition drew large crowds and was received with deep reverence and enthusiasm by devotees.

Addressing the gathering, Speaker Sandhwan paid glowing tributes to Bhai Vir Singh, referring to him as an “eternal writer”. He said, “At a time when the nation was grappling with decline, Bhai Sahib rekindled hope and identity through his powerful writings, noble initiatives and the establishment of institutions.”

He also commended the efforts of the Bhai Vir Singh Sahitya Sadan for promoting the poet-scholar’s literary works and urged the youth to reconnect with Bhai Vir Singh’s writings, which continue to inspire generations.