Guru Tegh Bahadur: Guardian of religious freedom

Guru Tegh Bahadur holds a unique and honoured place in world history as a symbol of spiritual strength and defender of human rights. His martyrdom in 1675 was not just an event in history — it became a turning point in humanity’s fight for freedom of worship for all.

Born in 1621 as the youngest son of the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib, and Mata Nanki in Amritsar, he showed humility, courage, and deep spiritual wisdom from an early age.

When Guru Tegh Bahadur assumed Guruship, India was facing Aurangzeb’s harsh and intolerant rule. Hindus were being forced to convert to Islam. Disturbed by this persecution, a group of Kashmiri Pandits led by Pandit Kirpa Ram came to Anandpur Sahib, seeking Guru Sahib's protection as their tilak and janeu were under threat.

To save their honour, the Guru told them to deliver a message to the emperor: “If Guru Tegh Bahadur abandons his faith, then we too shall accept Islam.”

This extraordinary declaration reflected his profound moral courage and conviction that no one should ever be forced to change their religion. He taught that even when our ways of worship differ, it is our duty to protect the freedom of others’ faith. These principles embody the core values of Sikhism — equality, justice, and respect for all humanity.

Holding fast to his principles, Guru Tegh Bahadur set out for Delhi, aware of the dangers ahead. He and his three devoted Sikhs-Bhai Mati Das, Bhai Sati Das, and Bhai Dayal Das-were arrested, tortured and tempted with riches to convert, but they remained firm.

The torture was horrific. Bhai Mati Das was cut alive with a saw, Bhai Sati Das was wrapped in cotton and burnt, and Bhai Dayal Das was boiled in a cauldron. Yet, the Guru did not abandon his principles. Finally, Guru Tegh Bahadur was beheaded at Chandni Chowk, Delhi.

The message of this sacrifice was powerful. He did not give his life to prove one religion superior to another, but to defend everyone’s right to practice their faith freely. Poet Senapati wrote in Gur Sobha: “Pragat bhae Guru Tegh Bahadur, sagal srist pe dhapi chadar”, likening him to a protective canopy for the whole world.

His martyrdom inspired Guru Gobind Singh to create the Khalsa, a community rooted in courage, justice, compassion and service.

Centuries before human rights and religious freedom became a global concern, Guru Tegh Bahadur had already demonstrated them through his sacrifice.

As we observe the 350th anniversary of his martyrdom, in a world still filled with intolerance and conflict, his fearless spirit still inspires millions to stand against injustice and honour the rights and dignity of others.

Also read: 350 years of the Guru Tegh Bahadur’s martyrdom

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