Speaking on the occasion, the Governor said that July 11 holds great importance in Sikh history. It was on this very day that Guru Tegh Bahadur departed from Sri Anandpur Sahib to offer his supreme sacrifice in Delhi for the protection of religious freedom and human dignity.
He said that Guru Tegh Bahadur’s unparalleled sacrifice not only upheld the principles of dharma and righteousness, but also safeguarded humanity at large.
When Kashmiri Pandits sought protection for their faith, it was the young Guru Gobind Rai, just nine years old, who urged his father to take a stand against oppression.
Guru Sahib responded with great courage and embraced martyrdom at Chandni Chowk, Delhi, along with his disciples Bhai Mati Das Ji, Bhai Sati Das, and Bhai Dayala.
“After Guru Sahib’s martyrdom, Bhai Jaita Ji (Baba Jiwan Singh Ji) brought Guru Sahib’s ‘Shees’ back to Sri Anandpur Sahib a moment etched forever in the ‘annals’ of spiritual valour and sacrifice,” the Governor said.
The Governor further said that commemorative events marking the anniversary will be held in November 2025 and that similar observances are taking place across various parts of the world to honour the legacy of Guru Tegh Bahadur and his companions.