Punjab Begins Preparations for Historic 350th Martyrdom Day
The Punjab Government has started extensive preparations to commemorate the 350th Martyrdom Day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji, the ninth Sikh Guru revered as Hind Di Chadar for his supreme sacrifice in defending religious freedom.
Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, accompanied by Cabinet Ministers Harbhajan Singh ETO and Tarunpreet Singh Sond, will lead a series of inspections from November 8 to ensure smooth coordination for the upcoming Nagar Kirtans and commemorative events across the state.
Speaking at a press conference at Punjab Bhawan, Chandigarh, Bains said, “We are ensuring that every detail — from development projects to logistical arrangements — is reviewed. Coordination between Deputy Commissioners, MLAs, and Sant Mahapurush will guarantee a smooth celebration for this historic occasion.”
The announcement followed a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, attended by senior religious leaders including Baba Balbir Singh Ji 96 Crori Wale, Baba Kashmir Singh Ji Bhuri Wale, MP Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal, and SGPC members, reflecting the spirit of collective reverence toward the Guru’s legacy.
Grand Celebrations Planned Across Delhi and Punjab
According to the government, the commemorations will begin with an Ardaas at Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib in Delhi on October 25, 2025, followed by a Kirtan Darbar at Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib the same evening. These events will mark the formal start of a series of religious, cultural, and educational programs dedicated to the life and teachings of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
All colleges and universities across Punjab — including private and aided institutions — will organise seminars, exhibitions, and lectures focusing on the Guru’s life and the sacrifices of his devoted followers Bhai Mati Das Ji, Bhai Sati Das Ji, Bhai Dayala Ji, and Bhai Jaita Ji.
Additionally, Light and Sound Shows will be hosted in all 23 districts from November 1 to 18, showcasing the Guru’s message of sacrifice and human rights. Over 130 Charan Chhoeh (sacred sites) associated with Guru Sahib will host Kirtan Darbars, with major events scheduled in Amritsar, Baba Bakala, Sri Anandpur Sahib, and Patiala.
A special beautification drive has also been initiated in these key cities to enhance infrastructure and ensure readiness before the celebrations begin.
Four Major Nagar Kirtans to Converge at Anandpur Sahib
To mark the milestone, four grand Nagar Kirtans will be held across India, symbolising the Guru’s journey and sacrifice. Each procession will culminate at Sri Anandpur Sahib — the city founded by Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji — on the evening of November 22.
- The first Nagar Kirtan will commence from Srinagar (Jammu & Kashmir) on November 19, passing through Jammu, Pathankot, and Hoshiarpur. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and prominent spiritual leaders will participate.
- The second will start from Gurdaspur, covering Batala, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Balachour, and Nurpur Bedi.
- The third will begin from Faridkot, passing through Ferozepur, Moga, Ludhiana, and Fatehgarh Sahib.
- The fourth will set out from Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, covering Bathinda, Sangrur, Patiala, and Mohali.
All processions will merge at Sri Anandpur Sahib, where the main commemorations will unfold from November 23 to 25, expected to draw over one crore devotees from across India and abroad.
Anandpur Sahib to Host Drone Show and Special Vidhan Sabha Session
The focal celebrations at Sri Anandpur Sahib will feature a unique blend of tradition and innovation. A Tent City named “Chakk Nanki” will accommodate 11,000 devotees daily between November 19 and 30.
Events will commence on November 23 with the Akhand Path Sahib at 10 a.m., followed by a Sarb Dharam Sammelan promoting interfaith harmony, an exhibition at Virasat-e-Khalsa, and the first-ever drone show depicting Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s life and supreme sacrifice.
The day will conclude with “Shahaadat Di Lo”, a torch-lighting ceremony symbolising the Guru’s immortal spirit. On November 24, the sacred Nagar Kirtan “Sis Bhet” will move from Sri Kiratpur Sahib toward Sri Anandpur Sahib.
For the first time in history, the Punjab Vidhan Sabha will hold a special session at Bhai Jaita Ji Memorial, Anandpur Sahib, to pay tribute to the Guru’s legacy. The concluding day, November 25, will include the Bhog of Akhand Path Sahib, devotional hymns by renowned Kirtaniyas, blood donation camps, and a mega plantation drive of 3.5 lakh saplings across Punjab. The Health Department will also host an organ donation pledge campaign during the event.
Celebrating the Legacy of “Hind Di Chadar”
Minister Harjot Singh Bains emphasised that these commemorations aim to honour Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s message of compassion, courage, and faith. “His martyrdom stands as an eternal symbol of religious freedom and human rights,” he said.
The 350th Martyrdom Day celebrations not only pay homage to the Guru’s supreme sacrifice but also promote his timeless teachings of equality, secularism, and humanity — values that continue to inspire millions worldwide.