Introduction
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji (1621–1675) was the ninth Sikh Guru, master philosopher-poet, and champion of universal human rights. He founded the holy city of Anandpur Sahib in 1665 in the foothills of the Himalayas.
The Plea of the Kashmiri Pandits
In May 1675, a delegation of 500 Kashmiri Pandits led by Pandit Kirpa Ram arrived at Anandpur Sahib in desperation, pleading for help against forced religious conversions under Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji resolved to defend their right to practice their faith freely, stating that human conscience cannot be coerced by state power.
Supreme Sacrifice at Chandni Chowk (1675)
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was arrested alongside his close disciples: Bhai Mati Das (sawn alive), Bhai Sati Das (burned alive in cotton), and Bhai Dayala (boiled alive). Refusing to abandon his principles or convert, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was publicly beheaded at Chandni Chowk, Delhi on November 11, 1675 (site of Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib).
“Hind Di Chadar” (Shield of India)
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom is unique in world history: a spiritual master voluntarily sacrificing his life to defend the religious freedom of another community. His 115 soul-stirring hymns (Saloks) in Sri Guru Granth Sahib teach detachment, fearless courage, and sublime inner peace: “Bhai Kaahu Kau Det Neh, Neh Bhai Maanat Aan” (Frighten no one, and fear no one).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji called "Hind Di Chadar"?
He is revered as "Hind Di Chadar" (Shield of India) because he sacrificed his life to defend the fundamental religious freedom of Hindu Kashmiri Pandits.
Where did Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji attain martyrdom?
He was martyred at Chandni Chowk in Delhi in 1675, where Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib stands today.
Who founded the holy city of Anandpur Sahib?
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji founded Anandpur Sahib (originally Chakk Nanaki) in 1665.
How many hymns of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji are in Guru Granth Sahib?
There are 115 poetic hymns (Saloks and Shabads) composed by Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji included in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.