Context:
The Prime Minister paid tribute to Guru Tegh Bahadur on the occasion of his Parkash Purab (birth anniversary), highlighting his legacy of religious freedom and moral courage.
Key Highlights:
- About Parkash Purab
- Gurpurab marks the birth anniversary of Sikh Gurus.
- The term “Parkash” signifies the spiritual light entering the world.
- Life and Contributions of Guru Tegh Bahadur
- 9th Sikh Guru (1621–1675), born as Tyag Mal in Amritsar.
- Son of Guru Hargobind and Mata Nanki Ji.
- Earned title “Tegh Bahadur” at age 14 for bravery in Battle of Kartarpur.
- Founded Anandpur Sahib (Chak-Nanki).
- Composed 116 hymns, included in the Guru Granth Sahib.
- Ideology and Philosophy
- Advocated principle: “Fear none, frighten none”.
- Promoted religious tolerance, human rights, and moral courage.
- Martyrdom and Legacy
- Executed by Aurangzeb in Delhi for defending religious freedom of Kashmiri Brahmins.
- Known as “Hind-di-Chadar” (Protector of India).
- His martyrdom commemorated as Shaheedi Divas (24 November).
- Memorial Sites
- Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib (Delhi): Execution site
- Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Sahib (Delhi): Cremation site
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Guru Tegh Bahadur: 9th Sikh Guru; key figure in religious freedom movement
- Anandpur Sahib: Important Sikh religious centre in Punjab
- Guru Granth Sahib: Holy scripture of Sikhism
- Gurpurab: Celebration of Sikh Gurus’ birth anniversaries
Relevant Mains Points:
- Religious Freedom and Secularism:
- Guru Tegh Bahadur’s sacrifice represents defense of fundamental rights
- Aligns with constitutional values of secularism and pluralism
- Ethical and Moral Leadership:
- Emphasis on courage, tolerance, and justice
- Relevant to GS4 (Ethics)
- Historical Significance:
- Resistance against religious persecution under Mughal rule
- Strengthened Sikh identity and resistance traditions
- Nation-Building Values:
- Promotes unity in diversity
- Inspires interfaith harmony and social cohesion
- Way Forward:
- Promote awareness of India’s pluralistic traditions
- Integrate such values into education and civic discourse
- Encourage interfaith dialogue and tolerance
UPSC Relevance:
• GS 1: History, Culture
• GS 4: Ethics, Values