Anandpur Sahib/Chandigarh, November 23, 2025 — Marking the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, Punjab has launched three days of commemorations at Anandpur Sahib in what officials describe as a large-scale collective effort involving the government, police, and volunteers.
Senior state functionaries, including cabinet ministers and MLAs, are participating in the ceremonies as sevadars rather than as officeholders, according to the government. Four Nagar Kirtans, which began on November 19, form the center of the commemorations, passing through Jammu, Pathankot and Hoshiarpur before reaching Anandpur Sahib on November 22. “Public representatives have chosen to serve with humility,” an official noted, adding that the approach is intended to reflect the teachings of Guru Tegh Bahadur.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal joined the Nagar Kirtan in Srinagar, along with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The state said all cabinet ministers have been assigned duties throughout the procession route and at the main venue.
Police officials say nearly 10,000 personnel are on duty for the event. Special DGP Arpit Shukla is overseeing the deployment, while DGP Gaurav Yadav inspected arrangements at Anandpur Sahib. According to the police, the strategy includes AI-equipped cameras, drones, facial-recognition systems, and constant monitoring. Officers have been instructed to support devotees directly. “They must uphold professionalism, empathy and devotion,” Yadav said.
Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains introduced the dedicated digital platform AnandpurSahib350.com and its mobile app to coordinate services such as transport, health care support, and information access. The state also announced 65 mini buses, 500 e-rickshaws, 19 clinics and free medicines for attendees. “This platform symbolizes our commitment to ‘Sarbat da Bhala’,” Bains stated.
The commemorations open with Akhand Path Sahib on November 23 and will include an interfaith conference, a heritage walk, cultural programs and a drone show. The Punjab Assembly will convene a special session on November 24, which officials say will be the first of its kind to honor Guru Tegh Bahadur.
The Chief Minister approved ₹71 crore for 142 villages and towns associated with the Guru. Officials said this support is intended to strengthen development linked to his legacy. Party members have been asked to treat the event as a personal responsibility rather than a political exercise.
