Anandpur Sahib, November 24, 2025 — In what officials described as an unprecedented gathering, religious representatives from across the world assembled in Anandpur Sahib on Sunday to jointly commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal attended the all-religion conference alongside spiritual leaders from several faith traditions, paying tribute to the Sikh Guru known as Hind Di Chadar.
Kejriwal told the gathering that Guru Tegh Bahadur’s martyrdom represented a singular chapter in world history. “There is no example anywhere of someone giving their life to defend another religion,” he said, noting that “many sacrificed for their own belief, but Guru Sahib did it for the freedom of others’ faith.” He said religious leaders visiting Punjab together “is deeply meaningful” and reflects the Guru’s universal legacy.
Organisers said the event was planned as a collective homage, wherein leaders bowed together before the Guru Granth Sahib. The state government reported that the conference sought to reinforce the message of shared humanitarian values. Kejriwal said the teachings of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji conveyed compassion, coexistence and the principle that “every religion is supreme.”
Kejriwal added that the Punjab government had begun development work in 142 villages associated with the Guru’s life and travels. “Funds are being provided so that prosperity reaches every place sanctified by Guru Sahib,” he said, noting that the effort would preserve historical memory of his footsteps.
Addressing the audience, Chief Minister Mann said Punjab had a heritage shaped by saints, mystics and martyrs, and the government was “committed to maintaining harmony and goodwill” across the state. Mann said the sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib was “unmatched,” describing it as a decision taken for the protection of religious freedom for others.
Mann later announced that the commemorations would extend beyond a single function. He said the government would hold yearlong events and continue them in subsequent years, adding that major observances will take place annually so that “future generations learn about this sacrifice.” He added that changes will be introduced in school curriculum to ensure students learn about Guru Sahib and other martyrs.
According to officials, extensive arrangements were made for pilgrims, including the deployment of 700 free e-rickshaws, 20 minibuses, a temporary tent city and expanded parking. A Nagar Kirtan that began from Srinagar is scheduled to reach Anandpur Sahib after travelling through Pathankot and Hoshiarpur, the government said.
Concluding his address, Kejriwal urged attendees to follow the Guru’s teachings: “If we truly wish to honor Guru Sahib, we must create a society with respect for every religion.” He said the Guru’s message of brotherhood was urgent in the present era.
Officials said the gathering was intended not merely as a ceremonial tribute but as a call for collective responsibility to preserve peace and unity at a time of heightened global divisions.
