New Delhi, April 4 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the occasion of Parkash Purab on Tuesday, paid homage to Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, calling him a “towering spiritual great of our civilisation”, and expressed hope that his message guides people in creating a “compassionate and harmonious society”.

Guru Tegh Bahadur was the ninth of ten gurus who founded the Sikh religion and is remembered as “Hind ki Chadar” for protecting Hindus’ religious rights, particularly opposing the forced conversions of Kashmiri Pandits. He was executed in 1675 by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, “On the sacred occasion of the Parkash Purab of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, I offer my respectful homage to a towering spiritual great of our civilisation. His life was a radiant example of fearlessness, sacrifice and deep concern for humanity.”

“He stood firm in defence of truth, dignity and faith, even in the face of grave adversity. May his eternal message guide us in creating a just, compassionate and harmonious society,” the Prime Minister added.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, taking to X, paid homage to the ninth Sikh Guru.

“Guru Teg Bahadur Ji, who made the supreme sacrifice to protect Indian culture and humanity, deemed it appropriate to give up his life rather than renounce his faith. By standing firm against the injustice and tyranny of cruel rulers, he set an example of compassion and empathy. Recalling the life story of Guru Sahib fills the heart with pride,” he said.

Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda also took to social media and paid tributes to Guru Tegh Bahadur on Prakash Purab, calling him a “symbol of indomitable courage and religious devotion”.

“Guru Shri Teg Bahadur Ji sacrificed his life for the protection of faith, humanity, and religious freedom. His great philosophy of life is replete with unparalleled examples of courage and religious freedom,” Nadda posted on X.

“The teachings of Guru Teg Bahadur, the upholder of religious harmony and the symbol of love, sacrifice, and martyrdom, will always continue to guide us,” he added.

In a post on X, Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri said, “I join members of the Sikh Sangat in paying obeisance to Hind di Chadar, the great poet, thinker & warrior, our 9th Sikh Guru Sahib Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji on his divine Parkash Purab.”

The day is celebrated by Sikhs worldwide with great fervour, including Nagar Kirtan (processions), shabad kirtan, special congregations at Gurdwaras (like Sis Ganj Sahib), and community kitchen (langar).

–IANS

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