SGPC will invite President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and CJI Gavai to attend the 350th martyrdom anniversary events of Guru Tegh Bahadur. Religious leaders’ suggestions will shape the upcoming programmes.
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) held a coordination meeting on Sunday to organize events marking the 350th martyrdom anniversary of the ninth Sikh guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur.
During the meeting, the committee decided to extend invitations to significant national and international dignitaries.
Including the President, Prime Minister, Union Home Minister, Lok Sabha Speaker, Chief Justice of India, chief ministers from various states, as well as Sikh MPs and MLAs.
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SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami informed the media,
“Many religious leaders and scholars shared their views during the meeting. Their suggestions will be included in the upcoming programmes. SGPC delegations will personally visit dignitaries and also send them formal invitations.”
He further noted,
“SGPC requests the central and the state governments to hold special sessions in honour of the martyrdom anniversary. Universities and academic institutions will organise seminars on Guru Tegh Bahadur’s life and contributions. SGPC will also publish literature about the Guru in various Indian languages.”
He added that “this year’s SGPC religious examination will be based on Guru Tegh Bahadur’s life,” and mentioned that “special programmes will be held in schools and colleges. A commemorative coffee table book will be released, and short videos will be circulated through social media.”
Additionally, the SGPC plans to establish an academic chair in honor of Guru Tegh Bahadur at Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University in Fatehgarh Sahib, and an interfaith conference will be organized to encourage dialogue among various religious groups.
Regarding the nagar kirtans, Dhami stated,
“A main nagar kirtan will start from Assam and pass through several regions of the country before concluding at Sri Anandpur Sahib on November 23. Other nagar kirtans will begin from Kashmir and Delhi, also ending at Anandpur Sahib.”
The primary event on November 25 will feature Sikh preachers, ragis, and both national and international guests. Events will also honor Guru Tegh Bahadur’s companions in martyrdom Bhai Mati Das, Bhai Sati Das, Bhai Dyala, and Baba Jeevan Singh.
Furthermore, the SGPC will celebrate the 350th Gurta Gaddi Diwas of Guru Gobind Singh.
Dhami concluded by saying,
“We will appeal to the central government to release Bandi Singhs as part of a tribute to Guru Sahib’s sacrifice. We will intensify efforts to seek justice and ensure their release.”