Uttar Pradesh Declares November 25 a Public Holiday to Commemorate Guru Tegh Bahadur’s 350th Martyrdom Anniversary

Lucknow, Nov 23, 2025 The Uttar Pradesh government has announced November 25 as a public holiday to mark the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru. This declaration applies to all state government offices, schools, and educational institutions, allowing citizens to participate in commemorative events and learn about the Guru’s life and teachings. Guru Tegh Bahadur is remembered for his extraordinary courage and sacrifice in defending religious freedom and protecting oppressed communities during the 17th century. In 1675, he was executed by the Mughal rulers for refusing to convert under pressure, an act that has since been celebrated as a defining moment in India’s history of religious tolerance and civil liberties. Revered as “Hind di Chadar,” Guru Tegh Bahadur is honoured for upholding the right to freedom of belief and safeguarding the dignity of all communities. The state government said the holiday is intended to raise awareness about the Guru’s teachings on compassion, equality, and moral courage. Across Uttar Pradesh, cultural and religious programs are planned in gurdwaras and public venues. Communities will organise prayers, processions, and discourses to highlight Guru Tegh Bahadur’s contributions and inspire people to reflect on his legacy. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath participated in a program in Lucknow to honour the Guru, calling his life an inspiration for all. He praised Guru Tegh Bahadur’s commitment to service, protection of religion, and promotion of human values, saying that his sacrifice continues to motivate citizens to pursue moral courage and social responsibility. CM Yogi highlighted that the history of Sikh Gurus is “written in golden letters,” offering lessons that remain relevant today. Sikhs across India observe Guru Tegh Bahadur’s Martyrdom Day with special prayers in gurdwaras, and this year’s 350th anniversary is expected to attract widespread participation. The government emphasized that the holiday will give people an opportunity to remember the Guru’s role in defending human dignity and fostering religious harmony, while also encouraging reflection on his teachings for contemporary society. The commemoration not only honours a key figure in Sikh history but also reinforces the values of tolerance, bravery, and justice that Guru Tegh Bahadur stood for. With public offices closed, citizens will have the chance to attend events, participate in spiritual gatherings, and engage with the historical significance of his life and sacrifice. This observance is seen as a way to inspire both young and older generations to uphold the principles of equality, compassion, and courage in their daily lives. Uttar Pradesh Declares November 25 a Public Holiday to Commemorate Guru Tegh Bahadur’s 350th Martyrdom Anniversary Uttar Pradesh will observe November 25 as a public holiday to mark the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru. This day will be observed in all state government offices, schools, and educational institutions, allowing citizens to participate in commemorative events and reflect on the Guru’s life and teachings. Guru Tegh Bahadur is remembered for his courage and sacrifice in defending religious freedom and protecting oppressed communities during the 17th century. In 1675, he was executed by the Mughal rulers for refusing to convert under pressure, earning him the title “Hind di Chadar” for upholding human dignity and civil liberties. His life continues to inspire people with values of compassion, equality, and moral courage. Cultural and religious programs will be held in gurdwaras and public venues across the state, including prayers, processions, and discourses highlighting the Guru’s contributions. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath praised Guru Tegh Bahadur’s unwavering commitment to service and righteousness, saying his history is “written in golden letters” and continues to motivate citizens. This 350th anniversary is an opportunity for wider participation, helping people understand the Guru’s role in defending human dignity, promoting religious harmony, and inspiring generations to live with courage and compassion.