Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid homage to Guru Tegh Bahadur on the occasion of his Parkash Purab, describing him as a “towering spiritual great of our civilisation” and a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and compassion.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister 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 further added, “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.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended greetings on the occasion, remembering the Guru’s supreme sacrifice and unwavering stand against injustice.
“Guru Tegh 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,” he said.
Highlighting the Guru’s legacy, HM Shah added that “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.”
Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda called Guru Tegh Bahadur a symbol of “indomitable courage and religious devotion,” and said his teachings on faith, humanity, and religious freedom continue to inspire generations.
Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri joined the Sikh community in paying obeisance to the Guru, describing him as a great poet, thinker, and warrior.
Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth of the ten Sikh Gurus, is revered as “Hind di Chadar” for defending religious freedom and opposing forced conversions. He was executed in 1675 during the reign of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, an act remembered as one of the greatest sacrifices for the protection of faith and human rights.
The Parkash Purab is celebrated by Sikhs across the world with devotion and fervour, marked by Nagar Kirtans, shabad kirtan, special congregations at gurdwaras, and community kitchens (langar), reflecting the Guru’s teachings of equality, service, and harmony.
(With IANS inputs)
