History of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji (Ninth Sikh Guru)

Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was the ninth Guru of the Sikhs. He was born on April 1, 1621, in Amritsar, Punjab. His father's name was Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Guru of the Sikhs. From a young age, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji showed deep interest in spirituality, meditation, and service to others.

Becoming the Guru

Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji spent many years in prayer and meditation in the town of Bakala. Before passing away, the eighth Guru, Guru Har Krishan Ji, had said that the next Guru would be found in “Baba Bakale”. Later, Bhai Makhan Shah Lubana, a Sikh trader, discovered that Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was the true Guru. He became the ninth Guru in 1664.

Travels and Preaching

Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji traveled across Punjab, Bihar, Assam, and Bengal to spread the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He taught people to live a truthful life, help others, and remember God. He also encouraged people to be brave and stand up against injustice.

Martyrdom and Sacrifice

During his time, Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb was forcing Hindus to convert to Islam. A group of Kashmiri Pandits came to Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji for help. Guru Ji decided to stand up for their right to follow their own religion, even though he himself was not Hindu.

He was arrested by Aurangzeb and taken to Delhi, where he was asked to convert to Islam. Guru Ji refused and said that no one should be forced to change their religion.

As a result, on November 24, 1675, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was publicly executed in Chandni Chowk, Delhi. He became known as “Hind Di Chadar”, meaning "Protector of India", because he gave his life to protect the religious freedom of others.

Legacy

Guru Ji’s son, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, became the tenth Guru.

The place of his execution is now the site of Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib, Delhi.

His head (Sis) was taken by Bhai Jaita Ji to Anandpur Sahib and cremated with honor.

His teachings are included in Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

Key Teachings of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji

Freedom of religion is a basic right.

Fight against injustice, even if you suffer.

Stay strong in faith, truth, and sacrifice.

Live a life of humility, compassion, and devotion.