On the auspicious occasion of Parkash Purab of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid heartfelt tributes to the revered Sikh Guru, calling him one of the greatest spiritual torchbearers in India’s history. In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Shri Modi reflected on the Guru’s unparalleled courage, compassionate service, and unwavering commitment to fighting injustice.
“On the auspicious Parkash Purab of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji, I pay my humble tributes to one of the greatest spiritual torchbearers of our land. His life epitomises courage and compassionate service. He was unwavering in fighting injustice. May his teachings continue to inspire us all in building a society he envisioned.”
— Prime Minister Narendra Modi on X
Honouring the Ninth Sikh Guru
Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji, the ninth Guru of the Sikh religion, is celebrated not only by Sikhs but by all Indians as a symbol of sacrifice and righteousness. Born in 1621, he dedicated his life to defending human rights, religious freedom, and truth, even in the face of tyranny and oppression.
Parkash Purab, which marks the birth anniversary of Guru Teg Bahadur Ji, is observed with deep reverence across India and worldwide. On this sacred day, the Prime Minister’s message underlined the timeless relevance of the Guru’s values in today’s world, where compassion, tolerance, and justice remain vital for a harmonious society.
A Legacy of Spiritual Strength and Social Courage
Guru Teg Bahadur Ji’s legacy is a beacon of moral fortitude. Known as the “Hind di Chadar” (Protector of India), he made the ultimate sacrifice in 1675 to uphold the religious freedom of others, particularly the persecuted Kashmiri Pandits, standing against forced conversions during the Mughal rule.
His teachings emphasized:
- Universal Brotherhood
- Peace and Non-violence
- Service to Humanity
- Fearlessness in the Face of Injustice
Through his poetry and sermons, compiled in the Guru Granth Sahib, Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji conveyed profound messages about self-discipline, spiritual wisdom, and devotion to truth.
The Prime Minister’s Continued Emphasis on Indian Spiritual Heritage
Prime Minister Modi has consistently highlighted the contributions of Indian spiritual leaders, urging the youth to draw inspiration from their lives. His tribute to Guru Teg Bahadur Ji echoes his broader vision of reviving India’s spiritual ethos and moral consciousness.
In recent years, the government has taken steps to commemorate the contributions of Sikh Gurus, including the 400th birth anniversary of Guru Teg Bahadur Ji, marked by a grand celebration at Red Fort in 2022, which the Prime Minister himself attended and addressed.
Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji: A Timeless Inspiration
The Prime Minister’s tribute serves as a reminder that the teachings of Guru Teg Bahadur Ji transcend time, caste, and creed. In an age marked by division and strife, his message of peaceful coexistence, freedom of belief, and fearless resistance against tyranny continues to inspire generations.
Conclusion
As the nation celebrates Parkash Purab, let us reflect upon the extraordinary life and legacy of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji. His values remain ever-relevant in our collective pursuit of a more just, compassionate, and spiritually enriched society. Prime Minister Modi’s words aptly capture the sentiment of the nation — a deep reverence for a saint-warrior who laid down his life for the principles of truth and freedom.
May the divine light of Guru Teg Bahadur Ji continue to guide us on the path of righteousness, resilience, and unity.
