Akhand Paath Starts Fri, 12/05 – Shri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji’s 350th Shaheedi Dihada
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!!
Please join us in commemorating the Shaheedi Gurpurab of Guru Tegh Bahadur ji. Guruji showed the world that being a Sikh meant more than defending the rights of other Sikhs, more than honoring and respecting other religions. It meant defending the rights of people of all faiths, even if that meant making the ultimate sacrifice.
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji achieved Shaheedi, the only known instance in world history where a spiritual leader gave his life to protect another community’s religious freedom.
Akhand Paath for the Gurpurab will commence on Friday, 05-Dec-2025 at 06:00 AM EST with Samapti on Sunday, 07-Dec-2025 around 08:00 AM EST. This will be followed by regular Sunday Diwan and kirtan by Bhai Surinder Singh Ji and jatha. So, please join for paath (prayer) sewa or paath listening sewa.
Akhand Paath:
Paath Start Date: 05-Dec-2025, Friday, 06:00 AM onwards
Paath End Date: 07-Dec-2025, Sunday around 08:00 AM
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji – 350th Shaheedi Dihada
Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji (1621–1675), the Ninth Guru of the Sikhs, was known as Hind di Chadar — the Shield of India. Born in Amritsar and youngest son of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji (sixth Guru of Sikhs), he embodied deep meditation, humility, and unwavering courage.
Why Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Achieved Shaheedi
In 1675, Kashmiri Pandits were forcibly pressured by the Mughal regime to convert. They sought protection from the Guru Ji. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji stood firmly for freedom of conscience, declaring that no person should be forced to abandon their faith.
He willingly offered himself to protect the right of others — even those of a different religion. Arrested in Delhi, Guru Ji witnessed the brutal torture and execution of his beloved Sikhs (Bhai Mati Das Ji, Bhai Sati Das Ji, Bhai Dayala Ji). Finally, Guru Ji was martyred publicly at Chandni Chowk.
Key Teachings of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji (with Gurbani Points)
1️⃣ Fearlessness & Freedom: Guru Ji taught that liberation begins by conquering fear.
“Bhai kahu ko det neh, neh bhai manat aan.”
He causes fear in none, and fears none. — Ang 1427
This was reflected perfectly in his Shaheedi.
2️⃣ Contentment & Detachment: Guru Ji guided humanity toward inner peace and detachment from ego and false attachments.
“Jo nar dukh mein dukh na maanai.”
One who is not affected by pain or pleasure… such a person is wise. — Ang 1427
3️⃣ Meditation & Simran: Guru Ji emphasized deep remembrance of Waheguru.
“Man tu jyot saroop hai, apnaa mool pachhaan.”
O mind, you are the very Light of the Divine; recognize your origin. — Ang 441
4️⃣ Standing for Truth & Justice: Guru Ji’s life was a message of moral clarity and sacrifice.
“Jis marne te jag dare, soee mere man aanand.”
That death which the world fears, brings bliss to my mind. — Ang 580
Showing that dying for truth is higher than living with injustice.
Essence of the 350th Shaheedi Dihada: Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji’s sacrifice is a beacon for all humanity:
• To defend the oppressed
• To protect every person’s right to worship freely
• To live fearlessly, truthfully, and spiritually
NOTE: There is ample amount of free parking on Sunday in DC next to Gurdwara Sahib and also in parking lot in basement.
We look forward to your visit along with friends and family.
Warm Regards,
Sikh Gurdwara, DC