Why Was a Road in New York City Renamed Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Marg?
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Synopsis
A significant road in New York City has been renamed Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Marg, celebrating the legacy of the ninth Sikh guru. This honor reflects the contributions of the Sikh community in Richmond Hill and highlights their role in the cultural diversity of the city.
Key Takeaways
- Renaming celebrates Sikh heritage
- Highlights contributions of the Sikh community
- Guru Tegh Bahadur known for his human rights advocacy
- Richmond Hill is a vibrant Sikh community
- Gurdwara Makhan Shah Lubana is a historic site
New York, Oct 21 (NationPress) A section of road in New York City has been rebranded as Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Marg to pay tribute to the legacy of the ninth Sikh guru. Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri took to X on Tuesday to describe the moment as a source of pride for the Sikh community.
The Guru is recognized as the symbol of religious freedom and defender of human rights, he noted.
Reflecting on his time in this diverse metropolis as India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Puri remarked on X, “This significant recognition underscores the importance of the Sikh community in Richmond Hill and celebrates Sikh heritage's contribution to New York City’s cultural landscape.”
Lynn Schulman, the city councilwoman who proposed the resolution for the renaming, stated it honors the 9th Sikh Guru’s legacy of sacrifice, compassion, and steadfast commitment to justice.
“In a HISTORIC first, a street in NYC is named after Sikh Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Marg. The intersection of 114th St and 101st Ave in Richmond Hill, which houses Gurdwara Makhan Shah Lubana, will now be recognized as Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Marg Way to honor the 9th Sikh Guru's enduring legacy,” Schulman shared on X.
The renaming ceremony was held over the weekend, coinciding with the eve of Deepavali.
Sukhjinder Singh Nijjar, a leader within the East Coast Sikh community, expressed his approval of the renaming, viewing it as an acknowledgment by local government of Sikh heritage.
“By following the guru’s example of serving humanity, Sikhs in New York actively engage in community service, and this recognition speaks to that commitment,” Nijjar, a former official of the Sikh Cultural Society, told IANS.
The designated road is home to Gurdwara Makhan Shah Lubana, located in Richmond Hill, Queens borough of New York City.
This temple, managed by the Sikh Cultural Society, is one of the oldest gurdwaras on the US East Coast and was established in 1972 in a building that previously served as a Christian church. After a fire devastated it in 2002, it was magnificently reconstructed, making it the largest gurdwara in the eastern US.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the profound impact that the Sikh community has had on the cultural and social landscape of New York City. The renaming of this road not only honors a significant historical figure but also reinforces the importance of diversity and inclusivity in our society.
NationPress
22/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Marg?
Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Marg honors the ninth Sikh guru, known for his dedication to religious freedom and human rights.
Where is Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Marg located?
It is located at the intersection of 114th St and 101st Ave in Richmond Hill, Queens, New York City.
Who proposed the renaming of the road?
The proposal for the renaming was made by city councilwoman Lynn Schulman.
Why is this renaming important to the Sikh community?
This renaming is a recognition of the Sikh community's contributions and their heritage within New York City.
When was the renaming ceremony held?
The renaming ceremony took place over the weekend, on the eve of Deepavali.
