Anandpur Sahib, Nov 23 (NationPress) This sacred city echoed with the chants of Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal on Sunday as thousands of devotees began gathering to kick off a three-day celebration honoring the profound sacrifice of 'Hind Di Chadar', the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur. He established this city in 1665, naming it Chak Nanaki in tribute to his mother, Mata Nanaki.

Accompanied by AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann participated in an Akhand Path at Gurdwara Sahib, close to Baba Budha Dal Chhauni.

Regarded as one of the most revered sites in Sikhism, Anandpur Sahib holds immense historical, cultural, and religious importance, playing a significant role in shaping Sikh identity and tradition.

The key events commemorating Guru Sahib's 350th martyrdom anniversary, running until November 25, include nagar kirtans (religious processions), heritage walks, a 'sarv dharm sammelan' (interfaith gathering), an exhibition on the life of Guru Tegh Bahadur at the 'Virasat-e-Khalsa' memorial, and a special one-day Vidhan Sabha session at the Bhai Jaita-ji memorial. There will also be traditional martial arts like Gatka, along with events such as tent pegging, dhal-talwar duel, shastra darshan, and sword fusion.

This marks the inaugural Assembly session held in Anandpur Sahib, the birthplace of the Khalsa and home to one of the five Takhts (seats of authority in Sikhism).

Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, Surinder Pal Singh Ahuja, Founder Director of the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Leadership Academy, stated, "Three and a half centuries ago, when fear dominated India, one divine soul emerged to safeguard the light of truth and freedom" in memory of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, honored as Hind Di Chadar, the Shield of India.

The historical backdrop dates back to 1675 when Kashmiri Pandits and the Hindu community were subjected to relentless persecution and forced religious conversion. Seeking refuge, these Pandits approached Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib-ji at Anandpur Sahib.

Responding to their plight, Guru Sahib resolved to stand for the principle of following one's faith without fear.

He urged the Pandits to challenge the then ruler, Aurangzeb, to attempt converting him to Islam.

"If they succeed in converting me, we too shall convert to Islam," Guru Sahib proclaimed.

In support of this cause, Guru Sahib traveled extensively across India, advocating for humanity and the freedom to follow one's beliefs.

During his journey, he and his followers were captured in Agra by Aurangzeb's forces. Despite threats and the torture of devotees Bhai Mati Das, Bhai Sati Das, and Bhai Dayala before him, Guru Sahib remained steadfast. When they failed to coerce his conversion, Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib was executed in November 1675 at Chandni Chowk, Delhi.

"Guru Sahib offered his head with tranquility, yet remained unyielding in spirit. He embraced martyrdom, demonstrating that truth can be tortured but never vanquished," Ahuja noted.

"Guru Teg Bahadur did not fight for a particular community or faith, but for the universal right of every individual to live with freedom of conscience. He wielded no weapons but rather confronted oppression with truth, compassion, and bravery," Ahuja remarked.

State Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, overseeing the event preparations, stated that the sacred land of Anandpur Sahib, associated with the Ninth Guru, is fully prepared to welcome devotees from around the globe with devotion and respect.

Bains asserted that the government is committed to commemorating the 350th year of Guru Sahib's ultimate martyrdom with full dedication.

Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond announced that all arrangements for the anticipated influx of devotees from November 23 to 25 have been meticulously organized to ensure a seamless experience for all attendees. Both ministers invited the global 'sangat' to visit Anandpur Sahib and pay their respects during these historic observances. They emphasized that the life and teachings of Guru Tegh Bahadur, who stood as a champion of religious freedom and human rights, embody compassion, sacrifice, and courage, serving as a guiding light for humanity.

On November 24, the Nagar Kirtan will begin at 8 a.m. from Kiratpur Sahib, proceeding to Anandpur Sahib. A Heritage Walk will commence at 10 a.m., followed by performances of kaav uccharan, dhadhi vaar, and poetry sessions inspired by Guru Sahib's life from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the main pandal.

A special Vidhan Sabha session dedicated to Guru Tegh Bahadur is scheduled for 1 p.m. at the Bhai Jaita Ji Memorial, after which martial arts displays will take place at 2 p.m. at Charan Ganga Stadium.

An additional drone show will be presented at 5 p.m. at Virasat-e-Khalsa, followed by Katha and Kirtan Darbar at 6 p.m. at the main pandal.

On November 25, the bhog ceremony of Sri Akhand Path Sahib will occur at 10 a.m. at the main pandal. A state-level blood donation and tree plantation drive will commence at 11 a.m. from Virasat-e-Khalsa, followed by a 'Sarbat Da Bhala' gathering at noon, featuring esteemed religious, social, and political figures.

The three-day festivities will conclude with a spectacular drone show at 5 p.m., continuing daily until November 29.

To accommodate the thousands of devotees, the government has made extensive arrangements.

Shuttle services will operate from all parking zones to key locations, including Gurdwara Sri Kesgarh Sahib, Virasat-e-Khalsa, the main pandal, tent cities, and help desks.

All parking areas will feature CCTV surveillance, lighting, barricades, traffic marshals, clear signage, and mobile toilet facilities. Two major tent cities have been established, providing lodging for nearly 10,000 devotees.

Round-the-clock medical services, including fully equipped ambulances, will be available. Additionally, over 8,000 police personnel will be deployed under senior officers to ensure safety, smooth movements, and convenience for all devotees visiting Anandpur Sahib during the commemorations.

(Vishal Gulati can be contacted at vishal.g@ians.in)