AMAN ARORA HAILS GURU TEGH BAHADUR JI'S SUPREME SACRIFICE AS A UNIFYING FORCE FOR NATION

*•Arora rejects ‘Hindu Rashtra’ & ‘Khalistan’, chants ‘Jug Jug Jive Mera Hindustan’*

*• Punjab Govt committed to uphold Ninth Guru Sahib's message of ensuring freedom of faith, says Aman Arora*

Sri Anandpur Sahib/ Chandigarh, November 24:In a historic special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha convened to mark the 350th Martyrdom Day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, Punjab Cabinet Minister and State President of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Mr. Aman Arora, paid homage to the Ninth Guru Ji’s unparalleled sacrifice, underscoring its profound and urgent relevance for contemporary India.

While addressing the special session at Bhai Jaita Ji memorial, Mr. Arora stated, “By the grace of Guru Sahib, we gather on this sacred land of Sri Anandpur Sahib to bow our heads to commemorate his 350th Martyrdom Day. While words may fall short to encompass the philosophy and sacrifice of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, his sacrifice is the testimony in the world history where a great soul laid down his life for the protection of another faith.”

Articulating the unique nature of the Guru Sahib Ji’s martyrdom, Mr. Aman Arora noted that Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji’s unparalleled sacrifice was supreme act of unity, bridging all religions and faiths of Hindustan and became the ‘Hind di Chadar’. His devoted sikhs—Bhai Mati Das, was brutally sawn in half alive, Bhai Sati Das, was immolated alive, while, Bhai Dayala ji was boiled alive—remained unflinching in their faith.

Detailing Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government’s concrete initiatives to honour the Guru’s core message of religious freedom and interfaith harmony, Mr. Aman Arora said that the state government has consciously worked to follow the Guru Sahib’s path. This commitment is reflected in tangible allocations of Rs 25 crore for the Dera Ballan Research Centre, Rs. 35 crore for the Bhagwan Valmiki Panorama at Ram Tirath, Amritsar, Rs. 75 crore for the Kali Mata Temple complex and Rs 25 crore Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra scheme.

Mr. Arora stressed that these initiatives are not just financial allocations, but a conscious endeavour to uphold Guru Sahib's message of ensuring every individual has the unbridled freedom to practice their faith and it's the state's paramount duty to safeguard every religion and school of thought.

Highlighting the relevance of the special session as a beacon of unity, Mr. Aman Arora stated that at a time when attempts are being made across the country to divide society in the name of caste, religion and communalism—as witnessed in the tragedies of Manipur and Haryana—this session is essential. The three crore people of Punjab must send a message of harmony, secularism, peace to the 150 crore people of India on this historic occasion.

He asserted, “From this holy land, we reject ‘Hindu Rashtra’ and ‘Khalistan’, instead we chant ‘Jug Jug Jive Mera Hindustan’ (Long live my India), affirming our commitment to a united India, just as Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji envisioned and sacrificed his life for the nation's unity. This session is a homage to that spirit of unity.”

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Kavi, Dhadi and Kavishar Darbar held at Baba Budha Dal Chhawni to Commemorate 350th Martyrdom Day

Eminent Kavi, dhadi and kavishar jathas filled the congregation with devotion and enthusiasm

Sri Anandpur Sahib/ Chandigarh, November 24:As part of the ongoing series of events being held by the Punjab Government in Sri Anandpur Sahib to commemorate the 350th martyrdom day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, Bhai Mati Das Ji, Bhai Sati Das Ji and Bhai Dyala Ji, a special Kavi, Dhadi and Kavishar Darbar was organised today at the main pandal of Baba Budha Dal Chhawni. The event was held in the sacred presence of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and focused on the life, sacrifices and teachings of Guru Sahib.

The congregation was deeply inspired as eminent poets, dhadis and kavishars presented their soulful compositions. Renowned kavis Rachhpal Singh Pal, Karamjit Singh, Manjit Kaur, Zamir Ali, Shubham Mangla and Hari Singh captivated the audience with their ballads based on valour, sacrifice and spiritual wisdom.

Similarly, the dhadi and kavishar darbar witnessed powerful and emotive presentations by celebrated jathas, including Dhadi Gurpreet Singh Landran, Kavishar Gurjant Singh Banka, and Dhadi Tarsem Singh Moranwali, who filled the atmosphere with their stirring kavishari and traditional vars.

The event was attended by Deepak Bali, Advisor to the Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Punjab, Secretary Dr. Abhinav Trikha, Director Sanjeev Tewari along with several other distinguished personalities. Giani Bhagwan Singh Johal and Bhai Pritam Singh conducted the stage proceedings as stage secretaries.

The series of spiritual and cultural events will continue tomorrow, November 25, with the Atmaras Kirtan Darbar and Sarbat da Bhala programme scheduled to be held at the same venue.

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FM Harpal Singh Cheema Pays Tribute to Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at Historic Vidhan Sabha Session in Sri Anandpur Sahib

*Expresses deep concern over rising tide of hatred and erosion of democratic principles in various parts of Country*

*Also cites attempts being undertaken to undermine Punjab's agriculture, education system, and river waters, and its capital*

*Lauds Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann for honoring the legacy of Bhai Jaita Ji*

Sri Anandpur Sahib, November 24-Addressing the historic special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha convened at the Bhai Jaita Ji Memorial in Sri Anandpur Sahib, Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema paid glowing tributes to Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji on the occasion of his 350th martyrdom anniversary.

Speaking at the venue dedicated to ‘Rangretta Guru Ka Beta,’ the Finance Minister described the supreme sacrifice of the Ninth Guru as unparalleled in the history of mankind, emphasizing that Guru Sahib sacrificed his life to protect the religion and human rights of others.

In his address to the House, Advocate Cheema reflected on the unique lineage of sacrifice within the Sikh history, recalling the martyrdom of four generations starting from Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji, followed by Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Mata Gujri Ji, and the four Sahibzade. He said that he has yet to read any other history in the world where such immense sacrifices were made to preach peace, unite people, and uphold the respect of all religions. He said that the Gurus stood as a shield against tyranny, offering a message of universal brotherhood that continues to guide humanity today.

Transitioning to the current national scenario, the Finance Minister expressed deep concern over the rising tide of hatred and the erosion of democratic principles in various parts of the country. Citing references made by other speakers regarding violence in Manipur and Uttar Pradesh, he highlighted the prevalence of caste-based atrocities.

Cheema asserted that Punjab is also being systematically targeted, citing attempts to undermine the state's agriculture, education system, and river waters, alongside recent challenges to Punjab’s claim over its capital, Chandigarh. However, he affirmed that the three crore people of Punjab, following the teachings of the Gurus, remain committed to safeguarding the unity and integrity of the nation and will fight resolutely for the state's rights.

Furthermore, the Finance Minister lauded Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann for honoring the legacy of Bhai Jaita Ji not just through symbolic gestures but through legislative action. He highlighted the significance of the Punjab Law Officers Bill introduced by the AAP government, which ensures representation for marginalized communities in the High Court, a step he said had not been taken in the last 75 years. Cheema also expressed pride that the session was being held at the memorial of Bhai Jaita Ji, giving due honor to the brave warriors who stood firm with the Gurus.

Concluding his speech, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema thanked the Speaker and the Chief Minister for the historic initiative of holding the Assembly session on this sacred land. He remarked that the entire world is watching this session and witnessing the deep respect the current Punjab Government holds for the Gurus and their devoted companions, including Bhai Mati Das Ji, Bhai Sati Das Ji, and Bhai Dyala Ji.

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SPECIAL VIDHAN SABHA SESSION: HARJOT BAINS TABLES RESOLUTION HAILING GURU TEGH BAHADUR SAHIB'S SUPREME SACRIFICE

*• VIDHAN SABHA UNANIMOUSLY PASSES RESOLUTION TO PAY GLOWING HOMAGE TO THE NINTH GURU JI'S UNPARALLELED SACRIFICE*

*• NINTH GURU SAHIB JI’S MARTYRDOM DAY SHOULD BE OBSERVED AT NATIONAL LEVEL, SAYS HARJOT SINGH BAINS*

Sri Anandpur Sahib/ Chandigarh, November 24:The Punjab Legislative Assembly today witnessed a momentous and solemn special session, dedicated to commemorating the 350th Martyrdom Day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji. Punjab Education and Information & Public Relations Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains tabled an official resolution to pay glowing homage to the Ninth Guru Sahib Ji's unparalleled and supreme sacrifice for the rights and religious freedom of all people.

The resolution was passed unanimously in Punjab Vidhan Sabha. While addressing in the House, he also remembered Guru Sahib’s devoted Sikhs— Bhai Mati Das, Bhai Sati Das and Bhai Dayala Ji. He articulated the profound and enduring national significance of the Guru's martyrdom.

In a moving address, S. Harjot Singh Bains said that Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji sacrifice shaped India’s secular fabric. The very map and secular fabric of our nation would have been different if Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji had not laid down his life for the protection of religion and faith. The Guru Sahib Ji stood as an unyielding wall against the religious tyranny of that time. When the religious freedom of our Hindu brethren was under severe threat, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur ji became their shield. There is no greater example of interfaith harmony and righteous courage in world history.

S. Bains, who represents Sri Anandpur Sahib constituency, spoke with deep personal and historical reverence for the holy land. "This sacred soil of Anandpur Sahib, which Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji himself purchased and founded, naming it 'Chak Nanaki' after his revered mother, is the land from where the Guru Sahib embarked on his final journey to Delhi. It is here that the Kashmir Pandits came to the Guru Sahib with their plea for justice."

He further highlighted the unparalleled devotion shown on this land, recounting, "It is on this very soil that Bhai Jaita (Baba Jiwan Singh) brought the “Sis” of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji with utmost devotion, and where the Tenth Guru, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, embraced him, declaring, 'Rangretay Guru ke Betay'. You have brought our father's head; you have brought our sun."

Detailing the Punjab Government's extensive preparations for commemorative events to mark the 350th Martyrdom Day, S. Bains said that under the direct guidance of the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, a dedicated committee was constituted to ensure these commemorations are held with the dignity and scale they deserve. The Punjab Government meticulously planned a series of events included a special session of the Punjab Legislative Assembly, four Nagar Kirtans, Sarb Dharm Sammelan, Light & Sound Show, Drone Show and educational programs dedicated to the life and teachings of the Guru Sahib.

He elaborated on the infrastructural arrangements, including a massive three tent city, streamlined parking, a dedicated mobile application and website for Sangat visiting Sri Anandpur Sahib, and eco-friendly e-rickshaw shuttle services. "We have ensured that from earth to sky, the entire city of Sri Anandpur Sahib is prepared to honour legacy of the Guru Sahib.

S. Harjot Singh Bains, while appealing everyone to join this historic observance, stated " We are not counting the cost; we are fulfilling our duty. To truly honour Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's sacrifice is to remember His eternal message of standing for truth, justice, and the freedom of all to practice their faith. This is not just a ceremony; it is a reaffirmation of the core values that define Punjab and India."

S. Harjot Singh Bains emphasized that the sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji is a perpetual source of light that continues to inspire generations. “His martyrdom embodies the core values of bravery, compassion and an unwavering commitment to righteousness. These are the very values we strive to inculcate in our education system and our society,” he added.

The people of Punjab, irrespective of their religious affiliations, take immense pride in the rich spiritual heritage of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, The Education Minister highlighted, while urging all citizens to draw inspiration from Guru Ji’s life. “This occasion calls upon us to reaffirm our commitment to the values of secularism, universal brotherhood and human rights that Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji exemplified. Let us draw inspiration from the Guru Sahib’s teachings and pledge to work for the welfare of all people, fostering peace, tolerance and harmony within society.” He said that the Martyrdom day of Ninth Guru Sahib should be observed at national level.