India Post News Service

WALNUT, CA: The 332nd Shaheedi Diwas (martyrdom) of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru was solemnly observed at Gurdwara Walnut Dec.8. A special Keertan Darbar was the main highlight of the program.Eminent Raagi jathas of Bhai Onkar Singh Oona Waale, Bhai Surinderpal Singh Patiala Waale, Bhai Pal Singh Paras Ganganagar Waale, Bhai Manmohan Singh Sewak. Jalandhar Waale, Bhai Anant Bir Singh, and Hazoori Raagi Bhai Raghbir Singh Banga regaled the large congregation by melodiously singing Shabads composed by or about Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib.

Famous Sikh scholar Bhai Bhagwan Singh Johal delivered a very informative lecture about the life and martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur. Dhadi Jatha Giani Tarlochan Singh Bhamadi sang waran about the supreme sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur.Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur was publicly slaughtered at Chandni Chowk, Delhi in 1675 under the orders of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb because he had raised his voice -against Aurangzeb's policy of forcibly converting Kashmiri Brahmins.

He confronted the Mughal emperor who in turn had him put to death.Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib in Delhi marks the spot where Guru Sahib was martyred. Gurdwara Rakabganj is where his mortal remains were consigned to the flames.Hanwantbir S. Sawhney conducted the entire program and the langar sewa was by Gurpal Singh Chadha and family.