The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, through its autonomous organisation, the Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre (EZCC), Kolkata, commemorated the 350th year of the martyrdom of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at the Gurudwara Playground and Gurudwara in Malda, West Bengal, on 23 June 2026. Shri R. N. Ravi, Hon'ble Governor of West Bengal and Chairman of the Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, attended the solemn observance as the Chief Guest. Office-bearers of the Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Kolkata, representatives of the Bengal Sikh Council, members of the Historical Gurudwara Bara Sikh Sangat, and senior district officials, including the District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police of Malda were also present on the occasion.
The event paid tribute to the unparalleled martyrdom of the Ninth Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, whose life continues to inspire generations with the enduring values of courage, religious freedom, justice, and humanity.
An estimated 2,000 people, including students from schools and colleges across the district, participated in the programme. Educational outreach activities and the distribution of informative literature were organised to promote awareness of Sikh history and philosophy. The programme underscored the enduring relevance of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s ideals, particularly his sacrifice in defence of freedom of conscience, religious liberty, and human dignity. His martyrdom remains one of the most significant chapters in India’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
The programme commenced with the rendition of Vande Mataram and the National Anthem, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Hon’ble Governor in the presence of Shri Ashis Kumar Giri, Director, EZCC, and other distinguished dignitaries.
As part of the programme, Hon'ble Governor also visited the Gurudwara and offered his respects before the Sri Guru Granth Sahib, joining devotees in paying homage to the Guru Sahib. He also viewed an exhibition dedicated to the life and legacy of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
The commemorative event featured insightful addresses by eminent speakers, scholars, and members of the Sikh community, who reflected on the life, teachings, supreme sacrifice, and enduring legacy of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. The speakers highlighted Guru Sahib’s unwavering commitment to protecting the freedom of conscience and upholding the principles of justice and human dignity. They observed that his supreme martyrdom remains one of the finest examples of selfless sacrifice in Indian history and continues to serve as a beacon of inspiration for fostering unity, compassion, and communal harmony.
The year-long nationwide commemoration, which was launched by the Ministry of Culture in 2025, has witnessed the participation of devotees, scholars, community leaders, and citizens from different walks of life in various programs across the country, highlighting the universal appeal of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's teachings. These events and public outreach programs reaffirm the Ministry of Culture's commitment to preserving and promoting Sri Guru Tagh Bahadur Ji’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage while honouring his teachings that continue to strengthen the nation's values of unity, harmony, and mutual respect.
