Festivals and celebrationsSouth AsiaSikh
Shaheedi Diwas of Guru Tegh Bahadur
A Sikh memorial day honouring the ninth Guru who gave his life for religious freedom.
Shaheedi Diwas is an annual Sikh observance marking the death anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur in 1674. The ninth Guru was executed by order of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb after he sacrificed himself to protect the right of others to practice their faith. Communities across India and beyond remember this act of supreme courage through prayer and public processions.
When is Shaheedi Diwas of Guru Tegh Bahadur kept?
Shaheedi Diwas of Guru Tegh Bahadur is kept every year on 24 November.
Shaheedi Diwas is a solemn Sikh memorial day held annually to honour the ninth Guru, Tegh Bahadur. He was executed in 1674 by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb for defending the religious rights of oppressed communities. Sikhs observe this day to remember his sacrifice and commitment to justice.
The Guru's sacrifice
Guru Tegh Bahadur stands as a symbol of resistance against forced conversion. Historical records state that he was arrested and tortured by the Mughal authorities for refusing to abandon his principles. He ultimately gave his life to ensure that people could follow their own beliefs without fear. This act of defiance is central to the Sikh understanding of moral duty and protection of the vulnerable.
How the day is kept
Observances begin with Nagar Kirtans, which are public processions where hymns are sung while moving through streets. Devotees also gather for Akhand Paths, continuous readings of the holy scripture that last throughout the night. Gurdwaras, the places of worship, are decorated with lights to create an atmosphere of reverence. These practices allow the community to come together in shared remembrance and spiritual reflection.
Recognition and history
The Government of India officially recognizes this day as a public holiday in certain states and territories. It serves as a formal acknowledgment of the Guru's contribution to the nation's values of tolerance. In 2025, the world marked the 350th anniversary of his martyrdom, highlighting the enduring relevance of his message. The day connects modern Sikhs with a history of principled stand taken centuries ago.
How Shaheedi Diwas of Guru Tegh Bahadur is kept
Sikhs participate in Nagar Kirtans, singing hymns in procession through local streets. They attend Akhand Paths, uninterrupted readings of the Guru Granth Sahib that continue through the night. Gurdwaras are illuminated with lights, creating spaces for communal prayer and reflection on the Guru's final stand.
When and where
It falls on 24 November every year. The date is fixed in the Gregorian calendar for annual observance.
It is primarily observed in India, where it is recognized as a public holiday in some regions. The tradition is kept by Sikh communities worldwide who honour the Guru's legacy.
What Shaheedi Diwas of Guru Tegh Bahadur means
The day symbolizes the ultimate price paid for religious freedom. It represents the belief that protecting the rights of others is a sacred duty. The lighted gurdwaras signify hope and the enduring nature of truth against oppression.
Questions people ask about Shaheedi Diwas of Guru Tegh Bahadur
When is Shaheedi Diwas of Guru Tegh Bahadur kept?
Shaheedi Diwas of Guru Tegh Bahadur is kept every year on 24 November.
What is Shaheedi Diwas?
It is a Sikh memorial day marking the death anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Guru, who was executed in 1674 for defending religious freedom.
Why is it important?
It honours the Guru's sacrifice to protect the right of all people to practice their own religion without fear or coercion from rulers.
See also
DiwaliA five-day festival of lights celebrated across India and its diaspora to mark the victory of light over darkness.
HoliA spring festival of colours and bonfires that marks the end of winter and the triumph of good over evil.
Sindur KhelaA Bengali Hindu ritual where married women apply vermilion to each other on Vijayadashami.
Water lanternSmall lamps floated on water to honour the dead and ask for good fortuneGood reading and sources
The facts on this page come from the Wikipedia article "Shaheedi Diwas of Guru Tegh Bahadur", written by its contributors and used under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). EveryParampara rewrote the text in its own words, with AI assistance, and compares every page with the article to make sure no passage is copied. It may be reused under the same CC BY-SA 4.0 licence with a link back.
It may contain mistakes. Traditions differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-13.
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