The Life and Legacy of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur

The Early Years

Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur Ji, the ninth Guru of the Sikhs, was born on April 1, 1621, to Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and Mata Nanaki Ji and was named Tyag Mal (Master of Renunciation). His father, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, was the sixth Sikh Guru and a revered spiritual leader who had transformed Sikhism into a martial tradition. Mata Nanaki played a crucial role in instilling moral and ethical values in him during his formative years. From a young age, he displayed exceptional wisdom and spiritual insight, which set him apart from his peers. His upbringing in a family deeply rooted in Sikh traditions laid the foundation for his future role as a spiritual leader.

At only 13 years old, he asked his father to accompany him into battle as his village was attacked by Painde Khan and the Mughals in a battle over Shah Jahan's hawk. During the battle he had weighed into the enemies with abandon, slashing his sword right and left.

After the battle was won, (the Battle of Kartarpur) the victorious Sikhs returned home and honored their new hero with a new 'warriors' name. And so Tyag Mal Ji was renamed Tegh Bahadur Ji (lit. Brave sword wielder or Best sword wielder). (Tegh = wielder of the sword. Bahadur (originally meaning brave was by that time being also used as a superlative meaning better or best)

Becoming the 9th Guru

In March 1664, Sri Guru Har Krishan Ji contracted smallpox. When his followers asked who would lead them after him, he said, "Baba Bakala", meaning his successor was to be found in Bakala. Taking advantage of the ambiguity in the words of the dying guru, many installed themselves in Bakala, claiming to be the new guru. A man called Makhan Shah was appointed to find "Baba Bakala" and was about to leave the village when a child told him of yet another holy man meditating nearby in an underground room. Makhan Shah bowed and gave 2 gold pieces and turned to leave. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji said: “Why have you broken your promise? When you prayed to God to save you and your ship from the terrible storm you promised 500 gold pieces to the Guru”. Makhan Shah was overjoyed, he gave the rest of the gold as promised and ran to the roof shouting ""Guru ladho re, Guru ladho re"" - “The True Guru has been found, O Sikhs come seek his blessing”.

Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur Ji was anointed as the ninth Guru of the Sikhs in 1664. His ascension to this revered position marked a significant turning point in Sikh history and introduced a new era of spiritual guidance.

The Founding of Anandpur

Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur Ji established the city of Anandpur Sahib, which would become a spiritual and cultural hub for the Sikh community. Under his guidance, Anandpur Sahib flourished, attracting devotees from all walks of life. The Guru's vision for Anandpur Sahib was not only to create a physical space but also to foster a sense of unity, equality, and spiritual growth among his followers.

Raising Guru Gobind Singh Ji

Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur Ji married Mata Gujri in Kartapur in 1632. In 1666 on the 5th of January their son was born whom they named Gobind Das. Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji played a vital role in the upbringing of his son, who later became our tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji. He instilled in Guru Gobind Singh Ji the values of courage, compassion, and righteousness, preparing him for the challenges that lay ahead.

The Ultimate Sacrifice

Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur Ji's unwavering commitment to religious freedom and justice led him to make the ultimate sacrifice. In response to the religious persecution faced by the Kashmiri Pandits, he selflessly offered himself to protect their right to practice their faith. Despite facing immense torture and hardship, he remained steadfast in his beliefs, ultimately giving his life for the cause of religious freedom.

A Lasting Legacy

Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur's sacrifice continues to inspire millions around the world. His teachings of tolerance, compassion, and equality resonate deeply with Sikhs and people of all faiths. His martyrdom serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up for one's beliefs and fighting for justice, even in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadhur's life was marked by his unwavering commitment to spirituality, justice, and the well-being of humanity. His legacy as the ninth Guru of the Sikhs, the founder of Anandpur Sahib, and the father of Guru Gobind Singh Ji is a testament to his profound impact on Sikhism and the world at large.