Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, held a massive "Sarbat Da Bhala Ikattarta" (Gathering for the Welfare of All) to commemorate the 350th Martyrdom Anniversary of the Ninth Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji. Senior leaders addressed the congregation, paying tribute to the supreme sacrifice of the Guru Sahib ji and detailed the government's efforts to organise this historic event.
Addressing the gathering, AAP Punjab President and Cabinet Minister Aman Arora emphasised the unique and unparalleled nature of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji's martyrdom. He described the 9th Guru as "Hind Di Chadar" (Shield of India), noting the profound historical significance of a religious leader sacrificing his life to protect the faith of others.
Mr Arora recounted the unprecedented events surrounding the martyrdom, stating, "It was the first time in history a child told his father the nation needed his sacrifice; the first time a martyr walked to the executioner himself." He paid solemn tribute to the brutal sacrifices of Bhai Mati Das Ji (sawn alive), Bhai Sati Das Ji (burned alive), and Bhai Dyala Ji (boiled alive), who were martyred alongside the Guru.
He also highlighted the unique circumstance where the Guru’s Sis (revered head) and Dhar (revered body) were cremated at different locations. Aman Arora stated that the primary purpose of organizing this year-long planned event was to connect the younger generation with the Guru's philosophy, life, and supreme sacrifice.
Punjab Information and Public Relations Minister and Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said the event has been receiving global praise due to the devotion of CM Bhagwant Singh Mann and National Convener Arvind Kejriwal. Highlighting the scale of preparations, S. Bains detailed significant development works, including the painting of the holy city white,.
Besides, he said that the Heritage Street is being established. He also announced to establish a new corridor to link Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib and Gurdwara Kesgarh Sahib. Emphasising inclusivity, S. Bains said that invitations were extended to Chief Minister of every state and leaders of the parties in opposition.
Tourism Minister Tarunpreet Sondh stressed the government's commitment to the event, stating that Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann had placed "no constraint on budget" for this state-level function, allowing the tourism department to ensure the event is truly historic. Earlier, Member of Parliament Malvinder Singh Kang welcomed the attendees on behalf of AAP Supremo Arvind Kejriwal, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, and the entire AAP leadership, including cabinet ministers, MLAs, and volunteers.
He expressed gratitude to the Almighty and saints for the opportunity to bow before the Ninth Guru Sahib and his brave companions. Kang assured the Sangat that the government and party volunteers have been working diligently to ensure comfortable service for all devotees arriving to seek blessings. The leaders collectively sought blessings to continue serving the land of the Gurus under the leadership of CM Bhagwant Mann.
Jathedar Baba Balbir Singh, head of the Nihang Singh organization 96 Crore Budha Dal, Punjab Finance Minister Adv Harpal Singh Cheema, Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian, Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar, Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal, PWD Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO, Forest Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak, Revenue Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian, MP Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal, Former Cabinet Minister & AAP Spokesperson Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, Advisor Tourism Deepak Bali, were among other prominent leaders present on the occasion.