Sikh Guru's legacy of courage, sacrifice continues to inspire generations: Haryana CM
Chandigarh, May 30
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Saturday lauded the Sikh community's unparalleled contribution to the nation, saying their legacy of courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to the protection of faith continues to inspire generations and remains a matter of pride for every Indian.
Addressing a 'Dhanyawad' programme organised by the Sikh Sangat here, the Chief Minister said the Sikh community has set extraordinary examples of bravery and self-sacrifice throughout history.
"The Sikh community laid down its lives in defence of faith but never bowed before oppression. Their glorious heritage, sacrifices and valour are a source of immense pride for the entire nation," he said.
The Chief Minister said from Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, to Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh Guru, the Guru Sahiban guided humanity on the path of service, equality and courage.
He said the supreme sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur, revered as 'Hind Di Chadar', and the martyrdom of the four Sahibzadas formed an integral part of the great Guru tradition that protected the nation and upheld its spiritual and cultural values.
Highlighting the Central government's initiatives, the Chief Minister said that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi unprecedented efforts are being made to preserve and promote India's religious and cultural heritage.
He said the Union Ministry of Tourism has approved the development of the Anandpur Sahib, Fatehgarh Sahib, Chamkaur Sahib, Ferozepur, Amritsar, Khatkar Kalan, Kalanaur and Patiala heritage circuit under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme.
The Chief Minister said the inauguration of the Kartarpur Corridor, connecting Dera Baba Nanak with Kartarpur Sahib, along with the launch of dedicated air connectivity between Amritsar and Takht Sri Hazur Sahib in Nanded are among the landmark initiatives undertaken by the Central government for the Sikh community.
Paying tribute to the Sahibzadas, he said that Veer Bal Diwas is observed across the country every year on December 26 with deep reverence to honour their unparalleled sacrifice.
Reaffirming the government's commitment to the Sikh community, CM Saini said several educational institutions and infrastructure projects have been named after revered Sikh personalities and places of historical significance.
He said the upcoming medical college in Yamunanagar has been named after Guru Tegh Bahadur, while the Government Polytechnic College in Ambala has also been renamed in his honour. In addition, the Tohana-Jind-Dhamtan Sahib Road has been designated as Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Marg.
The Chief Minister further informed that the college at Assandh has been named after Baba Fateh Singh, the youngest Sahibzada of Guru Gobind Singh.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Being a Sikh myself, I feel deeply moved when such words are spoken by our leaders. The Kartarpur Corridor was indeed a landmark move by PM Modi—it connected our community with our holiest shrine. But I wish we could also focus on preserving the gurdwaras in Pakistan and ensuring Sikh pilgrims face no harassment. Still, this recognition matters a lot. Sat Sri Akal! 🚩
I'm not from India, but I've studied Sikh history deeply. The courage of the Sahibzadas—especially Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh who chose death over conversion—is unparalleled in world history. It's great to see Veer Bal Diwas being observed nationwide now. This kind of acknowledgment strengthens national unity and teaches our children true values. Well said, CM Saini!
I appreciate the CM's words, but let's be honest—these statements often come with political motives. The Sikh community has faced immense neglect in recent decades, from farm laws to drug issues in Punjab. While the heritage circuit development sounds promising, I hope it's not just another photo op. Actions speak louder than speeches. Still, credit where it's due for acknowledging our Gurus.
The line about Guru Tegh Bahadur being 'Hind Di Chadar' always gives me chills. He sacrificed his life to protect the religious freedom of Kashmiri Pandits, setting an example of interfaith harmony that India desperately needs today. I'm glad the CM highlighted this. We should teach this story in every school—not just for Sikhs, but for all Indians. #SikhPride 🇮🇳
R We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.