In a significant move to honour the unparalleled sacrifice of the ninth Sikh master Guru Teg Bahadur, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday gave his nod to a series of elaborate and state-wide commemorative events marking the 350th martyrdom day of the revered Guru. Chairing a meeting of the Group of Ministers (GoM) at his official residence, the Chief Minister emphasized the states commitment to perpetuating Guru Sahibs legacy for future generations.   Mann announced that a research chair dedicated to Guru Teg Bahadur will be established at Punjabi University, Patiala. This chair will focus on rigorous academic work exploring the life, teachings, and philosophy of Guru Sahib, he said. Additionally, the State Government will release a booklet chronicling Gurus life and another featuring his bani (sacred hymns).   A major highlight of the celebrations will be an Under-17 Football Tournament at Sri Anandpur Sahib, intended to engage the youth and spread Gurus message through sport. The Chief Minister also announced a World Peace Conference and a World Interfaith Conference to be held across the State, along with seminars in various districts to educate people about the Gurus teachings and sacrifice.   To ensure widespread participation and visibility, the departments of Sports, Higher Education, Tourism and Culture, and Information and Public Relations will jointly organize seminars, Kirtan Darbars, light and sound shows, and the publication of commemorative literature. A symbolic Yatra will also be undertaken from Jammu to Delhi via Baba Bakala and Sri Anandpur Sahib, retracing the Gurus spiritual journey and sacrifice.   The government will focus on comprehensive infrastructure development at 63 sacred locations associated with Guru Sahibs travels and teachings, said Mann, listing key districts like Roopnagar, Amritsar, Bathinda, Sangrur, and Sri Muktsar Sahib among others. These sites will be restored and beautified to reflect their historical and spiritual importance.   Highlighting the spiritual and national significance of Guru Teg Bahadur — revered as Hind Di Chadar — Mann reiterated his governments appeal to the Government of India to issue a commemorative postage stamp. Guru Sahibs sacrifice transcended religious boundaries. He gave his life not for his own faith, but to uphold the right of others to practice theirs, said Mann.   Stressing the values of religious freedom, peace, and unity, the Chief Minister called upon society to draw inspiration from the Gurus supreme sacrifice. Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji stood as a beacon of righteousness against tyranny. It is our duty to keep his legacy alive, Mann concluded.

Stay updated with all the Chandigarh Latest News headlines here. For more exclusive & live news updates from all around India, stay connected with NYOOOZ.