Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday described it as a moment of profound pride for the state and the Sikh community as Punjab’s tableau at the Republic Day parade paid homage to the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Guru of Sikhism. He said the tableau offered a powerful national platform to remember a legacy rooted in sacrifice, moral courage and unwavering commitment to human dignity.
In a message shared on X, Mann said the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur, revered as “Hind Di Chadar,” stands as a timeless symbol of the defence of human rights, religious freedom and justice. He noted that the Guru’s supreme sacrifice continues to inspire people to stand firmly against injustice and oppression, and reaffirmed that the Punjab government remains committed to ensuring that the Guru’s life and ideals are understood and respected by every section of society.
Punjab’s tableau at the Republic Day parade was entirely devoted to portraying the life, values and sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur, marking 350 years since his martyrdom. It sought to honour his historic role as a protector of conscience, faith and freedom, and to highlight how his stand for religious liberty transcended boundaries of religion, region and community. The presentation emphasised that his sacrifice was not for a single group, but for the universal principle of the right to belief and human freedom.
The tractor section of the tableau featured a symbolic hand radiating a spiritual aura, representing compassion, bravery and the Guru’s deep humanitarian vision. Prominently placed at the front was the sacred inscription “Ek Onkar,” meaning “God is One,” shown in a revolving form to convey the eternal and universal truth that lies at the heart of Sikh philosophy and underpins the Guru’s teachings.
Draped across the symbolic hand was a cloth bearing the inscription “Hind Di Chadar,” reinforcing the idea of protection for those persecuted for their beliefs and underscoring Guru Tegh Bahadur’s role as a moral shield for the oppressed. This visual element highlighted his historic decision to lay down his life so that others could freely practise their faith without fear or coercion.
The trailer portion of the tableau depicted a deeply spiritual and devotional scene, with Shabad Kirtan performed by Raagi Singhs, creating an atmosphere of reverence and contemplation. In the background stood the Khanda Sahib monument, adding to the tableau’s sacred tone and reinforcing the spiritual heritage of Punjab and Sikhism.
The setting represented the historic chowk outside Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib in Delhi, where Shabad Kirtan continues to be performed in remembrance of sacrifice and faith. One end of the tableau prominently featured Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib itself, marking the exact site where Guru Tegh Bahadur attained martyrdom.
The side panels of the tableau portrayed the martyrdom of the Guru’s devoted companions—Bhai Mati Dass, Bhai Sati Dass and Bhai Dyala—whose unwavering courage and readiness to sacrifice their lives reflected the highest ideals taught by Guru Tegh Bahadur. Their depiction served as a reminder that the Guru’s stand for righteousness was shared and upheld by his followers with equal resolve.
Taken together, the tableau offered a moving tribute to Punjab’s rich spiritual heritage and to a martyrdom that continues to resonate far beyond the Sikh community. By bringing this legacy to the Republic Day parade, Punjab sought to remind the nation that the values of conscience, freedom and justice remain as relevant today as they were 350 years ago.
