Shri Anandpur Sahib, November 27, 2025 : Putting into practice the vision of Aam Aadmi Party’s national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann today announced the establishment of a world-class university in Shri Anandpur Sahib in the name of the Ninth Guru, Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
At the ‘Sarbat Da Bhala’ congregation held at Gurudwara Budda Dal Cantonment on the occasion of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s 350th Martyrdom Day, the Chief Minister said that the university, to be established in this historic sacred city, will strengthen the great resolve of Guru Sahib Ji. He stated that the university would be highly useful for in-depth research on the Ninth Guru’s unparalleled martyrdom, extraordinary life, and philosophy. Bhagwant Singh Mann added that this prestigious institution will inspire future generations while spreading awareness of Guru Sahib Ji’s life and teachings.
The Chief Minister said that Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was a living embodiment of socialism and secularism, as he made the supreme sacrifice to protect human rights in the country. Bhagwant Singh Mann urged people to adopt the spirit of self-sacrifice exemplified by Guru Sahib Ji, who gave his life to uphold human rights, secular values, and religious freedom. He emphasized that the sacred words of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji recorded in Shri Guru Granth Sahib convey a message of unity, universal brotherhood, righteousness, courage, and compassion, which everyone should follow.
The Chief Minister stated that the Guru’s unique martyrdom in defense of religion is unparalleled in human history. Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji sacrificed his life to uphold truth and the principles of religious freedom, and this should always be remembered. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the world-class university being established by the state government will play a key role in spreading the life and philosophy of Guru Sahib across the globe.
He added that the life and teachings of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji are a beacon of light for all humanity. The proposed university will play a significant role in preserving this glorious legacy and strengthening communal harmony among people. The Chief Minister emphasized that the Guru’s sacrifice is unparalleled, unmatched anywhere in history. He highlighted that previous rulers inflicted great oppression, but Guru Sahib never bowed to tyranny and sacrificed his life for religious freedom—a precedent unmatched in the world.
The Chief Minister thanked the Sikh clergy for supporting the state government in this noble initiative and stated that the government has carried out its duty with full dedication and reverence. He mentioned that the Punjab Legislative Assembly held a special session at this sacred site, which was unprecedented as the entire Assembly was brought to Guru Sahib’s feet. Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that the Assembly unanimously decided to confer the status of ‘sacred city’ to all three cities with Takhts: Amritsar, Talwandi Sabo, and Shri Anandpur Sahib.
He explained that among the five Sikh Takhts, three are located in Punjab: Shri Akal Takht Sahib (Amritsar), Shri Damdama Sahib (Talwandi Sabo, Bathinda), and Takht Shri Kesgarh Sahib (Shri Anandpur Sahib). In response to long-standing public demand and to make this Assembly session memorable, the government has declared these cities as sacred. He added that to honor the wishes of the community, sale and consumption of meat, alcohol, tobacco, and other intoxicants will be prohibited in these cities.
The Chief Minister assured that no effort will be spared for the comprehensive development of these cities, with no shortage of funds or resources. He announced free transport facilities, including e-rickshaws and minibuses, for pilgrims visiting these cities. He emphasized that all possible efforts will be made to accelerate development, with sufficient funds allocated.
The Chief Minister said that the state government has organized a series of statewide events dedicated to Guru Sahib on the 350th Martyrdom Day, paying humble tribute to Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. He noted that Guru Sahib’s unparalleled martyrdom aimed to protect the faith of others, setting a supreme example of religious freedom for the world.
He called upon people to follow the path of humanity and truth shown by Guru Sahib, emphasizing that the message of the Ninth Sikh Guru is a true symbol of secularism, unity, and universal brotherhood. These congregations will continue in the coming years, dedicated to the Martyrdom Day, to pass on Guru Sahib’s great legacy to future generations.
The Chief Minister also announced plans to renovate and upgrade the existing Chaar Ganga Stadium in the holy city to provide better facilities for pilgrims attending Hola Mohalla every year. He reiterated the state government’s commitment to the welfare of all sections of society and stated that concrete steps are already being taken in this regard.
In his address, AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal said that he and his wife had been visiting this sacred land for the past three days to pay homage. He expressed his gratitude for having the opportunity to bow at Gurudwara Shri Kesgarh Sahib, Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, and Gurudwara Bhora Sahib. He said that participating in the events organized on the 350th Martyrdom Day of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was a unique and memorable experience.
Arvind Kejriwal mentioned that comprehensive arrangements were made by the state government for the convenience of pilgrims visiting the sacred city. He expressed regret for any shortcomings in the service and sought forgiveness from the people of Punjab and Guru Sahib. He emphasized that if Guru Sahib’s teachings are embraced in daily life, communal tensions will have no place in the world. Guru Sahib’s message of love, compassion, and humanity can pave the way for world peace.
He further highlighted that these events were possible because the state government follows the path shown by the great Gurus, prudently utilizing every resource for public welfare. Arvind Kejriwal praised the government for providing quality education, healthcare, irrigation water to remote farmers, and free electricity to 90% of homes in the state.
He said that the state government led by Bhagwant Singh Mann takes pride in serving the people and organizing events dedicated to the 350th Martyrdom Day of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. The entire Sikh history symbolizes Chardi Kala, inspiring hard work, meditation, sharing, and protection of the weak and oppressed. Kejriwal emphasized that Punjabis continue to draw inspiration from the Gurus to fight oppression and tyranny.
On this occasion, Cabinet Ministers Aman Arora, Harpal Cheema, Harjot Singh Bains, Tarunpreet Singh Sound, Lal Chand Kataruchak, Harbhajan Singh E.T.O., and Lok Sabha MP Malvinder Singh Kang, among other dignitaries, were present.
Summary:
On the 350th Martyrdom Day of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, authorities announced plans to establish a world-class university in Anandpur Sahib to honour his legacy.