National Seminar on 350th Martyrdom Day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at Desh Bhagat University

National Seminar on 350th Martyrdom Day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at Desh Bhagat University

Mandi Gobindgarh, 29 November: In the on-going programmes being organized by the Punjab Government regarding the 350th Martyrdom Day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, a One-Day National Seminar was organized at Desh Bhagat University, Mandi Gobindgarh, under the dynamic leadership of Dr. Zora Singh, Chancellor and Dr. Tejinder Kaur, Pro-Chancellor.

Prof. H. K. Sidhu, Director, Faculty of Agriculture, welcomed the distinguished scholars, academicians, and resource persons. Dr. Ram Singh Gurna, Head, Department of History, Desh Bhagat University, introduced and elaborated upon the central themes of the seminar.

In his inaugural address, Chancellor Dr. Zora Singh said that the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji is remembered worldwide and is an important part of the national programmes on remembrance organized by both the Central and State Governments. He said that this seminar was arranged by the University to offer solemn tribute to Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and to the three venerated Sikhs—Bhai Dyal Ji, Bhai Mati Das Ji and Bhai Sati Das Ji who gave up their lives for the cause of saving the freedom of religion.

Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Kapil Kumar, eminent historian and Fellow at the Prime Minister’s Museum and Library, New Delhi, redefined the understanding of nationalism in modern times. He said true nationalism was caring for the land where one is born and brought up. He also warned against the external forces that are trying to create unrest to weaken the national unity.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Amarjeet Singh, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic), mentioned that Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was the “Chadar of Sarishti”- the Protector of the Universe, and this is the reason for commemorating his martyrdom in more than 142 countries across the world.

Prof. Pritpal Singh, the Vice-Chancellor, Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University, Fatehgarh Sahib, spoke on the tenets of Sikh philosophy. He mentioned that the Sikh Gurus stood for universal brotherhood, peace, and welfare of all irrespective of caste, creed, or region.

The noted socio-political analyst Prof. Harjinder Pal Singh Walia underlined the need to build a narrative of coexistence, tolerance, and respect for one another. He said Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji sacrificed his life for the protection of a faith different from his own-an unparalleled example of interfaith responsibility.

The Chief Guest, Padma Shri Dr. Jagjit Singh Dardi, Senior Journalist spoke about the deep spiritual and philosophical roots of Sikhism. He called the supreme sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib matchless in world history and shared several episodes of historic importance. He called upon the younger generation to uphold the spirit and teachings of Sikhism. On this occasion, a book titled “Life and Journey with Maps”, authored by Col. Dalbinder Singh Grewal, was also released.

Two parallel Technical Sessions were conducted, one chaired by Prof. Param Bakshish Sidhu, former Registrar, Punjabi University, and the second by Dr. Ajay Gupta, Director Research, Desh Bhagat University. More than 25 scholars presented research papers on various dimensions in the life, philosophy, and legacy of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Lead lectures were delivered by Prof. Gurmit Singh Sidhu, Department of Religious Studies, Punjabi University Patiala and Prof. Hardev Singh, Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University, Fatehgarh Sahib. The Valedictory Session was presided over by Col. Dr. Dalvinder Singh Grewal. Dr. Pooja Gulati, Director, Faculty of Pharmacy welcomed the gathering and Col. Grewal presented a comprehensive summary of the deliberations and scholarly insights shared during the seminar. The proceedings were conducted by Dr. Renu Sharma, Dr. Navninder Grewal and Prof. Dharminder Singh. The formal vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. Surjit Kaur Patheja.