Photo Source; Babushahi Bureau
Utah State honors 350th Martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur, recognizes him as defender of religious freedom
Babushahi Bureau
Salt Lake City, Utah (USA), November 21, 2025 — In a historic and proud moment for the Sikh community, the state of Utah commemorated the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib with a special ceremony recognizing his unparalleled sacrifice for human rights and religious freedom.
Amid resounding chants of jaikaras, state leaders, members of the House of Representatives, and U.S. Congress officials paid tribute to the ninth Sikh Guru by issuing official proclamations acknowledging his sacrifice as one of the greatest in human history.
The event, organized through the efforts of the Sikh leadership and sangat of Utah, marked the 350th anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib’s martyrdom (24 November 1675 – 24 November 2025). For the first time, Utah State formally recognized Guru Tegh Bahadur’s extraordinary contribution to protecting the religious freedom of all people.
Prominent representatives who attended the ceremony included:
- Deidre Henderson, Lieutenant Governor of Utah
- Mike Mower, Senior Advisor to the Governor
- Anthony Loubet, State Representative
- Mike Carey, Salt Lake County Republican Chair
- Chris Null, Salt Lake County Republican Secretary and Former Chair
- Connor House, Community Outreach Coordinator for Congresswoman Celeste Maloy
- Zach Shepherd, Community Outreach for Congresswoman Celeste Maloy (Salt Lake & Davis Counties)
- Carlos Moreno, Salt Lake County Councilman
The official proclamation highlighted the history and values of Sikhism, founded by Guru Nanak in the 15th century. It noted that Sikhism has nearly one million followers in the U.S. and about 35 million worldwide, and emphasized Sikh principles of humanity, honest living, and service—values aligned with American ideals.
The proclamation recalled that on November 24, 1675, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, along with his devoted Sikhs Bhai Mati Das, Bhai Sati Das, and Bhai Dayala, embraced martyrdom to defend the rights of others who were facing forced religious conversion. Therefore, he is lovingly remembered as the “Shield of Humanity” and a global symbol of human rights.
Utah State officially recognized the 350th anniversary of Guru Sahib’s martyrdom as a significant event not only in Sikh history but in the history of all humankind. The Sikh community’s contributions to society were also acknowledged and appreciated.
During the ceremony, the emotional atmosphere filled the State Capitol as a large gathering of Sikh sangat and guests offered floral tributes in remembrance of Guru Sahib.
A special exhibition on the 1984 Sikh Genocide was also displayed, drawing deep interest from American officials and visitors who learned about the tragic events through detailed panels.
Speaking at the event, S. Himmat Singh, Coordinator of WSP, emphasized that humanity must learn from the teachings of Guru Tegh Bahadur and uphold the principles of religious freedom and human rights worldwide. He thanked all participants, organizations, and the Sikh community for their support.
Dr. Pritpal Singh of the Sikh Caucus Committee stated that Utah State’s recognition of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib’s unique martyrdom has brought pride not only to the Sikh community but to all humanity.
Sikh leadership from Gurdwaras across Utah and a large number of Sikh devotees participated in the historic program.