Bay Area Community Gathers To Mark 350th Martyrdom Anniv. Of Sikh Guru

India-West Staff Reporter

MILPITAS, CA – Over 200 people gathered at the India Community Center here, on November 30, to commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadurji, the ninth Sikh Guru who sacrificed his life in 1675 to protect religious freedom.

The program opened with soulful Shabad Kirtan performed by Dr. Charan Kanwal Singh and Reshma Singh.

Jeevan Zutshi, founder of the Indo-American Community Federation, spoke about Guru Tegh Bahadurji’s supreme sacrifice in refusing to convert to Islam, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to defending the religious rights of all communities.

Several local leaders and dignitaries paid tribute to the great Guru. Gary Singh, Mayor of Union City, addressed the gathering in Punjabi, highlighting Guru Tegh Bahadurji’s contributions and the importance of unity in diversity.

California Assemblymember Alex Lee  praised IACF for fostering community harmony while honoring the Guru’s legacy. Carmel Montano, Mayor of Milpitas, also offered her respects.

Author Jessi Kaur delivered an inspiring 20-minute talk on the Guru’s life and teachings, highlighting his courage during the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s reign when religious persecution was widespread. Uphaar Kotru, President of the Kashmiri Overseas Association, expressed gratitude to the Sikh community for supporting Kashmiri Pandits in the early 1990s, recalling how Sikhs provided shelter and care during their displacement.

Attendees described the evening as uplifting, a powerful reminder of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s timeless message: “Fear none and frighten none.”

The event was organized by the Indo-American Community Federation (IACF), co-hosted by The Avanti Foundation, and supported by the Association of Indo-Americans.