Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji Guru Gaddi Tithi

Sikh

Also known as: Guru Tegh Bahadur Guru Gaddi Diwas

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2026 Sikh Date

Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji Guru Gaddi Tithi

About Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji Guru Gaddi Tithi

Guru Gaddi Tithi celebrates the day when Guru Teg Bahadur Ji was formally installed as the ninth Sikh Guru. His selection was unique — it was prophesied by Guru Har Kishan Ji's final words 'Baba Bakale,' and after much searching and testing, Bhai Tegh Bahadur was recognised as the chosen successor. The installation took place at Bakala (now called Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Nagar), where twenty-two pretenders had claimed the Guruship.

The selection of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was a remarkable event. Twenty-two men had claimed the Guruship after Guru Har Kishan Ji's prophecy. A wealthy merchant, Makhan Shah Lubana, who had been making offerings to each claimant, was guided by his inner voice to the humble Bhai Tegh Bahadur, who had been living in meditation and seclusion. When Makhan Shah's offering was accepted with a simple 'God bless you,' he recognised the true Guru and proclaimed him to the world.

On Guru Gaddi Tithi, Gurdwaras hold special prayers and kirtan. Devotees reflect on the divine guidance that directed the selection of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and the extraordinary destiny that awaited him — the supreme sacrifice that would earn him the title 'Hind di Chadar.'

Vrat Vidhi & Fasting Rules

The day is observed with prayers, kirtan, and reflection on the divine guidance that selected Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

Step-by-Step Fasting Procedures:

Attend the special prayer service at the Gurdwara.
Listen to the Katha about the selection at Bakala and the prophecy 'Baba Bakale.'
Reflect on the divine guidance that directed the succession.
Serve in langar and honour the tradition of divine appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What was the prophecy 'Baba Bakale'?

It was Guru Har Kishan Ji's final words, indicating that the next Guru (Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji) would be found in the town of Bakala (Bhai Tegh Bahadur).

Q: How was Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji selected?

After twenty-two pretenders claimed the Guruship, Makhan Shah Lubana, a wealthy merchant, was guided by his inner voice to the humble Bhai Tegh Bahadur, who was meditating in seclusion.

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