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Guru Tegh Bahadur’s Contribution for Restoration of Human rights
The Modern Nations states of the present times claim themselves to be liberal and democratic but the bloodshed, hate crimes and violence in all its manifestations which is observed, reported and documented from across the globe bring a different picture to light. The twenty-first century is a knowledge driven society that values rationality, logical reasoning, progressive and constructive ideas but the inhuman approach is still largely visible and pervasive as people are still marginalised, exploited and ill treated on irrational grounds of class, caste, religion, ethnicity, language. The denial of civil liberties and basic freedoms sometimes in very explicit and sometimes in implicit ways is visible. It is really bothersome and disturbing for at least those who value human rights and the worth of every individual. Against this background it becomes imperative for us all to revisit the life, philosophy and approach of the ninth Sikh Guru, whose contribution to the safeguarding of human rights stays unmatched and unparalleled till this day of human civilisation. The courage and selfless service of Guru Tegh Bahadur in defense of the human rights is exemplary and we, the common people in no way can muster that amount of courage and match upto the selfless sacrifice that he performed so that justice can prevail and people are liberated of fear and anxiety. Nevertheless on the occasion of his 400th birth anniversary, all celebrations, webinars, seminars and samagams are of value only if his core teachings are understood in all its depth and attempts are made to bring those principles and teachings into practice at individual, community, state and international level if we wish to establish a conducive and congenial environment for everyone‘s good and well-being.
Neither should the remembering of the Great guru be a once in a year effort nor should the academic and political discourse on human rights take place only on important days or when incidents of violence come into public domain. The present write up aims to emphasize on some of the fundamental teachings and precepts of Guru Tegh Bahadur that are instrumentally important for the sustenance of human rights for all. But prior to that, it is imperative to give a brief overview of human rights and its significance in Sikhism, the youngest religion of the world.
The idea of conceptualising human rights is of recent origin but the denial of human rights to a wide range of people across the globe has its roots in antiquity. For the restoration of peace and for establishing a fair order especially for the war torn nations, post the second world war, the efforts of the international community culminated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. The Declaration of Human Rights was the first constitution in the history of international organization. The declaration was a sort of statement of rights considered essential for human development all over the world. It is a useful instrument in providing a ready made statement of Human Rights, acceptable to the majority of the states. Post the endorsement of human rights, most nation states began the process of establishing numerous institutions and bodies to safeguard the rights of all especially the vulnerable and the marginalised. The international and national level measures and initiatives are enhanced, subject to both the common and specific needs and aspirations of people across the globe. However, human rights are violated and still millions of people across the globe are forced to live a life without the basic needs and by compromising their self respect and dignity. And sadly, innumerable cases of physical and mental torture, sexual abuse, humiliation and disrespect in various forms go unreported globally. Thus disciplining the society and encouraging people to imbibe the right practices is important to address both the reported and unreported cases of human rights violations. And in this regard, Sikh religion with its insistence on moral values and ethical principles undoubtedly, can play a pivotal role in disciplining people across all societies.
The very foundation of the Sikh religion rested on the opposition to rudimentary practices and to raise voice against the then tyrannical political order. Guru Nanak emphasised that the purpose of religion was to promote ethical values and principles that can liberate people from suffering, both inner and outer and religion in no way should be a cause of suffering. He categorically condemned discrimination, hatred, animosity, greed, ego, avarice and slandering. He professed and propagated the ideas of equality, justice, fairness, love, brotherhood, coexistence and harmony across different sections of people during his udasis. To establish human rights in the then society he denounced the terror and ruthless rule of Babar as much as he opposed class -caste hierarchy; Hindu Muslim divide; gender inequality; undemocratic and immoral practices. For Guru Nanak peace, harmony and happiness should be everywhere and for everyone. Guru Tegh Bahadur ji lived upto the teachings of Guru Nanak both in words and deeds.
The successors of Guru Nanak upheld his values and ideals, taking forward the mission of establishing an egalitarian socio political order and a society where the dignity and respect of all -high or low; poor or rich; strong or weak; men or women; vocal or voiceless is restored, each of the Guru contributed in his own unique way. All his successors made immense contributions both by composing hymns and shabads to bind people together and also took measures in practice so that everyone is able to enjoy their basic freedom. Since Sikhism is a revelatory religion that aims at social emancipation besides spiritual rejuvenation, innumerable constructive and developmental activities were undertaken like digging wells, arranging for the education of the less privileged; abolishing sati system, waging a war to combat aggression of the invaders; condemnation and denouncing of purdah system and alike.
Besides these contributions, as a mark of reinforcing his commitment to religious tolerance and peace, Guru Tegh Bahadur ji ‘s martyrdom for the preservation and safeguarding of the rights of the community other than his own has indeed lent a distinctive recognition to the youngest religion of the world. Following his martyrdom a new chapter of the Sikh history began, the testimony to it is the supreme sacrifices of the Sikhs in the 18th century that they made for the protection of the non-sikhs. Indeed Guru Tegh Bahadur‘s novel and a non violent response to express his firm commitment to secular and democratic principles is exemplary and will be remembered till eternity. As mentioned earlier, we mortal beings lack such courage and selfless approach and to us only our vested interest matters that is the reason perhaps the world is in such crisis. Despite the intensified and fast communication facilities we are disconnected by heart and soul; despite wealth we aren’t happy; despite strong institutions and commitment to principles of equality and justice there is chaos all over, violence is rampant; social order is disrupted. Therefore it becomes pertinent that we re -visit the poetic compositions and life of Guru Tegh Bahadur which are a reflection of his ennobling spirit, transcendental vision, and humanistic outlook. His divine message can indeed enlighten us all and help us do our bit for establishing a congenial environment wherein all can enjoy their human rights.
To fight injustice and tyranny and for safeguarding human rights it is important that all people stand upright for the cause for which fearlessness is important. In context of this Guru Tegh Bahadur ji says that as long as there is attachment for material things a war cannot be waged fearlessly. Detachment from materialism gives both inner and outer courage. When not attached with your personal possessions including your family and loved ones, there is no fear of losing anything. And when there is no fear, one is physically, emotionally and mentally prepared to fight evil and is ready to face all consequences. Today we observe farmers across India protesting on the borders of Delhi, they are doing it fearlessly, and that fearlessness is derived from their legitimate and ethically cause. Many people would argue that they are also after materialistic things but that is there just demand. Moreover, a fearless person himself also does not engage in any malpractices.
It is the fear that keeps us at a backfoot whenever there are human rights violations at large. Our fear justifies the act of the wrong doers and it emboldens the strength of the tyrant and perpetrators of violence and misdeeds.
Further, through the poetic composition of Guru Tegh Bahadur one finds the instruction and moral teaching that one should abstain from falsehood, deception and cheating others because with this we only fill our own bellies and devoid many from their legitimate claims. And when everyone is engaged in such deals and exercises repeatedly, no way can there be a congenial environment of equality, parity and empathy. Hence no rights especially for the poor, meek, peripheralized and powerless people.
Diversity is the hallmark of human civilization and without diversity there is no richness and vibrancy.God has created all beings and no two people are alike then how can one be inclined or be made to affiliate with one set of culture, religion, traditions and values. It would not be incorrect to mention that Diversity is natural and inalterable. If people are forced to abandon their religion then it is a sheer abrogation of human rights. Diversity is valued and respected in Sikhism. In affirmation to the multicultural social order, Sikh Gurus initiated the tradition of interfaith dialogue, martyrdom and establishment of Khalsa at different periods of Sikh history. Sikh Gurus played an extraordinary role in protection and promotion of multicultural society.
Guru Tegh Bahadur valuing the moral precept of Sikhism and as path shown by Guru Nanak and all predecessors, voluntarily accepted martyrdom for the preservation of diversity and multicultural practices. Ninth Nanak showed no sign of anger, hatred and malice to the Aurangzeb who had ordered for his execution. This is exemplary and sends across the message that one must remain within the Divine command and Will. Contrary to the Emperor ‘s expectation and provocation, Guru sahib did not show any miracle.Other than his unique contribution for saving plurality and humanity, his Universal message that diversity be embraced with open arms must be internalised by us all for securing a fair world order.
Guru Tegh Bahadur’s message of universal peace and brotherhood; tolerance and compassion; understanding and empathy; secularism; multiculturalism ; detachment from materialistic pursuits; focussing on inner and outer peace are of relevance in all time and in all ages. Today, we all are entrapped in this fast moving world, so much are we engrossed in worldly pursuits that hardly do we think about the repercussions of our acts - on us and on others around us; we don‘t introspect and look for follies within us but always are we prepared to find faults in others. In this globalised era millions die from poverty and malnourishment; people lose their land and livelihood due to the expansion of the capitalistic tendencies; people are hired at exceptionally low wages and forced to work in poor conditions of work; some die without work and some die due to hazardous conditions of work; some are forced to migrate and some are denied the right to migrate. All in all the human rights violations in various manifestations like domestic violence, religious fundamentalism, fanaticism, sexual abuse, denial of civil liberties, lynching, genocide, holocaust and similar other kind by different agencies is observable at different levels. To address such challenges of contemporary times, Guru Tegh Bahadur’s bani and philosophy can help us greatly in overcoming the vices inside us and eventually we can focus ourselves to right actions , his divine wisdom can guide us to act and react in a way that is morally right and socially acceptable. There is no better way to conclude this write up other than quoting the words of Wisdom of His Holiness the Dalai Lama “Guru Tegh Bahadur’s entire life, pure and pious like Ganges was devoted towards Tap, Tyag, Bhakti, Aradhana, religious freedom, tolerance and utmost courage. His humanitarian aesthetic values aimed to foster brotherhood, tolerance, understanding, and goodwill among all sections of society. His Bani shows universal truth, righteous path in every sphere, every aspect, every walk of life and guides us how to be in tune with the Infinite.”
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References
– Ahluwalia, J. S. 2000. Sikhism and the 21st Century Society. The Sikh Review , Vo. 48. No. 560. p. 73
– Singh, Dharam. 2003. Sikh Spirit and the Global Society. The Sikh Review, Vol. 51. No. 598
Singh, Kapur. 2011. Essentials of Sikhism. In Baldev. Singh (Ed.), Sikhism and the Sikhs. Kapurthala: Baldev Singh. p. 85.
– His Holiness the Dalai Lama, “Guru Tegh Bahadur: Prophet and Martyr” in Hymns of Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib. translated in English by Pujya Dada Chellaram Professor Mohanlal Narwani. (New Delhi: Nij Thanw [11/11 Pusa Road, New Delhi – 110005], 1995.
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