Martyrdom Day of Guru Arjan Dev

Sikhs observe the martyrdom of the Guru Arjan Dev every year. Guru Arjan Dev was the 5th of 10 Sikh Gurus and was the first Sikh martyr. He wrote the first official scripture called Adi Granth and was killed following 5 days of torture by the Mughal government in 1606.

Who celebrates?

Sikhs around the world.

How do people celebrate?

• People visit their local Gurdwara for worship
• The Adi Granth Sahib is read and free food is shared with all, called Langar.

What should I know?

• Adi Granth Sahib is the Sikh holy book and Guru Arjan Dev expanded the Sikh scripture written by the previous Gurus
• He was martyred to prevent the conversion of Hindus and Muslims to the Sikh faith
• 0.8% of the UK identified with the Sikh religion in the 2011 census.

How can I support others?

• Ask people if they or their families will be celebrating
• Do not assume that if someone’s family is Sikh that they will be celebrating
• Encourage celebrations internally and externally
• Talk to your team about the religious representation among your volunteer, employee and service user population and if it’s representative of your area.

Sikh Council UK: Resources: https://sikhcouncil.co.uk/#about

BBC: About Guru Arjan:  https://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/sikhism/people/arjandev.shtml