BackHaryana celebrates Guru Arjan Dev Ji, Maharishi Kashyap; declares holidays on May 23, 24: History, significant and more
Guru Arjan Dev Ji and Maharishi Kashyap: Know the history, significance and more.
PremiumThe Haryana government has designated May 23 (Tuesday) and May 24 (Wednesday) as restricted holidays for all state government departments, boards, corporations, and educational institutions in the state. This decision has been made in observance of Guru Arjan Dev Ji's martyrdom day and Maharishi Kashyap Jayanti.
Guru Arjan Dev Ji: History, significance and more
Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth of the ten Sikh Gurus, holds a significant place in Sikh history as the first martyr of the faith. Every year, the Martyrdom Day of Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji is observed as a regional gazetted holiday in Punjab. This solemn day, known as Shaheedi Diwas, falls on the 24th day of Jeth, the third month in the Sikh calendar, which usually aligns with the months of May or June in the Gregorian calendar. In the year 2023, the Martyrdom Day of Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji will be commemorated on May 23.
The Martyrdom Day of Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji holds immense historical and cultural significance for Sikhs. It serves as a time to remember the sacrifice and martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, who faced persecution and underwent severe torture for his faith. Despite enduring immense hardship, he remained steadfast in his beliefs and teachings, leaving an indelible impact on the Sikh community.
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On this solemn occasion, Sikhs worldwide come together to pay homage to Guru Arjan Dev Ji, reflecting on his legacy and teachings. Special prayers and religious ceremonies are held in gurdwaras (Sikh temples) to commemorate his martyrdom. The day serves as a reminder of the strength, resilience, and unwavering devotion exhibited by Guru Arjan Dev Ji, inspiring followers to uphold the values of compassion, equality, and righteousness in their lives.
Who was Maharishi Kashyap?
Maharishi Kashyap, an esteemed sage from ancient times, is counted among the revered Saptarishis, the seven sages mentioned in the Rigveda. Kashyap holds a special place as the oldest and most venerated rishi, alongside the other Saptarishis, as recorded in the concluding verse of the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad.
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Legend has it that the land of Kashmir derived its name from the esteemed sage Kashyap. According to mythology, a demon named Jalodbhava terrorised the region with a powerful boon granted by Lord Brahma. In response, at the behest of the gods, the goddess Bhagwati defeated the demon by transforming into a bird and placing a stone in its beak.
Subsequently, this stone metamorphosed into a majestic green mountain, while Maharishi Kashyap settled in this area after drawing water from the demon's head. As a result, this land came to be known as Kashmir, signifying its association with the sage Kashyap.
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