February 28, 2026 : Navi Mumbai is witnessing one of its largest religious gatherings as lakhs of devotees assemble at Ove Maidan in Kharghar to mark the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur. The two-day Shaheedi Diwas event commemorates the life and sacrifice of the ninth Sikh Guru, who is remembered as “Hind Di Chadar” for defending religious freedom and standing against oppression.
Guru Tegh Bahadur was executed in 1675 for protecting the rights of people to practise their faith freely. His martyrdom remains a defining moment in Sikh history and continues to inspire values of courage, compassion and fearlessness.
The large-scale event is being held at Ove Maidan in Kharghar, with an estimated 20 lakh devotees expected to attend. A massive 120-acre pandal has been set up to accommodate the gathering. Around 25,000 Sikh saints and devotees from Punjab are also participating in the programme.
Extensive arrangements have been made by the Konkan Divisional Commissioner’s office, Navi Mumbai and Panvel civic bodies, the Raigad district administration, and the police. Nearly 3,000 security personnel have been deployed, supported by more than 300 CCTV cameras connected to a central control room. A one to two kilometre radius around the venue has been declared a restricted vehicular zone to manage traffic and ensure safety.
To facilitate smooth travel, more than 1,000 buses are operating across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region for two days, offering free rides to devotees visiting the venue. Organisers have also put in place arrangements for mass langar, medical camps and sanitation services.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is expected to attend the event in person, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to join virtually. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and several other dignitaries are also scheduled to be present.
The Shaheedi Diwas programme aims not only to honour the Guru’s supreme sacrifice but also to spread awareness about his enduring legacy of protecting justice and human dignity.
