"The Khalsa shall rule, and no one will be a dissenter."

(— From the Sikh Ardas)

This timeless declaration from the daily Sikh prayer speaks to a deep-seated aspiration for self-governance and the ability to manage one's own affairs. The historical events of this day echo this spirit, showcasing the community's persistent and often painful journey toward securing its religious and political identity through legislation, protest, and the power of the press.

🗓️ 1966 — A State of Our Own: The Birth of Punjab Suba 🗺️

The culmination of a long struggle, modern-day Punjab was formed on a linguistic basis, creating a Punjabi-speaking state.

After years of peaceful protests, political negotiations, and immense sacrifice, a new chapter began for the Punjabi people. The creation of the Punjabi Suba (a Punjabi-speaking province) marked a pivotal moment in the region's modern history.

The States Reorganisation Act of 1956 had redrawn India's states on linguistic lines, but Punjab was a notable exception. The Punjabi Suba movement, led by figures like Master Tara Singh and Sant Fateh Singh, peacefully demanded a state for Punjabi speakers. This decades-long, non-violent struggle finally succeeded on this day in 1966, when the existing state of Punjab was trifurcated into Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh.

The creation of Punjab Suba wasn't just about redrawing borders; it was about preserving a language and a culture. It ensured that Punjabi would be the language of administration, education, and daily life, securing its future for generations. This historic day reminds us that persistent, peaceful advocacy can reshape the map and safeguard a community's heritage.

🗓️ 1925 — The Keys to the Gurdwaras 🔑

The landmark Punjab Gurdwara Act was enacted, officially returning control of historical shrines to the Sikh community.

Imagine your most sacred places being managed by people who don't share your beliefs. For decades, this was the reality for Sikhs, until a historic law changed everything.

The Gurdwara Reform Movement saw countless Sikhs peacefully protest to reclaim their Gurdwaras from corrupt, hereditary mahants (custodians). After immense suffering—with over 30,000 arrested and hundreds killed—the British government finally passed the Punjab Gurdwara Act. This legislation established the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) as the legal body to manage historical Sikh shrines.

This act was a monumental victory for community self-governance. It affirmed the principle that sacred institutions should be managed by the sangat (congregation) they serve, a cornerstone of Sikh tradition. The sacrifices made for this act underscore the deep importance of community ownership and the fight to preserve religious integrity.

🗓️ 1916 — The Revolution Will Be Printed 📰

The Ghadar Party, a revolutionary group of Punjabi-Americans, launched its "Ghadar" newspaper to advocate for India's freedom.

Long before the internet, a group of determined Punjabis in America used the power of the press to spark a revolution thousands of miles away. On this day, their voice found its platform.

The Ghadar Party was founded by Punjabi immigrants in the United States and Canada who were tired of colonial rule in their homeland. They launched a newspaper called "Ghadar" (which means "revolt") to spread their message. The paper passionately called for an armed struggle to overthrow British rule in India, and it was circulated among the Indian diaspora worldwide.

The Ghadar movement demonstrates the global reach and political consciousness of the Sikh community. It highlights a deep-seated commitment to justice and sovereignty, proving that the fight for freedom knows no borders. This story serves as a powerful reminder that a single voice, amplified through community and media, can challenge even the mightiest empires.

🗓️ 1921 — A Peaceful Takeover for Faith 🙏

As part of the Gurdwara Reform Movement, a jatha of 50 Akalis peacefully took control of Gurdwara Hothian.

How do you reclaim a sacred space without firing a single shot? For a group of 50 Akalis, the answer was disciplined, non-violent action.

During the height of the Gurdwara Reform Movement, the SGPC called for the liberation of Gurdwara Hothian from its corrupt manager. In response, Karam Singh of Daulatpur led a jatha (a group of volunteers) of 50 Akalis. They marched to the Gurdwara and peacefully assumed control, bringing it under the management of the Sikh community.

This event, one of many during the movement, exemplifies the power of organized, non-violent resistance. It demonstrates the courage and conviction of ordinary people standing up to reclaim their religious heritage. The story of Gurdwara Hothian teaches us that change often comes not from force, but from the collective will of a united community.