Punjab on November 25 marked the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur with a sweeping set of cultural and religious initiatives, headlined by the announcement of a world-class university named after the revered ninth Sikh Guru.

The institution will be established in Anandpur Sahib, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann declared while addressing a large congregation gathered for the commemorations.

Calling the announcement a tribute to the Guru’s legacy of sacrifice and spiritual leadership, Mann said the proposed university would serve as a hub for high-quality learning, research, and global engagement rooted in Sikh values and history. “A world-class university in the name of Guru Tegh Bahadur will be set up here,” he said.

The chief minister’s plans extended beyond infrastructure and education. Mann also announced the introduction of free e-rickshaw and mini-bus services for pilgrims and tourists visiting sacred Sikh sites.

The service will initially operate in Amritsar, Talwandi Sabo and Anandpur Sahib, with the government bearing all operational expenses to ensure devotees face no financial hurdle in reaching the gurdwaras.

A heritage street will also be developed in Anandpur Sahib to enhance cultural experience and strengthen religious tourism. Officials said the move aims to create better pathways to historical landmarks associated with Sikh history, while improving the spiritual ambience of the sacred town.

The announcements came a day after the Punjab Assembly unanimously declared Anandpur Sahib, Talwandi Sabo and the historic walled city of Amritsar as “holy cities.” As part of the declaration, the government will enforce restrictions on the sale and consumption of liquor, tobacco, meat and other intoxicants.

Mann said the move was intended to preserve the sanctity of places that hold immense religious, emotional and historical meaning for the Sikh community. He noted that Punjab is home to three of the Panth’s five Takhts — Sri Akal Takht Sahib in Amritsar, Sri Damdama Sahib in Talwandi Sabo and Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib in Anandpur Sahib — making the responsibility of conservation even more significant.

Earlier in the day, Mann and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal attended prayers at Gurdwara Baba Budha Dal Chauni, joining thousands at the ardas following the bhog of Sri Akhand Path Sahib. The gathering honoured the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur and commemorated the sacrifices of Bhai Mati Das, Bhai Sati Das and Bhai Dayala.

The Punjab government has planned a series of events from November 23 to 25 to honour the Guru’s legacy and reflect on his role in defending freedom of belief. Officials said the programmes are intended to reconnect communities with his teachings and reaffirm Punjab’s cultural and spiritual identity.