Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Wednesday released a commemorative silver coin to mark the 300th martyrdom day of Sikh General Banda Singh Bahadur.
Jaitley, who is also the Information and Broadcasting Minister, said Banda Singh Bahadur was a great leader who continues to inspire the people. He said, Bahadur fought the Mughals and established the first sovereign Sikh state.
Jaitley said there is a need to educate people about the rich history and tradition of Punjab, including iconic leaders like Banda Singh Bahadur.
Banda Singh, who was born in 1670 in Rajouri, was given the title of Bahadur by 10th Sikh Guru Guru Gobind Singh. He was appointed by Guru Gobind Singh as his deputy and military lieutenant.
Armed with the blessing and authority of Guru Gobind Singh, Banda Singh Bahadur assembled a fighting force and led the struggle against the Mughal Empire.
