New York City Street has been renamed in honor of the 9th Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur. In Richmond Hill, Queens, the junction of 114th Street and 101st Avenue will now be known as Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Marg Way. It is home to the famous Gurdwara Makhan Shah Lubana. The modification honors the Guru’s legacy of charity, kindness, and human rights defense.

Earlier this year, the New York City Council gave its approval to the name. On the eve of Diwali, a unique ritual took place over the weekend. The resolution, which originated by NYC Council Member Lynn Schulman, honors the Guru’s teachings of kindness and tolerance. Hardeep Singh Puri, the Union Minister, referred to it as a “proud moment” for Sikhs everywhere. He acknowledged the Sikh heritage’s contribution to the cultural fabric of New York. The gesture honors the global principles that Guru Tegh Bahadur upheld, such as courage and equality.

In the US, the renaming took place at the same time as Diwali festivities. Prayers and light displays were held in nearby gurdwaras and community organizations. To mark the holiday, US President Donald Trump lighted lamps at the White House in Washington. He hailed Diwali’s symbolism as the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. The renaming of the roadway was well received by the Indian-American community. It was hailed by many as a turning point in Sikh recognition across the world. The action honors Guru Tegh Bahadur’s legendary resistance against exile and conveys his continuing impact.