The newly released Part 2 of the NCERT Class 9 Social Science textbook contains a detailed account of the relationship between the Mughal state and the Sikh Gurus, describing the treatment of several Gurus as particularly severe.
The chapter states that the “brutality of the Mughal state” against Guru Arjan Dev, Guru Tegh Bahadur and Guru Gobind Singh had “few comparisons in history”. It also examines how the martyrdom of Sikh Gurus contributed to the community’s growing emphasis on resistance and resilience.
According to the textbook, the Mughal state’s intervention in the affairs of the Sikh Gurus increased from the beginning of the 17th century as their socio-cultural influence expanded.
The chapter focuses on developments during the reigns of Mughal emperors Jahangir and Aurangzeb, while tracing the changing relationship between the Mughal state and the Sikh community.
It says the “valour and sacrifice” of the Sikh Gurus for their faith became defining features of Sikhism.
Guru Arjan Dev’s execution
The textbook states that Mughal emperor Jahangir ordered the execution of Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru.
According to the account presented in the textbook, Jahangir’s action was linked to allegations that Guru Arjan Dev had supported his rebellious son, Khusrau Mirza.
The book describes Guru Arjan Dev’s martyrdom as a “significant turning point” in Sikh history and says it contributed to a gradual change in the community’s organisational and political orientation.
Guru Hargobind’s detention in Gwalior
The chapter also records the detention of Guru Hargobind, the sixth Sikh Guru, by Jahangir at Gwalior Fort.
It notes that Sikh devotees travelled to the fort in large numbers and paid their respects to the Guru from outside.
The textbook connects these developments with the subsequent evolution of Sikh political and military organisation.
Miri-Piri and Akal Takht
The NCERT chapter discusses Guru Hargobind’s establishment of the Akal Takht as a seat of temporal authority.
It also explains the concept of miri-piri, representing the spiritual and temporal dimensions of authority.
The textbook says that political pressure and persecution contributed to the need for collective organisation and, when required, armed resistance.
Martyrdom and Sikh resistance
The chapter links the martyrdoms of the Sikh Gurus with the emergence of organised resistance.
It states that the sacrifices of the Gurus strengthened the conviction among Sikhs that persecution had to be met with “firm resistance and resilience”.
The textbook also discusses the later resistance associated with Sikh institutions and leadership.
The chapter goes beyond Sikh history to discuss resistance by Jat farmers of the Ganga-Yamuna Doab against Mughal rule.
According to the textbook, the Jats faced heavy taxation and economic exploitation under the Mughal Empire. It says these economic difficulties, along with Aurangzeb’s religious policies, contributed to growing resentment and two major uprisings during the 17th century.
New textbook released after delay
The revised Class 9 Social Science textbook was released after the academic session had already begun.
Its delayed availability had prompted concerns among parents on social media, with complaints about students not receiving the new books despite the start of the academic year.
The new chapter’s treatment of Mughal rule, Sikh history and resistance forms part of the broader changes introduced in the revised Class 9 Social Science curriculum.
