Delhi University is launching a new undergraduate elective titled “Sikh Martyrdom in Indian History (c.1500–1765)” starting August. The four-credit course will be offered across DU colleges as part of its General Elective options. It focuses on the martyrdom of key Sikh figures including Guru Arjan Dev, Guru Tegh Bahadur, Guru Gobind Singh, the Sahibzadas, and Banda Singh Bahadur.
The paper aims to highlight Sikh resistance during the Mughal period and how it shaped India’s spiritual and political history. It will be taught through lectures and classroom discussions, with no confirmed field visits as of now. According to university sources, the course rollout begins this semester. Scholars say it fills a critical gap in mainstream historical education and brings overlooked Sikh narratives into focus.
This course is a major move towards inclusive history education. It encourages students to engage with faith-based resistance and identity in Indian history. The launch may also inspire similar academic reforms in other universities. Should more institutions offer such focused history courses?
