Iftikhar Khan

Iftikhar Khan was the Mughal governor of Kashmir during the period 1671 to 1675. He was a harsh man and was forcible converting many thousands of non-Muslims to Islam.

It was during this period that the Kashmiri Brahmins asked Guru for a solution to the repression by these Mughal rulers. When the Kashmiri pandits asked the Guru for help to stop this repressive behaviour and assist the Hindu masses, Guru replied "Such activities can only be stopped by a sacrifice of a great person".

Just then 8 years old son of Guru Tegh Bahadar, Gobind Rai (Later Gobind Singh) walked into the meeting to find his father lost deep in thoughts. He enquired about the reason for his serious and thoughtful state. Subsequently, he offered a possible solution by saying "who else is greater then you, O father".

From this reply, Guru Tegh Bahadar knew immediately that his mission was at an end and that his son, Gobind Rai was ready to take on the responsibility of Guruship. The Guru told the Kashmiri Brahmins, Go tell Aurungzeb that if they can convert your Guru to Islam then you will all become Muslims. Kirpa Ram obliged and Aurungzeb issued a summons for Guru ji.

The rest as they say is history - Read more about the Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur here.