Veer Bal Diwas 2024: Remembering The Bravery And Sacrifice Of Guru Gobind Singh Ji's Sons

Veer Bal Diwas is observed annually on 26 December in India. This day honours the immense bravery and sacrifice of Guru Gobind Singh Ji's four sons, particularly the younger ones, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh. At the time of their martyrdom, Zorawar was just 9 years old, while Fateh was only 6.

In 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that Veer Bal Diwas would be celebrated on 26 December to commemorate the martyrdom of Sahibzadas Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji. This announcement was made on 9 January during the Prakash Parv of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Historical Background

Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, had four sons: Ajit Singh, Jujhar Singh, Zorawar Singh, and Fateh Singh. In 1699, he established the Khalsa Panth with his sons as part of it. By 1705, Punjab was under Mughal rule, and they sought to capture Guru Gobind Singh.

During this period of conflict, Guru Gobind was separated from his family. His wife Mata Gujri took refuge with their sons Zorawar and Fateh along with their cook Gangu. Unfortunately, Gangu betrayed them for greed, leading to their capture by Nawab Wazir Khan of Sirhind.

The Sacrifice Of Guru Gobind Singh Ji's Sons

Baba Ajit Singh and Baba Jujhar Singh had already been martyred in battles against the Mughals. Meanwhile, Nawab Wazir Khan subjected Mata Gujri and her younger sons to severe torture. Despite being pressured to convert their religion, they stood firm in their faith.

On 26 December 1705, both young Sahibzaads were buried alive in a wall by Wazir Khan for refusing to renounce their beliefs. Upon learning about this tragedy, Mata Gujri also sacrificed her life.

Significance of Veer Bal Diwas 2024

The Government of India announced in 2022 that Veer Bal Diwas would be celebrated annually on 26 December to honour these sacrifices. This day serves as a reminder of a significant chapter in Indian history and aims to inspire future generations to uphold truth and righteousness.