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Veer Bal Diwas honours the Sahibzadas, the four courageous sons of Guru Gobind Singh, whose valour and sacrifice are forever remembered in India’s fight for justice and faith.
Veer Bal Diwas aims to spread awareness, especially among children, about Sahibzadas’ heroic stories. (Image: Shutterstock)
Veer Bal Diwas is observed on December 26 to honour the bravery of the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. Sahibzada Ajit Singh, Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh are celebrated as symbols of courage.
In 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared December 26 as Veer Bal Diwas to remember their sacrifice. The day aims to spread awareness, especially among children, about Sahibzadas’ heroic stories. In this article, let’s explore the history, significance, quotes and facts behind Veer Bal Diwas.
Veer Bal Diwas History
Guru Gobind Singh faced a tough time when the Mughal Army surrounded the Anandpur Sahib Fort, where he and his followers took shelter. After several months of battle, Guru Gobind Singh and his family were promised safety out of the fort by Aurangzeb.
However, his youngest sons, Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, were captured by the Mughal armies. While they were forced to convert to Islam, the two young boys courageously refused their offer.
As a result, the Mughal emperor ordered Zorawar and Fateh be buried alive in the walls of the fort. Despite their young age, the Sahibzadas showed bravery and remained loyal to their religion.
Veer Bal Diwas Significance
Veer Bal Diwas is celebrated to honour the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh. The day was specifically chosen to remember the sacrifice of his youngest sons, Zorawar and Fateh. This day is a reminder for Sikhs and people worldwide to pay tribute to these brave young heroes.
Veer Bal Diwas Facts
- Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb attacked and surrounded Anandpur in 1704, where Guru Gobind Singh and his followers resided.
- When Guru Gobind Singh and his family left Anandpur following a promise made by Aurangzeb, a brutal battle took place near the River Sarsa. At the time, Guru Gobind Singh’s family members were separated.
- When Guru Gobind Singh’s youngest sons were martyred, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh was only 9 years old and Sahibzada Fateh Singh was just 6.
- After losing their mother at a young age, the grandmother of Sahibzada Ajit Singh, Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh took care of them.
- When Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa Panth in 1699, his family lived in Anandpur Sahib.
Veer Bal Diwas 2024: Quotes by Guru Gobind Singh
- “I am neither a child, a young man, nor an ancient; nor am I of any caste.”
- “Recognise the Light within all, and do not consider social class or status; there are no strangers in the home of God.”
- “If you are strong, torture not the weak and thus lay not the axe to thy empire.”
- “He who has no faith in himself can never have faith in God.”
- “Be a true king, and in your heart, let the Divine Light shine, by doing so, you will become a true king of kings.”