Veer Bal Diwas 2023 Observed on 26th December

Introduction

Since 9th January 2022, the day of the Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the Hon. Prime Minister had announced that 26th December would be observed as ‘Veer Bal Diwas’, to mark the martyrdom of sons of Sri Guru Gobind Singh – Sahibzadas Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji.

History of Veer Bal Diwas

Veer Bal Diwas is a solemn occasion to pay tribute to the immense sacrifices made by Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh. These young sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji played a crucial role in shaping the legacy of courage and resilience in the face of adversity. On this fateful day, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh, aged 6, and Sahibzada Fateh Singh, aged 9, were tragically martyred by the Mughal forces in Sirhind, Punjab.

Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the Anandpur Sahib Fort

Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth and final Sikh guru, faced a challenging period when the Anandpur Sahib Fort, where he and his army took refuge, was besieged by the Mughal Army. After months of holding out against the forces, food and essentials began to diminish. In a bid to ensure safe passage out of Anandpur, Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his family accepted an offer by Aurangzeb.

Tragic End of Sahibzadas

The youngest sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, were held captive by the Mughal army. Despite facing the threat of forced conversion to Islam, the two young Sahibzadas bravely refused, expressing their unwavering love for their religion. In response, the emperor ordered the army to bury them alive between the fort walls.

Significance of Veer Bal Diwas

Veer Bal Diwas is a day of remembrance and homage to the “Sahibzadas,” symbolizing the resilience and devotion to Sikhism. The Indian government’s decision to observe Veer Bal Diwas annually on 26th December is a testament to the historical importance of this day. It stands as a solemn reminder of the sacrifice made by Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh.