Tushar In the Sikh religion, Veer Baal Divas holds great significance. Why is this day celebrated? What is the importance of this day? Learn about the history associated with Veer Baal Divas.
Veer Baal Diwas: History
During the Mughal rule in Punjab, Guru Gobind Singh, the leader of the Sikhs, had four sons known as the “Chaar Sahibzaade” (Four Beloved Ones). In 1699, Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa Panth with the aim of protecting the people of the Sikh community from religious persecution. Guru Gobind Singh had four sons with his three wives: Ajit, Jujhar, Jorawar, and Fateh, all of whom were part of the Khalsa. Before reaching the age of 19, all four sons were martyred by the Mughal army. In honor of their sacrifice, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced last year that December 26th would be celebrated as Veer Baal Diwas (Brave Children’s Day).
The Significance of Veer Bal Diwas
Veer Baal Diwas” is observed to honor the sacrifice of the four Sahibzade (sons) of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. It commemorates the day when the youngest sons of Guru Gobind Singh sacrificed their lives while defending their faith. It is a day to remember their stories and to learn about the brutal killings, especially those of Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh.
During a battle on the banks of the Sarsa River, both Sahibzade were captured by the Mughal army. Refusing to convert to Islam, they were allegedly buried alive at the tender ages of 8 and 5, respectively. “Veer Baal Diwas” serves as a day to reflect on and honor the courage and sacrifice of these young warriors in the Sikh tradition.
When was the announcement of the day made?
This year, on January 9th, Prime Minister Modi announced that on December 26th, the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh’s sons, Jorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, would be celebrated as ‘Veer Baal Diwas’ (Brave Children’s Day).
How is today’s day being celebrated?
The government is organizing nationwide interactive and participatory programs to narrate the inspiring story of the unparalleled courage of the sons of Guru Gobind Singh, especially teaching children. These events commemorate those who sacrificed their lives for the protection of their faith. Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in a program at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in Delhi. PM Modi joined in a devotional chant performed by nearly 300 children and witnessed the ‘March-Past’ conducted by around 3,000 children, displaying the green flag.
According to the government, essay writing, quiz competitions, and other activities will be organized in schools and colleges across the country. It has been stated in the statement that digital displays will be installed at public places such as railway stations, petrol pumps, and airports. On January 9th this year, on the occasion of Guru Gobind Singh’s birthday, Prime Minister Modi announced that the martyrdom of the sons of Sikh Guru, Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, would be observed as ‘Veer Bal Diwas’ on December 26th.
