Veer Bal Diwas: The Eternal Saga of the Chaar Sahibzade
In the annals of human history, few stories resonate with as much courage and heartbreaking sacrifice as that of the Chaar Sahibzade—the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru. Since 2022, India has officially observed December 26 as Veer Bal Diwas to ensure that their legacy of standing against injustice is never forgotten.
Veer Bal Diwas is observed every year on December 26 to commemorate the supreme sacrifice of Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji and Sahibzada Fateh Singh Ji, the younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru. The day honors their unmatched courage, faith, and martyrdom at a very young age and serves as a reminder of India’s rich spiritual and moral heritage.
The Government of India announced Veer Bal Diwas in 2022 to ensure that future generations remember the extraordinary bravery of these young martyrs.
Why is Veer Bal Diwas Celebrated?
Veer Bal Diwas is celebrated to honor the bravery, sacrifice, and unshakeable faith of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s younger sons, who chose death over renouncing their religion. Despite being only six and nine years old, they stood firm against oppression and injustice.
The day symbolizes:
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Courage in the face of tyranny
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Religious freedom and moral strength
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Sacrifice for truth and righteousness
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Inspiration for youth to stand by values
Veer Bal Diwas highlights that age is no barrier to courage and conviction.
Historical Background of Veer Bal Diwas
In the early 18th century, the Sikh community faced severe persecution under the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. In 1704, after a long siege at the fort of Anandpur Sahib, Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his followers were promised safe passage if they vacated the fort. However, the Mughal forces and their allies betrayed this oath, attacking the Sikhs as they crossed the flooded Sarsa River.
In the ensuing chaos, the family was separated:
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The Guru and his two elder sons (Ajit Singh and Jujhar Singh) moved toward Chamkaur.
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The two younger sons (Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh) and their grandmother, Mata Gujri, were separated and eventually betrayed by a former servant named Gangu.
The Martyrdom of the Elder Sahibzade
At the Battle of Chamkaur, just 40 Sikh warriors faced a Mughal army of thousands. Despite the overwhelming odds, Sahibzada Ajit Singh (18) and Sahibzada Jujhar Singh (14) requested their father’s permission to fight. They entered the battlefield with immense valor and attained martyrdom while defending their faith and people.
The Story of the Chhote Sahibzade: Bricked Alive
The younger sons, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh (9) and Sahibzada Fateh Singh (6), were captured and taken to Sirhind. They were presented in the court of Wazir Khan, the Governor of Sirhind, who offered them riches and a luxurious life if they converted to Islam.
The young princes, despite their tender age, stood firm. They famously replied that they were the sons of Guru Gobind Singh and the grandsons of Guru Tegh Bahadur, and they would never abandon their Dharma.
Infuriated by their defiance, Wazir Khan ordered them to be bricked alive. As the wall was built around them, they remained steadfast, reciting prayers until their final breath on December 26, 1705. Their grandmother, Mata Gujri, passed away in grief shortly after hearing of their martyrdom.
Historical Background of Veer Bal Diwas
The events associated with Veer Bal Diwas took place in 1704–1705, during a turbulent period when Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his family faced relentless persecution by the Mughal rulers.
After the Battle of Chamkaur, Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s family was separated. Mata Gujri Ji, along with Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji and Sahibzada Fateh Singh Ji, sought refuge but were betrayed and handed over to the Mughal authorities in Sirhind.
The Complete Story of Veer Bal Diwas
Arrest and Imprisonment
The two Sahibzadas were imprisoned in the Thanda Burj (Cold Tower) along with their grandmother Mata Gujri Ji. Despite harsh winter conditions, they remained steadfast in their faith.
Pressure to Convert
The Mughal governor of Sirhind, Wazir Khan, attempted to force the young boys to convert to Islam by offering wealth and power. The Sahibzadas firmly refused, declaring their unwavering faith in Sikhism.
Supreme Sacrifice
When persuasion failed, Wazir Khan ordered an inhumane punishment. The Sahibzadas were bricked alive inside a wall. As the wall collapsed, they were ultimately executed on December 26, 1705.
Mata Gujri Ji attained martyrdom shortly after upon hearing of her grandsons’ sacrifice.
Role of Guru Gobind Singh Ji
Guru Gobind Singh Ji was not only a spiritual leader but also a symbol of resistance against injustice. When informed of his sons’ martyrdom, he famously said:
“I have sacrificed four sons for the survival of thousands.”
His words reflected his belief that righteousness and freedom were greater than personal loss. Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s teachings emphasized courage, equality, and standing against oppression—values embodied perfectly by the Sahibzadas.
Significance of Veer Bal Diwas Today
Veer Bal Diwas holds deep relevance in modern times:
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Inspires youth to stand up for truth and justice
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Reinforces values of courage, faith, and integrity
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Promotes awareness of Sikh history and sacrifices
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Encourages unity, tolerance, and moral strength
Educational programs, cultural events, and remembrance ceremonies are held across India on this day.
Veer Bal Diwas and National Recognition
In January 2022, the Prime Minister of India announced December 26 as Veer Bal Diwas to honor the Sahibzadas. This national recognition ensures that their sacrifice becomes a part of India’s collective memory and educational narrative.
Conclusion
Veer Bal Diwas is not just a day of remembrance—it is a symbol of unmatched bravery, faith, and sacrifice. The story of Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji and Sahibzada Fateh Singh Ji, guided by the teachings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, continues to inspire millions.
Their sacrifice reminds us that standing for truth, even at the cost of life, is the highest form of courage.
