Veer Bal Divas: A Day of Valor and Righteousness (GS Paper 1, Art & Culture)
Overview
- Veer Bal Diwas, observed annually on December 26, honors the unparalleled sacrifice of Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh, the younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh.
- These brave boys, aged nine and seven, chose martyrdom over forsaking their faith and values.
- Their courage and righteousness have inspired generations.
- The day was instituted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 9, 2022, during Guru Gobind Singh’s birth anniversary.
- The commemoration underscores sacrifice, justice, and fortitude.
Historical Significance
- Veer Bal Diwas marks the martyrdom of Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh on 13 Poh, Bikrami (recorded in Sikh history).
- The young Sahibzade were tortured by Wazir Khan, Governor of Sirhind, for refusing to convert to Islam.
- They, along with their grandmother, Mata Gujar Kaur, were held in a freezing cold tower (Thanda Burj) and later executed, inspiring the Sikh/Khalsa community to rise against oppression.
Initiation of Veer Bal Diwas
- The day was announced by PM Modi on January 9, 2022, as a tribute to the young martyrs.
- It is fixed as December 26 annually, despite varying dates in the Bikrami calendar.
- The first commemoration took place on December 23, 2023, with nationwide events to honor their legacy.
Commemorative Events
- PM Modi attended the inaugural Veer Bal Diwas at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, addressing a youth congregation and flagging off a march-past.
- Several educational programs were organized, including essay competitions, film screenings, digital exhibitions, and participatory programs aimed at educating children about the Sahibzade’s bravery.
- An essay competition organized by the Ministry of Culture received 3,494 entries, with prizes awarded to the top three winners.
Sikh Historical Context
- The week starting 6 Poh, Bikrami is commemorated as Shaheedi Week, remembering the sacrifices of Guru Gobind Singh’s family and Sikh warriors.
- Despite oaths of protection from Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, Guru Gobind Singh and his family were betrayed, leading to the torture and eventual martyrdom of his sons.
- The Sahibzade were separated from their group and handed over to Wazir Khan, who sought to force them to convert.
- Their unwavering bravery and refusal to compromise led them to embrace martyrdom.
Impact and Legacy
- The sacrifice of the Sahibzade galvanized the Sikh community against Mughal oppression.
- Their courage has become a symbol of the fight against injustice and continues to inspire Bharatiyas across generations.
Calls for Participation
- Citizens are encouraged to participate in commemorative activities to honor the sacrifices of the Sahibzade.
- Emphasis is placed on narrating their story to younger generations to instill moral values and patriotism.
Veer Bal Diwas is not just a commemoration but a call to reflect on the values of sacrifice, bravery, and the fight against oppression.
