Tarun Chugh
The chapter of the martyrdom of the young Sahibzadas in Indian history and philosophy is a source of unparalleled inspiration, embodying the pinnacle of bravery, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to faith and principles. These young warriors not only set a high standard of valor but also established an immortal example of steadfastness and devotion to dharma, culture, and faith. At a time when conversions were at their peak worldwide, their supreme sacrifice sent out a message of renewed consciousness and awakening.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recognizing the profound importance of this sacrifice, did not see it merely as a past event, but as a bright symbol of India’s cultural and moral history. He declared 26th December 2022 as Shaheed Bal Divas, on the occasion of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s Prakash Parv, so that future generations may learn from their courage, sacrifice, and valor. Shaheed Bal Divas thus provides an opportunity to honor and commemorate the immortal sacrifice and unparalleled martyrdom of Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh.
Shaheed Bal Divas is a historic step to express respect and admiration for these great sacrifices. It marks the beginning of Shaheedi Week, a time for expressing gratitude for courage, bravery, and sacrifice. On this day, we not only remember the Sahibzadas, but also honor the extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and dedication of Mata Gujari Ji and Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The objective of this day is to impart the message to society, and particularly to the youth, that true valor, courage, and faith are not dependent on age or circumstances.
The context for commemorating Shaheed Bal Divas is rooted in the historical event of 1705, when the Mughal forces launched an attack on Guru Gobind Singh Ji, trying to force his conversion. During this attack, Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s family was separated. The young Sahibzadas, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh (9 years old) and Sahibzada Fateh Singh (7 years old), along with their mother Mata Gujari Ji, reached the house of a cook, Gangu, in Morinda. However, overcome by greed, Gangu betrayed by handing them over to the Mughal General, Wazir Khan.
Wazir Khan imprisoned Mata Gujari Ji and the two Sahibzadas in a cold tower at the fort of Sirhind. Despite the severe cold, Mata Gujari Ji spent three days teaching her sons to remain firm in their faith and principles. She advised them that the defense of dharma required one never to compromise under any circumstance. Despite the extreme hardship, the young Sahibzadas rejected all offers to convert to Islam and stood firm in their faith.
Outraged by their unwavering courage and commitment to religion, Wazir Khan ordered their execution on 26th December 1705, condemning the innocent Sahibzadas to be walled alive. When the news of their martyrdom reached Mata Gujari Ji, she too passed away, meditating on God. This is considered one of the most brutal events in human history. Even today, Sikh community in Punjab and around the world commemorate this sacrifice during Shaheedi Week, with many families even sleeping on the ground in the cold during this week, to honor the sacrifices made by Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his family for the protection of dharma.
The resolute courage and determination shown by Sahibzadas- Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh in the face of immense tyranny and terror has become a permanent symbol of courage and devotion to faith in our hearts. When these young heroes were walled alive, cruelty crossed all limits. However, the Sahibzadas refused to yield to threats or temptations, choosing to die rather than abandon their faith, and their names are forever etched in the golden pages of Indian history. This sacrifice is not only a pride for the Sikh community but for all of India.
The purpose of Shaheed Bal Divas is to make Indian youth aware of their history and traditions, so that they can internalize the values of courage, valor, and sacrifice, and live according to the ideals set by these young martyrs. The Sikh tradition is not merely a religious one; it is also a living example of the idea of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” (One India, Great India). The martyrdom of Sahibzadas teaches today’s youth that when it comes to the protection of principles and values, no temptation, fear, or pressure can deviate you from the path of duty.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has paid special attention to ensuring that future generations of India draw inspiration from the martyrdom of Sahibzadas and follow their ideals to build a strong and developed India. Shaheed Bal Divas is an important step towards fulfilling this vision. It serves not only as a commemoration but also as an opportunity to teach and inspire future generations. This day reminds the youth of India that true sacrifice and commitment to principles go never in vain.
Modi has also launched many important initiatives for the Sikh community, including the reopening of the Kartarpur Corridor, ensuring the safe return of Sikh and Hindu community members from Afghanistan, and bringing back the Swarup of Guru Granth Sahib from the battlefield. These steps are symbols of the government’s respect and honor for the Sikh community and serve as an example of sensitivity and equality among all communities.
On Shaheed Bal Divas, we all need to pledge to carry forward the values and messages embodied by the Sahibzadas to every corner of India. This effort will inspire the youth to take pride in their nation and culture. Shaheed Bal Divas is not just a commemoration; it is an opportunity to express our gratitude to our great martyrs, to learn from their sacrifices, and to strengthen the foundation of values and ideals that our nation stands upon.
Today, as we bow our heads in remembrance of the great Sahibzadas, we should take an inner pledge of courage, sacrifice, and commitment to truth. By reading and understanding these glorious pages of Indian history, we should unite and move forward with the vision of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat”.
(The author is the National General Secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party)
