New Delhi, Dec 26 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the Sahibzades, the sons of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, during the observance of Veer Baal Diwas on Friday, marking it as a day of respect to remember their ultimate sacrifice.

In a message via the social media platform X, the Prime Minister expressed, “Veer Baal Diwas serves as a day of homage to recognize the sacrifices made by the valiant Sahibzades. We honor the unwavering faith of Mata Gujri Ji and the everlasting wisdom of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

He continued, stating that this day epitomizes bravery, faith, and righteousness.

“This day is linked with valor, belief, and morality. The lives and principles of the Sahibzades will inspire future generations,” he added.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also honored the Sahibzades, emphasizing their extraordinary courage and sacrifice at such a tender age.

On the platform X, Amit Shah remarked, “The sacrifices made by the brave sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji at such a young age, in defense of their faith and nation, are without precedent in history. The values instilled in the Sahibzades by Mata Gujri and Guru Gobind Singh Ji, and the seeds of humanity they planted, remained unshaken despite the brutal tortures from cruel oppressors.”

The Union Home Minister further acknowledged that to ensure the tales of the four Sahibzades reach every generation, Prime Minister Modi initiated the observance of Veer Baal Diwas.

“To ensure that the story of the four Sahibzades' sacrifice reaches every generation, Prime Minister Modi initiated the observance of 'Veer Baal Diwas'. On this 'Veer Baal Diwas', I extend my respects to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Mata Gujri, and the valiant Sahibzades, commemorating their martyrdom,” Amit Shah added.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also paid tribute to the Sahibzades, stating in a message on X, “Endless salutations to the four Sahibzades of Guru Shri Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj on their martyrdom day 'Veer Baal Diwas' (Sahibzada Diwas) who made the ultimate sacrifice for the protection of the nation, faith, and Sanatan culture.

“This timeless saga of unyielding courage and bravery will forever illuminate the path of patriotism, religious devotion, and a dutiful life for all,” he added.

Veer Baal Diwas is observed annually on December 26 to honor the martyrdom of Sahibzada Baba Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Baba Fateh Singh, the younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh. The Prime Minister announced the observance of Veer Baal Diwas on January 9, 2022, during the Prakash Purab of Guru Gobind Singh.

The youngest sons of Guru Gobind Singh, Sahibzada Baba Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Baba Fateh Singh, were born in Anandpur Sahib. On December 7, 1705, during the historic Battle of Chamkaur, both Sahibzades, along with their grandmother Mata Gujri, were detained by Mughal officials Jani Khan and Mani Khan Ranghar at Morinda.

They were later transported to Sirhind, where they were imprisoned in the Cold Tower (Thanda Burj) of the fort. On December 9, 1705, the Sahibzades were presented before the Mughal governor, Nawab Wazir Khan, who tried to force them to renounce their faith. Despite threats of execution, the young Sahibzades remained resolute, leading to a death sentence.

On December 11, 1705, they were commanded to be sealed alive in a wall. As the masonry rose to chest height, it reportedly collapsed, causing the Sahibzades to be sent back to the Cold Tower for the night. The following day, December 12, 1705, Sahibzada Baba Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Baba Fateh Singh achieved martyrdom after being sealed alive in a wall.

The location of these events, now recognized as Fatehgarh Sahib near Sirhind, is marked by four significant Sikh shrines. A religious fair occurs there annually from December 25 to 28 to honor the memory of the martyrs.

Veer Baal Diwas is commemorated across the nation and highlights the significance of children as the cornerstone of India’s future. On this day, initiatives like the ‘Suposhit Gram Panchayat Abhiyan’ have been launched to enhance nutritional outcomes and overall well-being by fortifying nutrition-related services and fostering active community involvement.