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Context

Veer Bal Diwas is a solemn day observed on 26th December annually to honor the martyrdom of Baba Fateh Singh and Zorawar Singh, the brave sons of the tenth Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Details

• This day marks their martyrdom in 1705 at Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab, where they were bricked alive on the orders of Nawab Wazir Khan for refusing to renounce their Sikh faith.

Background

• The two younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji and Sahibzada Fateh Singh Ji, along with their grandmother Mata Gujari, were captured after the battle of Chamkaur in December 1704 and taken into custody by officials at Morinda.
• Subsequently, they were imprisoned in the Cold Tower (Thanda Burj) of the Sirhind Fort.
• They were taken before Nawab Wazir Khan in Sirhind, who demanded their conversion to Islam. Despite threats and offers of wealth, they remained steadfast in their Sikh beliefs.
• On December 11, 1705, they were ordered to be sealed alive in a wall. However, the masonry collapsed before reaching a fatal height.
• Re-imprisoned for the night, they were ultimately martyred the next day, December 12, 1705, by being bricked alive.
• A few years later, Baba Banda Singh Bahadur avenged the execution of the Sahibzade, by attacking, capturing Sarhand and executing Wazir Khan.

Events Leading to the Martyrdom

• Conflicts arose as Guru Gobind Singh Ji raised an army and established the Khalsa in 1699, which was perceived as a threat by the Mughals and hill kings.
• The attack on Anandpur Sahib in 1704 by the Mughals, Bilaspur King Bheem Chand, and Handuria King Raja Hari Chand led to a series of tragic events, including battles, captures, and martyrdoms within Guru Gobind Singh's family.

Commemoration

• Fatehgarh Sahib, the site of their martyrdom near the old town of Sirhind, hosts four Sikh shrines, marking the place where the tragic events occurred.
• An annual religious fair from December 25 to 28 is held to honor the memory of the Sahibzade, drawing devotees and visitors from various places.

National Recognition and Programs:

• The Indian government officially declared December 26 as Veer Bal Diwas on January 9, 2022, coinciding with Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji's Prakash Purab.
• To educate citizens, especially children, about the exemplary courage of the Sahibzade, various participatory programs, digital exhibitions, film screenings, and online competitions are organized nationwide.

Conclusion

Veer Bal Diwas stands as a day of remembrance and tribute, commemorating the ultimate sacrifice of Sahibzada Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Sahibzada Baba Fateh Singh Ji. Their courage and unwavering commitment to their faith serve as an eternal inspiration within the Sikh community and continue to resonate as a powerful symbol of resilience and devotion to one's beliefs.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Explain the historical significance and pivotal events surrounding the Battle of Chamkaur during the late 17th century and its impact on Sikh history and culture. (250 Words)