The Prime Minister of India has recently announced that December 26th will henceforth be commemorated as “Veer Baal Diwas”. This day will pay tribute to the bravery of the Sahibzades, who are the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh, the last Sikh guru. While all four sons were martyred, December 26th has been specifically selected because it is the recognized martyrdom day of Sahibzades Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh. These two young boys, aged six and nine, were killed in Sirhind (Punjab) by Mughal forces.
The Martyrdom of Sahibzadas Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh
Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh are some of the most revered figures in Sikhism. In 1704, emperor Aurangzeb sent a group of Mughal soldiers to lay siege to Anandpur Sahib, and the two sons of Guru Gobind Singh were captured. They were presented with the promise of safety if they converted to Islam, but both staunchly refused. As a result, they were sentenced to death and were tragically bricked alive. Choosing to die rather than abandon their religious principles highlights the immense courage and dedication these children had towards their Dharma.
About Guru Gobind Singh
Guru Gobind Singh, born on December 22nd, 1666 in Patna, Bihar, was the final of the ten Sikh Gurus. His birth anniversary is commemorated according to the Nanakshahi calendar. At the young age of nine, he became the Sikh Guru, following the death of his father, Guru Tegh Bahadur, who was the ninth Sikh Guru. Guru Gobind Singh was assassinated in the year 1708.
Religious Contributions of Guru Gobind Singh
Guru Gobind Singh made monumental contributions to the Sikh faith. He introduced the practice of wearing a turban to cover hair and established the principles of Khalsa or the Five ‘K’s. These are kesh (uncut hair), kanga (wooden comb), kara (iron or steel bracelet), kirpan (dagger) and kachera (short breeches). These five articles of faith are essential for a Khalsa to always embody. He also established numerous other rules for the Khalsa warriors, such as abstaining from tobacco, alcohol, halal meat, among others. Additionally, every Khalsa warrior was expected to protect innocent people from persecution. Recognizing the Guru Granth Sahib as the following Guru of the Khalsa and Sikh communities was another significant contribution made by him.
Martial Contributions of Guru Gobind Singh
In 1705, Guru Gobind Singh fought against the Mughals in the Battle of Muktsar. During the Battle of Anandpur in 1704, the Guru lost his mother and two younger sons, who were executed. His eldest son also lost his life in battle.
Literary Contributions of Guru Gobind Singh
Guru Gobind Singh made numerous literary contributions, including the Jaap Sahib, Benti Chaupai, Amrit Savaiye, and more. He also penned the Zafarnama, a letter addressed to the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.