The Veer Bal Diwas is a significant event observed annually on the 26th of December. This day is dedicated to honoring the valiant sacrifices made by the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth and last Sikh guru. Their names were Zorawar Singh, Fateh Singh, Jai Singh, and Kulwant Singh, who demonstrated immense bravery against the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and his army.
The Capture of Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh
In the fierce resistance against the Mughals, the youngest sons of Guru Gobind Singh, Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh had displayed noteworthy valor during their defense of the Anandpur Sahib fort at the tender ages of six and nine, respectively. Unfortunately, they were captured by the Mughals. Upon capture, they were taken to Sirhind, a significant location in Sikh history. Despite being young, the two boys refused to abandon their religion and convert to Islam, despite the promise of riches and power.
Brick Enclosure: The Tragic End of Young Heroes
Their refusal to renounce their Sikhi faith led them to face severe consequences decided by the Mughal court. The resolve to protect religious freedom cost them their lives as they were sentenced to a cruel death. In the cold winter of December in 1705, they were bricked alive – an act that now symbolizes supreme sacrifice for one’s faith.
Jai Singh and Kulwant Singh: A Daring Escape
While the younger sons faced their tragic end, the older ones, Jai Singh and Kulwant Singh, too, were captured at Anandpur Sahib. However, they managed to elude their captors at Sirhind with the help of some faithful followers. The daring escape by the elder sons became a beacon of hope amidst the grim situation.
The Final Battle at Sirhind
After their escape, Jai Singh and Kulwant Singh joined their father, Guru Gobind Singh, in his final battle at Sirhind. Here, they exhibited the same bravery as their younger brothers. Despite fighting fiercely, Guru Gobind Singh was critically wounded by a musket shot during the battle. This marked the end of the Sikh guru lineage, but the legacy of religious bravery lived on.
The Immortal Legacy
The courage and sacrifices of the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh are revered by Sikhs worldwide. Veer Bal Diwas serves to remind us of the ultimate sacrifices they made for their faith. The young heroes stood their ground, fearlessly practicing their religion in the face of certain death. Their fortitude is not merely remembered but has become an integral part of Sikh history and ethos, inspiring generations to stand up for their beliefs.
Remembering these brave hearts every year on Veer Bal Diwas is a tribute of respect to their incredible bravery and devotion. Their tale of courage against all odds continues to inspire and strengthen the spirit of Sikhism to this very day. By recounting their heroism, the Sikh community keeps their memory alive, turning their tragic end into a source of immortal inspiration. The Veer Bal Diwas has thus come to symbolize the fearless spirit and indomitable courage of the Sikhs.
