26th December since 2022 is observed as Veer Baal Diwas to commemorate the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh’s younger sons (chhote sahibzaade); Baba Zorawar Singh ji and Baba Fateh Singh ji aged 9 and 7 years. During the battle on the banks of Sarsa river in the night of 20th December 1704; Mata Gujar Kaur ji (Guru ji’s mother) and the two younger sons got separated. They were betrayed by their cook Gangu and handed over to Mughal Governor of Sirhind; Wazir Khan. He imprisoned them in the Thanda Burj (cold tower), which was bitterly cold. They were offered riches and gifts with a luxurious life if they converted to Islam. The Sahibzaadas did not deter and when all the efforts to give up their religion failed, on 26 the December Wazir Khan bricked the young children alive and killed them.
An event to honour their martyrdom, is held in South City 1 Gurudwara every year around this time of the year. About 125-150 children take part in this program consisting singing hymns for Gurbani, reciting poems describing their courage and determination, performing acts like role play depicting events occurred during that time, etc. This program helps children like me to connect with the history and Gurbani, also develop a strong bond with my inner self. I have grown up listening to it but still it gives me goosebumps and leaves me teary eyed yet proud to be a part of their legacy. Each time I remember the young sahibzaadas, it helps me understand their contribution in being what I am.
