"Sacrifice for the protection of the country and faith": Punjab Governor Kataria at Fatehgarh Sahib
Punjab, December 26
Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria on Friday offered prayers at Gurdwara Sri Fatehgarh Sahib, paying homage to the Sahibzadas for their supreme sacrifice. He said the entire nation remembers their martyrdom and draws inspiration from their courage, which continues to guide the country in protecting its values and faith.
Speaking to reporters, Kataria said, "The entire country is paying homage to their (the brave Sahibzadas') sacrifice..." It was here that both Sahibzadas were martyred... This sacrifice was made solely for the protection of the country and faith... At this sacred place, we bow our heads and seek blessings that we too may be granted such strength to offer a similar sacrifice for the protection of the country and faith."
On December 26, 1704, the younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Sahibzadas Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, were hanged alive by the orders of Wazir Khan, the Nawab of Sirhind, for resisting conversion to Islam during the reign of Emperor Aurangzeb. The two elder sons, Sahibzada Ajit Singh and Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, attained shaheed status, fighting bravely in the Battle of Chamkaur.
Earlier today, President Droupadi Murmu distributed the 'Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar' awards at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on the occassion of Veer Bal Diwas.
Archana Sivaramakrishnan accepted the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar on behalf of her late daughter, Vyoma Priya, recounting how the 8-year-old had bravely tried to save a 6-year-old boy from an electrified slide in their apartment park, losing her life in the process.
Speaking to ANI, Archana Sivaramakrishnan said, "I am receiving the bravery award on behalf of our daughter, Vyoma Priya. She was 8 years old when she was playing in the children's park in our apartment complex. A slide in the park was installed over a damaged underground cable, which electrified the slide. A 6-year-old boy playing on it fell, and our Vyoma tried to rescue him, but was caught in the current herself. It is a bittersweet moment for us to be getting this award... We wish she could have been here to receive this award herself..."
Another Bal Puraskar awardee said, "When Operation Sindoor began against Pakistan, soldiers came to our village. I thought I should serve them. I used to take milk, tea, buttermilk, and ice for them daily... I feel great to be awarded. I had never dreamt of it..."
On the occasion of the Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji on January 9, 2022, the Prime Minister had announced that December 26 would be observed as 'Veer Baal Diwas', to commemorate the martyrdom of Sahibzadas Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji, the sons of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, whose sacrifice continues to inspire generations.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The story of Vyoma Priya is equally heartbreaking and inspiring. So much bravery in such a young child. While remembering historical sacrifices, it's important we also honor the modern-day heroes among us. My thoughts are with her family.
Respectfully, while the sentiment is good, I wish politicians would focus more on present-day protection of faith and country through good governance and unity, rather than just symbolic gestures. The real tribute would be creating a society where such sacrifices are never needed again.
Jai Hind! The bravery of the young Sahibzadas and the little girl Vyoma show that the spirit of sacrifice for others is alive in India's youth. These stories give me hope for our nation's future.
Good to see Veer Bal Diwas being observed nationally. Our history is full of such inspiring tales that bind us together. Also, kudos to that awardee who served our jawans during Operation Sindoor. Every contribution counts.
As someone learning about Indian history, the story of Guru Gobind Singh's sons is profoundly moving. The depth of sacrifice in this country's narrative, from centuries ago to today with that little girl, is remarkable.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.