Veer Bal Diwas Dec 20-28
SHAHEEDI WEEK (20 DECEMBER – 28 DECEMBER) - INDIA
Remembering the Supreme Sacrifices of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the Sahibzadas
Shaheedi Week is observed every year from 20 December to 28 December to commemorate the unparalleled sacrifices (Shaheedi) of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, his four sons (Chaar Sahibzade), and countless Sikhs who laid down their lives to uphold Dharma, justice, faith, and human dignity during the Mughal era.
This week is a solemn reminder of courage, moral strength, and unwavering faith in the face of tyranny.
During December 1704, the Mughal forces, led by Wazir Khan of Sirhind, unleashed brutal persecution against Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his family. Despite extreme hardships, the Guru and his Sahibzadas stood firm for truth and righteousness.
DAY-WISE SIGNIFICANCE
20–21 December
• Recollection of the Siege of Anandpur Sahib
• Guru Gobind Singh Ji and Sikhs face starvation and betrayal
• Forced evacuation of Anandpur after false assurances of safety
22 December
• Battle of Chamkaur
Two elder Sahibzadas:
Baba Ajit Singh Ji (18 years)
Baba Jujhar Singh Ji (14 years) attain martyrdom while fighting valiantly against a massive Mughal army
23–25 December
• Separation of Guru Ji from Mata Gujri Ji and the younger Sahibzadas
• Mata Gujri Ji, Baba Zorawar Singh Ji (9 years) and Baba Fateh Singh Ji (7 years) are betrayed by Gangu and handed over to Mughal authorities
26 December – VEER BAAL DIWAS
• Martyrdom of the younger Sahibzadas at Sirhind
• Bricked alive for standing firm in their faith
Mata Gujri Ji attains martyrdom the same day
27 December
• Mourning and remembrance of Sikh martyrs across Punjab
• Reflection on child sacrifice for religious freedom
28 December
• Martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s mother, Mata Gujri Ji
• Conclusion of Shaheedi Week with prayers (Ardas) and Shabad Kirtan
CORE VALUES HIGHLIGHTED
• Courage over fear
• Faith over life
• Truth over tyranny
• Equality and justice for all
• Resistance against oppression
OBSERVANCE TODAY
• Gurudwaras conduct Kirtan, Katha, Langar, and Ardas
• Schools observe Veer Baal Diwas with assemblies and discussions
• Educational programs narrate the sacrifices of the Sahibzadas
• Peace marches and remembrance events are organized worldwide
RELEVANCE FOR PRESENT GENERATION
• Shaheedi Week is not merely a remembrance of the past; it is a moral compass for today’s youth—teaching:
• Fearlessness in standing for truth
• Commitment to justice
• Strength of character, even at a young age