India on Friday observed Prakash Purab, the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh, with deep devotion, large-scale religious processions, and tributes highlighting the timeless values of courage, equality, and sacrifice. The celebrations came a day after Veer Bal Diwas on December 26, which commemorates the martyrdom of the younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh who were executed in 1705 for refusing to abandon their faith.
Together, the two days formed a powerful spiritual and historical continuum for the Sikh community, blending celebration of birth with remembrance of supreme sacrifice.
Guru Gobind Singh: The Warrior-Saint Who Shaped Sikh Identity
Born in 1666, Guru Gobind Singh Ji occupies a unique place in Indian history as both a spiritual leader and a fearless warrior. He is best remembered for founding the Khalsa Panth in 1699, a transformative moment in Sikh history that institutionalised principles of equality, collective identity, and resistance against injustice.
Guru Gobind Singh preached a society free from caste discrimination and fear, where courage and compassion coexisted. His teachings, scriptures, and military organisation helped shape Sikhism into a faith that stood firmly for righteousness and human dignity.
Nationwide Prakash Purab Celebrations Marked by Devotion
Prakash Purab celebrations were held across India, with gurdwaras illuminated, special prayers organised, and Nagar Kirtans (religious processions) taken out in cities and towns. Devotees gathered in large numbers to recite hymns, participate in community meals (langar), and listen to discourses on the life and philosophy of Guru Gobind Singh.
In many places, voluntary blood donation camps, medical aid programmes, and charity drives were organised, reflecting the Guru’s teachings of selfless service.
Veer Bal Diwas and the Sacrifice of the Sahibzade
The Prakash Purab followed the observance of Veer Bal Diwas on December 26, dedicated to remembering the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh’s younger sons Sahibzada Zorawar Singh (aged nine) and Sahibzada Fateh Singh (aged seven). The two children were bricked alive by the Mughal authorities in Sirhind in 1705 after they refused to convert or renounce their faith.
Their sacrifice is regarded as one of the most profound examples of spiritual courage in Indian history. Sikh scholars often describe the martyrdom as not merely an act of resistance, but a spiritual shaheedi (martyrdom) that continues to inspire generations.
Political Leaders Pay Tribute to Sikh Legacy
On the occasion, several national and state leaders offered tributes, acknowledging the historical and moral significance of Guru Gobind Singh and the Sahibzade.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Guru Gobind Singh’s life remains a guiding light for humanity, praising his stand for justice and freedom of belief. Union Home Minister Amit Shah highlighted the unmatched bravery of the Sahibzade, calling their sacrifice a cornerstone of India’s civilisational values.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also paid homage, stressing that the Sikh Gurus’ teachings transcend religion and belong to the entire nation.
SGPC and Akal Takht Raise Objections Over ‘Veer Bal Diwas’ Name
While tributes poured in, a significant debate emerged around the official naming of December 26 as Veer Bal Diwas. Prominent Sikh institutions, including the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and the Akal Takht, expressed reservations over the term.
They argued that referring to the Sahibzade primarily as “bal” (children) risks reducing the spiritual depth of their martyrdom, which the Sikh tradition has historically honoured as “Sahibzade Shaheedi Diwas.” According to Sikh scholars, the Sahibzade are revered not for their age, but for their unshakable faith and conscious choice to embrace martyrdom.
A Debate Rooted in Faith and Historical Interpretation
Sikh leaders clarified that their objection is not political, but theological and cultural. They maintain that Sikh history emphasises shaheedi as a spiritual and conscious act, regardless of age. Using terminology that focuses only on childhood, they argue, could dilute centuries-old religious understanding.
At the same time, supporters of Veer Bal Diwas say the name helps younger generations connect emotionally with the sacrifices of the Sahibzade. The debate continues within the community, reflecting broader questions about how history should be commemorated in a modern national context.
Unity, Courage, and Service Remain Central to the Observance
Despite differing views on terminology, the essence of both Prakash Purab and the martyrdom remembrance remained unchanged honouring truth, bravery, equality, and service. From gurdwaras to public platforms, the focus stayed on drawing inspiration from Guru Gobind Singh’s life and the Sahibzade’s sacrifice.
As India observed these sacred occasions, the celebrations reaffirmed the enduring relevance of Sikh values in contemporary society values that continue to guide not just a community, but the moral conscience of the nation.
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