Lucknow: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will commemorate the sacrifices of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s two younger sons, Sahibzadas Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, on December 26 as Veer Bal Diwas. To honor the unparalleled contributions of the Sikh community and their Gurus in preserving India’s cultural and religious heritage, a seminar was organized at the BJP Lucknow Mahanagar office in Kaisarbagh.
The event was graced by Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, BJP Mahanagar President Anand Dwivedi, MLC Mukesh Sharma, and prominent representatives of the Sikh community, including influential leaders and citizens.
Honoring Sikh Sacrifices
Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, the chief guest and keynote speaker, paid tribute to the martyrdom of the Sahibzadas and Sikh Gurus, emphasizing their unwavering spirit in resisting the Mughal onslaught. “When we look back at India’s history, the Mughals tried relentlessly to dismantle our cultural heritage. Amidst such tyranny, the Sikh community stood like a fortress, sacrificing their lives to protect our traditions and dharma,” he said.
Pathak recounted the horrors faced by the Sikh Gurus and their disciples, such as the brutal execution of Guru Gobind Singh’s younger sons, who were entombed alive for refusing to convert. “Despite witnessing their children being martyred, the Sikhs did not bow to religious coercion,” he remarked.
He further highlighted the brutalities faced by Guru Tegh Bahadur and his disciples, including the infamous tortures of Bhai Mati Das, Bhai Sati Das, and Bhai Dayal Das, and Guru Tegh Bahadur’s beheading at Chandni Chowk. Pathak described these sacrifices as symbols of resilience that have shaped India’s spiritual and cultural fabric.
Acknowledging Sikh Contributions
“The Sikh community’s unwavering dedication to protecting India’s cultural ethos has allowed us to live with pride and dignity,” Pathak stated. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving global recognition to Sikh sacrifices by declaring Veer Bal Diwas and celebrating Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s Prakash Parv. He also mentioned infrastructural initiatives such as the establishment of Khalsa Chowk in Lucknow to honor Sikh heritage.
“We stand shoulder to shoulder with the Sikh community,” Pathak assured. Reflecting on historical challenges, including the anti-Sikh riots of 1984, he vowed to uphold the traditions and contributions of the Gurus.
Inspiration for Future Generations
BJP Mahanagar President Anand Dwivedi underscored the inspirational legacy of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, whose ethos of placing the nation first remains relevant today. He announced that the BJP would organize commemorative events across Lucknow’s mandals on September 23 and 24. Additionally, educational programs, including essay and speech competitions highlighting the Sahibzadas’ sacrifices, will be held in schools.
Community Presence and Participation
BJP media in-charge Praveen Garg informed that the seminar witnessed active participation from several Sikh representatives, including Lakhvinder Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Parvinder Singh, Lucky Singh Bagga, Ranveer Singh Kalsi, Satbir Singh Anand, and Amanpreet Singh.
The seminar concluded with heartfelt tributes to the Sikh Gurus and a collective resolve to carry forward their legacy of courage, sacrifice, and commitment to India’s heritage.