Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that Veer Bal Diwas serves as a reminder of the profound sacrifice made by Sikh Gurus, as all four sons of Guru Gobind Singh happily sacrificed their lives for the protection of religion and country.

Speaking at a special sankirtan programme held at his residence, Yogi said: “The tales of this historic sacrifice need to be imparted to the younger generation so that they know about the glorious story of their martyrs.”

Earlier, Yogi extended a warm welcome to Guru Granth Sahib and carried it on his head. On the occasion, Gurbani, Ardas, and Langar were organised at the CM residence. The chief minister was honored with a Siropa by Sikh representatives from across the state.

During the programme, Yogi said that brave children should be honoured at every division and district level of the state. Additionally, he mentioned that all places in the state related to Sikh Gurus would be identified, and efforts would be made for their development.

The chief minister, while paying tribute to Guru Gobind Singh, stated that he sacrificed all four of his sons to protect the country and religion. “When Guru Govind Singh Ji was asked about his four sons becoming martyrs, he responded by saying ‘so what if four were sacrificed, thousands are still alive.’ Such programmes provide an opportunity to express gratitude towards them. Today’s programme at the CM’s residence is an opportunity to pay homage to the Sikh Gurus,” Yogi said.

He further said that the values imparted to Sahibzade in the presence of Mother Gujri were the reason they did not bow down to injustice. “This day provides new inspiration for every youth and child,” he added.

The chief minister expressed gratitude to the Sikhs in Lucknow, stating that everyone has consistently raised the question since 2020 as to why the sacrifice of Sahibzade, who gave the supreme sacrifice in the history of India, was being forgotten. “Instead of celebrating the martyrdom day of Sahibzade as Bal Diwas, some other event was linked to Children’s Day,” he said.

“Under the leadership and inspiration of Prime Minister Modi, the entire country is celebrating the martyrdom day of both Sahibzade Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh as Veer Bal Diwas,” he added.

The chief minister emphasised that the sacrifices made by Sikh Gurus were not driven by personal or familial motives but were dedicated to the service of the country and religion.

“Guru Nanak, a saint deeply devoted to spiritual enlightenment, fearlessly challenged Babur during his time. The Sikh Gurus, characterised by their selflessness, consistently worked for the greater good,” Yogi said.

“Guru Granth Sahib serves as an inspiration, guiding us to dedicate our efforts with hard work and determination to the welfare of both country and religion. Presently, the entire country is commemorating Veer Bal Diwas, while no one is left to light a lamp in the homes of the Mughals,” he added. The chief minister emphasised the importance of imparting the history of Sahibzade to schoolchildren.