Honoring Valor at Veer Bal Diwas Celebrations
26th December 2023
The significance of December 26 as 'Veer Bal Diwas' traces back to the Prakash Purab of Guru Gobind Singh on January 9, 2022. On that day, PM Modi announced the observance of December 26 to commemorate the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh's sons, Sahibzada Fateh Singh, Sahibjada Zorawar Singh. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the 'Veer Bal Diwas' program to honor the legacy of courage and sacrifice at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on 26th December, 2023. The event was marked by a march-past by youth in the capital city. The government organized participative programs across the country, aiming to inform and educate citizens, especially young children, about the exemplary courage of the Sahibzada’s.
Chief Guest of the event was Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Other dignitaries present at the event were Smt Smriti Zubin Irani (Union Minister for Women and Child Development), Shri Dharmendra Pradhan (Union Minister for Education), Shri Anurag Singh Thakur (Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting.)
NSS volunteers along with of Dr. Anupam Dalal and Dr. Vaishali Dixit (NSS Programme Officers) witnessed a vibrant and heartening display of patriotism and respect at the Bharat Mandappam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. Students actively participated in the Veer Bal Diwas celebrations.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, in a poignant speech, paid homage to the Chaar Sahibzade and underscored the significance of Veer Bal Diwas in reminding us of the sacrifices made for our faith and principles. He urged the youth to draw inspiration from the unwavering courage and commitment of the young martyrs and contribute to shaping a strong and vibrant nation.
Smt. Smriti Irani, in her address, lauded the unwavering valor of the Chaar Sahibzade and emphasized the importance of instilling their values in the younger generation. She highlighted the crucial role of women in nurturing these values and shaping future generations with unwavering moral compasses. The proceedings commenced with a solemn floral tribute to the portraits of Guru Gobind Singh and the Chaar Sahibzade, followed by a mesmerizing kirtan performance by young children. Their melodious renditions of hymns narrated the courage and sacrifice of the young martyrs, captivated the audience and set the tone for a deep experience. The highlight of the program was a captivating skit performed by the NSS volunteers, depicting the unwavering faith and bravery of the Chaar Sahibzade. Their heartfelt performance received resounding applause, demonstrating their dedication and talent in conveying a powerful message.
The NSS volunteers' participation in the Veer Bal Diwas celebrations extended beyond mere commemoration. It was a journey of learning, introspection, and inspiration. They gained valuable insights into Sikh history and culture, embraced the values of courage and sacrifice, and contributed to a meaningful event that resonated with the wider community. The event highlighted the importance of instilling values in the younger generation for a brighter future.
The celebrations concluded with a langar, where everyone shared a traditional meal in a spirit of community and inclusivity. This provided an opportunity for interaction and fostered a sense of unity and understanding.