Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the bravery and sacrifice of the Sahibzadas continue to inspire India’s resolve to free itself from the colonial mindset and move forward on the path of self-reliance and national pride.
Addressing the Veer Bal Diwas programme in the national capital, the Prime Minister said the nation remembers the supreme courage of the four Sahibzadas of Guru Gobind Singh, who stood firm against religious fanaticism and oppression at a very young age.
“The Sahibzadas embody the pinnacle of India’s courage and sacrifice. They broke the boundaries of age and fear and stood like a rock against cruelty and injustice,” the Prime Minister said.
PM Modi said December 26 was chosen to commemorate Veer Bal Diwas to ensure that the inspiration of the Sahibzadas reaches younger generations. He noted that over the past four years, the observance has evolved into a platform to recognise courage, talent and service among children.
Referring to the Prime Minister’s National Child Award, he said 20 children from across the country were honoured this year for achievements in bravery, social service, environmental protection, science and technology, sports, arts and culture.
“This honour is not only for the children, but also for their parents, teachers and mentors who shaped them,” he said, congratulating the award winners and their families.
The Prime Minister recalled the sacrifices of Sahibzada Ajit Singh, Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh, describing their stand as a battle between truth and falsehood, and between India’s core values and fanaticism.
He said the legacy of Guru Gobind Singh, Mata Gujri and the Sahibzadas continues to strengthen the nation even today. However, he added that for decades after independence, many such chapters of history were sidelined due to a lingering colonial mindset.
“India has now resolved to free itself from this mentality of slavery. Our heroes and heroines will no longer remain on the margins of history,” the Prime Minister said.
PM Modi also pointed to recent developments in Parliament, where Members delivered speeches in multiple Indian languages, calling it a sign of India reclaiming its linguistic and cultural diversity.
Addressing the youth, the Prime Minister said India’s young generation will play a decisive role in shaping the country’s future over the next 25 years. He said platforms such as Digital India, Startup India, Khelo India and Mera Yuva Bharat are expanding opportunities for young Indians across sectors.
“Our youth must dream big, stay focused and ensure that their personal success contributes to the success of the nation,” he said.
Highlighting reforms in education, the Prime Minister said the National Education Policy places emphasis on practical learning, critical thinking, multidisciplinary studies and learning in the mother tongue. He said initiatives such as Atal Tinkering Labs are encouraging innovation, research and exposure to emerging technologies at the school level.
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister urged the youth to draw inspiration from the Sahibzadas, choose the path of righteousness, and work with confidence and dedication towards building a developed India.
