Instead of merrymaking during the 21st and 27th of December, Bharatvasis should mark this period as a time for mourning! Why? During this week in 1705 AD, young Sikh princes left an indelible mark of unparalleled heroism and sacrifice on Bharat’s history. The supreme sacrifice of the Chaar Sahibzaade or the four brave Sikh princes serves as a poignant reminder of the unwavering spirit and valor that defines Sikhs the world over.
The Legacy of Chaar Sahibzaade
The Chaar Sahibzaade were the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Their names were Sahibzada Ajit Singh, Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh, and Sahibzada Fateh Singh. Each young life was a pillar of bravery and sacrifice. These young warriors were aged between 6 to 18 years only. However, history remembers them as fearless warriors who faced an unimaginable trial. Why? They refused to denounce their faith even in the face of death. They refused to bow to Islamic invaders even at the cost of their lives.
Sahibzada Zorawar Singh, aged 9, and Sahibzada Fateh Singh, aged 7, were captured by Wazir Khan after the battle of Sirhind. Despite being so young, they faced extreme torture but remained steadfast in their faith. Some stories state that the Islamic tyrant wanted them dead, however, he feared that this act would not go down well with his people. Thus, he came up with a cunning plan of conversion. He gave them a choice between death and conversion. Thus, on the 21st of December 1705, these younger sons, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh, were bricked alive by the orders of Wazir Khan. The public cause was the refusal to convert. This refusal made their deaths permitted as per Islam.Â
Reports state that Their Words Before death were “We prefer death to the tyrant’s bed, and the conch shell to the temple. In the Guru’s way, it is honorable to die.”
Just six days later, on the 27th of December 1705, Sahibzada Ajit Singh, and Sahibzada Jujhar Singh gave the test of valor. They fought along with their father, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the Battle of Chamkaur. Despite being outnumbered they fought valiantly and fearlessly. However, recognizing the dire situation Guru Gobind Singh Ji instructed his sons to continue the struggle while he escaped the battlefield. The young princes fought to their last breath, attaining martyrdom in the service of their faith and father.
A Call to All Indians
Should Bharat celebrate December as a Christian holiday or mourn in solidarity with the Sikhs? The Sikh community observes these days with reverence and solemnity. Thus, Bharat should support this community and recognize their grief. Instead of the peals of Christmas bells, the nation should resonate with sounds of conch shells that sing about the sacrifice of the Chaar Sahibzaade. All of India should mark the fact that if such young stalwart heroes had not paid the ultimate sacrifice, Bharat may not be a home of Hindus.
Bharatvasi should remember the following before singing Christmas Carols this December:
- The younger two of the Chaar Sahibzaade chose death over conversion.
- The older two of the Chaar Sahibzade gave their father a chance to escape by sacrificing themselves.
- Their deaths mark a period of mourning and grief. Bharat paid the cost of young lives to oppose Islamic invaders.
- Sikhs opposed Muslims at every turn with every breath. The Sikh community is an inseparable fighting arm of Bharat.
Thus, a true nationalist will ignore the ‘Merry Christmas’ chant and pay homage to these young martyrs. Moreover, they will remember this story of sacrifice and honor to understand the cost Bharat paid to fight an Islamic invader. To truly honor the legacy of the Chaar Sahibzaade, Bharat must incorporate their tales of sacrifice and bravery into educational curricula across the country. Do not forget and do not forgive! Ensure that every generation learns about these remarkable heroes who laid down their lives for Dharma. This December let Bharat mourn, reflect, and draw inspiration from the indomitable spirit of these young Sikh heroes.