Thu Dec 26 10:38:04 UTC 2024: ## India Celebrates Veer Bal Diwas, Honors Child Courage
**New Delhi, December 26, 2024** – India today commemorated Veer Bal Diwas (Day of Brave Children), honoring the unwavering faith and sacrifice of the two youngest sons of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national observance, attending a ceremony in New Delhi to remember Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, who were martyred around this date in 1705 after refusing to convert to Islam.
The brothers, captured by Mughal forces during the siege of Anandpur Sahib Fort, faced immense pressure to renounce their Sikh faith. Their courageous refusal, even in the face of death, has become a powerful symbol of religious steadfastness and bravery for generations. PM Modi, who declared December 26th as Veer Bal Diwas in 2022, emphasized the significance of their sacrifice in upholding national honor.
Today’s events included the launch of the “Suposhit Panchayat Abhiyaan,” a nationwide initiative aimed at improving nutrition and community participation. Furthermore, 17 children were awarded the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) for exceptional achievements in various fields. Each recipient received a medal, certificate, and citation booklet. The Prime Minister’s attendance underscores the government’s commitment to celebrating children as the foundation of India’s future.
First Piper 