The governor also inaugurated the official Ludhiana District Red Cross Society website during the event.
Veer Bal Diwas: Punjab Governor Urges Youth to Follow Sahibzadas’ Path of Courage and Sacrifice
Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, on the occasion of Veer Bal Diwas 2025, urged the state’s youth to imbibe the unparalleled courage, unwavering faith, and supreme spirit of sacrifice exemplified by the four Sahibzadas. The four Sahibzadas are Sahibzada Ajit Singh, Jujhar Singh, Zorawar Singh, and Fateh Singh, who are sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who made one of the most poignant sacrifices in Sikh history. The state-level observance took place on Friday at BCM Arya Model Senior Secondary School in Ludhiana. Officials said that the Child Welfare Council Punjab and the District Child Welfare Council, in collaboration with the district administration, organised this event.
Governor Kataria, presiding over the function as chief guest, described the martyrdom of the Sahibzadas as the “greatest sacrifice in world history” and urged young people to carry forward their legacy in their own lives. He specifically emphasised how Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh chose to face death by being bricked alive rather than renounce their faith, saying that their immortal saga “is written in golden letters” and continues to inspire generations to make sacrifices for the nation, religion, and society when required.
The governor also recalled the martyrdom of the Ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, along with his devoted disciples Bhai Mati Das, Bhai Sati Das, and Bhai Dayala, highlighting the eternal message of truth, justice, and righteousness their sacrifice delivered to humanity.
Kataria appealed directly to young attendees and stressed that Punjab and India can achieve greater heights of development only when the younger generation steps forward with determination, commitment, and moral courage. He also urged support for the ongoing societal fight against drug abuse and reinforced that community engagement is essential for meaningful change, officials said.
Organisers said that the programme featured cultural and educational activities, including painting, skits, hymn singing (shabad gayan), declamation, and poster-making competitions, and winners were honoured on stage. The governor also inaugurated the official Ludhiana District Red Cross Society website during the event.
Chairperson of the Child Welfare Council Punjab, Prajakta Nilkanth Avhad highlighted the council’s focus on children’s mental health and urged parents to avoid excessive academic pressure to protect childhood well-being. Assistant Commissioner (UT) Pragati Verma spoke about district welfare initiatives, including children’s homes, early intervention centres, and schools for deaf and mute children.
Source: Times of India
