Historical Background

In the year 1704 CE, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj and the Sikhs were compelled to leave the fortress of Anandpur Sahib. Due to the prolonged siege by the hill rajas and Mughal forces, supplies of food and water had been exhausted. Guru Sahib Ji ordered the Sikhs to cross the Sirsa River in separate groups. During this chaotic crossing, Mata Gujri Ji, the mother of Guru Sahib Ji, along with the younger Sahibzadas, Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji, became separated from Guru Sahib Ji. With them was Bhai Vira Singh Ji, a devoted Sikh of Guru Sahib Ji, who remained in the service of Mata Gujri Ji.

Bhai Vira Singh Ji led them towards his village, but they were betrayed by a former servant named Gangu, who informed the Mughal authorities. Mata Gujri Ji and the two young Sahibzadas were arrested and taken to Sirhind, where they were imprisoned in the Thanda Burj (cold tower) under the custody of Nawab Wazir Khan. Despite the harsh conditions, Mata Gujri Ji instilled courage and faith in the young children.

On December 26, 1704, the two Sahibzadas, aged about nine and seven, were brought before Wazir Khan. They were offered wealth, power, and a life of comfort if they would embrace Islam. With remarkable courage and unwavering faith, they refused, stating that they would never forsake their Guru and their religion. The Qazi and other officials tried to persuade them with threats and temptations, but the young boys remained resolute.

Wazir Khan then ordered their execution. The next day, December 27, 1704, the two innocent Sahibzadas were bricked alive in a wall. As the wall rose, it is said that it collapsed miraculously, but they were eventually martyred. Mata Gujri Ji, who was in the Thanda Burj, was informed of their martyrdom. Unable to bear the shock, she breathed her last, attaining martyrdom herself. Thus, on December 27, 1704, Mata Gujri Ji and the younger Sahibzadas sacrificed their lives for the Sikh faith.

This event is one of the most poignant chapters in Sikh history, symbolizing the supreme sacrifice for religious freedom and the unwavering spirit of the Sikhs. The martyrdom of the younger Sahibzadas and Mata Gujri Ji is remembered annually as a day of great sorrow and inspiration. It reminds Sikhs of the importance of standing firm in their beliefs and the high price paid by the Guru's family for the protection of righteousness.

The site of their martyrdom in Sirhind is now marked by Gurdwara Fatehgarh Sahib, where thousands of Sikhs gather every year to pay their respects. The day is observed with prayers, kirtan, and lectures on the lives of the martyrs, inspiring generations to follow the path of courage and devotion.