Yogi : Inspiration by Sikh gurus can avert scenarios like Kabul, Bangladesh:
Insight Online News
Lucknow, Dec 26 : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday highlighted the rich legacy of the Sikh tradition, emphasizing their resilience in adverse circumstances.
The CM praised the community for not only preserving their traditions but also inspiring others through their sacrifices for the nation and their faith.
Addressing the main event of Veer Bal Diwas (Sahibzada Diwas) held at the CM residence, he said, “The Sikh community has a glorious history, yet we hear that only a handful of Sikh families remain in Kabul. Incidents in Bangladesh and atrocities in Pakistan remind us of the sacrifices of the Sikh Gurus.”
Yogi said, “The ideals of the Sikh Gurus provide us with the energy to move forward. Their blessings serve as our inspiration. By carrying forward their legacy, we can prevent situations like those in Kabul and Bangladesh. Places like Nankana Sahib will come to us naturally, without the need for agitation or struggle.”
The event also saw a historical gathering and the commencement of 11,000 Sahaj Paaths. Besides, the CM released a book based on the teachings of Guru Teg Bahadur.
Yogi praised the Sikh community as a resilient and prosperous segment of the nation, setting exemplary standards through their strength, dedication, and hard work. “At one time, Sikhs safeguarded India by joining the army in significant numbers. Yet, forces are conspiring to undermine their efforts, attempting to entrap the youth in drug abuse,” he said.
He emphasized the need to identify and remain vigilant against such adversaries.
Stressing unity, he said, “Sikhs and Hindus complement each other. We must steer clear of those who seek to create discord between us. May Guru Maharaj grant us the wisdom to distinguish between friends and foes!”
Reflecting on past events, the CM said that in 2019, during the 550th Prakash Parv of Guru Nanak Dev, a Shabad-Kirtan programme was held at his residence. “Since 2020, the annual observance of Veer Bal Diwas has become a tradition at the CM’s residence,” he said.
He said, “Today, this event has grown into a national observance. On this day, two Sahibzaades of Guru Gobind Singh—Baba Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh—were buried alive by Wazir Khan.”
Yogi recounted the sacrifices made during the Battle of Chamkaur, where Guru Gobind Singh’s elder sons, Baba Ajit Singh and Baba Jujhar Singh, attained martyrdom.
He said, “Maa Gujri could not endure the immense pain of these losses. The suffering they endured is beyond imagination. Yet, their unwavering commitment to protecting the country and religion remained steadfast. By sacrificing their lives, the four Sahibzaades laid a solid foundation for safeguarding the nation and its values. Their bravery continues to be a source of pride, not just for the Sikh community but for the entire nation.”
Highlighting Sikhism’s origins rooted in service to the nation the CM said, “Guru Nanak Dev was the first to stand against Babar’s atrocities. Guru Arjun Dev’s martyrdom in Lahore was to protect India from Jahangir’s tyranny. Guru Teg Bahadur sacrificed his life but upheld India’s honour, ensuring that Kashmir remained an integral part of India. Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj witnessed the ultimate sacrifice of his sons and father for the nation.”
He emphasized that the history of Sikh Gurus, from Guru Nanak Dev to Guru Gobind Singh Maharaj, the four Sahibzaades, and the Panch Pyaras, is a testament to their martyrdom for the country and religion. “This history is not just of the Sikh community, but of the entire nation, serving as a profound inspiration for all Indians,” he said.
He said, “Guru Nanak inspired Shabad Kirtan to challenge caste discrimination. The tradition of Langar—community kitchens to share food—initiated by him continues in every Gurudwara even today, fostering equality and togetherness. Respect for the Guru tradition is a source of prosperity and joy. The distinction we must recognize is not within families but between friends and foes.”
He said that this year marks the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Teg Bahadur.
Recalling the historical significance of Lucknow, he said, “Lucknow is fortunate that Guru Teg Bahadur ji had come here with Guru Gobind Singh. To honour this heritage, a comprehensive plan for the beautification of associated Gurudwaras should be prepared in collaboration with the Municipal Corporation.”
He assured financial support from the state government and urged coordinated efforts, saying, “The responsibility must not be passed around. The state government, Municipal Corporation, and Development Authority should work together to rehabilitate shopkeepers by constructing high-rise buildings or malls on their land. Gurudwaras linked to this historical legacy must be aesthetically enhanced.”
The CM recalled that when Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the observance of December 26 as Veer Bal Diwas, he emphasized that Rashtradharma—the duty towards the nation—is the supreme religion for every Indian. “For Indians, the country and its unity are of utmost importance. Maharaja Ranjit Singh exemplified this by donating as much gold to the Baba Kashi Vishwanath Temple as he did to the Golden Temple, gilding its spire and doors,” he said.
