Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the national programme marking ‘Veer Baal Diwas’ at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi today. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister welcomed guests from across the nation and addressed the children present, remarking that today the country is celebrating Veer Bal Diwas. He highlighted the beautiful presentation of Vande Mataram, noting that the dedication and effort of the performers was clearly visible.
Emphasizing that on this day, the nation remembers the brave Sahibzades, who are the pride of India and represent the pinnacle of indomitable courage and valor, Shri Modi stated that these Sahibzades broke the boundaries of age and stage, standing like a rock against the cruel Mughal empire, shaking the very existence of religious fanaticism and terror. The Prime Minister underlined that a nation with such a glorious past, whose young generations inherit such inspiring legacies, is capable of achieving anything.
Shri Modi remarked that whenever the day of 26th December arrives, he feels assured that the government has begun celebrating Veer Bal Diwas inspired by the valor of the Sahibzades. He highlighted that in the past four years, this new tradition has carried the inspiration of the Sahibzades to the younger generation and has created a platform for building courageous and talented youth. The Prime Minister stated that every year children who achieve remarkable feats in different fields for the nation are honored with the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP), and this year too, 20 children from across the country have received the award. He further stated about the interaction with them, mentioning that some displayed extraordinary bravery, some contributed commendably in social service and environmental protection, some innovated in science and technology, while many others made contributions in sports, art, and culture. Shri Modi conveyed to the award winners that this honor is not only for them but also for their parents, teachers, and mentors whose efforts are being recognized, and extended best wishes to the winners and their families for a bright future.
Underlining that Veer Bal Diwas is a day filled with emotion and reverence, Shri Modi remembered Sahibzada Ajit Singh Ji, Sahibzada Jujhar Singh Ji, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji, and Sahibzada Fateh Singh Ji, who at a very young age had to confront the greatest power of their time. He emphasized that their struggle was between the fundamental ideas of India and religious fanaticism, between truth and falsehood, with one side led by 10th Guru Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the other by the cruel rule of Aurangzeb. The Prime Minister noted that although the Sahibzades were very young, Aurangzeb was determined to break the morale of Indians to force conversions, and thus targeted them. He stressed that Aurangzeb and his commanders forgot that Guru Gobind Singh Ji was no ordinary man but the embodiment of penance and sacrifice, and the Sahibzades inherited this legacy. He declared that despite the entire Mughal empire’s might, not one of the four Sahibzades wavered. The Prime Minister recalled the words of Sahibzada Ajit Singh Ji, which continue to echo his courage.
Recalling that only a few days ago the nation remembered Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji on his 350th martyrdom day, with a special program held in Kurukshetra, Shri Modi remarked that it was wrong to think that Sahibzades, who drew inspiration from the sacrifice of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, would fear Mughal atrocities. The Prime Minister highlighted that the courage and ideals of Mata Gujri, Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, and the four Sahibzades continue to give strength to every Indian and remain a source of inspiration. He emphasized that the saga of the Sahibzades’ sacrifice should have been on the lips of every citizen, but unfortunately, even after independence, the colonial mindset prevailed. He pointed out that this mentality was seeded by British politician Macaulay in 1835 and was not allowed to be eradicated even after independence, leading to decades of attempts to suppress such truths. Shri Modi asserted that India has now resolved to free itself from the colonial mindset, declaring that the memories of Indian sacrifices and valor will no longer be suppressed and the nation’s heroes and heroines will no longer be sidelined. He underlined that this is why Veer Bal Diwas is being celebrated with full devotion and spirit. He added that the government has not stopped there, noting that in 2035 it will be 200 years since Macaulay’s conspiracy, and with 10 years remaining, India will demonstrate complete liberation from the colonial mindset. The Prime Minister stressed that once the nation is free from this mindset, it will take greater pride in indigenous traditions and advance further on the path of self-reliance.
The Prime Minister remarked that a glimpse of the campaign to free the nation from the colonial mindset was recently visible in Parliament, where during the winter session, Members of Parliament delivered nearly 160 speeches in Indian languages apart from Hindi and English. He highlighted that around 50 speeches were in Tamil, more than 40 in Marathi, and about 25 in Bangla, noting that such a scene is rare in any parliament in the world and is a matter of pride for all. He emphasized that Macaulay had attempted to suppress India’s language diversity, but now, as the country frees itself from the colonial mindset, linguistic diversity is becoming a strength.
Addressing the youth present from the Yuva Bharat organization, Shri Modi remarked that they represent Gen Z and Gen Alpha, and it is their generation that will lead India to the goal of becoming a developed nation. He stated that he sees and understands their competence and confidence, and therefore places great trust in them. Quoting the adage, Shri Modi explained that even if a child speaks wisely, it should be accepted, meaning that greatness is not defined by age but by deeds and achievements. He underlined that young people can accomplish tasks that inspire others, and many have already demonstrated this. However, he stressed that these achievements should be seen only as a beginning, as there is much further to go, with dreams to be taken to the skies. Noting that this generation is fortunate, Shri Modi said today the nation stands firmly with their talent, unlike earlier times when youth feared even to dream due to an environment of despair. He remarked that today the country seeks out talent, provides platforms, and aligns the strength of 140 crore citizens with their aspirations. He highlighted that with the success of Digital India, the youth have the power of the internet and resources for learning, with missions like Startup India for those pursuing science, technology, and entrepreneurship, and Khelo India for those advancing in sports. He mentioned that only yesterday he participated in the Sansad Khel Mahotsav, underscoring the many platforms available to support youth progress. The Prime Minister urged them to remain focused, cautioning against being trapped in the glitter of short-term popularity, and emphasized that clarity of thought and principles is essential. He called upon them to learn from ideals and great personalities of the nation, and to ensure that their success is not limited to themselves but becomes the success of the country.
The Prime Minister remarked that new policies are being framed with a focus on youth empowerment, placing young people at the center of nation-building. He highlighted that through platforms like Mera Yuva Bharat, efforts are being made to connect youth, provide them opportunities, and develop leadership skills. Shri Modi emphasized that whether it is advancing the space economy, promoting sports, expanding fintech and manufacturing sectors, or creating opportunities for skill development and internships, youth remain at the core of every initiative. He further underlined that new opportunities are opening for youth in every sector.
Noting that India today faces unprecedented circumstances, being one of the youngest countries in the world, Shri Modi stated that the coming 25 years will determine the nation’s direction, and for the first time since independence, India’s capabilities, aspirations, and the world’s expectations are converging. He remarked that today’s youth are growing up in a time of greater opportunities than ever before, and the government is committed to providing better chances to harness their talent, confidence, and leadership.
Addressing the youth, the Prime Minister stressed that strong foundations for a developed India are being laid through significant reforms in the education policy. He explained that the new National Education Policy focuses on modern learning methods of the 21st century, emphasizing practical learning, encouraging children to think rather than memorize, instilling the courage to ask questions, and building problem-solving skills. Shri Modi noted that for the first time, meaningful efforts are being made in this direction, with multidisciplinary studies, skill-based learning, promotion of sports, and use of technology greatly benefiting students. The Prime Minister highlighted that across the country, millions of children are engaging in innovation and research through Atal Tinkering Labs, and even at the school level, students are being introduced to robotics, AI, sustainability, and design thinking. He added that alongside these efforts, the National Education Policy has provided the option of studying in the mother tongue, making learning easier and helping children better understand subjects.
The Prime Minister remarked that the brave Sahibzades did not look at how difficult the path was, but whether the path was right or not, and stressed that the same spirit is needed today. He expressed his expectation from the youth of India to dream big, work hard, and never let their confidence weaken. Shri Modi underlined that the future of India will shine through the future of its children and youth, whose courage, talent, and dedication will guide the nation’s progress. The Prime Minister concluded by affirming that with this faith, responsibility, and continuous momentum, India will keep advancing towards its future. He once again paid tribute to the Sahibzades and congratulated all the award-winning youth, extending his heartfelt thanks to everyone.
Union Ministers, Smt Annpurna Devi, Smt Savitri Thakur, Shri Ravneet Singh, Shri Harsh Malhotra were present among other dignitaries at the event.
Background
To mark Veer Baal Diwas, the Government of India is organising participative programmes across the country with the objective of informing and educating citizens about the extraordinary courage and supreme sacrifice of the Sahibzades, and to honour and commemorate the indomitable courage, sacrifice, and valour of the young heroes of India’s history. The activities will include storytelling sessions, recitations, poster-making and essay-writing competitions, among others. These will be conducted in schools, Child Care Institutions, Anganwadi centres, and other educational platforms, as well as through online activities on the MyGov and MyBharat portals.
On the occasion of the Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji on 9th January 2022, the Prime Minister had announced that 26th December would be observed as ‘Veer Baal Diwas’, to commemorate the martyrdom of Sahibzadas Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji, the sons of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, whose unparalleled sacrifice continues to inspire generations.
Awardees of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) were also present during the programme.
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Today, we remember the brave Sahibzades, the pride of our nation. They embody India's indomitable courage and the highest ideals of valour. pic.twitter.com/gOoSf5FQlE
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 26, 2025
The courage and ideals of Mata Gujri Ji, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the four Sahibzades continue to give strength to every Indian. pic.twitter.com/9mwfF0VL00
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 26, 2025
India has resolved to break free from the colonial mindset once and for all. pic.twitter.com/9l6Dt3F0XI
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 26, 2025
As India frees itself from the colonial mindset, its linguistic diversity is emerging as a source of strength. pic.twitter.com/6TA3P9JzA9
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 26, 2025
Gen Z… Gen Alpha… will lead India to the goal of a Viksit Bharat. pic.twitter.com/XzwUt2nvtt
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 26, 2025
