Guru Gobind Singh was a philosopher, poet, spiritual master, and warrior who is renowned in the Sikh community for being the 10th Sikh Guru. His most important contribution to Sikhism was the establishment of the Sikh Khalsain 1699. Other important contributions include founding the five articles of the Sikh faith, and introduction of the five Ks. The martyrdom of Guru Gobind's four sons is also an important part of Sikh history. Known as the Sahibzadey, all four brothers lost their lives to preserve their Sikh identity in the face of ruthless Mughal invaders.
Baba Ajit Singh and Baba Jujhar Singh were the two eldest sons and are collectively known as the “Bade Sahibzadey”. Both were trained and educated as saint-soldiers, with Baba Ajit Singh being held in high regard for his swordsmanship and his numerous acts of bravery.
On a trip to Chamkaur with their father and around 40 other Sikhs, they were attacked by Mughal forces. The might of the Mughal forces was too much for the Sahibzadey, and both lost their lives fighting the Mughals.
Baba Fateh Singh and Baba Zorawar Singh were the younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh. Collectively remembered as the “ChhoteSahibzadey”, they were captured in Sirhind by Mughal forces along with their mother, Mata Gujri. Baba Zorawar Singh was aged 9 and Baba Fateh Singh was aged merely 6.
After facing overnight imprisonment, Sirhind governor Wazir Khan offered the children freedom, prosperity, and wealth, but only if they converted to Islam. Both youngsters stuck true to their faith, but paid with their lives. Wazir Khan ordered the sons to be bricked alive until suffocation, following which they were decapitated.
The extraordinary feats of martyrdom showcased by all four brothers are remembered till this day, and remain integral parts of the Sikh culture. Gurdwaras around the world commemorate the lives of the Sahibzadey and their work to uphold Sikh culture and identity.
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