PM Modi honours Sahibzadas on Veer Bal Diwas, urges youth to reject colonial mindset
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the sacrifice of the Sahibzadas reflected India’s timeless fight against religious fanaticism and terror, as he addressed the Veer Bal Diwas programme in Delhi.
He said the Sahibzadas of Guru Gobind Singh displayed unmatched courage despite their young age. By standing firm against the Mughal empire, they upheld India’s core values of truth and righteousness.
The Prime Minister said the government began observing Veer Bal Diwas four years ago to pass on this legacy to younger generations. Since then, the occasion has also encouraged courage, talent and service among children.
This year, 20 children from across the country received the Prime Minister’s National Child Award. Modi said the recipients excelled in bravery, social service, environmental protection, science, technology, sports, arts and culture. He added that the honour equally recognised the role of parents, teachers and mentors.
Recalling the lives of Sahibzada Ajit Singh, Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh, Modi said Aurangzeb targeted them to crush Indian morale. However, the Sahibzadas remained unshaken, drawing strength from the sacrifices of Guru Gobind Singh and Guru Tegh Bahadur.
PM Modi links Veer Bal Diwas to freedom from colonial mindset
During his Veer Bal Diwas address, Modi said a colonial mindset had suppressed India’s history of valour even after Independence. He said this mentality traced back to Macaulay’s policies and continued for decades.
India, he said, has now resolved to end this legacy of mental slavery. By 2035, when 200 years of Macaulay’s framework are completed, the nation must fully free itself from it, he added.
As an example, Modi pointed to recent developments in Parliament. During the winter session, Members delivered nearly 160 speeches in Indian languages other than Hindi and English. He said this reflected pride in India’s linguistic diversity.
Addressing young participants, Modi said Gen Z and Gen Alpha would shape India’s future. He said today’s youth enjoyed unprecedented opportunities through initiatives such as Digital India, Startup India and Khelo India.
Earlier systems discouraged ambition, he said. Today, however, the nation actively supports talent and backs youthful dreams with institutional strength.
Modi highlighted youth-focused programmes like Mera Yuva Bharat, which aim to build leadership and connect young people with opportunities. He also referred to the National Education Policy, which promotes practical learning, innovation and skill-based education.
Students, he said, now engage with robotics, artificial intelligence and sustainability through Atal Tinkering Labs. Learning in the mother tongue has also made education more accessible and effective.
Drawing inspiration from the Sahibzadas, Modi urged young Indians to choose the right path, even when it appears difficult. He called on them to dream big, work hard and stay confident.
He concluded by paying tribute to the Sahibzadas and congratulating the National Child Award winners.
