Veer Bal Diwas 2025: PM Modi To Address Bharat Mandapam Event, President Will Confer Bal Puraskar Awards

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Today, 26 December 2025, India is marking Veer Bal Diwas with a set of events that will put young courage at the centre of national attention with a mix of national, state, and local programmes that highlight courage, resilience, and the spirit of young heroes.

Photo Credit: Instagram@heritagepublicschooljaipur

National Level Celebration

The Ministry of Women and Child Development is hosting the main programme at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing children and youth, emphasising the important role of young citizens in shaping the nation.

The event will feature inspiring stories of bravery, resilience, and selfless service, bringing the historical sacrifices of the Sahibzadas into focus for the next generation.

Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar

Today also marks the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, India's highest civilian award for children. 20 exceptional children from 18 States and Union Territories are being recognised for achievements in Bravery, Art, Environment, Science & Technology, Sports, and Social Service.

The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, will present these awards at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, starting at 10:00 AM. This ceremony not only honours young achievers but also connects their accomplishments to the timeless values of courage and determination.

Telecasts And Virtual Access

For those unable to attend in person, the national programme will be broadcast live from 12:30 PM onwards on DD News, NIC Webcast, and the Ministry's YouTube channel, allowing people across the country to join the observance virtually.

Schools And Local Celebrations

Across India, schools and community centres are marking the day with prayer gatherings, storytelling sessions, exhibitions on Sikh history, and interactive discussions about courage, resilience, and moral strength. These local events ensure that the lessons of Veer Bal Diwas reach children and adults alike, inspiring everyone to reflect on the values the Sahibzadas stood for.

The Story Behind Veer Bal Diwas

On this day in 1705, two young sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Zorawar Singh (9) and Fateh Singh (6) were executed in Sirhind after refusing to abandon their faith. They had been separated from their family during a period of conflict and, when offered safety in exchange for renouncing Sikh beliefs, chose to remain steadfast.

They were immured alive, a brutal end, but one remembered for its moral strength rather than just its tragedy. In 2022, the Government of India officially recognised 26 December as Veer Bal Diwas to honour their sacrifice and to give young people a powerful example of courage and integrity.

What Veer Bal Diwas Really Signifies

At its core, Veer Bal Diwas isn't just about remembering a historical event. It's about pausing to think what courage looks like, especially when it comes from unexpected places. These were children. Yet, facing extraordinary pressure, they stayed true to their beliefs.

That story challenges the idea that strength is only physical or tied to age. It reminds us that conviction, clarity and moral courage can come early in life. And today's celebrations are built around that idea: courage isn't measured in years, but in choices.

That's why the national events don't just retell history. They showcase modern children who are pushing boundaries in science, art, social work and sports. The message is simple and direct - bravery can take many forms, and it's visible in the everyday actions of young people everywhere.

How Communities Are Marking the Day

Beyond national halls and televised ceremonies, Veer Bal Diwas plays out in classrooms and neighbourhood halls. Schools are holding special sessions where students read about the Sahibzadas' lives, discuss what values they admire, and connect those lessons to situations they face today - like standing up to bullying, supporting friends in need, or speaking up for what's right.

Some community centres and gurdwaras host storytelling sessions and exhibitions that explain the historical context in age‑appropriate ways. Many parents use the day to talk with their children about character, resilience and the meaning of conviction in daily life.

A Day With Real‑World Resonance

Veer Bal Diwas is a moment of reflection grounded in history and tied to actions we can see today. The official events, the national broadcast, the Bal Puraskar awards and the school programmes all point to one truth: the qualities we celebrate in young heroes are the same ones that shape better communities and a stronger society. Today, India doesn't just remember the Sahibzadas, it invites every child and adult to consider what courage looks like in their own world.