Lucknow, Jan 6 (UNI) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday said that Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj is a towering figure in history, the son of a martyred father and the father of martyred sons.

While participating in the Prakash Parv celebrations of Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji at DAV College, the CM said, "At that time, Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj encouraged Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Maharaj, emphasising that the nation and religion were in peril. He explained that the sacrifice of a great soul would unmask those heretics intent on destroying the country and its faith, inspiring the nation to rise against them. 'Who could be more fitting than you for such a supreme sacrifice?' he asked."

During the event, he interacted with children at the gathering, checked their well-being, and distributed toffees and chocolates. Reflecting on the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh Ji's four Sahibzadas (Baba Ajit Singh, Baba Jujhar Singh, Baba Zorawar Singh, and Baba Fateh Singh) and the sacrifices of Maa Gujri, he highlighted how the nation pays tribute to them every year on December 26-27.

Yogi emphasized the pivotal sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur, who gave his life but safeguarded the honor of India and protected Kashmir, ensuring it remained an integral part of the nation.

He recounted how the younger Sahibzadas, Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh, faced Wazir Khan’s demand to convert to Islam with unwavering courage, choosing martyrdom instead and being walled up alive. "Similarly, the elder Sahibzadas, Baba Ajit Singh, and Baba Jujhar Singh attained martyrdom in the Battle of Chamkaur. The tragic loss of her sons led Maa Gujri Devi to pass away in grief," he said.

The CM celebrated the unparalleled sacrifices of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his family, portraying them as symbols of unwavering faith, courage, and patriotism that continue to inspire the nation.

He said that despite facing adverse circumstances and losing everything, Guru Gobind Singh upheld a profound message: "What if four have fallen? Thousands still live on..." This mantra continues to inspire the entire nation to this day. He added, "Sava Lakh Se Ek Ladau, Tab Guru Gobind Singh Naam Kahau."

He said that this deep reverence for the Guru tradition instills new energy and motivates us to move forward.

Yogi highlighted that Guru Gobind Singh Maharaj established the Khalsa Panth to eradicate casteism and untouchability and protect the nation and its faith. "He declared, 'Sakala Jagat Mein, Khalsa Panth Gaje' and challenged the oppressive forces of the time to step aside from their destructive path," he said.

He emphasized that the illustrious legacy of Sikh Gurus, including Guru Nanak Dev, Guru Arjun Dev, Guru Tegh Bahadur, and Guru Gobind Singh Maharaj, continues to inspire generations.

He urged everyone to delve into the life of Guru Gobind Singh Maharaj, whose divine greatness not only narrated events of his time but also shed light on past lives and situations that evoke awe and reverence.

He said that the Prakash Parv is a day of profound inspiration, drawing lessons from the unparalleled sacrifices and deeds of the Sikh Gurus.

Reflecting on Lucknow's historical significance, the CM said that Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Maharaj had brought a young Guru Gobind Singh Ji to the Yahiaganj Gurudwara. He emphasized the responsibility to preserve and promote such rich historical traditions and ensure future generations remain connected to their heritage.

The CM said that this year holds special significance as it marks the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Maharaj. "Just as the 550th Prakash Parv of Guru Nanak Dev Ji was celebrated with immense enthusiasm, these commemorations should also be organised on an equally grand scale. Such initiatives will not only enrich future generations' understanding of history but also inspire them with the profound sacrifices and teachings of the Khalsa Panth and the Sikh Gurus," he said.

He urged everyone to come together and contribute to making the sacrifices and enduring inspiration of the Sikh Gurus meaningful and impactful for the country and society.

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