Sirhind Fateh Divas

Union Home Minister Amit Shah extended greetings to the nation on the occasion of Sirhind Fateh Divas on May 12 and paid tribute to Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, describing him as a symbol of unwavering devotion to faith, courage and dedication to the motherland.

• In a post on X, HM Shah said Baba Banda Singh Bahadur was an ascetic at heart and an invincible warrior for the defence of faith who organised farmers against injustice and delivered an enduring message of self-respect, bravery and protection of religion.

What is Sirhind Fateh Divas?

Sirhind Fateh Divas commemorates the historic victory of the Khalsa forces led by Baba Banda Singh Bahadur over the Mughal administration of Sirhind in 1710.

The victory is considered a landmark event in Sikh history and symbolises resistance against oppression and tyranny.

Historical Significance

Under the leadership of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, the Khalsa army defeated the Mughal governor of Sirhind, marking one of the earliest major military successes of the Sikhs against Mughal authority.

The conquest of Sirhind held immense emotional and historical significance for the Sikh community because:

• Sirhind was associated with the execution of the younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh, and
• The victory represented justice and resistance against persecution.

About Baba Banda Singh Bahadur

Baba Banda Singh Bahadur was a prominent Sikh warrior and commander who led military campaigns after being inspired and entrusted by Guru Gobind Singh.

He is remembered for:

• Establishing Sikh political authority in parts of northern India,
• Fighting against Mughal oppression,
• Mobilising peasants and farmers, and
• Introducing agrarian reforms by granting land rights to cultivators.

Source: DD