The historic town of Chamkaur Sahib in Punjab's Rupnagar district has once again become a focal point of reverence and remembrance as the annual Shaheedi Jod Mela commenced on Thursday. This significant religious event honours the supreme sacrifice of the two younger sons of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji—Sahibzada Fateh Singh and Sahibzada Zorawar Singh.
A Solemn Tribute to Immortal Courage
The five-day mela, which began on December 19, marks the martyrdom day (Shaheedi Diwas) of the Sahibzadas. The young princes, aged just 6 and 9 years old, were bricked alive on the orders of the Mughal governor Wazir Khan in Sirhind for refusing to abandon their faith. Their unparalleled bravery and the sacrifice of their grandmother, Mata Gujri, who also died in captivity, are central to Sikh history and are commemorated with deep solemnity during this period.
Official ceremonies were inaugurated by the acting Jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, Giani Sultan Singh. The event saw the participation of the head granthi of Gurdwara Shaheed Garh Sahib, along with other religious leaders and a large gathering of devotees. The atmosphere is one of pious reflection, with continuous recitations of Gurbani (hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib) and religious discourses (kathas) taking place.
Religious Processions and Community Participation
A key highlight of the mela is the traditional religious procession, known as the Jatha. This year, a Jatha led by Baba Kashmir Singh Bhuriwale set out from Gurdwara Shaheed Garh Sahib in Chamkaur Sahib. Their destination is the historic site of Fatehgarh Sahib, covering a distance of approximately 40 kilometres. This journey symbolically retraces the path connected to the Sahibzadas' final days and serves as a moving act of collective remembrance.
Authorities have made extensive arrangements to manage the influx of pilgrims and ensure a smooth experience. The mela management committee, in coordination with the district administration, has set up facilities for langar (community kitchen), clean drinking water, sanitation, and medical aid. Security has been heightened across the town, with police personnel deployed to manage traffic and crowd control effectively.
Preserving Heritage and Inspiring Future Generations
The Shaheedi Jod Mela is not merely a religious gathering; it is a powerful cultural event that reinforces the core Sikh values of faith, courage, and righteousness. It draws thousands of devotees from across Punjab and other parts of India and the world, fostering a deep sense of community and shared history.
For the local community of Chamkaur Sahib, the mela is a period of both solemn duty and spiritual significance. Residents actively participate in serving the pilgrims, organising religious functions, and sharing the profound story of the Sahibzadas. The event underscores the enduring legacy of Guru Gobind Singh's family, whose sacrifices are considered foundational to the Sikh identity.
The mela will culminate on December 23, with major religious observances expected on the main martyrdom day. As the Jatha proceeds towards Fatehgarh Sahib, it carries with it the prayers and reverence of countless individuals, ensuring that the light of the Sahibzadas' sacrifice continues to inspire generations to come.
