The story of the Chote Sahibzade—Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji (9 years old) and Sahibzada Fateh Singh Ji (7 years old)—is one of the most powerful chapters in Sikh history. Their unshakable courage, innocence, and commitment to Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s teachings continue to inspire millions across the world. The sacrifice made by these two young princes is remembered as the highest example of spiritual bravery, proving that true faith needs neither age nor size—only purity of heart.
In Sikh tradition, the Chote Sahibzade are honored not as children who died, but as warriors who achieved immortality.
The Divine Birth of the Chote Sahibzade
The Chote Sahibzade were born to Mata Jito Ji and Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru.
Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji was born on 17 November 1696
Sahibzada Fateh Singh Ji was born on 12 December 1699
From childhood, both brothers showed extraordinary qualities—discipline, humility, intelligence, and deep devotion to the Sikh way of life. Under Guru Sahib’s guidance, they learned Gurbani, martial arts, horse riding, archery, and the values of righteousness.
Even as young children, they walked with a grace that reflected their divine upbringing.
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Sahibzadas
Anandpur Sahib – Their Childhood of Strength and Spirituality
The Sahibzade spent their early years in Anandpur Sahib, surrounded by the sound of shastar vidya (martial training), Gurbani recitation, and the presence of the Khalsa. Here, they learned the true meaning of:
‘Seva’ (selfless service)
‘Simran’ (remembrance of Waheguru)
‘Nirbhau, Nirvair’ (fearless and without hate)
Anandpur Sahib at the time was not merely a city—it was a spiritual fortress where Guru Gobind Singh Ji prepared the Khalsa to stand against injustice.
Even the warriors of the Khalsa admired the Chote Sahibzade for their discipline and sharp mind.http://www.truthfrontier.com
The Siege of Anandpur Sahib – Beginning of the Test
In 1704, the Mughal forces and the Hill Rajas launched a long siege on Anandpur Sahib. Life became extremely difficult, but the Sahibzade remained calm, standing beside Guru Sahib like true soldiers.
When food became scarce, these young sons of Guru Sahib never complained.
They showed the world that true warriors remain strong in both comfort and crisis.
After months of suffering, the Mughals and Hill Chiefs made false promises of safe passage if Guru Ji left the fort. Though Guru Sahib knew this was deceit, he agreed to leave to avoid further suffering for the Sikhs.
This decision marked the beginning of the most heartbreaking separation in Sikh history.
The Separation at Sirsa – The Painful Turning Point
As Guru Sahib’s family crossed the Sirsa river on a stormy night, chaos broke out. The river overflowed, and the Sikh jathas were scattered.
Here, the Chote Sahibzade became separated from Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
They were accompanied by their grandmother, Mata Gujri Ji, one of the strongest women in Sikh history. Together, they were guided to safety by Gangu, a servant in the Guru’s household.
But instead of protecting them, Gangu betrayed them for greed.
This betrayal handed the two innocent children and Mata Gujri Ji into the custody of the Mughal authorities.
Incarceration in the Thanda Burj (Cold Tower)
The Chote Sahibzade and Mata Gujri Ji were imprisoned in the Thanda Burj of Sirhind, a cold tower meant to break spirits.
But the brothers remained calm, reciting Waheguru Simran, comforting their grandmother, and showing no fear.
Despite being only 7 and 9 years old, their presence filled the tower with strength. Witnesses later said that the courage of these two children shook the Mughal officials themselves.
Wazir Khan’s Court – Faith Tested with Temptations
The Governor of Sirhind, Wazir Khan, saw the Sahibzade’s pure innocence, and instead of admiration, felt threatened. He wanted to convert them to Islam, thinking it would break the spirit of the Khalsa.
He offered them:
Luxury
Palaces
High positions
Safety
Wealth
But the Sahibzade replied with unshakeable confidence:
Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji’s Reply
“We are the sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. We cannot abandon our faith.”
Sahibzada Fateh Singh Ji’s Reply
“We choose the path of truth. Death does not scare us.”
Their words stunned the court. Even adults trembled before Wazir Khan, but these young children stood firm like mountains.
The Final Verdict – Bravery Beyond Imagination
When temptations failed, Wazir Khan tried to frighten them with threats of execution. But the Sahibzade simply smiled.
Their courage forced the Mughal court to realize that the Khalsa spirit cannot be broken.
Wazir Khan then gave the cruel order: the Chote Sahibzade were to be executed by being bricked alive.
Instead of fear, the Sahibzade displayed divine peace.
Witnesses said they walked to the execution site with the calmness of saints.
The Martyrdom of the Chote Sahibzade
On 26 December 1705, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji and Sahibzada Fateh Singh Ji were bricked alive for refusing to abandon Sikhi. When the wall collapsed during the execution, they were ultimately martyred.
Their fearless martyrdom is considered one of the greatest sacrifices in the world—not just due to their age, but because of their unwavering devotion.
At the same time, Mata Gujri Ji, upon hearing the news, breathed her last in the Thanda Burj. Her courage and faith stand alongside her grandsons’ sacrifice.
This day is commemorated as Shaheedi Diwas of Chote Sahibzade.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s Reaction – A Father and a Guru
When Guru Sahib heard of the martyrdom of his mother and his two youngest sons, he bowed his head and said:
“Today, the Khalsa has given its greatest sacrifice.”
Guru Sahib did not cry as a broken father—he stood tall as a spiritual leader who believed in the eternal truth of Sikhi.
He declared that the Chote Sahibzade achieved what even grown warriors find difficult.
Legacy of the Chote Sahibzade – Eternal Inspiration for Generations
The sacrifice of the Chote Sahibzade teaches:
Faith Over Fear
Age does not decide courage—conviction does.
Truth Over Temptation
They refused wealth, luxury, and power for the sake of righteousness.
Standing Up Against Tyranny
Even the mightiest empire could not bend the spirit of two young boys.
Immortality Through Sacrifice
They proved that death cannot end the journey of those who walk the path of truth.
Their story is remembered worldwide, especially at Fatehgarh Sahib, where their martyrdom site now stands.
Conclusion – The Everlasting Light of the Chote Sahibzade
The Chote Sahibzade are not just historical figures—they are symbols of divine bravery, pillars of Sikh faith, and inspiration for humanity. Their sacrifice is a reminder that truth, even when tested by fire, shines brighter than anything else.
Their story continues to echo across generations, teaching that courage has no age and faith has no limits.
As long as Sikhi exists, the names of Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji and Sahibzada Fateh Singh Ji will be remembered with reverence, pride, and endless love.
