Introduction
Bandi Chhorr Divas, “The Day of liberation” – commemorates The 6th Guru - Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji’s release from imprisonment along with 52 princes.
This event is of profound significance for over 30 million Sikhs worldwide. Coinciding with the Hindu festival of Diwali, it holds a unique place in Sikh history celebrating the triumph of light over darkness.
Historical background of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji – The 6th Guru.
Bandi Chhorr Divas centres on Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji who was bestowed the role Guruship at the age of 11, following the martyrdom of his father, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, The 5th Guru.
Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s sacrifice marked a pivotal moment in Sikh history.
Despite the Mughal ruler Jahangir’s attempts:
- The integrity and completeness of the Guru Granth Sahib remained intact.
- A religious tax imposed upon The Guru for not following Jahangir's faith remained unacknowledged.
- The Guru stayed deeply rooted in Sikhi even amid the severe suffering placed upon Him.
Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji went on to transform Sikhs by emphasizing martial strength alongside spiritual growth. The Guru ensured the training of Sikhs in the use of weaponry and self-defence. Physical disciplines such as wrestling, swordsmanship, and horsemanship, all became integral aspects of Sikhi, fostering strength, energy and power within the Panth – The collective body –leading the creation of the Army – Akal Sena.
The Akal Takht – Timeless seat of political power – was also established serving as a political center for Sikhs and the wider populace, addressing issues of governance, jurisdiction, and justice, all whilst working to ensure that Sikhs become politically active.
However, this was viewed as a threat to the then current ruling authorities
Sri Akal Takht Sahib, located in the Darbar Sahib Complex, Amritsar, Punjab, India.
Release from Gwalior fort with 52 Princes
Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji’s growing influence alarmed the Mughal authorities, who saw his leadership as a threat. Under various untrue pretexts, The Guru was taken into custody and imprisoned in Gwalior Fort, located in present-day Madhya Pradesh, approx. 200 miles south of Delhi.
Within the fortress, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji found himself among 52 princes from different regions of India, all detained unjustly by the Mughals.
Eventually, Mughal Emperor Jahangir realized the error of his ways and ordered the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. However, The Guru refused to accept his freedom unless the 52 princes were also released. In response, Jahangir decreed that only those who could physically hold onto The Guru's robe could be set free alongside him.
Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji then arranged for a special robe with 52 tassels to be created, allowing each prince to grasp a tassel. In this way, he led them all to freedom together.
Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji’s robe - Gurdwara Sri Chola Sahib, Ghudani Kalan, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
Celebrating The Guru’s return
When Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji returned to Amritsar, it coincided with Diwali, sparking a grand celebration. The Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) was beautifully illuminated, reflecting the joy and reverence of the Sikh community.
Today, Sikhs commemorate Bandi Chhorr Divas by gathering at Gurdwaras to listen to the Guru’s teachings, engage in prayer, and share Langar, a communal meal open to all. Homes and Gurdwaras alike are adorned with candles, while fireworks light up the skies, inviting people from all backgrounds to join in the festivities.
Bandi Chhorr Divas is also a time for reconnecting with loved ones, sharing food with friends and family, and honoring the day through meditation, service, and generosity.
Conclusion
In the same way that the 52 princes attained freedom by holding onto The Guru’s tassels, we too can find spiritual liberation by embracing the Guru’s wisdom and living by the values imparted.
Bandi Chhorr Divas reminds us that through the Guru’s teachings, we too can dispel darkness and ignorance, and ultimately find the peace, clarity and ultimately salvation we are looking for.
Illumination of Harmandir Sahib, Amritsar, Punjab India, on Bandi Chhorr Divas
“In the darkness, the Guru has lit the lamp of the Guru’s wisdom; I am lovingly focused on the Lord.
The darkness of ignorance has been dispelled, and my mind has been awakened; within the home of my inner being, I have found the genuine article. ||3||”
Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ang 172