Bandi Chhor Divas: The Story of Sikh Diwali Celebration and Its Deep Significance
One of the most significant festivals in the Sikh religion is Bandi Chhor Divas, which is celebrated with a great deal of devotion, joy, and enthusiasm. It often coincides with the Hindu festival of Diwali, and it marks a day of liberation, justice, and hope. However, why is Bandi Chhor Divas celebrated with such reverence, and what lies behind its deep roots? The purpose of this article is to explore the history and meaning of Bandi Chhor Divas, how it is connected to Diwali, and why it is so important to Sikhs across the world.
What is the purpose of celebrating Bandi Chhor Divas?
This festival represents a powerful message of freedom and righteousness at the heart of Bandi Chhor Divas. Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, was released from the Gwalior Fort by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, where he had been imprisoned for a number of years. But the significance of this day goes much deeper than simply Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji freedom. The significance of this day lies not just in Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji freedom, but in the fact that he insisted on 52 other Hindu kings, who were also unjustly imprisoned at the time, should be freed along with him as well.
The word “Bandi” translates to “prisoner,” and “Chhor” means “release,” so the festival is in essence a celebration of “The Release of Prisoners.” Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji moral integrity and selflessness are central to the values we hold dear today. This festival is known as Bandi Chhor Divas. It is a celebration of the Sikh belief in the defense of human rights, justice, and standing up for those oppressed, no matter what sacrifice is necessary.
Is there a story behind Bandi Chhor?
The story of Bandi Chhor begins during the early 17th century when Mughal Emperor Jahangir ascended to the throne in the early 17th century. It was Jahangir’s concern that the Sikh community and its leaders would pose a threat to his authority, as he was worried about the growing influence of Sikhism. It is well known that Guru Hargobind introduced the concept of Miri-Piri (temporal and spiritual authority), which was regarded as a challenge to the rulers of the Mughal empire.
In 1609, Jahangir ordered the arrest of Guru Hargobind and imprisoned him in the Gwalior Fort, hoping to diminish his influence on the world. Guru Hargobind, however, didn’t lose his spirit despite being imprisoned for a period of time. Instead, he only strengthened his status as a defender of oppressed people. Guru Hargobind found 52 Hindu kings who had been held captive by the Mughals as well. These kings had been languish in prison for months without any hope of release as a result of political betrayal.
Upon Jahangir’s decision to release Guru Hargobind, the Guru made a powerful and compassionate request. He refused to leave unless the 52 captive kings were also freed as well. After some negotiation, Jahangir agreed, but with one caveat—only those who could hold onto the Guru’s cloak would be allowed to be released. Guru Hargobind had a special robe made with 52 tassels, each representing a different king, that he used to ensure that all of the kings could be freed at the same time.
During the first Bandi Chhor Divas in Amritsar, the people celebrated Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji return alongside great joy and the lighting of lamps to mark Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji return after years of imprisonment and imprisonment.
Why Are Bandi Chhor Divas Celebrated on Diwali?
The celebration of Bandi Chhor Divas often coincides with the celebration of Diwali, which adds an extra layer of festivity to the celebrations of the Sikh community. But why is Bandi Chhor Divas celebrated on Diwali, and how did this connection develop?
The Hindu festival of Diwali, which is traditionally celebrated as the victory of light over darkness and the triumph of good over evil, happens to fall around the same time as Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji release from the Gwalior Fort. Upon the return of Guru Hargobind to Amritsar, oil lamps were placed throughout the city to honor him, so he could be remembered. The Bandi Chhor Divas festival quickly became intertwined with the broader Diwali celebrations, and for Sikhs, it became a day not only for participating in the lighting of lamps, but also for reflecting on the deeper significance of freedom, justice, and compassion in the world.
This day is marked by kirtans (religious hymns), prayers, and communal meals (langar), along with the lighting of diyas (lamps), to symbolize the triumph of truth and righteousness in Sikh temples, or Gurdwaras. A unique celebration of both spiritual freedom as well as political freedom is the celebration of this day for Sikhs.
The Story of Bandi Chhor Divas
During Bandi Chhor Divas, the core values revolve around the values of compassion, justice, and standing up against oppression. A symbol of spiritual guidance as well as a symbol of political resistance, Guru Hargobind was the first to advocate for the defense of justice through both spiritual and temporal means, and he brought a new era of spiritual and political struggle to the Sikh community.
It is evident that the Guru’s deep commitment to human dignity is evident in his release and insisting on the liberation of the 52 kings. It has become an enduring symbol of this event as a robe with 52 tassels, symbolizing not just a political maneuver but also a moral triumph. Due to their refusal to submit to Mughal rule, the kings, who were released alongside the Guru, had been held captive. As a result of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji success in securing their freedom without bloodshed, this became a story that resonates deeply within Sikh tradition, and reinforces the importance of peaceful resistance and ethical leadership within the Sikh community.
Why Do Sikhs Celebrate Diwali?
The festival of Diwali holds a different religious context for Hindus, whereas for Sikhs, it has evolved into a dual celebration. In the Sikh tradition, Diwali is known as Bandi Chhor Divas, commemorating the return of Guru Hargobind to Amritsar. This is a time for reflection on the value of freedom and the power of justice in the face of adversity.
The lighting of lamps, often associated with the Hindu tradition of welcoming Lord Rama back to Ayodhya, takes on a special meaning for Sikhs, symbolizing the return of their beloved Guru, who stood up against oppression and tyranny. During the festive season, many Gurdwaras are beautifully decorated with lights and devotees gather in order to sing kirtans and pray together.
Sikhs celebrate Diwali not just as a festival of light, but also as a festival of enlightenment, which recognizes that true freedom cannot be found only in the physical sense, but also in the spiritual and moral sense. The story of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji release embodies this deeper truth, and Bandi Chhor Divas reminds the Sikh community of the importance of standing up for justice and helping those in need.
When Is Bandi Chhor Divas in 2024?
On the lunar calendar, Bandi Chhor Divas usually falls on the same day as Diwali, though occasionally, there may be slight variations in the date. In 2024, Bandi Chhor Divas is expected to be honored on Thursday, November 1st, which aligns with the Hindu festival of Diwali on November 8th.
There is a synchronicity in dates that brings both communities together in celebration of this day, yet for the Sikh community, the day has a unique historical and spiritual significance that makes it an ideal day for celebration.
Sikh Traditions During Bandi Chhor Divas
The Sikhs observe Bandi Chhor Divas with a wide range of religious and cultural activities that emphasize the importance of community, service, and reflection. Some examples of the traditions include:
- During the celebrations of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji life, the singing of religious hymns or kirtans plays a very important role. These hymns focus on themes of freedom, justice, and divine protection, supporting both the community’s focus on the lessons of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji life and its values.
- This communal meal, also known as langar, is served in Gurdwaras in order to affirm the Sikh principle of equality. Everyone, no matter what their caste, creed, or social status, is welcome to partake in this meal which illustrates the Guru’s teachings of inclusivity and service to others.
- The lighting of diyas is also part of Diwali tradition, but for Sikhs, as well as people who celebrate this festival, this act symbolizes the victory of truth and justice over evil. Gurdwaras and homes are adorned with lights, and the Golden Temple in Amritsar becomes a breathtaking vision of illuminated splendor.
- Although some Sikhs may partake in fireworks displays during the Bandi Chhor Divas celebrations, the focus is primarily on spiritual celebration and not solely on material celebration.
The Impact of Bandi Chhor Divas on Modern Sikhism
In the modern era, Bandi Chhor Divas has grown more than just a historical remembrance. This event serves as a powerful reminder to Sikhs around the world that they need to continue to advocate for justice, freedom, and others’ wellbeing. Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji release and the subsequent celebration of his release highlight the importance of standing up to oppression, a theme that resonates throughout the world today.
During this day, Sikhs also take the time to reflect on the broader teachings of Sikhism, including the oneness of humanity, the equality of all people, and their commitment to serving others. As such, Bandi Chhor Divas is both a spiritual and a social celebration, encouraging individuals to remember the importance of community and the fight for freedom as a whole.
Frequently Asked Questions
During Bandi Chhor Divas, it is commemorated the release of Guru Hargobind and 52 kings from Mughal imprisonment, a day that symbolizes freedom, justice, and righteousness.
In spite of the fact that Bandi Chhor Divas is often celebrated during Diwali, it specifically marks the Sikh celebration of Guru Hargobind being freed, whereas Diwali is traditionally celebrated by Hindus as the return of Lord Rama.
During Bandi Chhor Divas, lamps are lit in a symbolic way to celebrate the victory of light over darkness and justice over oppression, as well as Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji return to Amritsar.
Some of the most important traditions include the singing of kirtans, serving langar (community meals), lighting lamps, and holding prayers at Gurdwaras.
As a symbol of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji compassion and ingenuity, the robe serves as an example of the Guru’s compassion and the ingenuity he used to ensure the freedom of all 52 captive kings entrusted to him.
Bandi Chhor Divas is expected to take place on Thursday, November 1st, 2024, with the Hindu festival of Diwali coincident with the date.