Amritsar Diwali celebrations
The celebration of Bandi Chhor Divas (Day of Liberation) during Diwali in Amritsar has a deep historical and spiritual significance, especially within Sikhism. This event is linked to the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, from Gwalior Fort and is one of the most important reasons Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Golden Temple and across the Sikh community.
Background:
Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, known for his wisdom and valor, ascended to the Guruship after his father, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, was martyred under the orders of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. Guru Arjan Dev Ji's execution marked a turning point in Sikh history, leading Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji to emphasize both spiritual and temporal power for the Sikh community. He began wearing two swords, representing Miri (temporal authority) and Piri (spiritual authority), and he built the Akal Takht, a seat of temporal power for Sikhs.
Imprisonment at Gwalior Fort:
In the early 17th century, Emperor Jahangir, concerned about the rising influence of the Sikh Guru and possibly influenced by the anti-Sikh sentiments in his court, ordered the imprisonment of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. The Guru was held in Gwalior Fort, a well-known prison for political detainees, which also housed many other regional kings and chieftains who had fallen out of favor with the Mughal emperor.
During his imprisonment, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji spent his time in meditation and helping the other prisoners. His presence brought peace to the fort, and he became a spiritual guide for many of the imprisoned kings. His compassion and wisdom earned him respect even among his captors. As time passed, Jahangir’s health deteriorated, and his advisors suggested that freeing Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji might bring him good fortune.
The Release of the 52 Kings:
When the emperor decided to release Guru Sahib, the Guru made a compassionate request to secure the freedom of the 52 Hindu kings who were also being held captive at Gwalior Fort. Jahangir agreed, but he imposed a condition: only those kings who could hold on to Guru Sahib’s cloak could walk free.
In response, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji had a special cloak made with 52 tassels, one for each king. The kings held on to these tassels, and in this manner, they were all released along with the Guru. This act of selflessness, ensuring the freedom of those kings along with his own, became symbolic of liberation and justice in Sikh history.
Return to Amritsar and Connection to Diwali:
The return of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji to Amritsar coincided with the festival of Diwali, which was already being celebrated by the people in the city. Upon his return, the people of Amritsar welcomed him with immense joy and gratitude, lighting lamps and candles across the city to mark his arrival. This grand welcome, with light symbolizing victory over darkness, aligned perfectly with the themes of Diwali, which celebrates the triumph of good over evil.
Since then, Bandi Chhor Divas has been celebrated as a day of liberation and justice in Sikhism, marking the Guru’s release and the freedom of the 52 kings. It is often celebrated alongside Diwali, with Sikhs lighting lamps and decorating Harmandir Sahib (the Golden Temple) with spectacular displays of lights. This makes Diwali in Amritsar a unique blend of Sikh and Hindu traditions, emphasizing the principles of justice, freedom, and the spiritual light overcoming darkness.
Importance of Bandi Chhor Divas Today:
In modern times, Bandi Chhor Divas continues to be one of the most important festivals in Sikhism, especially in Punjab and around the Golden Temple. It is a day when Sikhs remember the values of compassion, justice, and selflessness that Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji embodied. The Golden Temple is illuminated with thousands of lights, and people gather to offer prayers and take part in Langar (community meals), reflecting the spirit of unity and service that is central to Sikh philosophy.
The celebration of Bandi Chhor Divas during Diwali has also become a reminder of the broader struggles for justice and human rights, encouraging reflection on the sacrifices made for freedom and the importance of standing up for the oppressed.
