Bandhi Chhor Divas, observed by Sikhs worldwide, commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib, the sixth Sikh Guru, from unjustifiable imprisonment in the Gwalior Fort in His freedom came with a selfless act: he refused to be released until fifty-two Hindu kings, unjustly imprisoned alongside him, were also granted freedom. Known as the “Day of Liberation,” this historic event not only symbolizes physical freedom but also embodies the core Sikh values of seva (selfless service), sarbat da bhala (welfare for all), and a commitment to justice for all. Celebrated concurrently with Diwali, Bandhi Chhor Divas has its distinct meaning in Sikhi, highlighting the community’s dedication to compassion, unity, and societal equality.
The celebratory mood is sombre this year, as it coincides with the memory of the Sikh Genocide of 1984. In that year, following the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, thousands of Sikhs were targeted and killed in brutal anti-Sikh carnage across India, with reports of coordinated violence, attacks, and displacement. For Sikhs, Bandhi Chhor Divas today is not only a remembrance of Guru Hargobind Sahib’s actions but also a poignant occasion to honour those who lost their lives and the communities impacted by the 1984 violence. It’s a time to reflect on resilience, the fight for justice, and the commitment to protect the oppressed, especially in the face of state-endorsed violence.
The festival inspires contemporary Sikh communities to advocate for justice and stand against oppression worldwide. The values upheld by Guru Hargobind Sahib, who wore two swords symbolizing both spiritual and temporal authority (Piri and Miri), resonate with Sikhs who continue to seek a balance between spiritual growth and social responsibility. Gurduaras hold commemorating services.
Today, Bandhi Chhor Divas is a powerful reminder of Guru Hargobind Sahib’s legacy, encouraging individuals to cultivate courage, advocate for the oppressed, and work for a society grounded in compassion and justice. The celebrations are not just of historical significance but also a call to action, uniting Sikhs and allies in remembrance and in the commitment to building a world free from oppression, discrimination, and inequality.