Diwali celebrations can never be complete without decorating our houses with diyas. It’s a celebration of Lord Rama’s victory against Ravana and his return to his kingdom in Ayodhya after 14 years. While Hindu devotees celebrate the joyous festival for this momentous occasion, Sikhs enjoy the day for another glorious reason. This unique celebration is known as Bandi Chhor Divas and here’s all you need to know about it.
Here’s About The Famous Bandi Chhor Divas
This special occasion marks the day of liberation and is an incredible moment of pride for the Sikh community. On Bandi Chhor Divas, every Sikh commemorates the iconic day of Guru Hargobind Ji releasing 52 prisoners. Showcasing immense selflessness, he played a significant part in releasing 52 Hindu kings and princes from the Gwalior Fort.
They were imprisoned during the reign of Mughal Emperor Jahangir. On Bandi Chhor Divas, all prisoners (Bandhi) were released (Chhor) marking the liberation of Prisoners Day. Sikhs continue to remember this historical day and Guru Hargobind’s valour and heroism after several centuries.
This year, Bandi Chhor Divas falls on November 1. Coincidentally, Bandi Chhor Divas and Diwali are celebrated on the same day. Just like Diwali, this day is also celebrated with pomp and glory. While Sikhs commemorate the day to recognise Guru Hargobind Ji’s immense sacrifice and prowess, Hindu devotees enjoy the festival of lights by lighting diyas and beautiful lights all around houses. Bandhi Chhor Diwas coinciding with Diwali has a grand highlight. Both festivals celebrate the message of good winning over evil, signifying auspiciousness.
Sikhs celebrate the day by decorating their houses and Gurdwaras with beautiful diyas. The brightly lit diyas illuminating after dusk is a magnificent sight to witness. Visuals of gurudwaras and houses getting decked up steal our hearts. Just like any other festival, langar is a must on this occasion.
Also read: Fasting This Diwali? We Asked A Chef For 5 Vrat-Friendly Recipes To Enjoy After Breaking It
Which Gurudwaras Do Devotees Visit On This Day?
Most Gurudwaras nationwide celebrate the occasion of Guru Hargobind Ji releasing 52 innocent prisoners from the Gwalior Fort. Visit a gurudwara to experience the glory and celebrations of thousands coming together, sitting, and enjoying langar. Along with decorating homes and gurudwaras extravagantly with diyas and lights, Sikhs also light fireworks and conduct processions.
- If you are in Madhya Pradesh or have plans to visit the state, you surely need to visit the Gurudwara Data Bandi Chhor Sahib on Bandi Chhor Divas. Everyone immerses themselves in the unique traditions of the occasion.
- Another gurudwara where the day of liberation is celebrated with pomp and glory is Amritsar’s Golden Temple.
Also read: Visiting Ayodhya This Diwali? Don’t Miss Out On These 6 Holy Places To Visit
Don’t worry if you are not in Madhya Pradesh or Amritsar as you can explore any gurudwara and enjoy the magnificent decorations and celebrations.
Have you celebrated the grand occasion of Bandi Chhor Divas before?
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
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