The True Guru is the liberator from bondage, granting spiritual liberation even while one is living.
Bandi Chhor Diwas marks a significant chapter in history, remembering the historic liberation of 52 imprisoned kings through the compassion and wisdom of Daata Bandi Chhor Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the Sixth Guru Sahib.
As the teachings of the Guru Sahiban continued to spread and the Sikh community grew in strength and influence, these developments increasingly concerned the Mughal authorities.
Amid these growing political tensions, Guru Sahib Ji travelled to meet Emperor Jahangir in an effort to resolve the issues but was unjustly detained at Gwalior Fort, where 52 kings were already held captive.
Soon after Guru Sahib Ji’s imprisonment, Jahangir fell gravely ill, and on his Qazi’s advice, appeals and the intervention of respected religious and political figures, Emperor Jahangir eventually ordered Guru Sahib Ji's release.
However, Guru Sahib Ji declined to accept release unless all 52 imprisoned kings were also set free.
Jahangir agreed but cunningly imposed a condition: only those who could hold onto Guru Sahib Ji's Chola Sahib (robe) would be permitted to leave. Believing that only a few prisoners could do so, the Emperor expected the others to remain in captivity.
Understanding this condition, Guru Sahib Ji had a special Chola Sahib (robe) prepared with 52 panels, allowing each imprisoned king to hold one as they walked out of Gwalior Fort together.
Thus, Guru Sahib Ji's own release became the liberation of 52 imprisoned kings, demonstrating that true strength lies not merely in possessing power, but in using it to protect others and uphold justice.
Through this historic act of compassion and wisdom, Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji came to be revered as Daata Bandi Chhor —the Liberator of Prisoners.
Upon Guru Sahib Ji's return to Amritsar, the Sangat welcomed Guru Sahib Ji with great joy, illuminating Sri Harmandir Sahib Ji and the city with lamps. Since then, this occasion continues to be celebrated as Bandi Chhor Diwas.
We wish everyone a blessed and happy Bandi Chhor Diwas and Deepawali.
Akal Academy Baru Sahib – Celebrating 40 Years of Education (1986–2026)
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