Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas 2022

Giani Shyam Singh, the Sikh chaplain at the multifaith chaplaincy, has recorded a brief message on the story of the Sikh festival, Bandi Chhor Divas, "Day of Liberation".

In 1619 the 6th Guru of Sikhs, Guru Hargobind Ji made emperor Jahangir release the 52 Hindu kings along with him from gvalier Fort, but the emperor put forward a condition that whoever could hold onto guru Ji would be released.

Guruji arranged a big cloak with 52 strings, which the 52 kings held onto and were released. After that Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and the 52 kings arrived as a procession to Harmander Sahib Amritsar on Diwali, and they were welcomed by Bhai Gurdas Ji, Baba Budha Ji and all the congregation. Thereafter people started calling Guru Ji the Liberator of Prisoners (Banid Chhor Data).

On this happy occasion, Divas were lit around the Harmander Sahib Amritsar, Gurbani Kirtan was sung and sweets were distributed.

On Bandi Chor Divas we are all reminded of everyone’s freedom and human rights. That is why we celebrate this festival every year.

This is a time for sharing giving and receiving gifts for the whole community. Traditionally sweets and dried fruits are exchanged, and firework displays take place. People light Divas and candles at their homes, and at Gurdwaras. 

For further information on the Sikh religion, this website provides a good starting point https://www.allaboutsikhs.com/