Diwali is one of the most important festivals in India, celebrated with lights, sweets, and joy across different religions. For Hindus, it marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. For Jains, it commemorates the day Lord Mahavira attained nirvana. For Sikhs, however, the day is known as Bandi Chhor Divas, or the “Day of Liberation.” Although it falls on the same day as Diwali, its meaning and history are unique, deeply tied to Sikh identity and the principles of courage, sacrifice, and justice.
Bandi Chhor Divas 2025: Key Facts & Date
Before diving into the rich history, here is the essential information you need for the upcoming celebration:
Date in 2025: Bandi Chhor Divas will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, coinciding with the date of Diwali.
What It Commemorates: The day Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, was released from imprisonment and selflessly secured the freedom of 52 other Hindu princes.
Meaning of the Name: "Bandi Chhor Divas" translates to "the Day of Liberation."
Central Figure: Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji.
Primary Place of Celebration: The Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in Amritsar, India, which is decorated with millions of lights and features a grand fireworks display.
The Story Behind Bandi Chhor Divas
The origin of this festival goes back to 1619, during the Mughal era. The sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, was imprisoned in Gwalior Fort by the Mughal emperor Jahangir. Though innocent, Guru Ji was held as a political prisoner along with many other rulers and princes. Over time, Jahangir grew fond of Guru Hargobind because of his wisdom and compassion. Legends say that the emperor was even saved from a lion by the Guru and that his health improved due to the Guru’s prayers. Out of gratitude, Jahangir eventually agreed to release Guru Ji.
But Guru Hargobind refused freedom for himself alone. He declared he would only leave if the other 52 Rajput princes, who were also wrongfully imprisoned, were released as well. Initially, Jahangir resisted this demand. Later, he cleverly imposed a condition that only those prisoners who could hold on to the Guru’s robe while walking out would be freed, assuming it would be impossible for many to do so.
Guru Hargobind, however, came up with a brilliant solution. He had a special robe stitched with 52 long tassels or tails, one for each prince to hold. In this way, all 52 rulers walked out of Gwalior Fort along with the Guru, securing their release. This act of selflessness earned the day its name Bandi Chhor Divas, the Day of Liberation.
The Celebration in Amritsar
When Guru Hargobind returned to Amritsar after the release, it was the day of Diwali. The people of the city welcomed him with great joy. They lit hundreds of lamps around the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) to celebrate his safe return and the liberation of the 52 princes. Since then, the two celebrations—Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas—have become intertwined.
For Sikhs, this day is not just about lights and fireworks but about remembering Guru Hargobind’s courage, compassion, and refusal to accept freedom unless others were freed with him. It is a reminder that true leadership means thinking of the community and standing for justice.
How Sikhs Celebrate Today
Across the world, Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas with the same enthusiasm that Hindus celebrate Diwali, though the spiritual focus is different. Gurdwaras are decorated with lamps, candles, and electric lights. The Golden Temple in Amritsar is the heart of these celebrations. On this day, it glows with thousands of oil lamps and a spectacular display of fireworks. The reflection of the lights on the holy Sarovar (water tank) creates an unforgettable sight, attracting visitors from across the world.
Special prayers and kirtans are held in gurdwaras. The message of Guru Hargobind’s sacrifice is shared through stories, sermons, and hymns. Langar, the community kitchen, serves free meals to thousands of devotees, embodying the Sikh values of equality and service. Families also celebrate by lighting lamps at home, exchanging sweets, and spending time with loved ones, just as during Diwali.
In addition, the Gurdwara Bandi Chhorh Sahib in Gwalior, built at the site of the Guru’s imprisonment, becomes a major pilgrimage spot during this time. Sikhs gather there to pay respect to Guru Hargobind’s legacy and to honor the ideals he stood for.
Bandi Chhor Divas vs. Diwali: A Quick Comparison
While celebrated on the same day with lights and joy, the two festivals have distinct origins and meanings. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Bandi Chhor Divas (Sikhism):
Reason for Celebration: Honors the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and 52 princes from Gwalior Fort.
Key Figure: The sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji.
Central Message: A celebration of freedom, compassion, and standing up for the rights of the oppressed. It is a lesson in social justice and selfless action.
Diwali (Hinduism):
Reason for Celebration: Primarily marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana.
Key Figures: Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman.
Central Message: A celebration of the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance.
Symbolism and Significance
Bandi Chhor Divas is more than just a festival; it is a lesson in humanity. Guru Hargobind Sahib’s actions remind people of the importance of freedom, justice, and compassion. His insistence on the release of the 52 princes demonstrates that personal liberty means little if others around you remain oppressed.
This day also holds historical significance for the Sikh struggle for freedom. During the 18th century, when Sikhs fought against Mughal oppression, Bandi Chhor Divas became a symbol of resistance and courage. It inspired generations to continue fighting for justice and equality.
Though the reasons for celebration differ, the festival shows how Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas bring communities together. For Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains, lighting lamps on this day symbolizes the victory of truth over falsehood and good over evil. In this sense, the festival unites diverse traditions while allowing each to preserve its unique meaning.