Devotees throng Golden Temple on Bandi Chhor Divas
Amritsar, Oct 21
Tens of thousands of devotees on Tuesday paid obeisance and took a holy dip in the 'sarovar' on the occasion of Bandi Chhor Divas at the Golden Temple complex here.
The complex, where the holiest of Sikh shrines, the Harmandir Sahib, is located, has been illuminated with LED lights and earthen lamps and decorated with flowers, giving it a glittering look.
There was a festive spirit at the shrine complex in this Sikh holy city devotees started converging to offer prayers and seek blessings before dawn.
The day is celebrated in the Sikh religion as Bandi Chhor Diwas (Prisoner Liberation Day). On this day, the sixth Sikh guru, Sri Guru Hargobind, returned to Amritsar after being released along with 52 kings from imprisonment by the Mughal emperor Jahangir from Gwalior prison in 1619.
Harmandir Sahib Head Granthi Giani Raghbir Singh in a message said Bandi Chhor Divas "is not just a celebration of joy but also a reminder of the sacrifices and humanitarian contributions of the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib".
According to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), to stop the Sikh faith from flourishing, the Mughal emperor Jahangir imprisoned Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib at Gwalior Fort. Jahangir fell ill and could not get well despite efforts. To get rid of his illness, Sufi Saint Sain Mian Mir advised Jahangir to release Guru Hargobind Sahib. The Guru refused to be released alone. Jahangir said whoever can come out holding the 'palla' (end portion of the robe) of the imprisoned Guru, can be released.
The Guru got a special robe stitched, holding which 52 imprisoned kings got released from jail.
Upon his arrival at Amritsar, Guru Hargobind Sahib was welcomed by Sikhs by lighting earthen lamps. "This day is celebrated as Bandi Chhor Diwas with Khalsa's grandeur. Bandi: Prisoner, Chhor: Release and Diwas: Day," says the SGPC, the mini parliament of the religion.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Visited the Golden Temple last year during Bandi Chhor Divas. The atmosphere is electric! The langar service is incredible - feeding thousands with so much love and devotion. This festival truly showcases Sikh values of equality and service.
As someone from Canada visiting India, I'm amazed by the rich history and traditions. The story of Guru Hargobind's clever solution to free the kings is inspiring. The Golden Temple's architecture and the devotion of people is something everyone should experience.
While the celebrations are beautiful, I wish there was better crowd management. Last time I went, it was quite chaotic and some elderly people were struggling. The administration should plan better for such large gatherings.
The transition to LED lights is a great eco-friendly move! Preserving traditions while embracing modern technology. The Golden Temple sets such a wonderful example for religious places across India. 🌟
Bandi Chhor Divas teaches us such important lessons about standing up for others and finding creative solutions. Guru Hargobind Sahib's message of liberation and compassion is more relevant than ever in today's world.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.