Vahiguru ji ka Khalsa, Vahiguru ji ki Fatih!

Today, we celebrate Bandi Chor Divas一the Emancipation Day, marking a profound moment in Sikh history when Guru Harigobind Sahib secured the release of fifty-two political prisoners from the Gwalior Fort.

In 1619, Guru Harigobind Sahib was imprisoned in Gwalior Fort by Mughal Emperor Jahangir. There were another fifty-two kings and princes held as political prisoners by the Emperor. When Jahangir agreed to release the Guru, Guru Harigobind Sahib insisted on the freedom of these rulers. Jahangir consented but agreed to only those prisoners being released who could physically hold onto the Guru’s cloak. Guru Harigobind Sahib had a special cloak made with fifty-two strands to ensure their freedom, allowing all the prisoners to leave with him, earning him the title ‘Bandi Chor’ (Liberator of Prisoners).

ਦਸਤਗੀਰ ਹੁਇ ਪੰਜ ਪੀਰ ਹਰਿ ਗੁਰੁ ਹਰਿ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਅਤੋਲਾ ॥  
ਦੀਨ ਦੁਨੀ ਦਾ ਪਾਤਿਸਾਹੁ ਪਾਤਿਸਾਹਾਂ ਪਾਤਿਸਾਹੁ ਅਡੋਲਾ ॥

The earlier five Gurus championed the cause of the people,
and the Divine-like Guru Harigobind is no different
in his immeasurable qualities as a savior.
He is the defender of righteousness in this world;
an undisputed and unflinching king of the kings.

     Bhai Gurdas, Var 39, Pauri 3

In commemoration, the Akal Takht (Timeless Throne) stands adorned with lights, looking over Sri Harimandar Sahib (the dwelling place of the Divine) across the Amritsar sarovar (the pool of nectar). This illumination is not just a celebration; it is an evidence of the ever-ascending spirit of protection under the wisdom of the Sabad (Infinite Wisdom). This Wisdom liberates human consciousness from all bondage, elevating life to a state where any subjugation becomes unacceptable. At the core of it lies self-sovereignty, as the Guru began freeing the Sikhs from all external and internal bondages starting from within.

ਹਉ ਬਲਿਹਾਰੀ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਪੂਰੇ ॥ ਜਿਨਿ ਬੰਧਨ ਕਾਟੇ ਸਗਲੇ ਮੇਰੇ ॥
ਹਿਰਦੈ ਨਾਮੁ ਦੇ ਨਿਰਮਲ ਕੀਏ ਨਾਨਕ ਰੰਗਿ ਰਸਾਲਾ ਜੀਉ ॥੪॥

I adore the complete and eternal Guru-Wisdom,
who has cut all my bondages.
Nanak! Those whom the Guru has bestowed Nam in the heart
and freed from all flaws, have become the epitome of bliss
in the love of the Divine.

     Guru Granth Sahib, 98

Guru Harigobind Sahib’s actions were a testament to the right to liberty and freedom. As Bhai Satta and Balvand remind us, the Guru’s promise of spiritual (Sabad) and physical (langar) sustenance continues to guide the Sikh community.

As we celebrate Bandi Chor Divas, let us reflect on these values and strive for justice, beginning within. True commemoration of this day asks us to move beyond mere rituals. May we honor the sovereignty granted by the Guru, allowing the light of the Sabad to illuminate our hearts and minds and guide our actions.

With gratitude
The SikhRI Team