Vahiguru ji ka Khalsa, Vahiguru ji ki Fatih!

The Sikh Research Institute (SikhRI) team joins the global Sikh community in commemorating Bandi Chor Divas, Emancipation Day.

We remember Guru Harigobind Sahib’s release from the Gwalior fort prison during the reign of Emperor Jahangir in 1619. We celebrate how the Guru refused to accept freedom without assuring the release of 52 fellow political prisoners.

At the core of this act lies the recognition of every individual's right to self-expression, dissent, and liberty. The Guru bestowed Divine wisdom liberated the human consciousness from all bondage and dignified life to such an extent that any kind of subjugation was no longer acceptable.

ਦਸਤਗੀਰ ਹੁਇ ਪੰਜ ਪੀਰ ਹਰਿ ਗੁਰੁ ਹਰਿ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਅਤੋਲਾ।
ਦੀਨ ਦੁਨੀ ਦਾ ਪਾਤਸਾਹ ਪਾਤਸਾਹਾਂ ਪਾਤਸਾਹ ਅਡੋਲਾ।

The earlier five Gurus championed the cause of the people,
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

We renew our commitment to and honor a core value of Sikhi—to throw off forces that would subject us or subdue us while bringing others out of the darkness.

Sikh Research Institute is committed to preserving Sikh values by developing accessible Gurmat educational resources for Sikhs of all ages and at all stages in their life journey. Understanding the depths of Guru’s wisdom is the central component of Gurmat education. Through learning and meaningful discussions, we can pass on the teachings of Sikhi to the next generation.

In celebration of Bandi Chor Divas, may we all commit to developing a relationship with Sabad-Guru!

May the warm glow of the Festival of Light linger.
May this day continue to inspire us!