Punjab: Devotees flocked to the Golden Temple in Amritsar early Friday to commemorate ‘Bandi Chhor Divas’. Many took holy dips in the ‘Sarovar’ as the temple complex was beautifully illuminated with LED lights, creating a festive atmosphere.
On this significant day, which marks ‘Prisoner Liberation Day’ in Sikhism, thousands of worshippers gathered to pray and seek blessings. The entire shrine complex, including its domes and floors, was meticulously cleaned and adorned for the occasion.
Bandi Chhor Divas honors the sixth Sikh guru, Sri Guru Hargobind, who returned to Amritsar in 1619 after being freed alongside 52 princes from the Mughal emperor Jahangir’s prison in Gwalior. Historical accounts state that Jahangir had imprisoned Guru Hargobind to hinder the growth of Sikhism. However, when Jahangir fell ill, a Sufi saint advised him to release the Guru. The Guru refused to leave alone, leading to a clever arrangement where he had a special robe made; those who held onto it were also freed.
Upon his return to Amritsar, Guru Hargobind was warmly welcomed with earthen lamps lighting the way. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) emphasized the grandeur of the Khalsa in celebrating this day.
Despite the joyous occasion, Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh urged Sikhs to avoid using electrical decorations in observance of the 40th anniversary of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, recommending instead the use of traditional ghee ‘diyas’. A devotee from Lucknow remarked on the temple’s tranquility, which allows for a deep connection with the divine amidst the thronging crowd.