52 Kings, one guru and a timeless lesson in humanity

As thousands of lights illuminate Amritsar and the Golden Temple glows in festive splendour, Bandi Chhor Divas brings alive a story that goes far beyond celebrations. It commemorates an extraordinary chapter in Sikh history, one that reflects the values of freedom, compassion, courage and selfless service. At its heart is the story of the sixth Sikh guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib, who refused to accept his own freedom without securing the release of 52 other prisoners.

Guru Hargobind Sahib, the sixth of the ten Sikh gurus, succeeded his father, Guru Arjan Dev, following his martyrdom in 1606. His guruship marked an important phase in Sikh history, particularly through the principle of Miri-Piri, which emphasised the inseparable relationship between spiritual responsibility and temporal authority. The guru wore two swords, symbolising these twin responsibilities, and established the Akal Takht Sahib in Amritsar as a centre of Sikh temporal authority.

During the reign of Mughal Emperor Jahangir, Guru Hargobind Sahib, was imprisoned at Gwalior Fort in present-day Madhya Pradesh. The circumstances and duration of his detention have been described differently in historical accounts. However, Sikh tradition remembers his time at the fort as a significant episode of faith, resilience and concern for others. The fort also housed several Rajput rulers and princes who were being held captive.

According to Sikh tradition, the intervention of Sufi saint Mian Mir and other influential figures played a role in securing the guru’s release. However, when emperor Jahangir agreed to set him free, Guru Hargobind Sahib refused to leave without the other imprisoned rulers. He insisted that their freedom should accompany his own.

The popular account describes how the emperor agreed to release as many prisoners as could hold on to the guru’s robe. Guru Hargobind Sahib then arranged for a special cloak with 52 panels or strings, allowing each of the 52 kings to hold on to one and walk out of the fort alongside him. This act earned him the title Bandi Chhor Data, meaning the liberator of prisoners. The story remains a powerful symbol of his belief that freedom should not be enjoyed at the expense of others. His return to Amritsar coincided with Diwali, when the Sikh community welcomed him by illuminating the city with lamps.

The celebrations eventually became associated with Bandi Chhor Divas, observed by Sikhs to commemorate the guru’s release and his compassionate act towards the 52 kings. Today, Gurdwara Data Bandi Chhor Sahib at Gwalior Fort marks the place associated with his imprisonment, while Sri Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar becomes a spectacular sight with its illumination and festive celebrations.

Bandi Chhor Divas is not merely about remembering history but also about embracing the values it represents. This incident emphasised that helping others should never be driven by personal motives, expectations or selfish interests. Instead, people should extend support to anyone in need, irrespective of their religion or caste.

Guru Hargobind Sahib’s legacy holds an important lesson for today’s generation: one should never turn away from someone facing difficulties. Standing up for the rights of others and supporting those in distress, regardless of their background, are values that should continue to guide society.

At home, the occasion is marked by lighting diyas and candles, offering prayers for everyone’s well-being and visiting gurdwaras to seek blessings. At Sri Harmandir Sahib, the illumination, prayers and spiritual gatherings add to the significance of the occasion. Beyond the festivities, the day serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion, equality and standing up for those in need.

Bandi Chhor Divas is therefore more than a celebration of light. It commemorates a guru who chose not to walk towards freedom alone and reminds generations that true greatness lies not only in securing one’s own rights but also in helping others claim theirs. Its timeless message remains clear: freedom becomes meaningful when it is shared.