Bandi Chhor Divas and Diwali ਬੰਦੀ ਛੋੜ ਦਿਵਸ
On the night of Diwali, Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas, the return of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji to Amritsar after his release from Gwalior fort together with 52 imprisoned kings.
| Year | Occasion | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Bandi Chhor Divas / Diwali | |
| 2027 | Bandi Chhor Divas / Diwali |
Calculated for Amritsar. SGPC and government announcements take precedence.
How the date is fixed
Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas fall on the new moon (Masya) of Katak, taken on the evening when the Masya prevails after sunset.
Bandi Chhor
Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji had been held in Gwalior fort by the emperor Jahangir. When the emperor ordered his release, the Guru refused to leave without 52 kings imprisoned with him. He was told that only those who could hold on to his clothing could go with him. The Guru had a cloak made with 52 tassels, and every king walked out holding one. Bandi Chhor means "liberator of prisoners".
At Sri Harmandir Sahib
On his return to Amritsar the city was lit with lamps. Today, Sri Harmandir Sahib and the whole parikrama are lit with lamps and lights, and there is a fireworks display over the sarovar. Many people consider it the most beautiful night of the year in Amritsar.
Diwali in Punjab
For Hindu families Diwali marks Sri Ram's return to Ayodhya, with Lakshmi puja in the evening. Homes are cleaned and lit, sweets are exchanged, and markets are busy through the preceding week.
Questions
Why do Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas on Diwali?
Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji reached Amritsar after his release from Gwalior fort around Diwali, and the city was lit with lamps to welcome him.