Close X
Thursday, November 21, 2024
ADVT 
Feature

Reflecting on Bandi Chhorh Divas: A Journey from History to Hope

Naina Grewal Darpan, 28 Oct, 2024
  • Reflecting on Bandi Chhorh Divas: A Journey from History to Hope

Bandi Chhorh Divas, a festival celebrated by Sikhs and devotees around the world, is a time of joy, reverence, and reflection on the values of freedom and compassion. With roots tracing back to the early 17th century, the tale unfolds at a time when Guru Hargobind Ji, the sixth Guru, was imprisoned in the Gwalior Fort by Emperor Jahangir. The Mughal ruler saw Guru Hargobind Ji’s influence as a potential threat and detained him. While in prison, the Guru’s spiritual presence inspired many, including 52 Rajput kings who were also imprisoned at the fort. After a period of detainment, Emperor Jahangir eventually ordered Guru Hargobind Ji’s release. 

However, Guru Hargobind Ji refused to leave unless the 52 kings were also freed alongside him. The emperor agreed, but only on the condition that those who could hold onto Guru Hargobind Ji's cloak would be released. To fulfill this condition, Guru Hargobind Ji had a special cloak made with 52 tassels, allowing each king to hold onto one and walk out of the fort with him. This moment of collective liberation became known as Bandi Chhorh Divas, translating to ‘day of the release of prisoners.’

Bandi Chhorh Divas coincides with Diwali, sharing a similar theme of light triumphing over darkness. The festival is celebrated with fervor, particularly at the Golden Temple in Amritsar, where the temple is illuminated with thousands of lights. Even today, Bandi Chhorh Divas holds a special relevance as its themes of justice and resilience resonate with the ongoing struggles for human rights and equality. 

The story of Bandi Chhorh Divas has deep spiritual significance, emphasizing selflessness, justice, and the welfare of all. Guru Hargobind Ji’s refusal to secure only his freedom and his commitment to the release of others embodies the ideal of working for collective well-being. It serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of standing up against injustice, advocating for the oppressed, and prioritizing the greater good over personal gain. 

This essence of collective welfare serves as a powerful inspiration, reminding us that true leadership is about lifting others and striving for a more equitable society, especially significant in a world where many face various forms of injustice, discrimination, and social challenges. As such, it is essential to understand that celebrating any festival, for that matter, is not just about remembering a historical event but also about drawing strength from its teachings to address modern issues. 

Fostering a sense of identity and continuity in a rapidly changing world, Bandi Chhorh Divas provides an opportunity to reflect on the importance of values like community and service, which are just as relevant today as they were centuries ago. In today's world, challenges like social media's divisive influence, political unrest, economic inequality, and rising polarization can be viewed through such compassion, encouraging us to confront these issues with a sense of responsibility, unity, and inclusivity, even in times of uncertainty.

Undoubtedly, the spirit of freedom is universal and timeless. Seeking the freedom of others is as crucial as securing one’s own, a principle that continues to inspire movements for social justice around the world. As we gather to light candles and offer prayers, let us commit to embodying all that Guru Hargobind Ji sought to teach us through his actions, adorned with values that teach us to be resilient, understanding, and ever-mindful of the struggles of others. Bandi Chhorh Divas is thus not only a celebration of historical significance but also a living tradition that continues to guide and inspire in the quest for a more just and compassionate world.

MORE Feature ARTICLES

Maitreyi Ramakrishnan has nothing to hide

Maitreyi Ramakrishnan has nothing to hide

The lead of Never Have I Ever reflects on four years as Devi Vishwakumar, teenager-at-large. After forty episodes, four boyfriends, dozens of cringe-inducing moments, and countless laughs, Never Have I Ever came to an end last month. The Netflix series, a coming-of-age sitcom created by Mindy Kaling and Lang Fisher, was the rare show anchored by a first-generation Indian-American teenager.

Upcoming Punjabi Movies to Watch Out for: Comedy, Drama, Thrills, and More

Upcoming Punjabi Movies to Watch Out for: Comedy, Drama, Thrills, and More

Featuring a diverse range of genres, including uproarious comedies like Kade Dade Diyan Kade Pote Diyan and Gaddi Jaandi Ae Chalaangaan Maardi, thought-provoking dramas inspired by real-life like Vajood, and adrenaline-pumping thrillers and action-packed dramas like Tufang and Paune 9, Pollywood is poised to provide an unforgettable cinematic experience in the coming months. 

Mastering the Modern Maze: Navigating the Corporate Landscape of the 21st Century

Mastering the Modern Maze: Navigating the Corporate Landscape of the 21st Century

The 21st century corporate world demands agility, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, making it an exhilarating and challenging landscape for those willing to take on the journey. Wondering what it takes to shine in the corporate world? Three industry experts from three distinct fields tell all:

To Teach or Not to Teach: The Question of Drug Overdose Education in BC Schools

To Teach or Not to Teach: The Question of Drug Overdose Education in BC Schools

While advocates argue that providing comprehensive education about drug overdoses can empower students with life-saving knowledge and help them make informed decisions, opponents express concerns that discussing drug overdose education in schools may inadvertently normalize or encourage drug use among students.

The South Supremacy: How South Indian movies are taking over the world

The South Supremacy: How South Indian movies are taking over the world

From RRR and Baahubali to the recent Oscar-winner, The Elephant Whisperers, South Indian movies have dominated India and made a mark globally. The success of movies like Vikram, Kantara, K.G.F, Pushpa: The Rise, and most recently, Ponniyin Selvan, has made everyone want a piece of the action from South films.

Movie Time

Movie Time

Whether you are in the mood for action, drama, romance or a little bit of everything, the coming months in Bollywood promise to be a blockbuster season. So, grab some popcorn and get ready for an exciting summer of cinema!