Bandi Chhor Divas is One of the most significant Sikh Festival . It honors light, bravery, and freedom. Sikhs commemorate this day to remember how the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, fought for justice and assisted others in achieving freedom.
It is observed on the same day as Diwali, but it has a very special meaning for Sikhs; it is about spiritual light and liberation rather than just lights and fireworks.
In 2025, Bandi Chhor Divas will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 — the same day as Diwali.
What is Bandi Chhor Divas? Meaning & Significance
The words “Bandi Chhor Divas” mean “Day of Freedom” or “Day of Liberation”.
Bandi means prisoner,
Chhor means release,
Divas means day.
So, it is the day when the Guru freed many people from imprisonment.
This festival teaches us that real victory is not about fighting others — it’s about helping people, showing compassion, and standing up for truth.
Dates of Bandi Chhor Divas 2023 to 2025
Here are the dates of Bandi Chhor Divas from 2023 to 2025:
| Year | Date | Day | Coincides With |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bandi Chhor Divas 2023 | Sunday, November 12, 2023 | Sunday | Diwali |
| Bandi Chhor Divas 2024 | Friday, November 1, 2024 | Friday | Diwali |
| Bandi Chhor Divas 2025 | Tuesday, October 21, 2025 | Tuesday | Diwali |
The History of Bandi Chhor Divas
The emperor Jahangir long ago, during the Mughal era, imprisoned Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji in Gwalior Fort.
The Guru encountered fifty-two kings (rajahs) who were also wrongfully imprisoned inside the prison. They were depressed and without hope. Guru Ji prayed for their freedom because he had a lot of sympathy for them.
The 52 Kings and the Cloak Miracle
When Guru Ji was eventually freed by the emperor, the Guru said,
“If all 52 kings are released with me, then I will depart from this fort.”
Only kings who were able to hold onto the Guru’s cloak were permitted to leave by Jahangir. Then, Guru Ji created a unique robe with fifty-two strips, one for each king. All 52 kings were set free along with Guru Ji when he left the fort.
As a result of this deed of generosity, Sikhs commemorate this day as the Day of Liberation, or Bandi Chhor Divas.
Relationship with Diwali: Why They Fall on the Same Day
When Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji returned to Amritsar after being freed, it was the day of Diwali.
The people of Amritsar decorated Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) with hundreds of lamps to welcome the Guru.
That is why even today, on Diwali night, the Golden Temple shines with light — but for Sikhs, it is not Diwali, it is the celebration of Bandi Chhor Divas — the victory of truth and freedom.
Timeline of Important Events
| Year / Period | Event |
|---|---|
| Early 1600s | Guru Hargobind Ji imprisoned at Gwalior Fort |
| 1609–1611 | Guru Ji meets 52 kings in prison |
| 1611 | Release from the fort — 52 kings freed |
| Same day | Guru Ji reaches Amritsar — people light Golden Temple |
| Since then | Day celebrated as Bandi Chhor Divas every year |
Interesting Facts About Bandi Chhor Divas
The robe (chola) of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji had 52 tassels, one for each king.
“Bandi Chhor Divas” literally means Day of Release.
Sikhs see it as a day of inner freedom, not just physical freedom.
On this day, Golden Temple looks like a palace of light.
It teaches that true power lies in compassion.
Famous Places to Visit on Bandi Chhor Divas 2025
Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), Amritsar
Gurdwara Data Bandi Chhor Sahib, Gwalior Fort
Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib, Delhi
Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, Bathinda
Local Gurdwaras worldwide (Canada, UK, USA, Australia)
