Table of Contents
01
of 11Bandi Chhor Divas 2026 Date
Bandi Chhor Divas 2026 will be celebrated on Sunday, 8 November 2026, coinciding with Diwali. According to the Nanakshahi calendar, the date is 23 Katak, Nanakshahi Samvat 558.
| Bandi Chhor Divas 2026 Date | 8 November 2026 |
|---|---|
| Day | Sunday |
| Diwali 2026 | 8 November 2026 |
| Nanakshahi Date | 23 Katak, Samvat 558 |
Bandi Chhor Divas is an important occasion in Sikh history, commemorating the release of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, from Gwalior Fort. The occasion is remembered for Guru Sahib's compassion and his insistence that the other imprisoned rulers should also be released along with him.
While Diwali is celebrated across India and many parts of the world, Sikhs observe this day as Bandi Chhor Divas, remembering the Guru's message of freedom, justice and standing up for others.
02
of 11History of Bandi Chhor Divas
Bandi Chhor Divas commemorates an important episode in the life of Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru. The name Bandi Chhor means the Liberator of Prisoners, reflecting the Guru Sahib's role in securing the freedom of other imprisoned rulers along with his own release.
According to the traditional Sikh account, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji was detained at Gwalior Fort during the reign of Mughal Emperor Jahangir. Fifty-two other rulers were also imprisoned there. When the emperor agreed to release Guru Sahib, the Guru refused to leave unless the other prisoners were freed as well.
A condition was eventually agreed upon: those rulers who could hold on to Guru Sahib's robe as he left the fort could accompany him. The traditional account describes a special cloak with fifty-two tassels, allowing all fifty-two rulers to leave alongside Guru Sahib.
The release of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and the fifty-two rulers became an enduring symbol of compassion, courage, justice and freedom. This is why Sikhs remember the occasion as Bandi Chhor Divas.
The occasion is also associated with Guru Sahib's return to Amritsar, where the Sikh community welcomed him with great devotion and joy.
To read the complete history of Bandi Chhor Divas in Punjabi, click here. You can also download our Punjabi PDF booklet about the story of Bandi Chhor Divas.
03
of 11Bandi Chhor Divas and Diwali 2026 Wishes, Greetings & Images
Celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas and Diwali 2026 by sharing heartfelt wishes and greetings with your family, friends and loved ones.
We have created a collection of Bandi Chhor Divas 2026 wishes, greeting images and Diwali messages in Punjabi, Hindi and English. You can download these images in high resolution for free and share them through WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram and other social media platforms.
Explore the greeting images below and use the download buttons to get your favourite designs.
04
of 11Significance of Bandi Chhor Divas
Bandi Chhor Divas holds a special place in Sikh history because it commemorates the freedom of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and the fifty-two imprisoned rulers. The occasion reminds Sikhs of the values of compassion, courage, justice and standing up for those who are suffering.
Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji introduced the concept of Miri and Piri, representing the spiritual and temporal responsibilities of a Sikh. He encouraged Sikhs to develop the strength and courage necessary to defend themselves and protect the rights of others.
The release of Guru Sahib and the fifty-two rulers is remembered as an example of selflessness. Guru Sahib did not accept his own freedom while others remained imprisoned. His actions continue to inspire people to help others and stand against injustice.
05
of 11Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji: The Bandi Chhor
Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji is remembered as Bandi Chhor, meaning the Liberator of Prisoners. According to Sikh tradition, when Guru Sahib was released from Gwalior Fort, he ensured that the other fifty-two imprisoned rulers were also set free.
A Gurdwara known as Gurdwara Data Bandi Chhor Sahib stands at Gwalior Fort, commemorating this important episode in Sikh history.
Bandi Chhor Divas reminds us that true freedom is not only about securing our own liberty but also about helping others who are facing hardship and injustice.
Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji's life teaches us to stand for truth, protect the vulnerable and remain compassionate towards all.
'Bandi Chhor Divas' also reminds Sikhs of their deep affection and devotion towards Guru Sahib. The occasion celebrates the joy of being reunited with the Guru and the importance of following the teachings of the Gurus.
06
of 11Bandi Chhor Divas and Bhai Mani Singh Ji
Bhai Mani Singh Ji holds an important place in Sikh history. Traditional accounts associate him with an attempt to organise a gathering of Sikhs at Sri Harmandir Sahib on the occasion of Bandi Chhor Divas.
According to these accounts, permission was obtained from the Mughal authorities for the gathering in exchange for a payment. However, when Bhai Mani Singh Ji became aware of a plan to attack the assembled Sikhs, he cancelled the gathering and sent messages advising the Sikh community not to attend.
Bhai Mani Singh Ji was subsequently arrested and sentenced to death. His martyrdom is remembered as an example of extraordinary faith, courage and sacrifice.
This episode is also remembered in connection with the difficult circumstances faced by the Sikh community during that period.
May the light of love and joy accompany you during the glowing moments of Diwali. May Bandi Chhor Divas remind us of freedom, kindness and compassion. Wishing you and your family a very Happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas!
07
of 11Bandi Chhor Divas and Diwali Wishes in Hindi
बंदी छोड़ दिवस सिख इतिहास के एक महत्वपूर्ण अवसर की याद में मनाया जाता है। यह वह दिन है जब सिखों के छठे गुरु, श्री गुरु हरगोबिंद साहिब जी, ग्वालियर किले से मुक्त होकर अन्य बावन बंदी राजाओं के साथ बाहर आए थे।
इस पावन अवसर पर सभी गुरमुख प्यारी संगत को बंदी छोड़ दिवस और दिवाली की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएँ। गुरु साहिब की शिक्षाएँ हमारे जीवन में प्रेम, दया, साहस और मानवता का प्रकाश फैलाएँ।
बंदी छोड़ दिवस व दिवाली की सभी गुरमुख प्यारी संगत को ढेरों शुभकामनाएँ। गुरु हरगोबिंद पतिशाह आपके जीवन को सुख, समृद्धि व खुशियों से भरें।
08
of 11Bandi Chhor Divas GIF and Status Videos
Share the spirit of Bandi Chhor Divas with your friends and family through greeting GIFs and video status messages. You can explore and download these designs to share on WhatsApp and other social media platforms.
09
of 11How is Bandi Chhor Divas Celebrated at Sri Harmandir Sahib?
Sri Harmandir Sahib, popularly known as the Golden Temple, in Amritsar holds special significance during Bandi Chhor Divas. Thousands of devotees visit the holy shrine to offer prayers and seek the blessings of Waheguru.
The shrine is beautifully illuminated, and the celebrations bring together Sikh devotees from different parts of India and around the world. The occasion is marked by prayers, Gurbani Kirtan, devotion and a sense of joy and gratitude.
Devotees also visit the sacred Sarovar and participate in the religious activities at Sri Harmandir Sahib. The community kitchen, or Guru Ka Langar, continues to serve free meals to visitors, reflecting the Sikh principles of equality, selfless service and sharing.
Bandi Chhor Divas is also celebrated at Gurdwaras and Sikh communities around the world. Although local customs may vary, the central message remains the same: freedom, compassion, justice and devotion to the Guru.
10
of 11Happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas 2026 Wishes
May Akaal Purakh illuminate your life with endless joy, prosperity, health and happiness. May the teachings of Guru Sahib guide you towards truth, compassion and freedom from ignorance. Wishing you and your family a very Happy Bandi Chhor Divas and Diwali!
11
of 11Bandi Chhor Divas and Diwali Quotes
Gurbani: Gayi Bahor Bandi Chhor
Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji, on Ang 624 of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji under Raag Sorath, describes the Almighty as the liberator from bondage and the remover of suffering.
ਕਰਮੁ ਨ ਜਾਣਾ ਧਰਮੁ ਨ ਜਾਣਾ ਲੋਭੀ ਮਾਇਆਧਾਰੀ ॥
Read the complete lyrics and explanation of Gayi Bahor Bandi Chhor.
Diwali Di Raat Divey Balian WhatsApp Status
Share the beautiful traditional composition Diwali Di Raat Divey Balian through a short WhatsApp status video.
Download Diwali Di Raat Divey Balian WhatsApp Status.
Diwali Di Raat – Bhai Gurdas Ji's Vaar
In Vaar 19, Pauri 6, Bhai Gurdas Ji describes the beautiful scene of Diwali night, with lamps shining, stars illuminating the sky and the spiritual importance of remembering the Shabad.
ਦੀਵਾਲੀ ਦੀ ਰਾਤਿ ਦੀਵੇ ਬਾਲੀਅਨਿ ॥
ਤਾਰੇ ਜਾਤਿ ਸਨਾਤਿ ਅੰਬਰਿ ਭਾਲੀਅਨਿ ॥
ਫੁਲਾਂ ਦੀ ਬਾਗਾਤਿ ਚੁਣਿ ਚੁਣਿ ਚਾਲੀਅਨਿ ॥
ਤੀਰਥਿ ਜਾਤੀ ਜਾਤਿ ਨੈਣ ਨਿਹਾਲੀਅਨਿ ॥
ਹਰਿਚੰਦਉਰੀ ਝਾਤਿ ਵਸਾਇ ਉਚਾਲੀਅਨਿ ॥
ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਸੁਖ ਫਲ ਦਾਤਿ ਸਬਦਿ ਸਮ੍ਹਾਲੀਅਨਿ ॥੬॥
Diwali Dee Rat Deevay Baleean,
Tarey Jaat Snaat Ambar Bhaleean,
Fullan Dee Bagaat, Chun Chun Chaleean,
Teerath Jatee Jaat Nain Nihalean,
Har Chandauree Jhaat Vasae Uchaleean,
Gurmukh Sukh Fal Dat Shabad Smaleean.
Read the translations of Diwali Di Raat Divey Balian in Punjabi, Hindi and English.
Satgur Bandi Chhor Hai – Bhai Gurdas Ji
Bhai Gurdas Ji describes the Satguru as the liberator who transforms lives and frees people from spiritual bondage in Vaar 26, Pauri 20.
ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਪਾਰਸਿ ਪਰਸਿਐ ਕੰਚਨੁ ਕਰੈ ਮਨੂਰ ਮਲੀਣਾ।
ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਬਾਵਨੁ ਚੰਦਨੋ ਵਾਸੁ ਸੁਵਾਸੁ ਕਰੈ ਲਾਖੀਣਾ।
ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਪੂਰਾ ਪਾਰਿਜਾਤੁ ਸਿੰਮਲੁ ਸਫਲੁ ਕਰੈ ਸੰਗਿ ਲੀਣਾ।
ਮਾਨ ਸਰੋਵਰੁ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੂ ਕਾਗਹੁ ਹੰਸ ਜਲਹੁ ਦੁਧੁ ਪੀਣਾ।
ਗੁਰ ਤੀਰਥੁ ਦਰੀਆਉ ਹੈ ਪਸੂ ਪਰੇਤ ਕਰੈ ਪਰਬੀਣਾ।
ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਬੰਦੀ ਛੋੜੁ ਹੈ ਜੀਵਣ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਕਰੈ ਓਡੀਣਾ।
ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਮਨ ਅਪਤੀਜੁ ਪਤੀਣਾ ॥੨੦॥
Read the translation of Satgur Bandi Chhor Hai, Jeevan Mukat Kare Odina in multiple languages.
ਦੀਵਾਲੀ ਅਤੇ ਬੰਦੀ ਛੋੜ ਦਿਹਾੜੇ ਦੀਆਂ ਸਰਬੱਤ ਸੰਗਤਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਲੱਖ ਲੱਖ ਵਧਾਈ। ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸੱਚੇ ਪਾਤਿਸ਼ਾਹ ਆਪ ਸਭ ਦੇ ਜੀਵਨ ਵਿੱਚੋਂ ਅਗਿਆਨ ਦਾ ਹਨੇਰਾ ਦੂਰ ਕਰਕੇ ਗਿਆਨ ਰੂਪੀ ਚਾਨਣ ਦਾ ਪਸਾਰਾ ਕਰਨ।
ਦੀਵਾਲੀ ਅਤੇ ਬੰਦੀ ਛੋੜ ਦਿਹਾੜੇ ਦੀਆਂ ਸਰਬੱਤ ਸੰਗਤਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਲੱਖ ਲੱਖ ਵਧਾਈ। ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸੱਚੇ ਪਾਤਿਸ਼ਾਹ ਆਪ ਸਭ ਦੇ ਜੀਵਨ ਵਿੱਚੋਂ ਅਗਿਆਨ ਦਾ ਹਨੇਰਾ ਦੂਰ ਕਰਕੇ ਗਿਆਨ ਰੂਪੀ ਚਾਨਣ ਦਾ ਪਸਾਰਾ ਕਰਨ।
May the teachings of Guru Sahib illuminate your path and bring peace, kindness and wisdom into your life. Wishing you and your family a blessed Bandi Chhor Divas and a joyful Diwali!
On Bandi Chhor Divas, let us remember the spirit of freedom, compassion and selfless service shown by Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. May the Guru's teachings inspire us to help others and overcome the darkness of ignorance. Happy Bandi Chhor Divas! 🙏 Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.
