21 Harh
“Gurus Hargobind Sahib Ji” was the the sixth Sikh Guru, who was instrumental in forming Sikh history and ethics. In addition to being a spiritual guide, he was a warrior who opposed injustice and persecution. Under his guidance, Sikh doctrine underwent a dramatic change, emphasizing the defense of moral issues as well as spiritual enlightenment.
“21 Harh” specifically alludes to the date in the Sikh calendar when a notable event occurred during Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji’s lifetime. This event, known as “Bandi Chhor Divas,” or the day of liberation, is celebrated annually by Sikhs around the world.
On this day, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji secured the release of 52 Hindu kings who had been unjustly imprisoned in Gwalior Fort by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. This act symbolized Guru Ji’s commitment to justice, compassion, and the defense of religious freedom.
Furthermore, the release of the kings marked Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji’s assertion of temporal authority, along with his spiritual role. It demonstrated the Sikh principle of Miri-Piri, signifying the harmonious integration of spiritual and worldly responsibilities.
A group of Sikh worshippers gathers at the gates of Gwalior Fort, praying for the release of Guru Hargobind, the sixth guru, who is held captive inside. The guru was imprisoned by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, who had previously been on friendly terms with him.
During his imprisonment, Guru Hargobind tirelessly worked to improve conditions for his fellow captives. Though offered his freedom, he refused to leave unless 52 innocent princes held in the fort could accompany him. The emperor agreed to release as many princes as could hold onto the guru’s robe, intending to limit the number. However, Guru Hargobind devised a plan to ensure all the princes could leave together.
Bandi Chhor Divas, meaning ‘Prisoner Release Day’, commemorates this event. Upon his release, Guru Hargobind traveled to Amritsar, where Diwali was being celebrated. This is why Bandi Chhor Divas often coincides with Diwali. The day is marked with processions, fireworks, and the illumination of homes and gurdwaras, the Sikh places of worship.
This custom is still followed in Amritsar Harmandir Sahib & all over world wide gurudwaras. Harmandir Sahib is illuminated with hundreds of candles, floating lamps, lights strung across the domes, and fireworks shooting into the sky on this day, all after nearly 400 years of tradition.
The same traditions of lighting candles and watching fireworks to commemorate Bandi Chhor Diwas are followed in every Sikh Gurdwara and home worldwide.
In essence, the title “Parkash Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji — 21 Harh” encapsulates the profound significance of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji’s spiritual and temporal leadership, particularly in the context of the Bandi Chhor Divas, a day celebrated for its message of liberation, justice, and the triumph of righteousness.
