Sikhism - Culture - Gurmat Veechar

When the truth was known to Jahangir he ordered the release ofGuru
Hargobind Sahib. Sut while Guru Sahib was at the fort another
development took place. He came in contact with some native rulers,
who were also held in captivity over there. They also pleaded to him
that he should also get all ofthem out. Guru Ji sent the message that he
won't come out until and unless all the 52 rulers whom he took as
innocents were also released along with him. Emperor Jahangir
conceded but put the condition that as many rulers could come out as
were able to hold the shirt or 'Choga' ofthe Guru. Guru Ji got prepared
a special 'Choga' with 52 robes. One ruler held each robe and thus all
were released. Guru Sahib came to be known as Liberator or 'SANDI
CHHORH'.
After being released he went straight away to Amritsar. When he
reached Amritsar it was Deewali day. The entire Harimandir was
specially illuminated to welcome the return ofthe Sandi Chhorh Guru.
- The deliverer Guru, the liberator Guru. Since then Diwali is being
celebrated by the entire Panth as Sandi Chhorh Divas.
Note: Some historians, of late, have started questioning the
fact that Guru Hargobind Sahib returned to Amritsar on Dewali
day. Without going into any controversy, as we are here, not
attempting to enter into and settle the historical issues, it is
sufficient to say that on this day, entire Harmandir Sahib at
Amrtisar is beautifully illuminated and there is a joy full mood all
around of the huge 'sangat', that specially gather over there to
celebrate the day as 'Bandi Chhorh Divas'. Taking up a cue and
the line ofdirection from there, the entire Sikh Panth celebrates it
as a Bandi Chhorh Divas, across the globe.
8/ The Sikhism - Culture, History & Religion