What is the Sikh festival of lights that coincides with Diwali?

Bandi Chhor Divas is the Sikh festival of lights that coincides with Diwali in much of India, especially Punjab.

The celebration commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind, the sixth Sikh Guru, from imprisonment at Gwalior Fort. Sikh tradition holds that he secured the release of 52 other detained rulers as well. For this reason, the festival’s name means “Day of Liberation” or “Day of Release of Prisoners.”

Bandi Chhor Divas is observed with prayers, illuminated gurdwaras and homes, fireworks, processions called nagar kirtans, devotional singing, and langar, the communal meal served at Sikh institutions. The Golden Temple complex in Amritsar is especially associated with spectacular lighting.

Although its date follows the traditional Bikrami calendar and often falls on the same date as Hindu Diwali, the Sikh observance has its own historical meaning. It should not be replaced by Gurpurab, Vaisakhi, or Hola Mohalla, which commemorate different events and traditions.