Why do sikhs celebrate diwali

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Sikhs celebrate Diwali primarily to commemorate Guru Hargobind's release from imprisonment in 1619, which occurred on the same day as the Hindu festival of Diwali. This event, known as Bandi Chhor Divas (Prisoner Release Day), marks when the sixth Sikh Guru was freed from Gwalior Fort along with 52 Hindu princes. Sikhs celebrate with prayers at gurdwaras, lighting lamps, and fireworks, but focus on the historical Sikh significance rather than the Hindu mythological stories. The celebration typically falls on the same date as Hindu Diwali, which is determined by the lunar calendar and usually occurs in October or November.

Key Facts

Guru Hargobind was released from Gwalior Fort on Diwali day in 1619
52 Hindu princes were freed along with Guru Hargobind
The Sikh celebration is called Bandi Chhor Divas (Prisoner Release Day)
The event occurred during the reign of Mughal Emperor Jahangir
Sikh Diwali celebrations focus on gurdwara prayers rather than Hindu mythology

Overview

Sikhs celebrate Diwali, known as Bandi Chhor Divas (Prisoner Release Day), to commemorate a significant historical event from 1619 when the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind, was released from imprisonment at Gwalior Fort. This occurred during the reign of Mughal Emperor Jahangir, who had imprisoned Guru Hargobind due to political tensions and the Guru's growing influence. The release happened to coincide with the Hindu festival of Diwali, creating a shared celebration date but with different meanings. While Hindus celebrate Diwali as the festival of lights marking Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile, Sikhs focus specifically on Guru Hargobind's liberation and his refusal to leave prison unless 52 Hindu princes imprisoned with him were also freed. This event demonstrated Sikh values of justice, equality, and standing against oppression, which became central to Sikh identity and practice.

How It Works

Sikh Diwali celebrations follow specific religious practices distinct from Hindu observances. The day begins with prayers and kirtan (devotional singing) at gurdwaras (Sikh temples), where the Guru Granth Sahib (Sikh holy scripture) is read and hymns are sung commemorating Guru Hargobind's release. Sikhs light lamps and candles, but these symbolize the triumph of light over darkness in a spiritual sense rather than representing Hindu deities. Fireworks displays are common, echoing the celebration atmosphere of Hindu Diwali but serving as expressions of joy for Guru Hargobind's freedom. Many Sikhs visit the Golden Temple in Amritsar, which is specially illuminated for the occasion, with historical records showing this tradition dates back to the 17th century. The celebration emphasizes three key Sikh principles: freedom from oppression (exemplified by the prisoners' release), the importance of justice (Guru Hargobind's demand that all prisoners be freed), and the victory of righteousness over tyranny.

Why It Matters

Sikh Diwali celebrations matter because they reinforce core Sikh values of justice, equality, and religious freedom while maintaining a distinct Sikh identity within the broader Indian cultural context. The historical event commemorated demonstrates Sikhism's commitment to protecting all people regardless of religion, as shown by Guru Hargobind's insistence on freeing both Sikh and Hindu prisoners. This celebration helps preserve Sikh historical memory and religious traditions, particularly important for the global Sikh diaspora maintaining cultural connections. The shared timing with Hindu Diwali facilitates interfaith understanding and community celebrations in multicultural societies while allowing Sikhs to emphasize their unique historical narrative. Bandi Chhor Divas serves as an important reminder of Sikh resistance against religious persecution, relevant to contemporary discussions of religious freedom worldwide.