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Bandi Festival


Introduction

A popular festival of the Sikh community, Bandi festival is usually celebrated by the people of Punjab. The festival falls in the months of October-November and coincides with the Hindu festival Diwali. The festival is also known as Bandi Chorrh Divas.

Legends

It is believed that the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib was imprisoned by Emperor Jahangir who was afraid of the Guru's growing power. The sixth Guru Nanak had agreed to his own release on the condition that the other fifty-two detainees would also be released. He was therefore known as the “Bandi Chorrh". He arrived at Amritsar on the day of Diwali and the Golden Temple was illuminated with hundreds of lamps. Thereafter this day came to be known as the "Bandi Chhor Divas" (the day of freedom).

Celebration

On this day people decorate their houses with lights and flowers and enjoy with crackers and fireworks in the evening. They also dance to local music and perform Bhangra. People also visit gurudwaras and pray for their family and friends. This is a very auspicious occasion for all Sikhs living anywhere in the world.

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