Guru Hargobind Ji Frees the 52 Kings
Guru Hargobind Ji was once unjustly imprisoned in Gwalior Fort by the Mughal emperor Jahangir. While in prison, Guru Ji met 52 Hindu kings who had also been jailed without fair reason.
The kings were heartbroken. Guru Ji promised them that he would not leave the prison unless they too were freed. This showed his deep sense of justice and compassion.
Eventually, the emperor agreed to release Guru Ji. Guru Ji reminded him of the 52 kings. Jahangir said only those who could hold onto Guru Ji’s robe could be released.
Guru Ji had a special robe made with 52 tassels. Each king held onto one, and in this way, all 52 rulers walked out of the prison with Guru Ji. He became known as the “Bandi Chhor” – the liberator of prisoners.
The Sikhs celebrated his return to Amritsar by lighting lamps – this day is now celebrated as **Bandi Chhor Diwas**, which often falls on the same day as Diwali.
“Guru Hargobind Ji taught us that true strength lies in freeing others, not just oneself.”
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