Bandi Chhor Diwas: No fireworks at Golden Temple amid 40th anniversary of 1984 Sikh Genocide; ghee lamps to be lit in evening
SGPC has decided to forgo fireworks during festivities, as directed by Giani Raghubir Singh, Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib
PTC Web Desk: The Golden Temple in Amritsar is hosting celebrations for Diwali and Bandi Chhor Diwas on Friday, with a poignant emphasis on the 40th anniversary of the 1984 Sikh Genocide. In light of this significant occasion, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has decided to forgo fireworks during the festivities, as directed by Giani Raghubir Singh, the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib.
Instead, more than 1,00,000 oil lamps will be illuminated this evening in memory of the lives lost during the Sikh Genocide.
Meanwhile, devotees began arriving at the Golden Temple early in the day, participating in traditional rituals, including a holy dip in the sacred sarovar as part of the morning's Palaki Sahib procession. The gurdwara sahib complex has been adorned with limited lighting, adhering to the Jathedar’s directive that only ghee lamps should be lit at homes and gurdwaras, while electrical decorations are discouraged.
The Golden Temple has been meticulously prepared to welcome devotees from across India and around the world. The community kitchen (langar) is set to serve a variety of traditional langar, including dal, roti, kheer, and jalebi.
Today also marks an important event in Sikh history, commemorating Guru Hargobind Ji’s release of 52 kings from Mughal captivity. While Hindus celebrate Lord Ram's return to Ayodhya after vanquishing Ravana, Sikhs remember Guru Hargobind Ji’s act of liberation, which took place during the reign of Emperor Jahangir.
In a notable act of defiance, Guru Hargobind Ji, imprisoned in Gwalior Fort, refused to leave without freeing the other kings. He wore a special robe with 52 tassels, allowing all the kings to grasp a tassel and exit together. This act of solidarity is the foundation of Bandi Chhor Diwas, celebrating the themes of freedom and justice within Sikh tradition.