Page 89 - BAALVARDI TEACHER RESOURCE

Guru Hargobind Ji
& Bandi Chhor Divas Celebration

Bandi Chhor Divas celebrates the anniversary of the day that Guru Hargobind
Sahib Ji was released from prison and returned to Amritsar in 1619.

A. Share the following points with the students:
• Guru Hargobind Singh Ji was our 6th Guru Ji.
• The hand actions we do to represent Guru Hargobind Ji’s contribution,
when singing The Guru Song, involves crossing arms to represent the 2
kirpans of Miri and Piri.
• Miri signifies Guru Ji’s desire that all his Sikhs be brave and strong. Not just

for themselves, but for anyone that needed help.
• Piri signifies Guru Ji’s desire that all his Sikhs remember that Vaheguru Ji
loves each and everyone equally, there is Vaheguru in all of us and we must
treat everyone as our equals, with respect and kindness.

B. Ask the students if they have ever heard of Diwali, mention that many people
around the world celebrate Diwali at the same time of year as Bandi Chhor

Divas.

C. Begin with circle time and introduce the significance of this day. Follow the
talking points below:
- Share the story of how the very first Bandi Chhor Day was celebrated,
utilizing coloring pages to help students visualize the narrative (available on
various websites.)
- Initiate a discussion with the students on the concept of Vand Chakna. It is
one of our Golden Rules, we must always remember to help those in need.

Guru Ji exemplified the concept of Vand Chakna. Although the Emperor had
released him, Guru Ji refused to leave without the Rajas that were unjustly
being held as prisoners.
- Ask the children how they may emulate the actions of Guru Hargobind Ji.
What is a good way for them to help someone in need?

D. In honor of Bandi Chhor, have each child decorate a candle votive using

glitter, stickers and glue. The students may take the votive home and light the
candle on Bandi Chhor Divas day.

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