An independent guide to the Nanakshahi calendar, Gurpurab and Sikh heritage
Topic
Bandi Chhor Divas, Vaisakhi, Hola Mohalla and other observances.
5 articles
Sikh festivals combine remembrance, worship and community. Some are Gurpurabs tied to the lives of the Gurus; others, such as Vaisakhi, Hola Mohalla and Bandi Chhor Divas, are gatherings that grew out of events in Sikh history and the seasonal rhythm of Punjab.
Our festival guides explain the history behind each observance, where accounts differ, how it is marked in gurdwaras today, and how it relates to festivals of other traditions that fall at the same time of year.
A season-by-season guide to the Sikh year: the major Gurpurabs, martyrdom days and festivals, what each one marks, which calendar sets its date, and roughly when to expect it.
By NanakShahi Editorial Team7 min read
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A clear English explanation of Bandi Chhor Divas: what the words mean, how to pronounce and spell them, why 'chhor' does not mean 'thief', and a short version of the story you can share with friends, colleagues or children.
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