Bandhi
Chod Diwas celebration at Walnut, California
Walnut, CA, Oct. 21, 2008
Swaran Dabgotra
Sixth Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji was imprisoned in the Gwaliar fort
by the emperor Jahangir for many years. When Guru Sahib was granted
freedom by the emperor, he (Guru Sahib) successfully negotiated
the release of 52 kings with himself from the Gwalior Jail.
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Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji went from Gwalior straight to Darbar Sahib
Amritsar and reached there on Diwali day. Sikh Sangath of Amritsar
welcomed, greeted and lighted earthen lamps in his honour. There
was a huge celebration by distributing sweets (Mithies) along with
fireworks. Sri Darbar Sahib structure was illuminated all over.
Since then Sikhs all over the world every year celebrate this occasion
by going to Gurdwaras and listening to Gurbani. They greet each
other and distribute sweets and serve Guru ka Langer.
Today Tuesday October 21, 2008, the Sadh Sangath of Gurdwara Sahib,
Walnut, CA, USA celebrated the Bandhi Chod Diwas whole heartedly.
The program started at 6 PM. Gurbani kirtan was recited by various
ragi jathas and children of the Gurdwara School. They praised the
Lord and brief history was narrated on Guru Sahib’s life.
The main hall upstairs was packed with Sangath. Devotees had to
wait in line for almost 25-30 minutes to pay respect to Guru Granth
Sahib. Gurdwara was decorated and illuminate with thousands of lights
in and all around the building structure. It was a beautiful sight.
Downstairs in the parking lot there were fifteen food stalls.
There were all kinds of Indian sweets and snacks. This place was
crowded with devotees. One could eat or taste whatever one wanted.
Guru ka Langar was served and it went on until 10 PM. Everyone was
enjoying. People came from various cities as far as 200 miles. We
believe and estimate that there were over 3000 people.
At about 9:30 pm fireworks were displayed. This was done by professionals
and with the permission of the city. The fireworks illuminated the
sky for almost 15 minutes.
The program was very well organized and performed by the Management
of the Gurdwara Sahib.
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