Let me tell you a story of Akbar's son Jahangir and Bandi Chhor Divas

During Diwali, Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas, to celebrate Guru Hargobind Ji's release from being imprisoned in Gwalior Fort. I thought I would tell you guys the story, as it does involve Akbar's own son, our still-in-the-distance, Salim aka Jahangir.

The rise of Sikhism was a threat to the Mughal Empire under Emperor Jahangir's reign. Guru Hargobind's father, Guru Arjun Dev, had been martyred years before under Jahangir's rule, and the Empire was wary of Guru Hargobind Ji. They thought Guru Ji would avenge his father's death.

On the contrary, Guru Hargobind Ji accepted the Emperor's invitation to his court, and ended up saving his life when the two were confronted by a lion. Jahangir was quite impressed with Guru Ji's wisdom and would invite him to go hunting. Due to the doings of jealous men surrounding the Emperor, Guru Hargobind Ji was sent to Gwalior Fort to pray for the Emperor's well being when he fell ill. He remained there for several months even after Jahangir recovered. Guru Ji was there amongst 52 Rajput princes, and they all prayed together and improved the conditions of the prison, which had been quite poor.

Eventually, Jahangir was requested to let Guru Ji go. He accepted the request, but Guru Ji said he would not leave unless the rest of the prisoners were released as well. The Emperor then set forth the condition that anyone who could hold the cloak "tails" of Guru Ji, could be freed with him. Guru Ji then had a long cloak made with 52 "tails." All of the prisoners then left Gwalior Fort, holding on to the cloak.

Guru Ji made his way back to Amritsar, where Diwali celebrations were underway. The city was lit up with lamps, and continues to be lit every year during Bandi Chhor Divas.

This was just a summary for easy reading. For details of the story, you can visit this link:http://www.sikhnet.com/news/bandi-chhor-divas

I hope I didn't hurt any sentiments with this story. I thought it was a nice way to relate to the show and Diwali celebrations! Happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas to everyone!😊🤗