Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese marked Bandi Chhor Divas on November 1 by visiting a gurdwara in Glenwood and extending wishes to the Sikh community. Bandi Chhor Divas, or Prisoner Liberation Day, commemorates the release of 52 Hindu princes from Gwalior Fort with the assistance of Guru Hargobind Sahib, who returned to Amritsar after their imprisonment by Mughal emperor Jahangir in 1619.
Albanese shared photos from his visit on X, where he was seen smiling and wearing a turban as he celebrated at the Gurdwara Sahib Glenwood. He also inaugurated the newly expanded kitchen, which serves thousands of meals each week. In his post, he expressed, “Happy Bandi Chhor Divas! Wonderful to celebrate at Gurdwara Sahib Glenwood today.”
Responses to his post were positive, with users commenting on his appearance and thanking him for the warm wishes.
According to Sikh Youth Australia, Sikhism is the fastest-growing religion in the country and the fifth largest religious group in Australia, with the largest population located in Victoria, followed by New South Wales and Queensland.
The historical significance of Bandi Chhor Divas dates back to when Mughal emperor Jahangir imprisoned Guru Hargobind Sahib to suppress Sikhism’s growth. After falling ill, Jahangir was advised by Sufi Saint Sain Mian Mir to release the Guru. Guru Hargobind Sahib insisted on not leaving alone; thus, he had a special robe made, allowing 52 imprisoned princes to escape by holding onto its end, symbolizing their liberation.