Word Of The Day: baňdee

In Sikh tradition, Diwali is celebrated as Bandi Chhor (Liberation or Prisoner Release Day) to rejoice the release of the 6th Guru – Guru Hargobind Sahib along with 52 princes from the captivity of the Emperor Jahangir in Gwalior prison. The relentlessness of the Guru Sahib to free all the captives along with him signifies his motive – justice and freedom for everyone.

That is why in Sikh psyche the sixth Guru is also remembered as Bandi Chhor Divas (the Liberator of captives). In memory of the Guru’s significant message of wit and victory stands Gurdwara Data Bandi Chhor in Gwalior. This day is celebrated each year at this historic place with much gaiety and joy, a few days before Diwali. We can continue to strengthen this resolve by living our lives in accordance with the Guru’s principles and footprints.

What do the words ‘captivity’ and ‘liberation’ mean in our lives? How does the Gurbani use these terms? Are we all free from bondage? In conjunction with Bandi Chhor Divas this week, we will feature five words and verses relating to bandi (captivity, bondage) and Bandi Chhor (the liberator from captivity/bondage) from the Guru Granth Sahib.

ਬੰਦੀ (baňdee)
Meaning: noun: captivity, prison; servitude, bondage.

Quote:
ਜਗੁ ਬੰਦੀ ਮੁਕਤੇ ਹਉ ਮਾਰੀ॥
jag baňdee muk-te hau maaree.
The world is held in bondage; only they who conquer their egoism are emancipated.
– Guru Nanak Sahib, Guru Granth Sahib, Page 413

Message: We are in bondage – the bondage of our own excessive attachment to the world and its snares. Everyone is held in this bondage. He alone who conquers his vices and his egoism is liberated. We are wise but rarely do we practice our wisdom. We have knowledge but rarely do we reflect upon it. Without self-realization we wander uselessly. We remain unhappy and mentally sick. Excessive indulgence exhausts us and ruins our lives.

Only through Guru-orientation can we understand this and enshrine divine wisdom in our mind. These bonds are only released when we nurture love and walk in accordance with the Guru’s words of wisdom. Then, all delusions are dispelled. We are liberated while alive. We are united with truth and virtue. We realise the ONE permeating in all. The Divine is immaculate and the treasure trove of virtues. Peace is enjoyed only by seeking this Treasure.

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Etymology: From Persian baňdee.