Gurudwara Data Bandi Chhorh Sahib is a significant Sikh shrine in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India. It commemorates the imprisonment of Guru Hargobind Sahib, the sixth Sikh Guru, by Mughal Emperor Jahangir and his subsequent release along with 52 other Hindu kings. The Gurudwara stands as a symbol of religious harmony and the Guru's compassion for those unjustly imprisoned. The architecture is a blend of Sikh and Mughal styles, featuring a large dome, intricate carvings, and a serene atmosphere. Visitors can experience the langar (community kitchen), a hallmark of Sikh hospitality, and participate in prayers and hymns. The Gurudwara offers a peaceful and spiritually enriching experience for people of all faiths.
In the early 17th century, Guru Hargobind Sahib was imprisoned in Gwalior Fort by Emperor Jahangir due to political and religious tensions. When Jahangir ordered his release, Guru Hargobind refused to leave unless 52 other Hindu kings, who were also imprisoned, were freed as well. Jahangir agreed, stipulating that only those who could hold onto the Guru's cloak could be released. Guru Hargobind ingeniously had a cloak made with 52 tassels, allowing all the kings to walk out of the prison with him. This event is celebrated as 'Bandi Chhorh Divas' (Day of Liberation). The Gurudwara Data Bandi Chhorh Sahib was built to commemorate this historic event and stands as a testament to Guru Hargobind's selflessness and his commitment to justice and human rights.