Shri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji   | 24 Mar 2026

Source: PIB

The Union Home Minister paid tribute to the 6th Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, on his Jyoti-Jyot Diwas, observed on 22nd March 2026, marking the day he merged with the divine light, and highlighted his enduring legacy in establishing the Saint-Soldier tradition and protecting humanity.

• Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji: Born in 1595 in Amritsar district (Punjab) and assumed the Guruship in 1606 after the martyrdom of his father, Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
• Concept of Miri-Piri: He introduced the revolutionary doctrine of Miri (Temporal/Political Power) and Piri (Spiritual Authority), which he physically symbolized by wearing two distinct swords.
• The 'Saint-Soldier' Tradition: Recognizing the necessity to defend justice and faith against tyranny, he transformed the Sikh community into a martial and spiritual force, laying the foundation for the Sant-Sipahi (Saint-Soldier) ideal.
• Establishment of the Akal Takht: To administer secular and political affairs, he constructed the Akal Takht in 1609. 
  • Built directly opposite the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in Amritsar, it remains the highest seat of temporal authority in Sikhism.
• Bandi Chhor Divas: Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji was briefly imprisoned in the Gwalior Fort by Jahangir. When offered release, he famously refused to leave unless 52 captive princes were freed alongside him. 
  • This historic liberation is celebrated annually as Bandi Chhor Divas (Day of Liberation).
• Military Confrontations: He was the first Sikh Guru to maintain a standing army and engage in warfare to protect his people, successfully leading forces in four major battles against the armies of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
• Urban Foundations: He founded the city of Kiratpur Sahib in the foothills of the Shivalik range, where he spent his final years and eventually attained Jyoti-Jyot in 1644.