PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau on Sunday issued the following statement to mark Bandi Chhor Divas:

“Today, Sikhs across Canada and around the world will celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas.

“This important day commemorates the story of the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, who upon his release from prison, refused to leave his captors unless the 52 innocent kings imprisoned alongside him were also freed. Generations later, his story continues to inspire values of selflessness and generosity in Sikhs around the world.

“Families and friends will observe Bandi Chhor Divas today by getting together to share festive meals and sweets, watch fireworks, illuminate their homes and Gurdwaras, and read the Sikh holy book – the Guru Granth Sahib.

“For those celebrating, this holiday is a reminder that when we come together as a society, we can achieve a world that stands for peace, freedom, and community. Today is also an opportunity to recognize the contributions of Sikh Canadians, past and present, to building a better and more diverse country.

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I wish a happy Bandi Chhor Divas to all those celebrating.”

PREMIER David Eby issued the following statement:

“Today, members of the Sikh community in B.C. and around the world will gather to celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas.

“This holiday marks the day Guru Hargobind Sahib and 52 other innocent leaders were released from jail. The guru worked long and hard to secure the peaceful release of his fellow prisoners, refusing to walk away alone.

“Bandi Chhor Divas is a celebration of truth, justice and the victory of right over wrong. People will gather with friends and family to pray, feast and light candles at their homes and gurdwaras.

“Today is also an opportunity to recognize the many contributions members of the Sikh community make to our province, from the religious and business leaders to the artists and athletes.

“I wish everyone who is celebrating a happy Bandi Chhor Divas.”

PIERRE Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and the Official Opposition, released the following statement:

“Today, on Bandi Chhor Divas, Sikhs around the world will commemorate one of the most inspiring moments in their heritage. Together, they will retell the centuries-old story of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, who championed the freedom of his fellow countrymen in the face of his wrongful imprisonment.

“Using his own release to challenge tyranny and injustice, Guru Sahib Ji ultimately triumphed, helping usher fifty-two others to freedom. His incredible display of heroism inspires all those suffering oppression, comforting them with the promise that good will always prevail over evil.

“Over 400 years later, Sikhs continue to honour the timeless message of hope at the heart of Bandi Chhor Divas. Every day, in communities across Canada, they carry this inspiring legacy of selflessness and compassion forward, drawing on the strength of their heritage to make Canada a freer and more welcoming place for everyone.

“As candles are lit in gurdwaras and homes around the country today, this joyful season also serves as a reminder of the universal values we all hold dear as Canadians driving us to ensure that Canada remains a place of justice and freedom for all.

“On behalf of Canada’s Conservatives, Happy Bandi Chhor Divas.”