Diwali in Sikh Tradition

Now, although Diwali is often seen as a Hindu festival, Sikhs celebrate it too — but for very different reasons. In Sikh history, Diwali marks the release of the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind, from prison in 1619. He had been imprisoned by the Mughal emperor Jahangir, along with 52 Hindu princes. When the emperor agreed to release the Guru, he refused to leave unless the other prisoners were freed too. Jahangir relented, and all 53 men walked free — on the day of Diwali.

Growing up, this story was central to our celebration. Diwali was about justice, courage, and liberation. We lit lamps, shared sweets, and remembered the Guru’s bold stand for freedom. It was a joyful time — but now, as a follower of Jesus, I see those themes fulfilled in a much more profound way.

Freedom in Christ

Jesus said, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin… but if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:34–36). That verse has become precious to me. The freedom Guru Hargobind fought for was physical — but Jesus offers spiritual freedom. He releases us from the slavery of sin, the dominion of darkness, and brings us into the kingdom of light (Colossians 1:13–14).

Diwali reminds me of this truth. The lamps we lit as children symbolised the end of imprisonment — but now I celebrate the light of Christ, who has set me free and given me new life.

What Do Sikhs Think About Diwali Today?

In my ministry with London City Mission, I often speak with Sikhs on the streets of London — especially in areas like Hounslow and Hayes. I’ve noticed a difference between generations. First-generation Sikh immigrants often know the story of Guru Hargobind well. They understand the theology behind the celebration. But younger, second-generation Sikhs may not be as familiar.

One young man I spoke to said, “My mum told me why we celebrate Diwali, but I can’t remember.” After some gentle prompting, he recalled the story of the Guru and the 52 princes. It’s clear that families are passing on the tradition — but how much is retained varies.

This opens a door for conversation. When someone shares what Diwali means to them, I can share what it now means to me — and how Jesus has brought true freedom.

How Can Christians Engage During Diwali?

Diwali is a season rich with spiritual themes — especially freedom and light. These themes offer a natural bridge to the gospel.

I encourage Christians to ask questions, simple questions like, “Do you celebrate Diwali?” and “What does it mean to you?”

These questions aren’t confrontational — they’re relational. They open space for genuine dialogue and allow you to share your own story of how Jesus has brought light and freedom into your life.

When I speak with Sikhs during Diwali, I often say: “As a follower of Jesus, when I think about freedom and justice, I think of how Jesus has released us from the slavery of sin. He didn’t just set us free — He gave us a new heart and a new spirit.”

As it says in Ezekiel 36:26: “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.”

That is the kind of freedom Diwali points me to now — not just the release of prisoners, but the transformation of the heart. Jesus doesn’t just open the prison doors — He changes us from the inside out. And that is the message I long to share with my Sikh friends and neighbours this Diwali.