Diwali is the anniversary of Guru Hargobind jee being released from the prison at Gwalior Fort. Guru Ji was imprisoned because as the son of the Guru (Guru Arjan Dev Ji) that the Moguls had tortured to death and He was a major threat to them. When the Moguls agreed to release Him (as they had no charges to hold him) Guru ji refused to leave the prison!
Reference:: Sikh Philosophy Network http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/history-of-sikhism/23355-bandhi-chor-diwas.htmlReference:: Sikh Philosophy Network http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/showthread.php?t=23355
He was being given freedom from jail but didn't go - the Moghuls were shocked and asked why? Satguru jee said he was making a protest. Imprisoned with Satguru jee were 52 Maharajas. Satguru jee said as they were also innocent they should also be released and as long as they were held captive Satguru jee would also stay in prison.
The Moghuls being the cunning rulers they were, decided on a compromise. They said all the Maharajas that can hold on to your Chowla (gown) can walk out free along side you. The Sikhs being the cunning people they were, made a special Chowla with 50 long strips and all the prisoners walked free. Guru HarGobind jee is known as Bandhi-chor because the imprisoned ones (Bandhi) were released (Chor) by Him.
The moral of the story : Guru Ji was prepared to sacrifice His own freedom for the sake of other innocent people. Guru Ji is still with us in spirit and hears any Ardas offered with all of one's heart. Satguru Granth Sahib jee perfectly sums up this historic event:
(page 627)
'When the Supreme Lord gave His support , Pain and disease were smashed.
Now enjoy the divine bliss (anand) men and women For Waheguru jee is the Merciful one . . . '
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Bandhi Chor Diwas 
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