Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti Special: 7 Famous Gurudwaras In India You Must Visit
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti? 2024: Guru Gobind Singh - the tenth Sikh guru - was born on the Saptami Tithi during Shukla paksha in the month of Poh (paush) -this is according to the Nanakshahi calendar. The day may vary according to the Gregorian calendar every year, but the celebrations take place as per the Nanakshahi Sikh schedule.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji was born in Patna. He was the son of the ninth Sikh guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, and was chosen as the tenth Guru when he was only nine years old. Guru Gobind Singh, established the Khalsa, at the Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib near Anandpur, in the Indian state of Punjab. This is the place where he spent most of his life in the presence of his father.
Foundation of Khalsa
In the year 1699, Guru Gobind Singh requested Sikhs to congregate in Anandpur on Vaisakhi. According to the Sikh tradition, he asked for a volunteer from those who were there - someone willing to sacrifice his head. One came forward, whom he took inside a tent and returned to the crowd without the volunteer, but some blood on his sword. He repeated this process for four more volunteers. After the fifth person went with him into the tent, the Guru returned with all five volunteers, all safe and very much alive. He called them the?Panj Pyare?and the first Khalsa in the Sikh tradition.
Best Gurudwaras In India You Must Visit
The place of worship for Sikhs is the Gurudwara, which holds not only historical and spiritual significance but is also unique for its inclusive nature, welcoming people from all communities and treating them with equal respect. On the occasion of Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti 2024, here are some of the most renowned Gurudwaras in India.
1. Gurudwara Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple)
The Harmandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple, is the central religious place of Sikhism and one of the holiest sites in the world. Located in the city of Amritsar, Punjab, India, it stands as a beacon of peace, unity, and spirituality.
History and Significance
- Founded in 1577 by Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru.
- Constructed on a sacred island amidst the Amrita Saras ("Pool of Nectar"), symbolising the purification of the soul.
- Became a center of Sikh scholarship and learning, and later, a focal point of resistance against Mughal rule.
Visiting the Harmandir Sahib
- Open 24/7, although specific dress codes apply (covering head and removing shoes).
- Visitors can bathe in the Amrita Saras for spiritual purification.
- Langar is served throughout the day, offering a unique experience of Sikh hospitality.
- Special religious ceremonies and festivals are celebrated throughout the year, attracting large crowds.
2. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib stands as a beacon of faith, service, and inclusivity. It invites you to experience the beauty of Sikhism, embrace the power of compassion, and leave with a heart full of peace and hope.
Historical Significance:
- Originally a 17th-century bungalow gifted by Raja Jai Singh to Guru Har Krishan, the eighth Sikh Guru.
- Transformed into a Gurdwara after Guru Har Krishan's healing efforts during a smallpox epidemic won the city's respect.
- Now one of the most prominent Gurdwaras in Delhi, attracting Sikhs and visitors from all over the world.
3. Gurudwara Tarn Taran Sahib
A must-visit destination is Tarn Taran Sahib, where you can experience the country's largest sarovar within a Gurudwara. Not only is this Gurudwara visually stunning, but it also attracts a substantial number of devotees, particularly on the day of Amavasya every month.
4. Takht Shri Damdama Sahib
Nestled in the heart of Punjab, India, the serene town of Talwandi Sabo holds a treasure trove of Sikh history and significance: Takht Sri Damdama Sahib. Not just a Gurdwara, it stands as one of the five Takhts, seats of authority within Sikhism, and boasts a rich legacy intertwined with the creation of the sacred Guru Granth Sahib.
In 1705, Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, arrived in Damdama Sahib seeking refuge from Mughal hostilities. This period of relative peace proved pivotal as it became the stage for a monumental undertaking - the final compilation and standardisation of the Guru Granth Sahib.
Additional Information:
- Takht Sri Damdama Sahib is located in Talwandi Sabo, Bathinda district, Punjab, India.
- It is open to visitors from 5:00 am to 9:00 pm.
5. Guru Baba Atal Sahib
Nestled amidst the vibrant energy of Amritsar, India, stands a nine-story octagonal marvel ¨C Gurdwara Baba Atal Sahib. More than just a stunning architectural feat, this Gurdwara holds a poignant story of a young life sacrificed for faith, reminding us of the boundless possibilities of spirit even in the face of brevity.
Born in 1619, Baba Atal Rai was the son of Guru Hargobind, the sixth Sikh Guru. Though his life only spanned a meager nine years, it was a life lived with extraordinary wisdom and spiritual strength.
Additional Information:
- Gurdwara Baba Atal Sahib is located south of the Golden Temple, within the Golden Temple complex.
- It is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset.
- Modest dress code and removal of shoes are required before entering the Gurdwara.
6. Gurudwara Sri Paonta Sahib
Gurudwara Sri Paonta Sahib is a revered Sikh shrine nestled on the banks of the Yamuna River in Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Its rich history, serene setting, and cultural significance make it a captivating destination for spiritual seekers and travellers alike.
Historical Significance:
- Founded in the 17th century by Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh Guru, who resided here for over four years.
- Served as a sanctuary for Guru Gobind Singh during his time of conflict with the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.
- During this period, Guru Gobind Singh composed parts of the Dasam Granth, the holy scripture of Sikhism.
- Played a crucial role in shaping the Khalsa, the baptised Sikh community, as Guru Gobind Singh established their tenets and ideals here.
7. Gurudwara Rewalsar
Situated amidst the picturesque hills of Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India, lies Gurudwara Rewalsar. More than just a Gurdwara, it's a tapestry woven with history, legend, and spiritual significance, drawing both Sikh devotees and curious travellers into its vibrant embrace.
Additional Information:
- Located around 15 kilometers from Mandi town, Himachal Pradesh, India.
- Accessible by road, making it a convenient visit for tourists.
- The Gurdwara complex is open all day, though specific dress codes apply (covering head and removing shoes).
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