Iconic and historic Gurudwaras to check out in India

Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrates the birth of their great leader and Sikhism, one of the oldest religions found in India. On an auspicious occasion like this, check out these oldest and most historic Gurudwaras in India!

Every religion has an intriguing story to tell. Guru Nanak Ji was the first of 10 Sikh Gurus and the founder of Sikhism. Every year on his birth anniversary, the Sikh community and people across the globe celebrate with various processions, donations, charity work, and much more! Considering one of the most significant festivals of the Sikh community, various Gurudwaras across the country celebrate ardently. Check out some of these oldest and most historic Gurudwaras in India and witness the celebration come alive!

1. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, New Delhi

Built between the 17th and 18th centuries, the iconic Gurudwara Bangla Sahib was a bungalow owned by Maharaja Jai Singh. What makes this shrine special is the interesting history it beholds. In 1664 when Delhi was sunk with diseases like chicken pox and cholera, the 8th Sikh Guru Har Krishan made this shrine his place of residence and served people with fresh water. After Guru Har Krishan contracted the disease and died in the shrine, the place was converted into a Gurudwara to commemorate his noble deeds. A famous belief among people is that the water from the shrine's tank has healing properties.

2. Gurudwara Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), Punjab

If you have heard "Tujh Mein Rab Dikhta Hai" and have felt the vibes, it's probably because of the mesmerizing Golden Temple at the backdrop. Gurudwara Sri Hamrnadir Sahib, which is famously called the Golden Temple, is one of the most iconic temples in India. Located in Amritsar, the foundation of the site was laid in 1588 by the 5th Sikh Guru Arjan Singh. To protect this shrine from wearing down, the upper floors were covered with sheets of Gold by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The shrine also has a museum dedicated to the rich history of Sikhs, events, and more.

There is also a section showcasing commemorative inscriptions of all the martyred Sikh soldiers during the 1st and 2nd World Wars. The most wholesome part, you ask? The Langar at this Gurudwara serves thousands of people on a daily basis, with the Kitchen running 24*7.

3. Gurudwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib, Uttarakhand

Dedicated to the 10th Sikh Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Sri Hemkunt Sahib is located at an altitude of 4000 meters above sea level. Among the historic Gurudwaras in India, the architecture of this one is worth the sight, with lush greenery around it. The shrine is surrounded by a scenic glacial lake and seven mountain peaks. The seven peaks around the shrine adorn a Nishan Sahib on their cliff and are a place of spirituality and harmony.

4. Takht Sri Patna Sahib, Bihar

The Sikh community holds great importance for their 5 temporal authorities, which are called Takhts. Built in 1780 by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the shrine is dedicated to the 10th Sikh Guru Gobind Singh. The shrine is the last resting place of the last living Guru of Sikhism and holds great significance for Sikhs around the world. The Gurudwara oozes tranquil and solaces vibes, making it a perfect place to break away from the noise of city life.

5. Takhat Sachkhand Shri Hazur Abchal Nagar Sahib Gurudwara, Maharashtra

The takhats are symbolized by 5 historic Gurudwaras, and Takhat Sachkhand Shri Hazur Abchal Nagar Sahib Gurudwara is one of them in India. The shrine is constructed in remembrance of the 10th Sikh Guru Gobind Singh. Built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1832 to commemorate Guru Gobind Singh as he breathed his last in Nanded. The room built around where Guru Gobind was cremated is called Angitha Sahib. Pilgrims across the country come to the shrine to express their gratitude and respect to Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

P.S: Did you know the first ever Gurudwara to be built was Kartarpur at the banks of the Ravi River? The largest Gurudwara 'Darbar Sahib kartarpur' is located in the Punjab region of present-day Pakistan.

Also Read: Did you know these ways of celebrating Diwali, popular in India?

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