Going on a Gurdwara trail this Gurupurab
Gurdwaras are the sacred shrines that not only offer an insight into how Sikhism has managed to sustain, but also render us spiritual comfort.
As Gurupurab is around the corner, here we take a short trip down the memory lane to virtually visit the popular gurudwaras from across the world.
Harminder Sahib, India
Popularly known as the Golden Temple, it’s considered to be the holiest place of worship in Sikhism. Guru Ram Das was the founder of this gurudwara, who was the fourth Sikh guru. It also stands out for its breathtaking golden architecture, and the massive community kitchen, which runs to feed thousands of visitors daily.
Gurudwara Nankana Sahib, Pakistan
As per the reports, before the partition of India and Pakistan, devotees would visit this spiritually charged shrine at least once in their life, as this is the place of birth of Nanak Dev, the first holy guru of the Sikhs. The Nankana Sahib Gurdwara is mentioned in the daily ardasa or prayer. Located at a distance of 48 miles west of Lahore, the township of Nankana Sahib was known as Raipur earlier, which later came to be known as Rai-Bhoi-di-Talwandi.
Guru Nanak Darbar, Dubai
Located in Dubai, it’s famed for being the biggest Gurdwara in the Gulf Region. It opened its doors for devotees on 17 January, 2012, and has been built with Italian marble and houses a five-star kitchen in it. As per the records, the Gurudwara broke the Guinness World Record for serving breakfast to more than 600 people from 101 different nationalities, as a part of its special Breakfast Diversity event which was hosted in Jebel Ali Garden in Dubai.
Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, London
Located in the London suburb of South Hall near Park Avenue, this Gurdwara opened its gate for the devotees on 30 March, 2003. Built by the Sikh devotees, it’s a beautiful structure built of granite, as well as marble that has a dome adorned with gold. As per the reports, this Gurdwara can accommodate more than 3000 worshippers in its two floored gallery.
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Delhi, India
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is not only a prominent place of worship for the Sikh community, but it’s also a popular tourist spot in Delhi. Located near Connaught Place, this 17th-century shrine has been dedicated to the memory of Guru Har Krishan, the eighth Sikh Guru. The highlight of this structure is its magnificent architectural beauty and sarovar, the large water body located within the complex, which is known for its healing properties.