Guru Nanak Gurpurab, celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, the first Sikh guru. Also commemorated as Guru Nanak’s Prakash Utsav and Guru Nanak Dev Ji Jayanti, in 2021, it falls on November 19.
Guru Nanak Ji, as we know, is the founder of Sikhism and, thus, one of the most revered Sikh gurus. The Golden Temple in Amritsar is one of the most sacred pilgrimages and is frequented by people from across the globe.
If you haven’t visited Sri Harmandir Sahib or the Golden Temple yet, here are some fascinating facts that might inspire you to head to this divine sanctuary. So, let’s go on a virtual tour of this holy abode and seek the blessings of Guru Nanak Ji.
Gold and its glory
How many of you know that initially, this sacred place didn’t have any element of gold? This Gurudwara was established in 1574 by the fourth Sikh Guru, Guru Ram Das, and was completed in 1604. In 1762, it was devastated by Islamic rulers. The temple was restored by a valiant Sikh ruler, Maharaja Ranjit Singh. A whopping 500kg of pure gold foil was added as the outer layer to the marble edifice. Thus, Sri Harmandir Sahib earned its popular name, Golden Temple of Amritsar.
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Structure with spiritual significance
The steps to enter the Golden Temple go downwards, and they signify the humble way of living. Even the temple stands on a level below the ground level, and it is a reminder that one must be modest and respectful while reaching the abode of the Divine.
Surrounded by a pond with a healing power
Amrit Sarovar, a holy pond, surrounds the Golden Temple, and it is filled with spiritual energies. It is said that Guru Ram Das dug out this sacred water body. Devotees believe that by taking a dip in this Sarovar, one attains spiritual energies and gets healed by its medicinal properties.
Gautam Buddha’s meditation spot
Historical accounts state that once upon a time, Gautam Buddha meditated at this holy place. He found it an ideal and spiritual refuge for meditating. It used to be densely forested, and there was an ancient lake. Apparently, that was the exact spot where the present Golden Temple is placed.
Welcomes everyone
If you assume that only Sikhs are allowed to visit the Golden Temple of Amritsar, you are gravely mistaken. This divine gurudwara has four entry doors facing North, South, East, and West, signifying accepting one and all. Anyone irrespective of their gender, caste, faith, or religion can offer their prayers here. According to a study, 35 percent of its pilgrims are non-Sikhs. On the BBC’s list of ‘places to visit before one dies’, Sri Harmandir Sahib ranks above the Taj Mahal.
On this holy day of Guru Nanak Gurpurab, plan a visit to the Golden Temple in Amritsar. We assure you that you will attain ultimate bliss and divine blessings. Before entering the temple, don’t forget to remove your shoes and cover your head.