“Ek onkar satnam kartapurakh Nirmoh nirvair akaal murat …”
This Sikh song is heard by many, understood by a few but loved and cherished by many. Words, even if not fully understood, bring a sense of calm and belonging to the ears, providing immediate comfort and a sense of universal warmth. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is located at Baba Kharak Singh Marg near Connaught Place and is one of the most prominent buildings in the capital in terms of architectural and religious significance. Formerly known as Jaisinghpura Palace, the gurudwara was once Raja Jai Singh’s bungalow and was later opened as a gurudwara.
Gurudwara is called Guru Harkishan Sahib, the eighth Sikh guru. Although it is one of the most important places of worship in Sikh community in India, it is more than just a religious monument. It has great historical, social and cultural significance, as evidenced and participated in the various social and political contexts of the capital. History of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
In the seventeenth century, the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib became known as Jaisinghpura Palace and was controlled by the Indian governor Raja Jai Singh of Jaipur who held a powerful position in the court of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The place now known as Connaught Place, a popular shopping mall, restaurant food and events, at that time was Jaisingh Pura, a rich cultural center.
The story goes that young Guru Har Krishan, the eighth Sikh Guru, was living in a small house when he arrived in Delhi in 1664. At the same time, a devastating epidemic of cholera and smallpox spread rapidly throughout the city.
Gugu helped the poor and sick by carrying drinking water from the well and her kindness and compassion comforted the hearts of those affected. Unfortunately, she was not able to protect herself from infection and she also suffered from an illness.
On March 30, 1664, Guru Har Krishan died. Raja Jai Singh later built a tank over the well where Gugu carried water and to this day, water from the tank is considered healing properties. The water is called “amrit” and is believed to cure the sick and is therefore carried by thousands of Sikhs at home.
The gurudwara itself was built by Sardar Bhagel Singh, a military general. About the year 1783, he built eight important Gurudwaras in Delhi and Bangla Sahib is probably the most prominent of them.
Things to do at Gurudwara Bangla Sahib:
- Sarovar is the first place you should visit. If you have enough time, bring an extra set of clothes and immerse yourself in holy water as it is believed to have healing properties for any skin diseases.
No matter how true this belief may be, even immersion in water can have a cool effect on you and you will be able to experience the presence of thousands of other worshipers who have venerated the area before you.
Sarovar also has several species of fish and swims near the visitor’s feet, proving how comfortable and secure they feel in Gurudwara. Remember that caregivers feed the fish regularly so do not eat foreign food.The interior of Gurudwara is as spectacular as the splendor of buildings outside and after darshan, spend some time sitting inside, listening to the Sikh Gurbani performed by artists.
There are televisions that offer translation of the guitar characters but even if you do not get into the doctrines of singing, the music and the spirit itself will take you abroad for a while.
There is a lengar service that takes place all day. Langar is a free community food and Gurudwara serves about 180 people every 15 minutes! The whole process of making food from dishwashing is done by the savages, who are volunteers in Gurudwara. You will be amazed to see so many Hindus volunteering for the langar service. The meal is a light meal, usually dal, roti and rice which in itself is very attractive and delicious.
Karha Prasad is not to be missed and is meant for your friends and family. The humble halwa melts in your mouth and is made with lots of love and ghee!
Take a tour of the museum and art gallery that presents various important events in Sikh history. Not only do they illustrate some of the important events that have shaped Sikhism culture, but they also highlight interesting things with interesting stories behind them.
If you can, talk to some of the staff who have been in the gurudwara for decades and they will have great stories, myths and legends to share with you.
Taking photos is not allowed inside the gurudwara and you can be blamed for it if you do it near Sarovar, In addition, this place has the power to impress you so much to take photograph will be the last thing on your mind.
Along with this, there are also small school , a hospital and a library within the grounds. There is also Yatri Nivaas and in case you want to extend your stay, you can contact the management and if there are free rooms, they will welcome you.
Finally, there are various fast food stalls (Chai-Pakoda) outside the Gurudwara parking lot. They offer a variety of fried food made with onions, spinach, cauliflower, potatoes and are served with raw chutney.
One of the most popular fried dishes offered here is Ram Ladoos. They are all fried in front of you so it makes sure they are hot. If you have a good tooth, they often trade with Jalebi. The best part about these stores is that they are available around the clock and are very expensive.
Entry Fee & Time:
There is no entry fees.
Gurudwara open 24 hours on all days of the year.
Langar Time: 9am to 3pm and 7pm to 10pm
