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Information of Gurudwara Fatehgarh Sahib In Punjab
A Gurudwara is a special place for followers of Sikhism, meaning “the door to the Guru and God.” It’s like a spiritual home where Sikhs come together to connect with their faith. Sikhism started in the Punjab region of India in the 15th century, founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji. In a Gurudwara, people worship and build a strong community. Everyone is welcome, no matter their background. The main focus is on the holy book called Guru Granth Sahib, which holds the teachings of Sikh Gurus and other spiritual leaders.
Gurudwaras are built with a mix of traditional Sikh and Mughal styles. They often have a shining golden dome that represents a connection with God. Inside, the central prayer hall is a peaceful place where hymns from Guru Granth Sahib are recited. A key principle in Sikhism is “seva,” which means selfless service. Gurudwaras practice this by providing free meals to all visitors in a communal kitchen called Guru-Ka-Langar, regardless of their beliefs. Throughout the year, Gurudwaras celebrate special events called Gurpurabs, which honor the birthdays and anniversaries of Sikh Gurus. These celebrations include religious processions, prayers, and gatherings that bring Sikhs together and strengthen their bond.
Gurudwara Fatehgarh Sahib in Punjab
Gurdwara Fatehgarh Sahib, located in the city of Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab, India, holds immense significance in Sikh history. This gurdwara commemorates the 1710 triumph of the Sikhs led by Banda Singh Bahadur, who captured the city and demolished the fort built by Ferozshah Tughlaq.
History of Gurdwara Fatehgarh Sahib:
The gurdwara stands as a symbol of remembrance for a tragic event involving the two youngest sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. In 1705, 7-year-old Fateh Singh and 9-year-old Zorawar Singh were betrayed by their cook and servant, Gangu, to the Mughal army. The boys were captured and given the choice to convert to Islam, but they fearlessly refused, leading to their brutal burial alive under the orders of Wazir Khan. In memory of these young martyrs, the site was named Fatehgarh after the slain boy, and in 1843, a grand Gurdwara was constructed here. Fatehgarh Sahib also witnessed the Sikhs’ revenge when they recaptured the city from Wazir Khan in 1710, putting an end to his rule.
Other Significant Gurdwaras in the Complex:
-
Bhora Sahib: This underground location within Gurdwara Fatehgarh Sahib marks the spot where the Guru’s two sons were buried alive. It was later built into a monument by Karam Singh of Patiala in the early 19th century.
- Gurdwara Jyoti Sarup: Located about 1.5 kilometers southeast from Fatehgarh Sahib, it is where Mata Gujri (Guru Gobind Singh’s mother) and the two young grandchildren, Fateh Singh and Zorawar Singh, were cremated.
- Gurdwara Bimangarh: Situated near Fatehgarh Sahib Gurdwara, this is where the bodies of the two children and their grandmother were kept overnight before their cremation.
- Banda Bahadur Platform: According to Sikh tradition, this site witnessed a significant event – the Battle of Chapparchiri, where 6,000 Sikhs lost their lives fighting against the Muslim army.
Main Gurdwara Complex:
The main complex of Gurdwara Fatehgarh Sahib houses several other gurdwaras:
- Gurudwara Bhora Sahib: This gurdwara preserves the historical wall where Guru Gobind Singh’s younger sons were bricked up alive.
- Gurudwara Burj Mata Gujri: Here, Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji, along with their mother, were kept in confinement by Wazir Khan. It was a place of punishment for them during extreme winters.
- Gurudwara Shahid Ganj: Built-in memory of brave Sikhs who died fighting against the Mughal forces under the leadership of Banda Singh Bahadur.
- Todar Mal Jain Hall: A hall dedicated to Seth Todar Mal, who purchased land for the cremation of the martyrs by paying gold coins.
Architecture of Gurudwara Fatehgarh Sahib:
The building’s architectural design is Indo-Islamic, blending influences from both Indian and Islamic styles. It has a striking pyramidal shape with a ribbed lotus dome on top, adorned with beautiful mosaics and intricate patterns on the ceiling. The structure features cusped arches that radiate from the center, and it stands on a large mound, providing a commanding view of the surrounding landscape.
Inside the building, there are multiple floors. The ground floor houses a divan hall, where people gather for gatherings and discussions. Below the ground floor is a basement called Bhor, which holds ancient brick enclosures that mark the exact site of the execution of Sahibzadas. Additionally, the Guru Granth Sahib, a sacred religious text, is preserved here alongside holy relics like the hilt of a sword, a dagger, and a rusted fragment of a double-edged weapon. The divan hall boasts a marble floor and a beautifully designed ceiling. At the center of the hall, the Guru Granth Sahib is placed on a gilded pdlaki, a portable pedestal, on a marble platform.
The exterior of the building features gold-plated sheets covering the inverted lotus at the apex of the dome and pinnacle. An umbrella-shaped gold finial crowns the dome, and the four kiosks positioned at each corner of the roof are also topped with similar finials. The entrance to the building is a three-storied gateway adorned with decorative canopied pavilions and a clocktower. In summary, the building’s architecture represents a unique blend of Indo-Islamic styles, showcasing its grandeur, rich history, and religious significance.
Location: Fatehgarh Sahib, Srihand Marinda Road, Distt. Fatehgarh Sahib 147301
Contact: 91-1763-232227, 01763232215
Entry & Timings: 3am- 11pm
Best Time To Visit The Gurudwara
The ideal time to visit Gurudwara Fatehgarh Sahib is during the Shaheedi Jor Mela held in December. This annual event attracts a significant number of pilgrims who gather to pay their respects to the courageous sons of Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. During this auspicious occasion, nearby village organize langar, providing free meals to all the devoted visitors. It is a spiritually enriching experience to be part of this sacred gathering and witness the deep reverence shown by the pilgrims.
Jor Mela of Gurudwara Fatehgarh Sahib:
The Shahidi Jorh Mela commences with a display of exhibits from various government agencies on the first day. An equally significant attraction of the event is the mesmerizing sound and light program organized by the State’s Public Relations Department. This captivating two-hour spectacle unfolds at the Aam Khas Bagh in Sirhind, offering a vivid portrayal of the historical heritage of the region.
On the second day of the Jorh Mela, the focus shifts to religio-political conferences, where different political parties from the state come together to share their perspectives.
The third day of the Jorh Mela is marked by the Nagar kirtan, a deeply reverent procession. During this occasion, the sacred Guru Granth Sahib is placed inside an intricately adorned Palki and enshrined in a special bus. The procession commences from the main Gurudwara Fatehgarh Sahib and culminates at Gurudwara Jyoti Sarup, the site where the Sahibzadas and their grandmother were cremated. This symbolic procession pays homage to the actual cremation procession of the revered Sahibzadas and their grandmother.
Dress Code:
When visiting Gurudwaras, it’s important to wear simple and modest clothes that cover most of your body. Females should avoid wearing short skirts out of respect for the sacred place. Before entering the main Gurudwara area, everyone must cover their head with a cloth or handkerchief. If you don’t have one, you can get it at the entrance. Also, you should take off your shoes and socks and leave them in the designated shoe rack room called “Jora Ghar.” Following these guidelines shows respect for the Gurudwara, its customs, and the feelings of the devotees.
Places near by Gurudwara Fatehgarh Sahib:
Aam Khas Bagh
Rauza Sharif
Haveli Todar Mel
Sanghol
Sant Nam Dev Temple
Ustad di Mazar
Near By Hotels & Guest House:
Bru & Blu
Royal Guest House
Hotel Virk Fatehgarh
Jaggi Resort
