“Can you feel that?” I ask gesturing towards the Gurdwara Bangla Sahib. It stands magnificent in front of us. This prominent Sikh Gurdwara is in Connaught Place Delhi. It is one of the most important Sikh Gurdwaras in India. Thousands of people visit it every day. Sikhs and non-Sikhs come to this holy place.
Gurdwara Bangla Sahib was originally a bungalow. It belonged to Raja Jai Singh. He was a Mughal nobleman in the 17th century. Later, it became a Gurdwara. Guru Har Krishan Sahib visited and stayed at the bungalow in 1664.
The Gurdwara complex includes several parts. There is a main prayer hall. A Sarovar or holy pond is here. It also has a Langar hall that is a community kitchen. You will find a school and a hospital in the complex.
The golden dome is a distinctive feature. It adorns the main prayer hall. The dome was added in the early 20th century. Now it is a major landmark of Delhi. The Gurdwara also houses a museum. It showcases the history and teachings of Sikhism.
In 1783, Sardar Baghel Singh rebuilt the Gurdwara as a small shrine. He also reconstructed nine Sikh shrines in Delhi that year. Raja Jai Singh of Amer tried to occupy it during Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II’s reign.
The eighth Sikh Guru Har Krishan stayed here in 1664. He resided here during his stay in Delhi. Sadly he died on March 30 1664. Now the Gurdwara and its Sarovar are very important to Sikhs. People gather here on Guru Har Krishan’s birth anniversary.
Interestingly, in March 2021 the Gurdwara opened the cheapest diagnostic center. It aims to provide healthcare for the poor. Patients can get an MRI scan for a very low price.
During the anti-Sikh riots in 1984 about 150 Sikhs sought safety inside the Gurdwara. A Hindu mob tried to enter the temple with gasoline cans. But they were pushed back.
Gurdwara Bangla Sahib stands as a symbol of Sikhism. It represents service, devotion and community. Its history and beautiful architecture attract many. The holy pond offers peace. The Langar hall offers food to all. This Gurdwara is a must-visit in Delhi. Its story inspires all who visit.