“Nanak naam jahaz hai, jo chadhe so uttre paar.”
This saying means the name of Nanak is like a boat that can help us cross the ocean of existence. Devotes from across the globe to worship Bangla Sahib Gurudwara on their Golden Triangle Tour From Delhi. The religious chant is heard by many, understood by few but loved and treasured by most. The words, even if not understood completely bring a sense of calm and belongingness to the ears, immediately comforting and bringing a sense of companionship from the universe.
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is located on Baba Kharak Singh Marg near Connaught Place and it is one of the prominent landmarks in the capital for architectural and religious significance. Earlier known as Jaisinghpura Palace, the gurudwara was once a bungalow owned by Raja Jai Singh and was later opened as a gurudwara.
The place was named after Guru Harkishan Sahib, the eighth Sikh guru. While it is one of the most important places to visit in Delhi, it’s also more than just a religious attraction. There’s a great historical, social and cultural significance while witnessing and participating in various socio-political instances in the capital. Bangla Sahib should certainly be a priority for the golden domes, cool marble flooring, and peaceful Sarovar waters which are more gratifying than only a marketplace or dine-out experience. Visitors to this place are not just limited to the Sikh community and belong to various communities, cultures, nationalities, religions, and races.
In this article, let’s explore everything about this Bangla Sahib Gurudwara in Delhi. So, let’s take a sneak peek into it –
Traveller’s Information
Timings: 12:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Location: Hanuman Road Area, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi, 110001, India
Entry Fee: There’s no entry fee applicable for visiting this place
History of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
The 17th-century old Gurudwara Bangla Sahib was known as Jaisinghpura Palace and was owned by Indian ruler Raja Jai Singh of Jaipur. He held an influential position in the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s court. The area is now known as Connaught Place, a popular area for shopping, eating out and events was then Jaisingh Pura, a culturally rich region.
The story behind its foundation goes like this, a young Guru Har Krishan, the 8th Sikh Guru, resided in the bungalow when he came to Delhi in 1664. At the same time, there broke out a terrible epidemic of cholera and smallpox which quickly spread across the city. The guru helped the poor and diseased by carrying drinking water from the well and it is his kindness and compassion that comforted the hearts of those affected. He could not be immune to the infection and he too was afflicted by the sickness.
On 30th March 1664, Guru Har Krishan passed away. In the memory of guru, Raja Jai Singh built a tank over the well from where he had carried the water and to this date, the water from the tank is believed to have healing properties. The water is referred as Amrit and is believed to cure the ill and is carried home by thousands of Sikhs. The Gurudwara itself was built by Sardar Bhagel Singh. Around the year 1783, he built 8 important Gurudwaras in Delhi and Bangla Sahib is perhaps the most prominent one of them.
Architecture of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
Although Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is a place of worship and one of the most beautiful monuments of religious significance. It has another timeless aspect that draws visitors of all religions, casts, and communities. While the construction of the place holds multiple intricate details within it, the structure is imposing and grand all at once at first sight. The building is built in a classic Sikh style, with a heavy influence of Mughal and Rajput styles. It’s also built in a way that it is suitable for all weather conditions. Most of the structures are made from white marble, creating a calm and soothing vibe.
A huge pole held atop the flag of Sikh, flutters in the wind, and is an unmissable symbol of Sikhism. This flag is called “Nishan Sahib” which is also a sacred place to worship in the gurudwara. The Sarovar is the second most important structure within the Gurudwara complex. A wide-open sky and beneath it, lies the massive water tank with holy waters where devoted flock to take a dip before entering the place of worship.
Some important tips to visit the Gurudwara
For visitors, it is important to consider the following tips
- Men and Women should dress appropriately and carry a scarf or a handkerchief to cover their heads. Besides, there are scarves kept outside the main building, so one could pick one of the colorful scarves to cover their head.
- Remove footwear outside at the shoe counter where you can keep your footwear and socks free of cost.
- Photography inside the gurudwara is banned.
- Maintain silence within the complex.
- Behave decently and respectfully.
- Take care of your personal belongings as it tends to get extremely crowded at times.
Places to visit near Gurudwara
- Jantar Mantar (1Km Away)
- Connaught Place (1.8 Km Away)
- Birla Temple (1.4 Km Away)
- Rashtrapati Bhawan (2.5 Km Away)
- India Gate (3.5 Km Away)
Conclusion
To discover the various tourist landmarks of Delhi, choose one of the best inclusive holiday packages offered by Trip Plan India. With affordable prices and excellent services offered by us, you will surely have a great time in Delhi.
