Takht Sri Patna Sahib

One of the world’s most important Sikh religious spots, Takht Patna Sahib Gurudwara has been constructed on the birth place of the 10^th Guru of Sikhs, Sri Guru Gobind Singh. Also known as Takht Sri Harmandir Ji, it is located in Harmandir Gali in Patna. This Gurudwara is regarded as the focal point of the Sikhism towards east India. Takh of the Sikhs means ‘throne of authority’ or ‘seat of power’ and Patna Sahib is the second acknowledged Takht of the Sikhs.

The Gurudwara complex also consists of a museum, that showcases objects related to the 10^th and the last Guru of Sikh, Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The Gurudwara not only holds importance because of its connection to Guru Gobind Singh ji but was also visited by the first Sikh Guru- Guru Nanak ji and also the 9^th Guru, Tegh Bahadur Ji. Gurudwara Patna Sahib is visited by a huge number of pilgrims every year from all around the globe. The best time to visit Patna Sahib is between October and March.

History

Originally, Takht Sri Patna Sahib was constructed in the year 1666 but a fire in the year 1839 caused damage to it. Maharaja Ranjit Singh ji rebuilt the sacred spot but the reconstruction could not get completed during his lifetime. In 1935, an earthquake became another cause of damage for the Gurudwara but in the year 1954, the structure that we see today was constructed completely. This spot was considered to be the sign of courage.

When Guru Nanak ji visited the site when he was visiting the religious destination of Gaya, famed as the place where Lord Buddha had attained enlightenment. In those times Patna was known as Patliputra and Guru ji was a learned man who was aware of the significance of the place. He was on his mission to revive the grandeur of Indian culture. On the way, he met his devotee Salis Rai Jouri who was largely influenced by his teachings. He converted his house into a Dharamshala where Guru Tegh Bahadur stayed when he visited Patna.

Chief Attractions

The architecture of Gurudwara Patna Sahib is fabulous and looks magnificent. The museum within the complex of Gurudwara is the other attraction here. The most prized possession of the museum is the gilded cradle of Guru Gobind Singh ji. Other things that have been put on display include pious sandals, swords, Sikh paintings, swing, Guru Maharaj’s iron arrows, earther goli, a wooden comb and a small iron Kanda. The book compiling the Hukamnamas (teachings) of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and Guru Gobind Singh Ji are preserved.

Places of Attraction Near Patna Sahib

Mangal Talab or Gandhi Sarovar is a large pond, near the Gurudwara that is fenced from all sides. On the 4 corners of the pond, there are Ghats with stairs leading to the water.

Another attraction is Guru ke Baag, a well-maintained garden. It is said that Guru Tegh Bahadur ji had stayed here sometime. The owner of the garden presented Guru Maharaj with the garden and so the garden has been given this name.

Bazaar Samiti is the nearest shopping hub for the tourists and the pilgrims.