Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, Delhi: A Magnificent Sikh House of Worship

This 17th-century shrine is dedicated to the memory of Guru Har Krishan, who was the eighth Sikh Guru. Located near Connaught Place, the busiest neighborhood in the national capital, the Gurudwara draws attention due to its magnificent structure, architectural beauty, and the large water body aka ‘Sarovar’ located within the complex. It definitely deserves to be on your itinerary when you book your hotels in Delhi for a holiday or sightseeing escapade.

Want to know more about this historical shrine? Read on to know the history, architecture, entry timings, and other interesting facts and visitor info about Gurudwara Bangla Sahib in Delhi.

Unlike most other Gurudwaras in the country, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib wasn’t originally built as a shrine. It was initially a bungalow called Jaisinghpura Palace that was owned by Mirza Raja Jai Singh, the ruler of Amber kingdom (later known as Jaipur) and a senior general of the Mughal Empire in the 17th century. In 1664, when Guru Har Krishan visited Delhi, he stayed at this bungalow. Severe cholera and smallpox epidemic broke out in Delhi during the same time. The Guru extended his helping hand for the affected people by offering water from the well located within the bungalow complex. But the Guru himself contracted the ailment and finally died in that same bungalow.

After his death, Raja Jai Singh dedicated his bungalow to commemorate the revered Guru. Thus, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib came into being and became a major place of worship for the Sikhs. The Raja also built a tank over the well, which is today a distinctive feature of this Gurudwara.

Over the years, the structure of the original Gurudwara underwent several changes. It was rebuilt by Sardar Bhagel Singh Dhaliwal, a Sikh general, in 1783. The present structure of the Gurudwara, however, was built mostly after 1947.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib Architecture

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is known as much for its religious significance as for its splendid architecture. The grand edifice is built in the Sikh architecture. While the whole structure is made using white marble, it is topped with a central golden dome which is its distinctive feature. The tall flag mast standing atop the dome is called Nishan Sahib and can be seen from afar. Intricate carvings adorn the front wall of the Gurudwara. The presence of the huge water tank, called Sarovar, inside the complex further enhances the aesthetic beauty of the whole structure. In addition to the Gurudwara and water tank, the complex also contains a community kitchen aka langer, a museum, an art gallery, a school, and a hospital and a library.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib Langar

The langar hall at Gurudwara Bangla Sahib serves free vegetarian meals to around 10,000 people every day. This community meal service is extended to all visitors, regardless of caste, creed, race, religion, or economic standing in society. A large number of people also extended their voluntary service at the community kitchen to help prepare the meals.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib Museum

Baba Baghel Singh Museum located inside Gurudwara Bangla Sahib may not boast of huge size, but it’s among those places where you can learn about the history of Sikhism. The museum also chronicles the story of the 10 gurus of Sikhism and the Sikh martyrs who laid down their lives for their faith.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib: Today

Today, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is one of the top historical attractions and tourist places in Delhi. It stands equipped with all sorts of amenities like air-conditioned kitchen, parking place for vehicles, and toilets, which adds to the convenience of visitors. Other facilities inside the complex include a hostel for travelers called Yatri Nivas which has both AC and non-AC rooms with attached bathrooms. There are also two large halls, each of which can house about 500 people.

Guru Har Krishan was only eight years old when he took up the task of helping the epidemic-hit people of Delhi. He is also known as Bal Guru.

Since the Guru helped everyone, including the local Muslim population suffering from the epidemic, they give him the name Bal Pir, which means the child saint.

The Guru is said to have cured people by offering holy water.

It is believed that the water of the Sarovar at Gurudwara Bangla Sahib contains miraculous powers and can cure one of diseases and ailments.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is among those tourist places in Delhi where you can spend some tranquil moments and soak in the spiritual vibes. While you are here, do not forget to taste the langar food. Also, you can shop around at Connaught Place, one of the popular places for shopping in Delhi. So, go ahead and spend some time at this historical Gurudwara in Delhi.