Bangla Sahib Gurudwara

I can say for a fact that a sizable number of them come from a wide cross - section of religions. I have never ceased to wonder as to could there be any other place to demonstrate the oneness of God or secularism for that matter. The solemnity and devotion on their faces and in their actions is to be seen to be believed.

An interesting anecdote about the holy water here goes like, there was a smallpox and cholera epidemic in the city and Guru Har Krishan started giving fresh water from the well in this house to those who were suffering. Since then, Bangla Sahib’s water is revered for its healing properties by Sikhs across the globe.

One enters the gurudwara bare feet with your head covered, bow down to the Granth Sahib resting in a gold palki and soak in the lilting sounds of Shabad Gurbani. To wrap up this beautiful experience, you gorge on a generous handful of karah parshad on your way to the sarovar (a large pond). The whiff of desi ghee originating from the gurdwara kitchen whips up the gastronomic urges of at least 8,000 people daily. From dal - chawal to sabzi-roti and kheer, the langar hall is teeming with activity throughout the day. The offerings from devotees often amount to Rs 1 crore (10 Million) per month.

A gateway to divinity in the heart of the city, Bangla Sahib is the epitome of Sikh spirit. Be it young, old or middle-aged, people across the spectrum come here to do sewa: from mopping the floors to shoe-minding, they do it all in the name of Ek Omkar Jo Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal.